13 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Tulsa

ByMelissa

As an Oklahoma local, Tulsa has always been one of our favorite places to sneak away for a quick weekend trip.

This vibrant city is packed with family-friendly attractions, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a lively arts scene that keeps us coming back again and again.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for new ideas, I’m sharing some of the best things to do in Tulsa — including our two absolute favorite spots: the incredible Gathering Place and the stunning Philbrook Museum.

1. The Gathering Place

You won’t find a list of the best things to do in Tulsa, Oklahoma, without The Gathering Place right at the top — and for good reason!

This award-winning, state-of-the-art park was just named USA Today’s Best City Park 2024.

With its incredible play structures, interactive activities, and beautiful design, it’s a place that truly has something for everyone. Our kids beg to visit anytime we’re nearby!

It’s easy to spend hours here, whether you’re climbing through the imaginative playgrounds, kayaking on the pond (seasonal), shooting hoops, playing volleyball, or biking the scenic trails.

Even adults will find plenty to love, from the beautiful landscaping to the relaxed outdoor vibe.

The Gathering Place is free to visit, which makes it an easy choice for your Tulsa itinerary.

→ Just a heads-up: it can get very busy on weekends and during school breaks, so plan accordingly!

There’s also a cafe on-site if you want to grab lunch, or you’re welcome to bring your own food and have a picnic in the park.

Unique play structures at The Gathering Place in Tulsa with metal slides in the shape of birds. This is one of the most picturesque areas of the park.
A suspended climbing tunnel at The Gathering Place in Tulsa Oklahoma. You'll want at least 2-3 hours to explore the park.

2. Philbrook Museum of Art

The Philbrook Museum of Art is hands-down one of the best places to visit in Tulsa.

This world-class museum is housed inside a stunning historic mansion — honestly, the building itself feels like a work of art.

Inside, you’ll find a wide range of pieces from different time periods, including American, European, and Indigenous works, plus some incredible sculptures.

One of the highlights for our kids was seeing a real mummy case from 300 BC, complete with ancient hieroglyphics — they thought it was the coolest thing ever.

We also loved wandering through the museum’s 25 acres of beautifully kept gardens, which are just as much a part of the experience as the galleries inside.

If you’re looking for a mix of culture, history, and a little outdoor adventure, definitely add the Philbrook to your Oklahoma getaway.

It’s one of those places that turns your trip into a learning experience your whole family will love.

Ticket cost: $18.00 for adults, $8.00 for ages 3-17 and free for children 2 and under.

Beautiful outdoor gardens at the Philbrook Museum of Art. The mansion itself was one of my favorite parts, and I highly recommend exploring this area behind the museum.
Philbrook Museum gardens

3. Tulsa Air and Space Museum

If you have an aviation lover in the family, the Tulsa Air and Space Museum is a must-visit.

Located right in the heart of Tulsa, this museum offers hands-on exhibits, historic aircraft you can see up close, and even a few flight simulators.

It’s also home to the James E. Bertelsmeyer Planetarium, where you can catch full-dome shows and live star tours that are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Ticket cost: General admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and military, $10 for kids (ages 5–17), and free for kids 4 and under.

4. Oklahoma Aquarium

Just a short drive from Tulsa in Jenks, the Oklahoma Aquarium is packed with all kinds of marine life — from stingrays and jellyfish to seahorses and electric eels.

One of the highlights is walking through the shark tunnel, where you’re completely surrounded by sharks swimming overhead!

Our kids especially love visiting the sea turtles — they’re always a favorite.

There’s also a fun outdoor playground that’s free to use with your aquarium admission, making it an easy spot to spend a full afternoon.

Ticket cost: General admission is $24.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids (ages 3–12), and free for children 2 and under.

A sea turtle swimming through the water in an aquarium.

5. Tulsa Zoo

Zoos are always a hit with our family when we travel, and while I personally prefer the Oklahoma City Zoo, the Tulsa Zoo is also a really fun stop!

This 84-acre zoo is home to tons of popular animals like Komodo dragons, Malayan tigers, snow leopards, Asian elephants, black howler monkeys, and more.

You can even hand-feed a giraffe for an extra fee, which is always a memorable experience for the kids.

If you want a little more guidance, the zoo offers walking tours led by educators where you can dive deeper into the exhibits and learn about the animals in a whole new way.

Ticket cost: General admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (ages 65+) and military, $12 for kids (ages 3–11), and free for children 2 and under.

Two lions, one male and one female resting among large rocks in a zoo.

6. Tulsa Botanic Garden

For blooms in all seasons, take a leisurely stroll through the Tulsa Botanic Garden, home to 170 beautiful acres of gardens.

Just 15 minutes northwest of downtown Tulsa, this is one of the most beautiful sites to see in the area.

As a gardening enthusiast, I am always amazed at the stunning variety of flowers and plants displayed.

The Tulsa Botanic Garden is open Tuesday – Saturday.

Ticket cost: $15.00 for ages 16 and over, $10 for ages 3-15, and children 2 and under are free.

Beautiful orange, yellow, red and pink tulips displayed in a botanic garden.

7. The Gilcrease Museum

Calling all art lovers! The Gilcrease Museum houses an extensive collection of American Art and historical artifacts.

