Who says Oklahoma can’t surprise you? Tulsa might not be the first city that pops into your mind when planning a getaway, but trust us – this place is about to blow your expectations out of the water! From world-class museums that’ll make you forget you’re in the middle of America to quirky attractions that’ll have you scratching your head in the best possible way, there are countless amazing things to do in Tulsa. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, nature lover, or just someone looking for a good time, T-Town (as the locals lovingly call it) has something special waiting for you. So pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover why Tulsa is Oklahoma’s best-kept secret!
1. Philbrook Museum of Art
The Philbrook Museum of Art is where high culture meets Instagram gold – a stunning Italian Renaissance villa that houses world-class art collections while making you feel like you’ve stumbled into a European palace. Originally built as oil baron Waite Phillips’ mansion, this architectural gem now showcases everything from Native American pottery to contemporary masterpieces, all surrounded by 25 acres of meticulously manicured gardens that’ll have you questioning your own landscaping skills.
Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring both the mansion’s opulent rooms and the outdoor sculptures scattered throughout the gardens. The museum caters perfectly to art lovers, couples seeking a romantic stroll, and families with older children who can appreciate the grandeur without getting too antsy.
- Admission: $12 for adults, $8 for students/seniors, free for children under 18
- Location: 2727 S Rockford Rd, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Visit on Thursday evenings for discounted admission and smaller crowds, plus the gardens look magical during golden hour
It’s the rare museum where the building itself is as captivating as the art it contains – a testament to Tulsa’s surprising cultural sophistication.
2. The Cave House: Tulsa’s Quirkiest Underground Adventure
Step into The Cave House, where history meets hilarity in the most delightfully bizarre way possible – this isn’t your typical house tour, it’s a journey through Tulsa’s most eccentric architectural wonder that promises to leave you both educated and entertained.
This historic gem captivates visitors with its underground speakeasy accessed through mysterious tunnels, jaw-dropping bone sculptures that’ll make your Instagram followers do double-takes, and yes – an actual slide for adults upstairs because someone clearly understood that growing up doesn’t mean giving up fun. The eclectic decor tells stories of bygone eras while keeping you guessing what oddity awaits around each corner.
Perfect for adventurous couples, curious families with older kids, and anyone who appreciates the wonderfully weird side of history. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully explore and soak in the atmosphere. Tours typically run $15-25 per person, and booking ahead is highly recommended as this hidden gem fills up quickly.
Pro tip: Visit during weekday afternoons for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities in the speakeasy tunnels.
The Cave House proves that the best travel experiences happen when history gets a healthy dose of imagination and a generous sprinkle of the unexpected.
3. Center Of The Universe
Step into Tulsa’s quirkiest acoustic wonder, the Center Of The Universe, where physics meets fun in downtown’s most talked-about echo circle. This small concrete circle creates a fascinating sound amplification phenomenon that will have you and your friends giggling as your voice bounces back in the most unexpected way.
Standing in the center, speak normally and hear your voice amplified back to you while others just steps away hear nothing unusual. It’s like having your own personal sound booth in the middle of the city! The surrounding area showcases beautiful historic architecture, making it perfect for photos and a leisurely stroll to nearby restaurants.
- Visit time: 15-30 minutes
- Perfect for: Families, couples, curious travelers, and anyone who loves quirky experiences
- Cost: Completely free
- Location: Downtown Tulsa, near the Williams Center
- Pro tip: Visit during daylight hours for better photos, and bring friends to fully appreciate the acoustic magic
It’s proof that sometimes the most memorable travel experiences come in the smallest, most unexpected packages.
4. Gilcrease Museum
The Gilcrease Museum is Tulsa’s crown jewel for Western and Native American art, housing one of the world’s most comprehensive collections that’ll make any culture enthusiast weak in the knees. Currently undergoing a major transformation with demolition and reconstruction planned just five minutes from downtown, this museum has been a testament to preserving America’s artistic heritage for decades.
When it reopens, visitors can expect to see an unparalleled collection of Western art, including works by Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, plus extensive Native American artifacts and historical documents. The museum’s gardens and grounds offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Arkansas River valley.
- Visit duration: 2-3 hours for a thorough exploration
- Perfect for: Art lovers, history buffs, families with older children, and anyone interested in American Western culture
- Admission: Currently closed for reconstruction (previously around $12-15 for adults)
- Location: 1400 North Gilcrease Museum Road, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Follow their social media for reopening updates and special preview events
Once reopened, this will be the kind of place where you’ll find yourself saying “just five more minutes” for two hours straight – a true cultural treasure that showcases the American spirit like nowhere else.
