25 Best Things to Do in Tulsa OK (2025): Local Secrets & Must-See Spots

Tulsa boasts one of America’s largest collections of art deco architecture, making it a city where historical charm meets modern excitement through countless activities.

The award-winning Gathering Place, named America’s Best New Attraction in 2019 by USA Today, welcomes visitors warmly.  Art enthusiasts can find 10,000 Western art pieces at the Gilcrease Museum, while the city offers attractions that appeal to everyone.  The vibrant spirit of Tulsa shines through diverse venues – from the massive 110,000-square-foot Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to the peaceful Philbrook Museum with its 23 acres of stunning grounds.

Tulsa’s appeal goes well beyond its cultural landmarks.  Nature lovers can enjoy over 26 miles of trails in the River Parks system.  Music fans will appreciate why the city ranks among the nation’s top 10 music scenes, with legendary venues like Cain’s Ballroom leading the way.  The Tulsa Air and Space Museum features interactive exhibits that captivate visitors and Utica Square provides upscale shopping opportunities.  These attractions make Tulsa an exciting destination for both newcomers and locals alike.

The Gathering Place

The Gathering Place, located along the Arkansas River, is the largest community park ever gifted to the public in U.S. history.  A remarkable $465 million investment created this 66.5-acre waterfront destination.  Visitors can experience more than 100 unique attractions, making this park one of the must-visit places in Tulsa OK.

Gathering Place Attractions

The park’s impressive facilities include:

• Chapman Adventure Playground featuring rope bridges and castle towers
• Williams Lodge with panoramic views
• ONEOK Boathouse for water activities
• Modern sports courts and skate park
• Peggy’s Pond where you can rent paddleboats

Gathering Place Activities

The boathouse provides free kayak and pedal boat rentals to visitors.  The park features extensive walking trails, relaxing beach areas at Willow Beach and various sports facilities.  The splash pad near Williams Lodge becomes a summer hotspot, while the Sky Walk Forest gives visitors exciting treetop adventures.

Gathering Place Events

Art, history, and culture come alive through year-round programs at the park.  The Global Gatherings summer program showcases Tulsa’s cultural diversity with dance, music, food and storytelling.  This vibrant celebration drew more than 6,400 people in 2024.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Guests can enjoy free admission and convenient parking near Williams Lodge and ONEOK Boathouse.  Strategic lighting and evening programs make the park a captivating destination after dark.

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Philbrook Museum of Art

The Philbrook Museum of Art, one of Tulsa Oklahoma’s most prestigious cultural landmarks, sits in a magnificent 1920s Italian villa.  Oil pioneer Waite Phillips and his wife Genevieve’s former home opened as a museum in 1939.

Philbrook Museum Collections

The museum houses nine unique collections that showcase art in different styles and media.  Visitors can explore:

• Native American art with its basketry, pottery and jewelry
• European and American collections supported by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation
• Works by master artists like Giovanni Bellini, Pablo Picasso and Andrew Wyeth

Philbrook Gardens

The museum’s grounds cover 25 acres of carefully designed formal gardens.  Rome’s Villa Lante inspired this beautiful landscape that features:

• Triple-ramped walled gardens
• A classical tempietto
• Native Oklahoma plants
• A refurbished creek

Philbrook Visitor Information

Visitors can enjoy the museum Wednesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, with late hours until 9 PM on Fridays.  Adult tickets cost $18, while youth ages 3-17 pay $8.  The museum makes art accessible with $5 admission on Friday evenings and takes part in the Museums For All program, which offers $1 entry to qualifying families.

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Tulsa Zoo

The Tulsa Zoo made headlines recently with the birth of five Malayan tiger cubs, increasing North America’s population of this species by 10%.  The zoo covers 84 acres of carefully designed habitats that showcase its steadfast dedication to conservation and wildlife education.