It features the largest compilation of art of the American West in the world.

Additionally, this museum sponsors a program called “Gilcrease in Your Neighborhood“, which places art replicas along popular Tulsa nature trails.

*Note: At the time of this writing, the Gilcrease Museum is closed due to construction. A brand new state-of-the-art building is being constructed which will make the Gilcrease an even more coveted Tulsa attraction.

8. Arboretum

The Arboretum at Woodward Park is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

The wide variety of trees is beautiful and we loved that they were labeled by type of tree.

A selection of these trees are even imported from other parts of the world, such as the Dawn Redwood from China.

One of my favorite parts of the Arboretum area is a picturesque greenhouse with a curated variety of cactus and succulents for you to explore.

The green house at the Tulsa Arboretum. We loved exploring these different types of cactus and other unique plants.

9. Hiking

This one is for you, outdoor enthusiasts!

One of the best hiking areas in Tulsa, Oklahoma is Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness.

This forested park features a myriad of hiking and mountain biking trails from beginner to moderate abilities. The winding trails curve through trees and around ponds to give you the escape into nature you crave without leaving the city.

Likewise, Chandler Park is another great spot for hiking in Tulsa.

These nature trails have scenic views of Tulsa and Sand Springs and there are even some rock formations for climbing.

In addition to hiking, Chandler Park also features playgrounds, disc golf, picnic tables and a splash pad for even more family fun.

A person hiking through a wooded area.

10. Greenwood Cultural Center

The Greenwood Cultural Center celebrates and preserves the proud history of the African American community and the Greenwood District, which was home to a vibrant African American commercial hub.

Learn about the Tulsa Race Massacre and how the Greenwood Cultural Center plays a key role in revitalizing this multicultural district.

11. Sporting Events

If you’re a sports family like us, you’ll love the sporting events offered in the Tulsa area.

Tulsa is home to several sports teams such as the Tulsa Drillers (baseball), FC Tulsa (soccer), and Tulsa Oilers (hockey).

These games provide a lot of entertainment and are some of the favorite family activities in Tulsa! Check out each respective team’s calendar for a list of promotions and family-friendly events. 

A close-up of a baseball player holding two baseballs in his left hand.

12. Shopping

If you’re in the mood for a little shopping (and maybe some great food, too), Utica Square is the place to go.

This charming outdoor shopping center is home to more than 40 shops, a mix of national favorites and local gems, plus a handful of restaurants and even a spa.

Whether you’re shopping with family or strolling with friends, it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon here.

Cherry Street is another favorite shopping spot in Tulsa, known for its laid-back vibe and local flavor.

You’ll find a mix of unique boutiques, vintage shops, and quirky antique stores — perfect for scoring one-of-a-kind treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

A person browsing through clothes on a clothing rack while shopping.

13. Route 66 Christmas Chute

If you’re visiting Tulsa in November or December, you’ve got to make the 20-minute drive south to downtown Sapulpa for the Christmas Chute.

This one-of-a-kind holiday experience transforms the streets into a festive wonderland, with massive themed canopies (“chutes”) stretching over Main Street.

There are shops, food vendors, Christmas displays, and plenty of spots to snap a family photo. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra holiday magic to your Tulsa getaway.

The iconic Route 66 sign painted on the street in downtown Sapulpa, Oklahoma with the Christmas Chute in the background.
The Christmas Chute on Route 66

Things to Do in Tulsa With Kids

There are so many fun things to do in Tulsa with kids! Many of the most popular things to do in Tulsa (listed above) are very family-friendly, however we have created a list of the top 5 attractions most loved by kids.

  • Gathering Place
  • Tulsa Zoo
  • Discovery Lab
  • Oklahoma Aquarium
  • Tulsa Air and Space Museum

Indoor Activities in Tulsa

Visiting Tulsa on a rainy day or looking to escape the heat of the summer? These are the 5 best indoor activities in Tulsa.

  • Philbrook Museum
  • Oklahoma Aquarium
  • Tulsa Air and Space Museum
  • Discovery Lab
  • Gilcrease Museum
A large piece of artwork showcased at the Philbrook Museum of Art.
Philbrook Museum of Art

Free Things to Do in Tulsa

Looking for what to do in Tulsa on a budget? The following Tulsa attractions are completely free of charge!

  • Play at The Gathering Place
  • Hike at Turkey Mountain
  • Explore the Arboretum
  • Window shop at Utica Square
  • Have a picnic and play disc golf at Chandler Park

How far is Tulsa from Oklahoma City?

Tulsa is just a 1.5 hour road trip from Oklahoma City, making it an easy day or weekend trip.

Plan Your Tulsa Getaway!

We hope this guide has inspired you to check out all of the attractions Tulsa has to offer!

Whether you are visiting Tulsa with kids, going on a couples getaway, or meeting up with friends, there are a variety of fun attractions to choose from!

Don’t miss my top two picks- The Gathering Place and The Philbrook Museum of Art!

More Oklahoma Travel Resources:

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Melissa is a seasoned traveler who studied abroad in Europe and interned in Mexico before embracing family adventures with her husband and four kids. As the founder of Everyday Family Travel, she helps families plan memorable trips across the U.S. with kid-friendly destination guides and expert family travel tips.