5. Tulsa Zoo – Wild Adventures in the Heart of Oklahoma
Step into a world of wonder at Tulsa Zoo, where 85 acres of Mohawk Park transform into a global wildlife sanctuary that’s been delighting families for over nine decades. This isn’t just any zoo – it’s your passport to meeting fascinating creatures from every corner of the planet without the jet lag.
From majestic big cats prowling through naturalistic habitats to playful primates swinging overhead, the zoo offers countless ‘wow’ moments that’ll have both kids and adults glued to exhibit windows. The conservation carousel and train ride add extra magic to your adventure, while interactive experiences let you get up close with friendly farm animals.
Perfect for families with children of all ages, plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring the grounds comfortably. Adult tickets run around $15-20, with discounts for children and seniors. Located at 6421 E 36th St N, the zoo is easily accessible and offers plenty of parking.
Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more active animals, and don’t forget comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen. Tulsa Zoo proves that the best classroom has no walls – just endless curiosity and unforgettable animal encounters.
6. Woody Guthrie Center
The Woody Guthrie Center is a must-visit cultural gem that celebrates the life and legacy of America’s most influential folk musician, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the man behind classics like “This Land Is Your Land.” This interactive museum doesn’t just display artifacts—it brings Guthrie’s story to life through multimedia exhibits, handwritten lyrics, personal belongings, and immersive experiences that showcase his impact on American music and social justice.
Music lovers will be captivated by the extensive collection of recordings, instruments, and never-before-seen photographs, while the center’s educational programs provide deep insights into Depression-era America and the folk music movement. The facility also features rotating exhibits and special events that keep the experience fresh for repeat visitors.
- Ideal visit time: 1-2 hours
- Perfect for: Music enthusiasts, history buffs, couples, and culturally curious families with older children
- Admission: Around $8-12 for adults
- Location: Tulsa Arts District, walking distance from other cultural attractions
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more contemplative experience
Whether you’re a die-hard folk music fan or simply curious about American cultural history, the Woody Guthrie Center offers an unexpectedly moving journey through the soundtrack of social change.
7. Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium
The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium (TASM) is where curiosity takes flight and science becomes an adventure that’ll make even adults forget they’re supposed to be mature. This interactive wonderland combines aerospace history with hands-on learning, making it the perfect spot to unleash your inner astronaut while pretending you’re totally doing it for the kids.
Explore vintage aircraft, space artifacts, and engage with interactive exhibits that explain everything from the physics of flight to the mysteries of our solar system. The planetarium offers stunning shows that transport you across galaxies without the jet lag, while flight simulators let you test your Top Gun fantasies (spoiler: most of us crash spectacularly).
- Visit duration: 2-3 hours
- Perfect for: Families with kids, science enthusiasts, anyone who’s ever wondered “what if I were an astronaut?”
- Admission: Around $12-15 for adults, $8-10 for children
- Location: 3624 N 74th E Ave, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid school groups and have exhibits to yourself
TASM proves that learning about science doesn’t require a PhD – just a sense of wonder and maybe a willingness to look slightly ridiculous while operating a flight simulator.
8. BOK Center: Tulsa’s Premier Entertainment Arena
The BOK Center stands as Tulsa’s crown jewel of entertainment, offering world-class concerts, sporting events, and shows in a stunning 19,199-seat arena that’ll make you forget you’re in Oklahoma (in the best way possible).
This architectural marvel hosts everything from A-list musicians and Broadway touring productions to Thunder basketball games and monster truck rallies. The arena’s exceptional acoustics and intimate seating design ensure there’s hardly a bad seat in the house, while the state-of-the-art facilities keep both performers and audiences thoroughly impressed.
- Visit Duration: 2-4 hours depending on event
- Perfect For: Music lovers, sports fans, families, date nights
- Ticket Prices: $25-$150+ depending on event and seating
- Location: 200 S Denver Ave, Downtown Tulsa
- Pro Tip: Arrive early to explore the impressive lobby and grab a bite at nearby Blue Dome District restaurants
Whether you’re catching your favorite artist’s world tour or cheering on the home team, the BOK Center delivers an unforgettable live entertainment experience that puts Tulsa firmly on the map as a must-visit destination.
9. River Parks: Tulsa’s Scenic Waterfront Playground
River Parks is Tulsa’s crown jewel of outdoor recreation, offering over 26 miles of pristine paved trails that wind along the Arkansas River – perfect for anyone who wants to escape the city hustle without actually leaving town. This expansive green corridor features picturesque gardens, elegant fountains, and life-sized wildlife sculptures that make every jog feel like a mini safari adventure.