Tulsa Zoo Exhibits

Visitors can travel around the globe through these themed areas:

• The Lost Kingdom with Asia’s rarest species including tigers and snow leopards
• The African Plains where giraffes, lions, and white rhinos roam
• The Rainforest habitat that houses exotic species like tree frogs and macaws
• The Children’s Zoo that gives kids hands-on experiences in a petting area

Tulsa Zoo Programs

The zoo’s educational experiences help visitors learn about wildlife through various programs.  Behind-the-scenes tours cost $25 for members and $30 for non-members.  These tours are a great way to get knowledge about animal care and conservation efforts.  The Cox Nature Exchange welcomes visitors daily from 10 AM to 3 PM and lets them explore natural collections of rocks, fossils and animal artifacts.

Tulsa Zoo Tips

The zoo has 4.9 miles of walkable pathways, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.  Visitors can bring their own food and drinks, but glass containers and outside alcoholic beverages aren’t allowed.  The zoo’s H.A. Chapman Events Lodge provides helpful amenities like stroller rentals, wheelchair access and cooling stations.

BOK Center

The BOK Center, a premier entertainment destination in downtown Tulsa, welcomes visitors to its 19,199-seat arena.

BOK Center Events

Entertainment options fill the venue’s calendar throughout the year.  The arena hosts everything from rock concerts to family shows.  Tulsa Oilers hockey games bring regular excitement, while performers of all genres take the stage.  The 2025 lineup looks amazing with Andrea Bocelli performing alongside the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.  Country music fans can look forward to seeing Kelsea Ballerini.

BOK Center Amenities

Visitors can enjoy exceptional dining and premium experiences at the facility.  The food options are diverse:

• Four Corners’ gourmet grilled cheese
• Frank’s Gourmet Dogs
• Roadie’s Grill
• Wholly Tacomoli’s Mexican menu

The venue’s premium seating areas give guests multiple choices.  These include Platinum Suites, Premium Suites, Loge Boxes and Club Seats.  Sky Lofts, the newest addition, sit at the front of Sections 312-314.

BOK Center Tickets

Fans can visit the QuikTrip Box Office at 3rd Street and Frisco Avenue from Tuesday through Friday, 11 AM to 3 PM.  The venue now uses mobile-only ticketing, so guests need the Ticketmaster or AXS app for new purchases.  Security measures include a clear bag policy.  Each person can bring one transparent bag up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or a one-gallon clear plastic bag.

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Woody Guthrie Center

The Woody Guthrie Center stands as one of Tulsa OK’s most important attractions.  This cultural institution preserves America’s influential folk musician’s legacy through a vast collection of artifacts and memorabilia.  The center opened at 102 East Reconciliation Way in the Tulsa Arts District on April 27, 2013.

Woody Guthrie Exhibits

The center’s impressive collection has:

• Original handwritten lyrics of “This Land is Your Land”
• Guthrie’s musical instruments, including his banjo, mandolin, guitar, and fiddle
• Over 100 notebooks containing his creative works
• Interactive exhibits showcasing his artwork and photographs

The Dust Bowl virtual reality experience stands out as a compelling feature that takes visitors back to the Oklahoma Panhandle during 1934-1938.

Woody Guthrie Programs

The center dedicates itself to educational initiatives and provides resources to students, teachers and academics.  Outstanding educators in the Tulsa area receive the Troubadour Teacher of the Year award.  This educational facility highlights Guthrie’s role in American history and his fight for social justice.

Woody Guthrie History

The world’s largest collection of Guthrie-related materials resides in the center’s climate-controlled facility.  More than 10,000 items fill the archives, from manuscripts and correspondence to artwork and musical recordings.  The George Kaiser Family Foundation, based in Tulsa, acquired this collection from the Woody Guthrie Foundation, previously under the care of Guthrie’s daughter, Nora.

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Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness

Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area towers above the Arkansas River’s west bank and covers over 750 rugged acres of untamed terrain.  This natural oasis stands out as one of the most distinctive outdoor attractions in Tulsa OK.

Turkey Mountain Trails

The wilderness area features four main marked trails:

• Red Trail – A beginner-friendly 0.8-mile paved loop
• Blue Trail – A challenging 1.5-mile route reaching the mountain’s summit
• Yellow Trail – A 4.4-mile path offering riverside views
• Pink Trail – The longest trail at 5.7 miles with scenic sunset vistas

Turkey Mountain Activities

The area started as a hiking and trail running destination but has grown into a hub for mountain biking and nature observation.  Visitors can find varying challenges, from mild paths perfect for families to technical routes with rocky surfaces.  The wilderness offers options for casual walks and intense workouts, with elevation gains ranging from 104 to 580 feet.

