Top Things to Do in Tulsa

Wanting a travel adventure that leaves a lasting memory but not costly? Look no more than Tulsa, Oklahoma. This lively city has a special vibe, mixing Art Deco charm with an active arts scene, deep history, and beautiful nature.

Sometimes, people forget about things to do in Tulsa, because it is known for its oil. But Tulsa keeps many treasures to be found if you look closely. No matter if you like art, history or love being outdoors, Tulsa is good for everything and even better it’s good for everyone’s wallet too.

Tulsa’s Free Gems

The Gathering Place

One of the many things to do in Tulsa is to visit the park if you are with family or just want a day of fun in the sunlight. You can discover the 3.5-acre playground, which is best for little adventurers. Walk a pleasant path along the trails, or enjoy a splash on the water pad. Want to be bold? Hop on the gondola for breathtaking river views.

Art Walk and Architecture Appreciation

Second best things to do in Tulsa is to step into Tulsa’s lively arts scene with a free art walk in the Tulsa Arts District. Explore secret galleries, enjoy beautiful street art, and be fascinated by the amazing Art Deco design that shapes the district.

History on Display

See Tulsa’s past by visiting Greenwood, a very important African American community from history. See the free exhibits at Greenwood Cultural Center to understand the community’s successes and difficulties, which will give you a deeper respect for Tulsa’s special story.

Museums on a Budget

Speaking of things to do in Tulsa, this city has excellent museums and they have special days when you do not need to pay to enter. You can go for free on the first Friday each month to see great things at Philbrook Museum of Art. For those who love history, every Tuesday at the Gilcrease Museum opens a wealth of Native American art and items without cost.

Similarly, Wednesdays are free entry days for space aficionados to take a celestial journey at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum.

Exploring Tulsa’s Outdoors

Image Credit: Alamy

Nature lovers know what things to do in Tulsa and discover their heaven in the city’s big outdoor places. Put on your shoes and discover more than 80 miles of beautiful paths by the Arkansas River. Regardless if you are a serious hiker, someone who enjoys casual biking, or just wanting to take a calm walk, these paths provide beautiful views of the river and offer the opportunity to be close to nature.

If you want something more exciting things to do in Tulsa, visit Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness for amazing walks and views of beautiful cityscapes. For a one-of-a-kind experience, go to the Oxley Nature Center. It is a big 804-acre place full of different animals and nature.

Live Entertainment on a Dime

Keep your eyes open for the active scene at Guthrie Green, where there are often free concerts, movie nights, and other events under the starlight.

Get involved with the things to do in Tulsa during free seasonal celebrations such as the bright Tulsa Lights Parade or the colorful Mayfest arts festival. Smaller, independent music venues often provide free shows with local artists who are just starting out.

Foodie Fun on a Budget

Hit one of the city’s regular food truck gatherings, where a bright group of yummy and cheap foods is ready for you. Talk with local people and enjoy tasty tacos to imaginative mix dishes. If you feel like trying food from different places? Then visit the Tulsa Farmers Market and experience a great variety of fresh produce that changes with the seasons, as well as unique items made by hand.

Want to take a lunch break in a scenic place? Take a basket and go to one of Tulsa’s lovely parks like Woodward Park or Chandler Park. Spread a blanket for a picnic, enjoy your tasty food, and bask in the sunshine without spending much money because of only a few groceries.

Budget-Friendly Day Trips

Travel Back in Time on Route 66: Cruise down a nostalgic stretch of Route 66. Gas is your primary expense, but the benefits are invaluable. Visit quaint villages along the way, drink up the nostalgic ambiance of historic diners and petrol stations, and take memorable images that will transport you back in time.

Woolaroc Wildlife Refuge: For feeling close to nature and seeing wildlife, visit Woolaroc Wildlife Refuge near Bartlesville, Oklahoma. You can see this big area and observe many kinds of animals such as bison, elk, and surprisingly even kangaroos! The entrance fee is minimal, making it a budget-friendly adventure for the whole family.

Tallgrass Prairie Preserve: Explore the large-size of the Tallgrass Prairie ecosystem at the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve close to Pawhuska, Oklahoma another one of the cool things to do in Tulsa. Walk along beautiful paths and see a place full of plants native to here and animals wild. The cost for entering is only a little bit, but it’s worth it to see this one-of-a-kind natural treasure which is full of history.

Entertainment on the Cheap

Besides amazing things to do in Tulsa, you may support Tulsa Drillers, a minor league team that is linked with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The ticket prices for these games are very much lower than the cost of seeing major league games, but you still feel the thrill of watching professional baseball.

If you want to watch a movie, you should go to small movie theaters. These places usually have cheaper ticket prices and a lovely environment when compared with big companies and check out local bowling alleys for special deals like free bowling nights.

Indoor Fun on a Rainy Day

Take your whole family to the library called Hardesty Regional Library and Connor’s Cove. This outstanding library has a part for children that has a theme with boats, including things that children can touch and an interesting feeling.

While you are there, look at Philbrook Museum of Art Shop without needing to pay for the museum’s entrance fee. Seek out one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts inspired by art, ideal keepsakes from your Tulsa journey. Needing a place with a fashionable and lively vibe? Visit The Boxyard, a park made of containers which has local shops, eating places and rooms for events.

Tulsa offers a surprising variety of attractions, from world-class art museums to quirky historical sites. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a music lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a fun family outing, Tulsa has something for everyone. So, come explore and enjoy things to do in Tulsa and discover its unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor recreation.