Whether you’re power-walking at dawn, cycling with the kids, or enjoying a romantic riverside stroll, the parks cater to every pace and preference. The trails connect multiple neighborhoods and offer stunning river views, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the water reflects the Oklahoma sky in all its glory.
- Time needed: 1-4 hours depending on your route
- Perfect for: Families, fitness enthusiasts, couples, photographers
- Cost: Completely free!
- Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photos
- Bring: Water bottle, comfortable shoes, and your camera
River Parks proves that the best things in life really are free – it’s where Tulsa’s natural beauty meets urban convenience in the most delightful way possible.
10. River Spirit Casino Resort
River Spirit Casino Resort is Tulsa’s premier gaming and entertainment destination where Lady Luck meets luxury accommodations, making it perfect for adults seeking a thrilling night out or weekend getaway. This modern resort combines the excitement of expansive gaming floors with upscale amenities that’ll make you feel like a high roller even if you’re betting quarters.
The resort boasts spacious rooms with convenient virtual check-in, a refreshing pool area for daytime relaxation, and multiple dining venues ranging from casual bites to fine dining. Catch live concerts at their theater, try your hand at poker or slots, or indulge in VIP experiences that add extra sparkle to your visit.
- Ideal visit duration: 1-2 nights for the full experience
- Perfect for: Adults 21+, couples on date nights, groups celebrating special occasions
- Gaming entry: Free (minimum age 21)
- Location: 8330 Riverside Parkway, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Visit on weeknights for less crowded gaming floors and better restaurant availability
Whether you’re chasing jackpots or simply enjoying the sophisticated atmosphere, River Spirit offers that perfect blend of excitement and relaxation that transforms an ordinary Tulsa visit into an unforgettable adventure.
11. Vintage Sewing Center And Museum
Step into the charming world of textile history at the Vintage Sewing Center And Museum, where needle and thread enthusiasts can explore decades of sewing evolution in an intimate, hands-on setting. This delightful museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage sewing machines, from ornate Victorian models to mid-century electric wonders, alongside fascinating displays of antique patterns, fabrics, and sewing accessories that tell the story of domestic craftsmanship.
What makes this place truly special is the passionate staff who share captivating stories behind each piece, often demonstrating how these mechanical marvels once revolutionized home sewing. The museum also features rotating exhibits of vintage clothing and quilts that showcase the artistry of bygone eras.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours
- Perfect for: Crafting enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone curious about domestic life
- Admission: Free or by donation
- Pro tip: Visit on weekdays for more personalized attention from the knowledgeable volunteers
This hidden gem proves that even the most everyday objects have extraordinary stories worth discovering.
12. Tulsa Performing Arts Center
The Tulsa Performing Arts Center is your gateway to world-class entertainment in the heart of Oklahoma, where five distinct theaters come together to create the city’s premier cultural destination. This impressive complex hosts everything from Broadway touring productions and ballet performances to symphony concerts and thought-provoking lectures, making it a cultural powerhouse that rivals venues in much larger cities.
Each theater offers a unique atmosphere and acoustics designed for different types of performances, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience whether you’re watching a grand opera or an experimental play. The center’s programming spans classical to contemporary, so there’s always something exciting on the calendar.
- Visit duration: 2-4 hours depending on performance
- Perfect for: Couples seeking a sophisticated date night, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to elevate their evening
- Ticket prices: $25-$150+ depending on show and seating
- Location: 110 E 2nd Street, Downtown Tulsa
- Pro tip: Book tickets well in advance for popular shows and arrive early to explore the beautiful lobby areas
Whether you’re a theater veteran or a curious newcomer, the Tulsa Performing Arts Center delivers those magical moments that remind you why live performance remains irreplaceable in our digital age.
13. The Golden Driller: Tulsa’s Towering Icon
Standing 75 feet tall at the Tulsa Expo Center, The Golden Driller is Oklahoma’s most photographed landmark and a testament to the city’s oil heritage that’ll make you feel like you’ve discovered liquid gold yourself. This bronze giant, complete with hard hat and overalls, has been striking poses with visitors since 1953 and never gets tired of being in your Instagram shots.
The statue offers more than just epic photo ops – the surrounding area features a bustling farmer’s market on weekends and plenty of green space for picnics. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs, grab some local treats, and soak in that authentic Oklahoma charm.