Turkey Mountain Guide

The main entrance provides expanded parking, restroom facilities and water fountains.  Hikers need adequate water supplies since only one fountain exists at the lower parking lot.  Proper preparation makes a big difference – wear athletic shoes or hiking boots and let others know your planned route.  The trails welcome visitors daily and provide a genuine wilderness experience minutes from downtown Tulsa.

Tulsa Botanic Garden

The Tulsa Botanic Garden sits in the scenic Osage Hills and gives visitors a peaceful break from the busy city life.  This beautiful destination has over 200,000 spring-flowering bulbs spread throughout its grounds.

Botanic Garden Features

The A.R. & Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces stands as the garden’s centerpiece with more than 8,000 trees, shrubs and ornamental plants.  You’ll find these amazing features:

• A beautiful Garden Cascade with water features
• A two-acre Children’s Discovery Garden that offers interactive exhibits
• The Bumgarner Family Foundation Lotus Pool
• A 1.5-mile nature trail winding through native prairie

Botanic Garden Events

Three signature festivals bring the community together each year.  The Tulsa Botanic BLOOMS! showcases one of the region’s biggest flower displays from mid-March through April.  Fall brings pumpkin displays and the popular Scarecrows in the Garden exhibition.  The magical Botanic Garden of Lights wraps up the year from late November through December.

Botanic Garden Tips

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection for your visit.  The garden runs on a cashless system and accepts major credit cards and digital payments.  SNAP or WIC benefit recipients can get discounted admission through the Museums for All program.

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Oklahoma Aquarium

The Oklahoma Aquarium sits in Jenks, a lively suburb of Tulsa.  This amazing attraction boasts the world’s largest exhibit of bull sharks, making it a standout among Tulsa’s Oklahoma attractions.

Aquarium Exhibits

You’ll discover nine exciting exhibit areas including:

• The Siegfried Families Shark Adventure with its magnificent bull sharks and nurse sharks
• Sea Turtle Island where 300-pound loggerhead sea turtles swim gracefully
• Amazing Invertebrates that lets you touch and learn about sea creatures
• The Polynesian Reef with over 50 species of colorful tropical fish
• The Secret World of the Octopus featuring a tank you can view from all angles

Aquarium Shows

The aquarium brings marine life up close with daily interactive experiences.  Bull shark feeding shows happen Mondays and Thursdays at 1:30 PM.  Visitors can feed stingrays by hand during rotating sessions throughout the week.

Aquarium Information

The doors open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with late nights until 9 PM every Tuesday.  The last tickets sell an hour before closing time.  With nearly 200 interactive exhibits, the aquarium’s educational programs and behind-the-scenes tours are available at extra cost.

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Blue Dome District

The Blue Dome District stands out with its iconic 1924 dome-topped building.  This former Route 66 gas station has become the heart of one of downtown Tulsa’s most energetic entertainment zones.

Blue Dome Attractions

Located at 2nd & Elgin, the district engages visitors with a perfect mix of historic architecture and modern developments.  The area has grown beyond its nightlife beginnings and now features retail shops, art studios and a comedy club.  Tourists and locals love its genuine, down-to-earth vibe that creates authentic Tulsa experiences.

Blue Dome Dining

Food lovers will find options of all types here.  Some standout spots include:

• Albert G’s Bar-B-Q for authentic Oklahoma barbecue
• Yokozuna for contemporary Asian cuisine
• Juniper for refined dining
• Dilly Diner for classic comfort food
• Peacemaker Lobster & Crab for seafood specialties

Blue Dome Nightlife

Downtown’s most popular entertainment district really comes alive after dark.  The nightlife scene features unique spots like The Max Retropub, Dust Bowl for bowling fans and St. Vitus for dancing.  Visitors can pick their vibe – from dueling pianos at Shady Keys to line dancing at Whiskey 918.  The district keeps its energy going through various evening activities, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Tulsa OK.

