What Attractions Make Tulsa, OK an Exciting Place to Visit?

Whether you’re a resident of Tulsa, OK or looking for a great travel destination, there are plenty of attractions sure to please all types of visitors in Tulsa. Composed of a colorful mix of history and natural beauty, Tulsa has plenty to offer, such as famous art museums, interesting historical sites and great shopping. Here’s a look at the top attractions to check out when you visit Tulsa.

Tulsa Zoo

One of the most popular attractions in Tulsa is the city’s zoo. Located in the Mohawk Park area, the Tulsa Zoo offers visitors a chance to get close to a variety of fascinating creatures, such as red pandas, snow leopards, white rhino and giraffes. With a number of vivariums and exhibits, you can also roam through 99 acres of habitats and over 400 different species of animals from around the world. With new additions each year, the Tulsa Zoo is an ever-changing and exciting place to visit.

Gilcrease Museum

Gilcrease Museum offers visitors a chance to explore American art and history dating all the way back to 1556. With over 10 million pieces of valuable artwork from a variety of mediums, the Gilcrease Museum houses some of America’s most renowned artists and works of art in an expansive complex. Guests can explore the building’s many collections, such as Native American artifacts, folk art and even religious objects. From contemporary exhibits to rotating displays, Gilcrease Museum is always an exciting place to visit.

Tulsa Air and Space Museum

The Tulsa Air and Space Museum is owned and operated by the United States Air Force. Located at the R.L. Jones Junior Airport in Tulsa, this amazing museum offers a look into the city’s aeronautical history. With private aircrafts, aircraft models and other paraphernalia from the early days of Tulsa’s aviation industry, this is the perfect stop for history buffs looking for a unique view into the past.

Tulsa Botanic Garden

The Tulsa Botanic Garden is home to 19 gardens and more than 500 species of plants spread across 80 acres of land. This world-class institution offers visitors unique and colorful interactive outdoor exhibits like a children’s garden with lilies, cacti, composite flowers, roses and more. Throughout the gardens you’ll find sculptures and an array of plant-life for which Tulsa is known. Even during wintertime visitors can enjoy the winter-themed exhibits. With numerous events taking place year-round, the Tulsa Botanic Garden offers a great place to explore and learn while enjoying great outdoor scenery.

Utica Square Shopping Center

Located in Midtown Tulsa, Utica Square Shopping Center is the perfect place to go on a shopping spree. Along with its many retail stores, this open-air mall boasts quaint eateries that offer typical mall food fare along with some higher-end eateries offering steak, seafood and sandwiches with locally-sourced ingredients. The center also features multiple music venues and performances each month for added entertainment. Shopping enthusiasts will surely find something special during their time at Utica Square Shopping Center.

Philbrook Museum of Art

The Philbrook Museum of Art is renowned for its impressive collection of modern art from 1960 through today. Sprawled across 23 acres of picturesque gardens, the museum boasts sculptures by Jaume Plensa, Tom Otterness and James Surls just to name a few. Located in the historic villa of Waite Phillips in Midtown Tulsa, Philbrook includes works from America’s premier modern artists like Philip Guston and Jackson Pollock. With educational programs and special events like film screenings throughout the year, Philbrook Museum is an ideal attraction for art enthusiasts of all ages. Tulsa is an exciting place to visit with plenty of attractions to choose from. From historical sites to modern museums and interactive shopping centers to lush natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone in this wonderful city in Oklahoma. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor nature adventure or need a dose of culture, you can always find something entertaining and educational during your time in Tulsa.

An Insider’s Guide to Tulsa, Oklahoma – Discover the Hidden Gems

Tulsa, Oklahoma, also known as the “Oil Capital of the World,” is a fascinating city that captures the hearts of many visitors. With its unique blend of western heritage, Native American history, and bustling modernity, Tulsa has something for everyone. From lesser-known gems to cultural experiences and local history, this insider’s guide to Tulsa will inspire and delight you!

Local Attractions – Discover the Hidden Gems

Tulsa has a plethora of attractions that go beyond the conventional tourist spots. The Philbrook Museum of Art is a hidden gem that art lovers should not miss. Located in a stunning mansion with beautiful gardens, this museum has an impressive collection of art and hosts regular exhibitions. Another unique attraction is the Tulsa Air and Space Museum, where visitors can learn about aviation history and interact with a variety of fascinating exhibits. For a more adventurous experience, head towards the Tulsa Zoo, where you can observe exotic animals up close.

Dining Spots – Embark on a Culinary Journey

Tulsa’s food scene reflects the city’s diverse cultural roots. Must-try dishes include chicken-fried steak, fried okra, and Tulsa’s signature dessert, the legendary chocolate cake at Queenie’s Cafe. Local diners like Arnold’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers and Goldie’s Patio Grill are great for burgers and classic American fare. For something different, try Chimera Cafe, a hip eatery with its own unique twist on vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Don’t forget to try locally brewed craft beers at Prairie Brewpub and cocktail creations at Valkyrie.

Cultural Experiences – Immerse Yourself in Tradition

Tulsa is home to several cultural experiences that offer fascinating insights into the city’s heritage. The Woody Guthrie Center pays tribute to the legendary folk singer and union activist and features exhibits, archives, and educational programs. The Cherokee Heritage Center celebrates Native American culture with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a village of traditional Cherokee homes. Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture is another unique aspect of the city. You can appreciate it by touring buildings like the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, the Tulsa Club Building, and the Philcade Tower.

Local History – Relive the Past

Tulsa has a complex and fascinating history that goes beyond oil and gas. The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre is a deeply sobering part of the city’s past that every visitor should learn about. The Greenwood Cultural Center and the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation are dedicated to educating about this tragic event and promote healing, dialogue, and scholarship. The Tom Tom Festival is a celebration of Tulsa’s historic African American district, which highlights the contributions of the Black community and their history. Don’t miss out on visiting the re-created oil drilling rig and the Oil Museum at Philbrook Downtown.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Create Unforgettable Memories

To make your visit to Tulsa truly unforgettable, venturing off the beaten path is a must. Take a stroll in the Rose Garden at Woodward Park or witness the scenic views at Turkey Mountain Park. For a unique day trip, make your way to The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Osage County, where you can witness the untouched beauty of the rolling hills and vast prairie. The Blue Whale of Catoosa is another quirky attraction that many tourists don’t know about, and you just have to see it to believe it. You can also find top-notch miniature golf experiences at Safari Joe’s H20 Water Park and the Lafortune Park’s Par 3 course.

In conclusion, Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a city with a rich past and vibrant culture. This insider’s guide is just the tip of the iceberg for exploring all that this fascinating destination has to offer. The city is full of hidden gems, cultural experiences, and unique culinary delights that await your discovery. Come visit Tulsa and explore one of America’s most intriguing cities!