Tulsa, Oklahoma is often called the “Oil Capital of the World”. It has many attractions and is a beautiful place to visit. It has a lot of beautiful parks and two excellent art museums.
There are many great restaurants and bars in the area thanks to the large number of big energy companies and other businesses that have their headquarters here. You can find great theatres, performing arts venues, and sporting arenas in the diverse neighborhoods and lively downtown.
The state’s second largest city has many historic sites related to Route 66. There are so many things to do and places to visit in Tulsa that a trip to T-Town should be a top priority when visiting the Sooner State. When in Tulsa, here are some of the places that you should not miss!
Gathering Place
The stunning green Gathering Place is the perfect place to find breathtaking views and beautiful outdoor spaces. The pride and joy of Tulsa, the popular riverfront park with all its trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds is just five minutes away from downtown.
It was only opened in 2018 and features lush lawns, leafy areas, tranquil ponds, and gardens as well as water features. The hybrid park was designed by Michael van Valkenburgh (respected landscape architect) and offers a variety of experiences for both young and old.
Tulsa Botanic Garden
The beautiful Tulsa Botanic Garden is located in the town’s northwestern suburbs. It is home to many colorful plants, flowers and trees, and its beautiful paths, pools, and lakeside promenade are truly a delight to stroll along peacefully.
It opened in 2009 and has grown to include themed gardens and unspoiled wild spaces that surround its waterways. Visitors can explore the vast lake, prairies, and rose beds as well as stop by the informative visitor center.
Tulsa Performing Arts Center
Gazing at the stars is a wonderful experience. However, a Tulsa Performing Arts Center ballet, musical, or opera is even more memorable. The state-of the-art venue, which includes four theaters and an arts gallery, is centrally located in downtown.
The PAC has been delighting tourists and locals alike for decades with its full schedule of high-quality concerts, comedians, and Broadway shows. It was built in 1977 and now has four performance venues, with the Chapman Music Hall being by far the largest.
The Golden Driller
Another must-see attraction is located just south of Route 66. The Golden Driller towers at 75 feet in height and can be seen from miles away.
The iconic and massive oil driller was originally erected in 1953. It is proudly displayed at the Tulsa Expo Center. It is covered in gold and depicts the enormous figure, who rests on an oil derrick with one hand while ‘Tulsa’ is on the other.
BOK Center
The brilliant BOK Center is also located downtown. It hosts a variety of spectacular sporting events, shows, and concerts. The multipurpose arena is a stunning venue that hosts amazing performances by the best names in their fields.
The sleek, stylish stadium is now considered an architectural icon. It draws inspiration from Native American and Art Deco design elements. The exterior is covered in stainless steel panels, while the glass façade wraps around it. Inside, you’ll find a large arena and a light lobby.
Blue Dome District
Blue Dome District is the place to be if you want peace and quiet but pounding nightlife. It is located right next to downtown and the Tulsa Arts District.
The area is named after its 1924 Blue Dome structure. It has many trendy restaurants and bars that visitors can check out. You will also find small shops and art galleries, as well as cozy cafes and a comedy show.
Cave House
The charming Cave House is located just inland from the Arkansas River, not far away from the center. It is one of the most unusual buildings in the city and makes for great photos. Guided tours take you through its bizarre interior.
According to legend, the restaurant was originally built in 1920s. Patrons would enter through a secret tunnel at night, then it turned into a speakeasy. The ‘Flintstone House,’ as it is also called, is one the most photographed and popular sights in Tulsa.
Philbrook Museum of Art
The Philbrook Museum of Art, located not far from Woodward Park, is the city’s most prominent sight. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has an exquisite collection of paintings, pottery, and jewelry that guests can peruse.
The museum is rightfully praised for its extensive collection of artworks and exhibits. It occupies an elegant Italian Renaissance-style mansion. Built in 1926, the villa was once home to Oklahoma oil pioneer Waite Philips and his wife. It has seventy rooms. It was finally opened to the public a decade later with thousands of artworks from around the globe decorating its beautiful interior.