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Tulsa Art Deco Architecture Tour

Tulsa became a showcase of architectural innovation thanks to its booming oil industry in the 1920s.  The city now boasts one of America’s finest collections of Art Deco buildings.

Art Deco Buildings

The downtown Deco District showcases remarkable structures from the city’s golden age.  These essential landmarks include the Boston Avenue Methodist Church with its skyward-reaching spire.  The Philcade Building stands out with its gold leaf decorations and medieval-style gargoyles.  Public Service Oklahoma Building catches eyes with strategic nighttime lighting.  The Oklahoma Natural Gas Building features distinctive chevron patterns that make it unique.

Art Deco History

Tulsa’s Art Deco development came in three distinct phases from the mid-1920s to early 1940s.  The city’s architectural splendor grew alongside its economic success.  New oil discoveries brought unprecedented growth and Tulsa soon became the “Oil Capital of the World”.  Nearly fifty talented architects shaped Tulsa’s impressive skyline during this period.

Art Deco Tours

Expert guides share fascinating stories behind these architectural treasures during two-hour walking tours through downtown’s Deco District.  Tours start from an authentic Art Deco building and help visitors learn about the city’s journey from a modest town to an oil capital.  Self-guided walking tours are available to those who prefer exploring at their own pace.

Route 66 Historical Village

The Route 66 Historical Village stands at 3770 Southwest Boulevard, showcasing Tulsa’s rich oil and transportation heritage through its impressive open-air museum.

Route 66 Exhibits

A magnificent 194-foot oil derrick stands as the village’s centerpiece, marking the spot of Tulsa’s first oil strike from June 25, 1901.  Visitors can explore amazing pieces of history including:

• A restored Frisco 4500 Steam Engine from 1942
• A vintage passenger car from 1929
• An authentic oil tank car from 1917
• A restored caboose from the 1930s

Route 66 Events

Special programs and commemorative events bring Route 66’s history to life.  The highway’s upcoming centennial in 2026 gives visitors a chance to be part of history – they can buy personalized engraved bricks for USD 66.00 to help preserve this historic village.

Route 66 Experience

A 1920s-1930s Phillips 66 gas station design shapes the Route 66 Village Station, which welcomes visitors as the main center.  The new Red Fork Depot, built with a USD 3.00 million investment, adds 5,000 square feet of event space.  This depot hosts various gatherings and enhances visitor experience while keeping the site’s historical charm intact.  Guided tours that clarify Tulsa’s journey to becoming the ‘Oil Capital of the World’ run by appointment during December, January and February.

Tulsa Performing Arts Center

The Tulsa Performing Arts Center, designed by Minoru Yamasaki who also created the former World Trade Center towers, takes up half a city block in historic downtown Tulsa.  This architectural gem ranks among the best things to do in Tulsa OK and welcomes visitors to experience art and culture in its various venues.

PAC Shows

The center hosts events by 14 local performance groups regularly.  You can catch amazing shows like Les Miserables, Tulsa Symphony’s Rimsky-Korsakov, and Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets in Concert.  The venue serves as the home stage for renowned groups like Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera and Tulsa Symphony.

PAC Venues

The facility features four unique theaters and additional spaces:

• Chapman Music Hall – The largest venue seats 2,365 people
• John H. Williams Theater – A welcoming 437-seat space
• Liddy Doenges Theater – A flexible black box theater that fits 300 people
• Charles E. Norman Theater – A comfortable 200-seat venue

PAC Information

The ticket office opens at 10:30 AM Monday through Friday, with earlier 9:00 AM openings on Tulsa Town Hall event days.  The center provides a Listen Technologies RF system to help visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing.  Security measures require all bags to be searched at entry.  Backpacks and bags larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″ are not allowed inside.

Guthrie Green

Guthrie Green stands proudly in Tulsa’s Arts District, where it has revolutionized a former industrial site into a lively community space.  The sustainable urban park hosts more than 125 free events each year, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Tulsa OK.

Guthrie Green Events

The park’s calendar features a variety of entertainment options year-round.  Popular recurring events include:

• Food Truck Wednesdays with local cuisine and live music
• First Friday Art Crawl featuring 40 local artists
• Sunday Salsa dance sessions with professional instruction
• Movies in the Park series on third Thursdays

Guthrie Green Activities

You’ll find 130+ free fitness classes throughout the year, from yoga to hip-hop dance fitness.  The park serves as an outdoor fitness center with wellness activities scheduled Sunday through Thursday.  We involved the community through splash pads, picnic areas and open green spaces.

