Blame it on popular culture, but when most people think of Tulsa, they instantly get images of cowboys riding around on horses around sprawling ranch land.
The truth?
Green Country is a wonderful and welcoming metropolis with plenty of retail stores, restaurants, museums, and attractions for the whole family.
Okay, we’ll admit that there are some pretty stunning sunsets and you’ll probably see someone wandering around in cowboy boots. But there’s just so much more to it than that. This is a town with heart, soul, and good old-fashioned hospitality.
In fact, there are tons of things to do in Tulsa that are both exciting and fun without breaking the bank. Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best activities for families, date night, and so much more.
Fun Things to Do Around Tulsa: Our Best Picks
If you’re looking for things to do around Tulsa, there are plenty of great options. Whether you want to show off the city to visiting guests or are just looking to get out and about for a bit, here are a few of our top favorites.
The Gathering Place
We absolutely cannot put a list together of the best things to do in Tulsa without mentioning The Gathering Place. Touted as a park for all, this expansive family-friendly park boasts 66.5 acres of space along the Arkansas River.
There are multiple playgrounds, a cafe, boat rentals, restaurants, and so much more. Oh… and it is totally free to enjoy, thanks to the George Kaiser Family Foundation.
Of course, we love this gem located outside of Downtown Tulsa for all of the reasons we’ve listed here. But we aren’t the only ones. It was voted USA Today's Best New Attraction of 2019 and has been recognized by Time Magazine.
Philbrook Museum of Art
Those who want a little culture in their lives will adore the Philbrook Museum of Art. Originally the mansion of oilman Waite Phillips in the 1920s, the exquisite property was gifted by the family to the residents of Tulsa as an art center.
Now, you can tour the grounds, visit the “famed” cats that live in the garden, or check out one of the many events and art exhibitions happening year-round.
Need Family Time? Things to Do in Tulsa with Kids
If you have little ones, you’ll enjoy all the wonderful activities the city and surrounding areas have to offer. Here are two of our favorites for families with toddlers, teens, and every age between.
Tulsa Children’s Museum Discovery Lab
Located in historic Owen Park, the Tulsa Children’s Museum Discovery Lab offers plenty of hands-on fun for kids of all ages.
Learn about science topics through various school-age appropriate exhibits, which change every few months and offer a combination of play and knowledge. Or let your toddler enjoy a variety of sensory activities in an area ideal for the littles ones.
Oklahoma Aquarium
Technically located a few minutes away in a nearby suburb, the Oklahoma Aquarium is a fun adventure for the whole family. This 72,000-square-foot public aquarium is home to a wide collection of aquatic creatures including bull sharks, a loggerhead sea turtle, and over 500 species of fish and reptiles.
Adult-Only Things to Do: Tulsa’s Finest
Looking for a way to enjoy a night on the town in Tulsa? Get ready to get on Tulsa time with these exciting adventures at two of our favorite local attractions for those over twenty-one.
Cain’s Ballroom
If you’re looking to catch a concert, look no further than the infamous Cain’s Ballroom. This concert venue was once a favorite place for the likes of Bob Wills, Tennessee Ernie Ford, and Hank Williams.
Now? You can catch a show ranging from hard rock to Red Dirt country several nights per week.
River Spirit Casino Resort
Do you feel lucky, punk?
Then you’ll love a trip to River Spirit Casino Resort. As one of many tribal-owned properties in the area, this combination upscale hotel and casino features a luxurious hotel, day spa, and plenty of opportunities to try your hand at slots, poker, and more. There are also a vast array of restaurants ranging from Ruth Chris’ Steakhouse to Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville.
Free and Cheap Things to Do in Green Country
Looking for something inexpensive to do in Tulsa? There are tons of different festivals happening at various types of the year throughout the city that cost nothing or have a minimal entry fee.
However, these two spots are a consistent way to enjoy an afternoon out when you’re on a budget.