- Visit duration: 30-45 minutes
- Perfect for: Families, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who loves quirky roadside attractions
- Cost: Free
- Location: Tulsa Expo Square, 4145 E 21st St
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic photos, and check out the weekend market for local goodies
The Golden Driller isn’t just a statue – it’s Tulsa’s friendly giant that perfectly captures the city’s spirit of hard work, community, and a healthy dose of fun.
14. Greenwood Rising: Where History Comes Alive
Greenwood Rising is an interactive museum that brings the powerful story of Black Wall Street to life through cutting-edge multimedia exhibits, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand Tulsa’s complex racial history in an engaging, thought-provoking way.
Step inside this cultural powerhouse and you’ll be immersed in the rise, destruction, and resilience of what was once America’s most prosperous Black community. The museum’s interactive displays and multimedia presentations don’t just tell you about history—they make you feel it. From the economic boom of the early 1900s to the tragic 1921 Race Massacre and the community’s remarkable recovery, every exhibit is designed to spark meaningful conversations and deep reflection.
- Visit duration: Allow 2-3 hours to fully absorb the experience
- Perfect for: History buffs, families with teens, educators, and anyone interested in social justice
- Admission: Around $15-20 for adults
- Location: Greenwood District, downtown Tulsa
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and plan to grab lunch at one of the nearby soul food restaurants afterward
This isn’t just a museum—it’s a transformative experience that will change how you see American history and leave you with stories you’ll be sharing for years to come.
15. Woodward Park and Gardens: Tulsa’s Green Oasis
Woodward Park and Gardens is a stunning 45-acre botanical paradise that proves Tulsa knows how to do green spaces right, offering visitors a perfect escape from city life just three miles from downtown. This meticulously maintained park showcases breathtaking rose gardens, seasonal flower displays, and peaceful walking trails that wind through landscapes so beautiful, you’ll forget you’re in Oklahoma.
The park’s crown jewel is its internationally acclaimed Municipal Rose Garden, featuring over 9,000 rose bushes representing 250 varieties that bloom spectacularly from April through October. Beyond the roses, you’ll discover themed gardens, a charming arboretum, and plenty of shaded picnic spots perfect for a romantic lunch or family gathering.
- Best time to visit: 2-3 hours, ideally during spring and fall mornings
- Perfect for: Couples, families, photographers, and garden enthusiasts
- Cost: Free admission and parking
- Location: 2435 S Peoria Ave, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos
With its combination of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and zero entry fee, Woodward Park proves that the best things in Tulsa really are free.
16. Bob Dylan Center
The Bob Dylan Center is a world-class museum that houses the most comprehensive collection of Bob Dylan artifacts and memorabilia, making it a pilgrimage site for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts visiting Tulsa. This impressive facility showcases seven decades of the legendary artist’s creative journey through handwritten lyric manuscripts, rare recordings, personal photographs, and interactive exhibits that bring Dylan’s artistic evolution to life.
The center features immersive galleries where visitors can explore Dylan’s songwriting process, his influence on American culture, and his Nobel Prize-winning contributions to literature. Interactive listening stations allow you to dive deep into his extensive catalog, while rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover.
- Visit Duration: 2-3 hours for a thorough exploration
- Perfect For: Music enthusiasts, literature lovers, couples, and cultural explorers
- Admission: Around $18-25 for adults
- Location: 116 E 2nd St, Tulsa Arts District
- Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more contemplative experience
Whether you’re a die-hard Dylan fan or simply appreciate groundbreaking artistry, this center offers an unparalleled journey through the mind of one of America’s greatest cultural icons.
17. ONEOK Field: Baseball Magic in Downtown Tulsa
ONEOK Field is Tulsa’s premier baseball stadium where the Tulsa Drillers bring minor league excitement right to the heart of downtown. This isn’t just any ballpark – it’s a beautifully designed venue that offers stunning views of Tulsa’s skyline while you catch America’s favorite pastime in action.
The stadium boasts modern amenities, comfortable seating, and that perfect small-town baseball atmosphere that makes every game feel special. Whether you’re cheering from the outfield berm or enjoying premium seats behind home plate, the intimate setting ensures great views from anywhere. The concession stands serve up classic ballpark fare alongside local Tulsa favorites.
- Visit duration: 3-4 hours for a full game experience
- Perfect for: Families, sports fans, date nights, and anyone wanting authentic American baseball culture
- Ticket prices: $8-25 depending on seating and game importance
- Location: 201 N Elgin Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120
- Pro tip: Arrive early for batting practice and grab seats on the first base side for the best skyline views during sunset games
ONEOK Field proves that sometimes the best entertainment comes from simple pleasures – good baseball, great company, and a cold drink under the Oklahoma sky.