Guthrie Green Tips

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.  The venue’s partnership with KultureCity provides sensory-friendly accommodations, and guests can get complimentary sensory bags when needed.  LED lighting and solar panels power the park’s amenities.  Families looking to enjoy Tulsa OK can bring picnics and cool off at the water features during hot summer days.

Tulsa River Parks

The Arkansas River’s banks are home to River Parks, a network of outdoor recreation spaces that locals and visitors love in Tulsa, OK.  This public park system has 26 miles of paved trails that link the city’s major attractions.

River Parks Trails

Most sections of the trail system have separate lanes that keep cyclists and pedestrians safe.  The east bank’s trails stretch nine miles from downtown to 101st Street and feature divided paths with medians.  These trails link up with regional routes at 96th and Riverside, making it easy to reach Jenks and the Creek Turnpike Trail.

River Parks Activities

The park system buzzes with activities all year round:

• Disk golf course on the west bank
• Kayaking at Zink Lake
• Fishing from the Pedestrian Bridge
• Rollerblading and cycling
• Wildlife observation in natural habitats

River Parks Amenities

Visitors can enjoy modern facilities like restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds.  The Sand Bar restaurant and Yard Bar outdoor cafe serve up refreshments when you need a break.  The trails stay lit until curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., so evening visitors feel safe.  While most paths are flat and hard-surfaced for all fitness levels, some sections near Turkey Mountain have steeper grades.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino dominates Tulsa’s entertainment scene with its massive 147,000-square-foot gaming space.

Casino Games

Players will find 2,600 electronic gaming machines and 40 table games on the gaming floor.  The casino offers popular table games like craps, roulette and several poker variations.  The 10-story tower’s lower floor features a smoke-free zone with 500 gaming machines and 15 table games.

Hard Rock Entertainment

Two main venues make up the entertainment spaces.  Hard Rock Live, a 45,000-square-foot amphitheater, brings in major concerts and events.  Track 5 captures Oklahoma’s honky-tonk spirit with its cozy 1,200-square-foot wooden dance floor.

Hard Rock Dining

The property’s dining options include:

• Carvers on 19 – Fine dining with panoramic views
• The Eatery – Self-serve dining experience
• HWY 66 Diner – Classic American cuisine
• Flip Side – Burgers and sandwiches
• Salsa – Mexican cuisine

The restaurants follow strict safety measures with contactless food delivery and thorough cleaning between guests.  Visitors can grab a meal any time of day, and some spots stay open 24 hours to serve guests enjoying the casino’s entertainment.

Oxley Nature Center

The Oxley Nature Center spans 804 acres of pristine wilderness along Bird Creek and provides visitors a natural escape among the many things to do in Tulsa OK.

Oxley Trails

Nearly nine miles of interconnected trails wind through the center.  The paths accommodate hikers of all skill levels.  The main trails are:

• Red Fox Trail (0.34 miles) – Level gravel path with sensory awareness posts
• Blue Heron Trail (0.29 miles) – Bird blinds overlook Lake Sherry
• Blackbird Marsh Trail (0.37 miles) – A 600-foot boardwalk stretches across the marsh
• North Woods Loop Trail (1.11 miles) – A true wilderness experience awaits

Oxley Programs

The center’s educational programs bring nature to life through guided experiences.  Staff members lead monthly bird walks, teach plant identification and guide nighttime exploration programs.  These hands-on activities help visitors appreciate natural habitats through direct participation.

Oxley Wildlife

More than 200 bird species and 50 butterfly varieties thrive in this diverse ecosystem throughout the year.  Visitors often spot mammals like deer, raccoons, bobcats and otters that have made the center their home.  Giant cottonwoods, sycamores, and pecans create a flood-plain forest perfect for wildflower viewing.  The flowers reach peak bloom from February through March and July through October.

