What are the Best Tourist Attractions in Tulsa, Oklahoma?

Tulsa, Oklahoma, is one of the most beautiful cities in the US and the area has plenty of interesting attractions for visitors to explore. From fascinating museums to outdoor activities, the city has it all. With its abundance of history, culture and beauty, Tulsa is a great destination for any type of traveler.If you find yourself in Tulsa and are looking for fun things to do, here are some great tourist attractions that you should check out:

Gardens & Ecosytems

The Tulsa Botanic Garden is a particularly noteworthy spot. It features a variety of ecosystems, trails and gardens, as well as visual and educational opportunities. Additionally, it houses an outdoor amphitheater and numerous performance stages. It is a great place to learn about nature and relax in a tranquil setting. The Tulsa Zoo is also popular with tourists, boasting an extensive collection of animals, reptiles and birds. There is also an extensive array of interesting exhibits and activities to explore.

Museums & Art

The Philbrook Museum of Art is a must-see. It showcases thousands of years of artistic representations from every corner of the world, allowing visitors to explore an impressive cultural experience. Additionally, it features interactive educational materials and special events throughout the year. Also not-to-be-missed is the Tulsa Air and Space Museum, which contains a variety of fascinating artifacts related to aviation and space exploration. Visitors can learn about the history of aircraft and astronautics through fun hands-on displays and guided tours with knowledgeable staff.

Outdoor Activities

Tulsa also boasts plenty of activities and places to explore outdoors. The Centennial Greenway Trail is a 32-mile hiking course that connects Tulsa to many of the surrounding areas. The trail snakes through the city, allowing visitors to spot interesting wildlife and soak up the beautiful scenery along the way. Meanwhile, Big Splash Waterpark is one of the most popular recreational spots around. Boasting 20 acres of slides, pools and other fun activities, Big Splash is a wonderful place for families or individuals to cool off during hot summer days.

Festivals & Shopping

The festivals in Tulsa are another great attraction for visitors. From the Downtown Get Down Music Festival to the Oklahoma State Fair Entertainment Carnival, which takes over Tulsa every year, there’s something going on for everyone throughout the year, so be sure to check out event calendars for updates about upcoming festivities. In terms of shopping, downtown Tulsa’s Brookside District offers some excellent boutiques and restaurants as well as other attractions like the Cox Business Center conference facility and the signature Made in Oklahoma shop. No matter what type of traveler you are, you’re sure to find something exciting to do in Tulsa. From outdoor activities and shopping to museums and unique festivals—Tulsa is a great place to experience something new and memorable!

An Insider’s Guide to Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a vibrant and eclectic city with a rich history and a range of unique attractions that offer a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore Tulsa’s history, dive into its thriving arts and culture scene, or just enjoy some good food and drink, this city has plenty to offer. Let’s dive into the best tourist attractions in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Attractions

One of the top tourist attractions in Tulsa is the Philbrook Museum of Art. This stunning art museum is housed in a beautiful Italian Renaissance-style mansion, surrounded by lush gardens. The museum features an impressive collection of American, European, and Asian art, as well as a variety of temporary exhibitions and events.

Another must-see attraction in Tulsa is the Tulsa Zoo. With over 400 species of animals and a range of exhibits, including the Lost Kingdom showcase, this zoo is perfect for families and animal lovers alike.

For a more historical experience, be sure to check out the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum. This museum showcases the history of Tulsa, from the oil boom of the early 20th century to the present day.

Finally, don’t miss out on a visit to the Gathering Place. This 66-acre park is one of the largest in the country and offers a range of activities, from fishing and boating to hiking and biking. The park also features a range of unique play areas for kids, as well as a wide variety of food and drink options.

Dining

Tulsa is home to a thriving food scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. For a taste of classic barbecue, be sure to visit Burn Co. Barbecue. This restaurant has been voted one of the best barbecue spots in the country and offers a range of mouth-watering smoked meats and sides.

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, you can’t go wrong with The Polo Grill. This classic fine dining spot features a range of classic American dishes, all expertly crafted with the finest ingredients.

For a more casual dining experience, check out Andolini’s Pizzeria. This local chain has been voted one of the best pizza spots in the country and offers a range of delicious pizza options, as well as salads, sandwiches, and more.

Culture

Tulsa is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with a range of theaters, galleries, and performance spaces. The Tulsa Performing Arts Center is a must-visit spot for theater lovers, with a range of performances throughout the year, including touring Broadway shows.

For a taste of local art, head to the Philbrook Downtown, which features rotating exhibits by Tulsa artists. The Living Arts of Tulsa is also worth a visit, showcasing contemporary and experimental art from around the world.

Finally, don’t miss out on a visit to the Cain’s Ballroom. This historic music venue has been a Tulsa landmark for over a century and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, from Bob Dylan to Willie Nelson.

Local History

Tulsa is steeped in history, from the oil boom of the early 20th century to its pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Be sure to visit the Greenwood Cultural Center, which showcases the history and legacy of Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District, also known as Black Wall Street.

Another must-visit spot for history buffs is the Oral Roberts University campus. This unique University is home to a range of interesting and unusual architecture, including the iconic Prayer Tower.

Finally, don’t miss out on a visit to the Idabel Lake Overlook. This overlook offers stunning views of the Arkansas River, as well as a glimpse into Tulsa’s industrial history.

Off the Beaten Path

For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Center of the Universe. This mysterious spot in downtown Tulsa features a unique acoustic phenomenon that creates a strange echo effect when you stand in the center of a circle. The experience is truly one-of-a-kind and definitely worth a visit.

Another hidden gem in Tulsa is the Tulsa Garden Center. This stunning complex features a range of gardens and greenhouses, as well as a charming Tudor-style mansion that dates back to 1920.

Finally, if you’re looking to get outdoors and explore, be sure to check out the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. This 300-acre park offers hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning views of the Tulsa skyline.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, or just looking to explore, Tulsa, Oklahoma, has plenty to offer. From its museums and parks to its thriving food and arts scenes, this city is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a unique and memorable vacation.