Oklahoma known as the “Oil Capital of the World,” Tulsa, Oklahoma is a city with much more to offer visitors beyond its energy industry roots. Whether you’re an art aficionado, music buff, nature lover, or history enthusiast, Tulsa has something for you. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Tulsa to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
1. Explore the Gathering Place
Ranking among the largest and most ambitious public parks in the nation, the brand-new Gathering Place is one of the top things to do in Tulsa for visitors of any age. Stretching across 100 acres along the Arkansas River, this park features spectacular landscaping, interactive art installations, play areas, sports courts, bike paths, botanical gardens, and more. Spend an afternoon strolling across the lush grounds, letting the kids run wild at one of the playgrounds, or renting a paddleboat for a spin across the pond. The Gathering Place is quickly becoming one of the most iconic things to do in Tulsa since opening in 2018.
2. See the Philbrook Museum of Art
Art enthusiasts will adore spending a day at the Philbrook Museum of Art, considered one of the top things to do in Tulsa for culture aficionados. This gorgeous museum set on 25 acres of gorgeous formal gardens boasts a collection of native, modern, and contemporary art, along with treasures from around the world. Don’t miss seeing traditional pieces from the likes of Monet, Renoir, and O’Keeffe. Beyond the permanent galleries, special visiting exhibitions provide more opportunities to soak in beauty during your time at one of the best things to do in Tulsa.
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3. Tour the Woody Guthrie Center
Pay homage to one of Oklahoma’s most famous sons at the Woody Guthrie Center, a top spot on any list of things to do in Tulsa for music lovers. This impressive modern museum chronicles the fascinating life and enduring legacy of the singer-songwriter, offering an intimate portrait through his art, writings, photographs, and personal archives. Interactive exhibits let you strum a guitar and make a record while learning how Guthrie gave voice to common folk during hard times. For an enriching experience, add the Woody Guthrie Center to your list of things to do in Tulsa.
4. Hike at Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area
When you need some time immersed in nature within the city, head to Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, one of the most popular outdoor things to do in Tulsa. Just minutes from downtown, this rugged area spanning over 300 acres has miles of dirt trails that take you up hills blanketed in tallgrass prairie vegetation and dotted with boulders. The hike to the top rewards you with sweeping views of Tulsa’s skyline. With options for mountain biking, trail running, and hiking of all levels, Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness is a must for active folks looking for outdoor things to do in Tulsa.
5. See the Tulsa Botanic Garden
Nature and garden enthusiasts will find spending an afternoon at the Tulsa Botanic Garden high on their list of things to do in Tulsa. These lush gardens feature specialized collections and displays that provide color in every season, like the Rose Garden’s 5,000 bushes from nearly 200 rose varieties. The children’s discovery area makes this a favorite for families looking for kid-friendly things to do in Tulsa. Special events, classes, and festivals held throughout the year give locals and visitors even more ways to enjoy the natural beauty at the Tulsa Botanic Garden.
6. Tour the BOK Tower
History buffs will love a tour of the BOK Tower, one of the most iconic buildings on Tulsa’s skyline and a top item on any list of things to do in Tulsa. Constructed in 1932 as the headquarters of an oil company, this soaring tower combines Gothic and art deco architectural elements. Visitors can take a guided tour showcasing the ornate limestone carvings, bronze embellishments, marble walls, and stained glass windows of the lobby. Make your way up to the observation deck for panoramic views of Tulsa. The BOK Tower blends rich heritage with modern Tulsa, making it a must-see on any list of things to do in Tulsa.
7. See a Show at Cain’s Ballroom
Known as the home of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, no trip to Tulsa is complete without catching some live music at the historic Cain’s Ballroom. Since opening in 1924, Cain’s has hosted legends ranging from Willie Nelson to the Sex Pistols, making it a hallowed ground for music lovers. Today, the venue still attracts popular acts in rock, country, indie, and more. Even if you don’t snag tickets for a show, music fans should add visiting Cain’s Ballroom to their list of things to do in Tulsa for the chance to soak up the musical mojo inside.
8. Browse the Brookside District
Tulsa locals and visitors alike enjoy spending time in the bohemian Brookside District, located just south of downtown. This pedestrian-friendly area filled with vibrant local shops, restaurants, and galleries has a funky vibe reminiscent of L.A.’s Melrose Ave or Miami’s South Beach. Go for good eats, good coffee, and good shopping from Oklahoma artisans and designers. With a mix of laidback dive bars, hip eateries, and indie boutiques, an afternoon wandering Brookside is one of the most entertaining things to do in Tulsa.