Tulsa Air and Space Museum

The Tulsa Air and Space Museum spans 35,000 square feet of exhibition space next to Tulsa International Airport.  This impressive facility showcases the region’s rich aerospace legacy.

Air Museum Exhibits

Visitors can explore Tulsa’s aviation experience through interactive displays and historical artifacts.  The museum features these must-see exhibits:

• Early Birds showcase with Duncan A. McIntyre’s trailblazing contributions
• Pearl Harbor survivors’ interactive touch-screen exhibit
• World War II presentations that highlight Spartan Aircraft Company
• Commercial aviation display showcasing American Airlines history

Space Museum Features

The James E. Bertelsmeyer Planetarium opened in 2006 and features a 50-foot diameter dome with stunning 360-degree high-definition technology.  Space enthusiasts can explore these exciting attractions:

• NASA Mission Control consoles
• Space Shuttle landing simulator
• Manned Maneuvering Unit simulator

Museum Information

Visitors can explore the museum Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  The admission rates are:

• Adults: $15.00
• Military personnel and seniors: $12.00
• Children (5-17): $10.00
• Children under 4: Free

The museum’s group rates and educational programs are perfect for school visits, summer camps and Scout groups.  Families looking for educational entertainment in Tulsa OK will find the museum’s hands-on STEM activities engaging and memorable.

Cherry Street District

Cherry Street spans seven historic blocks between Peoria and Utica Avenues.  This unique shopping district holds the distinction of being Tulsa’s only National Register of Historic Places-listed shopping area.  The neighborhood buzzes with life and features over 20 restaurants and local businesses.  It’s one of the best spots to visit in Tulsa OK.

Cherry Street Shopping

Local boutiques and specialty stores create an eclectic shopping experience:

• The Nest – Beautiful handmade mugs, pottery and Alpaca scarves await shoppers
• Modern Cottage – Unique decor and paper goods fill this charming store
• Rustic Cuff – Stylish accessories and jewelry catch everyone’s eye
• Peace of Mind Bookstore – A treasure trove of metaphysical items

Cherry Street Dining

The food scene here is something special.  Andolini’s Pizzeria has earned its spot on Tripadvisor’s Top 10 Pizza Restaurants in the U.S. list.  Kilkenny’s Irish Pub serves authentic Irish dishes and offers an impressive drink selection, making it Tulsa’s #3 dinner destination on Tripadvisor.

Cherry Street Events

Every Saturday morning, the Cherry Street Farmers’ Market comes alive across two city blocks with amazing food vendors.  The district celebrates throughout the year with seasonal festivals and art walks.  Night owls can enjoy rooftop dining at Prossimo and sip handcrafted cocktails at Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar.  These spots offer stunning views of downtown Tulsa.

Cain’s Ballroom

Cain’s Ballroom, a 99-year old venue in Tulsa OK, started as a garage in 1924 and grew into one of the world’s best performance venues.  This iconic destination should be on your Tulsa OK must-visit list.

Cain’s Events

The venue draws crowds with over 150 shows every year.  Music fans dance on the historic maple spring-loaded floor under a stunning four-foot neon star and silver disco ball.  We mostly see country, rock and Red Dirt music here, with both seasoned performers and new talent taking the stage.

Cain’s History

The ballroom became “The Home of Bob Wills” in 1935 and gave birth to western swing music.  Here are some key moments in its history:

• Bob Wills played weekly dances and midnight radio shows from 1935 to 1942
• Western swing emerged here by blending jazz, hillbilly, boogie, and big band styles
• Famous acts like Sex Pistols and Leon Russell have performed here

Cain’s Information

Most shows follow a general admission, standing-room-only format.  The venue has these features:

• Box office opens Wednesday and Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Select shows get mezzanine access with a private bar
• Most events welcome all ages
• Clear bag policy with security screening

Large photos of legendary performers cover the walls.  Black fiddle-shaped fixtures lit up by red bulbs create a unique atmosphere that celebrates the venue’s rich musical legacy.

Tulsa Historical Society

The Tulsa Historical Society & Museum sits inside the beautiful Sam Travis Mansion.  This remarkable place lights up the city’s rich heritage through eight unique exhibit galleries.  You’ll find it among the most educational attractions in Tulsa OK, with stories that span from Oklahoma’s territorial days to modern times.