18. The Outsiders House Museum
Step into the world of S.E. Hinton’s beloved novel at The Outsiders House Museum, where literary fans can explore the actual house used in Francis Ford Coppola’s 1983 film adaptation. This charming museum offers an intimate look behind the scenes of one of cinema’s most treasured coming-of-age stories, complete with original props, memorabilia, and fascinating trivia that brings the Greasers’ world to life.
Walk through the rooms where iconic scenes were filmed, browse rare photographs from the movie set, and discover untold stories about the young cast that included future Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise, Matt Dillon, and Rob Lowe. The museum’s passionate guides share entertaining anecdotes that movie buffs and literature lovers alike will treasure.
- Visit duration: 45-60 minutes
- Perfect for: Literature enthusiasts, movie fans, families with teens, and anyone who grew up loving the book
- Admission: Around $10-15 for adults
- Location: 731 N St. Louis Ave, Tulsa, OK
- Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and get more personal attention from guides
Whether you’re Team Socs or Team Greasers, this nostalgic gem proves that some stories never lose their golden charm.
19. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area
Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area is Tulsa’s hidden gem where you can escape city life without actually leaving the city – it’s like nature’s way of giving urban dwellers a quick mood boost just 8 minutes from downtown.
This 300-acre wilderness playground offers over 45 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through oak forests and prairie landscapes, with scenic overlooks providing stunning views of the Arkansas River and Tulsa skyline. The trails range from easy walks perfect for families to challenging single-track adventures that’ll get your heart pumping.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Time needed: 1-3 hours depending on your trail choice
- Perfect for: Families, hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and anyone craving outdoor adventure
- Cost: Completely free!
- Location: 61st Street and Elwood Avenue, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.
Turkey Mountain proves that the best adventures don’t require a road trip – sometimes the greatest escape is hiding in your own backyard.
20. Tulsa Garden Center at Woodward Park
The Tulsa Garden Center, nestled within the elegant historic Snedden Mansion in Woodward Park, offers a delightful escape for anyone seeking to reconnect with nature without leaving the city. This nonprofit gem combines horticultural education with stunning garden displays, making it a perfect spot for both learning and leisurely strolling.
Visitors can explore beautifully maintained demonstration gardens, attend workshops on everything from composting to native plant gardening, and admire the mansion’s charming architecture. The center features seasonal displays that showcase Oklahoma’s diverse plant life, plus educational exhibits that’ll turn even the most brown-thumbed visitor into a budding botanist.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours
- Perfect for: Families with curious kids, gardening enthusiasts, couples seeking a peaceful date spot
- Cost: Free admission (donations appreciated)
- Location: 2435 S Peoria Ave, Tulsa
- Pro tip: Visit during spring or fall for the most spectacular displays, and bring a camera – the mansion makes a gorgeous backdrop!
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just love beautiful spaces, this hidden oasis proves that sometimes the best adventures bloom right in your own backyard.
21. Decopolis Tulsa Art Deco Museum
Step into the glamorous world of the 1920s and 30s at Decopolis Tulsa Art Deco Museum, where geometric elegance meets quirky charm in two fantastic locations that celebrate Tulsa’s architectural golden age.
This delightful museum showcases the city’s impressive Art Deco heritage through carefully curated exhibits, vintage artifacts, and interactive displays. You’ll discover how Tulsa became a treasure trove of Art Deco architecture during the oil boom era. The Route 66 location adds extra nostalgia to your visit, while the downtown spot puts you right in the heart of Tulsa’s historic Deco District.
- Visit duration: 45-60 minutes per location
- Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, couples seeking unique dates, and anyone who loves vintage style
- Admission: Typically $5-10 (call ahead to confirm)
- Locations: 1401 E. 11th Street Unit B (Route 66) and downtown Deco District
- Pro tip: Visit both locations if time permits – each offers a different perspective on Tulsa’s deco story
It’s a hidden gem that perfectly captures the spirit of an era when Tulsa was literally built on black gold and bold design dreams.
There you have it – 21 incredible reasons why Tulsa deserves a spot on your travel bucket list! From the breathtaking Philbrook Museum to the mysterious Center of the Universe, this city proves that the best adventures often come from the most unexpected places. Whether you spent your days exploring world-class museums, cheering at ONEOK Field, or getting lost in the beauty of Woodward Park, you’ve experienced what makes Tulsa truly special. The diverse things to do in Tulsa ensure that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories and probably a few stories that’ll make your friends back home jealous. So what are you waiting for? Tulsa is calling, and trust us – you’re going to want to answer!