Guthrie Green
Billed as a community square dedicated to the arts, Guthrie Green spans an industrial square block and includes a large grassy area, benches, and a pavilion stage.
It’s a great place to take in a music show, enjoy a free yoga class, or enjoy one of the many different festivals or events happening during the weekends.
Woodward Park
If taking a stroll through hundreds of manicured rose bushes and curated lawns sounds like a good time, you’ll love Woodward Park. Not only is it free to enjoy, but it’s also home to the Tulsa Botanical Gardens and the Tulsa Historical Society.
Browse the beautiful grounds without cost while learning about wildlife native to Northeastern Oklahoma.
Things to Do in Downtown Area – Culture and Arts
We could put together a description of everything there is to do in Downtown Tulsa. But, frankly, we would miss something cool that you’re sure to love. Instead, we’re just going to give you a brief rundown of our top spots and activities you cannot miss.
- Learn about music history at the Woody Guthrie Center.
- Catch a musical at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.
- Grab a pint at James E. McNellie’s Pub.
- Journey to the Center of the Universe and shout into the void.
- Become a video game hero at the Max RetroPub Arcade Bar.
- Sip coffee and meet your favorite author at Magic City Books.
- Catch a minor league baseball game at ONEOK Field.
- Pose in front of the many different murals in the area for great Instagram snaps.
Things to Do in Tulsa at Night
The nightlife at Tulsa is as hot as the daytime summer sun. Here are a few of the best spots for a fun evening out.
BOK Center
Touted as one of the top venues in the nation, Tulsa’s BOK Center is an indoor sports and event arena that seats just over 19,000 people.
Catch a concert from some of the biggest names in music, check out a Tulsa Drillers ice hockey game, or enjoy a wide variety of other performances, events, and more.
Loony Bin Comedy Club
Get ready for a few good belly laughs at the Loony Bin Comedy Club.
This theater-style center hosts improv and sketch comedy shows several nights per week. It’s a great place to take friends or a date for a fun night out on the town.
Things to Do for Couples and Date Night in Tulsa
Enjoying a date night with your love is easy in Tulsa. While there are numerous great restaurants for a romantic dinner, having a fun activity to go along with is super important. Here are two of our absolute favorites.
Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge
With a geographically appropriate moniker, Dust Bowl Lange and Lounge is an ideal place to bring a first date.
This retro-inspired bowling alley features a full restaurant and a complete bar. Best of all, it magically transforms into a 21-and-up venue after 8 p.m., which means you won’t have to deal with screaming toddlers on your adult night out.
Shuffles: Board Game Cafe
For something just a little bit different, head on over to Shuffles. This cafe and bar features a ginormous board game library suitable for players of all ages. For those looking to know more about their romantic partner, it’s a great way to really see their competitive streak come out. Bring a date or a group of friends for an evening you won’t soon forget.
Unique Things to Do in Tulsa
If you know anything about Tulsa, you’ve probably heard about our two most famous statues. These unique features offer a cool spot for photo opportunities and visiting them is just part of the Oklahoma vacation experience.
The Golden Driller
With roots in the everpresent Oklahoma oil industry, the Golden Driller stands a whopping 75 feet tall. Presiding over the City of Tulsa, he’s made from concrete, plaster, and steel and has been a staple at the Expo Square Center since 1966.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa
Located just a few miles down historic Route 66, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is another must-see attraction of the area. Just as the name suggests, it’s a giant cartoon-like statue of a blue whale in the middle of a water feature.
For decades, it has been a favorite place to stop for family photos and (these days) selfies.
Indoor or Outdoor Things to Do Tulsa Style
While we’ve given you lots of options for things to do in Tulsa, here are just a couple more. These indoor and outdoor options will keep you busy no matter what the weather or season.
- Hiking the trails at Turkey Mountain
- Strolling along the River Parks Trails on the banks of the Arkansas River
- Antique shopping in Jenks
- Browsing your favorite stores at Woodland Hills Mall
- Spending fun in the sun at Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park