Historical Exhibits

The museum’s rotating exhibits bring Tulsa’s past to life.  Here’s what you can see:

• Behind the Veil: Tulsa in the Twenties (Opening February 2024)
• Home & Hearth (April 2024 – April 2025)
• Order Up! featuring iconic local restaurants
• A Century Later: Greenwood & the Tulsa Race Massacre

Historical Programs

The museum runs educational programs at its location and in schools.  We focused on getting young people involved through specialized student tours that feature photo analysis and Oklahoma oil history exploration.  Their outreach efforts got even better with a traveling exhibit about the Greenwood Area and the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

Visitor Information

You can visit the museum Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.  The admission prices are:

• Adults: $10.00
• Seniors: $5.00
• Active duty military: $5.00
• Museums for All program: $1.00

The museum’s facilities are ADA accessible throughout its buildings and gardens.  Visitors can get free wheelchairs at the front desk.  The core team’s steadfast dedication shows in their work – they’ve created more than 130 exhibits since opening in 2005.

ONEOK Field

ONEOK Field, the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, sits in Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District and ranks among the most exciting things to do in Tulsa OK.

Baseball Games

The Tulsa Drillers bring thrilling baseball action throughout the season.  Fans can enjoy post-game fireworks shows from April through September.  The stadium’s design gives every seat an excellent view and creates a close-up atmosphere where fans watch future MLB stars.

Stadium Events

ONEOK Field doubles as a year-round entertainment venue that can host groups ranging from 15 to 8,000 people.  The stadium features several unique spaces:

• Norlem Conference Center – Accommodates 120 guests with full audiovisual capabilities
• Cadillac Club – Houses 75 guests with downtown views
• Osage Casino Hotel Pavilion – Seats 550 guests in an outdoor setting
• The Backyard & Hop & Sting Brewery Bar – Creates a relaxed atmosphere with yard games

Visitor Guide

Visitors can enter the stadium 65 minutes before game time.  The family-friendly facility includes a splash zone behind centerfield and a well-stocked team store.  Food lovers can choose from 21 concession stands and carts throughout the venue.  The stadium’s brick and zinc exterior coordinates with nearby Art Deco buildings to preserve the district’s architectural heritage.

Tulsa State Fair

The Tulsa State Fair turns into an amazing 11-day celebration each September.  This community celebration has grown into one of the most predicted events in Tulsa OK since it was first hosted in 1903.  Today, it draws nearly 1.2 million visitors.

Fair Attractions

Visitors will find entertainment options in venues throughout the fairgrounds.  Oklahoma’s farming heritage comes alive through livestock competitions and educational demonstrations at the agricultural exhibits.  The entertainment includes:

• Disney On Ice performances
• Live music at the Oklahoma Stage
• Sea Lion Splash shows
• Perondi’s Stunt Dogs performances
• Great American Pig Races

Fair Food

A smart Food Finder system helps visitors discover treats in unique categories:

• Traditional fair favorites
• International flavors
• Specialty drinks
• “You Fried What?” innovations
• On-a-stick delicacies

Food vendors compete for prizes up to USD 300.00 in the Annual Awesome Eats Food Competition.

Fair Schedule

Weekday buildings welcome visitors from 11 AM to 10 PM, while weekend hours start earlier at 10 AM.  The Midway stays open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays for extra fun.  Visitors can catch spectacular firework displays on both Saturday evenings, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Tulsa OK.

Brookside District

Brookside District sits just minutes from downtown Tulsa OK, where upscale shopping meets casual charm to create one of the city’s most unique attractions.  This neighborhood hot spot packs more than 35 restaurants and nightspots that give both tourists and locals a true taste of the city.

Brookside Shopping

Designer clothing boutiques stand alongside Tulsa-themed gift shops in this bustling district.  The walkable streets are lined with unique shops you won’t find anywhere else in the city.  Shoppers can browse everything from antiques and pottery to local art galleries, all within easy walking distance.

Brookside Dining

The food scene here runs the gamut from quick bites to elegant dining experiences.  You’ll find:

• Sushi spots and modern Asian fusion
• Welcoming diners and cafes
• Classic hamburger joints
• Upscale restaurants
• Craft cocktail bars

Brookside Entertainment

The district buzzes with evening activities and special events throughout the year.  Seasonal celebrations and free community gatherings keep the area lively.  The neighborhood’s location next to the nationally recognized Gathering Place makes it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Tulsa Oklahoma.  Night owls flock to local bars for craft drinks, while weekend brunches pack the district’s many restaurants.

Admiral Twin Drive-In

The Admiral Twin Drive-In stands proudly on Route 66, embodying the magic of American cinema.  This beloved venue first welcomed moviegoers with a single screen in 1951.  A second screen joined it the next year.

Movie Schedule

From March to October, the drive-in lights up its screens nightly.  Movie fans can catch the latest releases and timeless classics.  The venue shows double features on the same screen at one ticket price.  Shows start at 7:20 PM, with a mix of family-friendly films and seasonal favorites.

Drive-In Experience

A fire destroyed the original wooden screens in 2010.  The theater bounced back in 2012 with new steel screens.  Today’s visitors tune into dedicated radio stations for each screen.  The spacious grounds let guests watch from their cars or bring chairs to sit outside.

Visitor Tips

Here’s how to make the most of your drive-in night:

• Get there early to grab the best spots
• Bring a portable radio if you plan to sit outside
• Make sure your car’s windows are clean
• Pack some camping chairs if you want to sit outside

The snack bar offers fresh upgrades and serves all your favorite movie treats.  The helpful staff keeps jumper cables ready in case your car battery needs a boost.

Comparison Table

Enjoy the Things to do in Tulsa OK

Tulsa is a destination where history and modern entertainment come together, giving visitors amazing experiences all year round.  The city doesn’t focus on just one type of attraction.  You’ll find everything from world-class museums like Philbrook to natural getaways at Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness.

The city’s architectural heritage comes alive through its Art Deco buildings downtown and historic venues like Cain’s Ballroom.  The whole family can enjoy places like The Gathering Place and Tulsa Zoo that mix fun with learning.  Cultural spots like the Woody Guthrie Center keep Oklahoma’s rich artistic legacy alive.

Nature lovers feel right at home in Tulsa’s green spaces.  The beautiful Tulsa Botanic Garden and the long River Parks trail system offer plenty of outdoor adventure.  The city runs on entertainment with venues like the BOK Center and ONEOK Field.  Local neighborhoods such as Blue Dome and Cherry Street show off the best local dining and shopping scenes.

Tulsa shows how a city can honor its past while welcoming new ideas.  Every visitor can create their perfect mix of activities and attractions here.  Each neighborhood has its own story to tell, every venue brings its own special charm and each season opens up new ways to experience this vibrant Oklahoma gem.

FAQs

Q1. What are some unique attractions in Tulsa?
Tulsa boasts one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the country.  The city offers cultural attractions like the Philbrook and Gilcrease Museums, as well as performances at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center featuring the Tulsa Ballet, Opera and Symphony Orchestra.

Q2. How can I spend a day in Tulsa?
You can visit The Gathering Place and Tulsa River Parks, explore the Blue Dome Entertainment District, shop at Utica Square, catch a live show, tour the Gilcrease Museum, try your luck at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, see animals at the Tulsa Zoo or admire art at the Philbrook Museum.

Q3. What are some popular neighborhoods in Tulsa?
Some of Tulsa’s most popular neighborhoods include the Pearl District, Greenwood, East Village, Blue Dome District, Cathedral District, Kendall Whittier, Cherry Street and Brookside.  Each area offers its own unique charm and attractions.

Q4. Where can I find good BBQ in Tulsa?
Tulsa offers several highly-rated BBQ spots. Local favorites include Burn Co., OakHart, and Alley Cat Ranch.  These establishments are known for their quality meats and unique flavors that represent Tulsa’s BBQ scene.

Q5. What are some must-visit music venues in Tulsa?
Cain’s Ballroom is a historic venue that’s a must-visit for music lovers.  Other popular spots include the Mercury Lounge for diverse shows and the BOK Center for larger concerts.  The Woody Guthrie Center and Bob Dylan Center are also great for music history enthusiasts.