Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Tulsa, Oklahoma

The second largest city in the state of Oklahoma, Tulsa once referred to itself as the “Oil Capital of the World” after recognizing its location atop the largest known oil reservoir globally. Although this title was short-lived, the influence of the oil industry continues to manifest in the city, where numerous energy companies operate to extract, supply, and trade this valuable resource.

The wealth generated from the oil industry facilitated the construction of the uniquely striking art deco buildings that visitors will encounter during their stay.

The city boasts several major attractions and a rich historical backdrop, as well as a variety of lesser-known sites that are most enjoyable once you have explored the primary landmarks and have some additional time to spare.

Here is a curated list of the 25 Best Activities to Experience in Tulsa:

1. Learn about some jazz legends

The Union Station in Tulsa houses the Jazz Hall of Fame. This city is renowned for fostering talented musicians, especially throughout the 20th century.

The hall of fame presents well-documented exhibits that meticulously examine the lives and contributions of musicians such as Charlie Christian and Wallace Willis.

On Sundays, visitors can attend live performances in the Grand Concourse, while Tuesdays feature complimentary jam sessions.

2. Pay Homage to a folk legend

In line with the theme of legendary musicians, a visit to the Woody Guthrie Center is essential during your time in Tulsa.

The museum features in-depth exhibits regarding his life and musical achievements, providing ample opportunities to engage with some of his most celebrated works.

The center also explores the lasting legacy he crafted by highlighting his influence on other artists, including Bob Dylan.

3. Learn about the 1921 race riots

In 1921, an incident occurred when an African American man and a white woman were in an elevator together, leading to the woman’s unexpected scream.

The specifics surrounding the scream remain unclear; however, the resulting media coverage and its handling incited three days of violent race riots that devastated 35 city blocks and rendered thousands homeless or worse.

John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park narrates the events of these race riots and the resulting destruction they wreaked on the city and its inhabitants.

4. Learn about the Greenwood District

Situated on Greenwood Avenue, the Greenwood Cultural Center delves into the history of the Greenwood African American District.

Similar to John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park, this cultural center recounts the events of the 1921 race riots while also emphasizing the district’s significance as once being a hub of Black commerce, famously dubbed “Black Wall Street.” The area was home to over 300 Black-owned businesses, including theaters and restaurants.

The center’s mission is to celebrate and sustain African American culture.

5. Visit the original Philbrook

The Philbrook Museum of Art, originally the residence of an oil magnate, has been transformed into a sophisticated venue showcasing a thoughtful collection of artwork, predominantly of Native American origin. The villa is aesthetically pleasing, surrounded by lush greenery.

The museum also operates a second location in the Brady Arts District, focusing more on contemporary art yet maintaining the elegance of the original Philbrook Museum.

Guided tours of the collections are offered daily at no charge.

6. Learn about American Art

Located just off Highway 64 and northwest of Downtown Tulsa, the Gilcrease Museum specializes in American art history.

It is recognized as one of the premier institutions in the nation for the preservation and study of American artworks, housing a comprehensive and unparalleled collection available through daily docent-led tours that commence at 2 PM.

These tours are complimentary and allow participants to join or leave at any point.

7. See a UFO

While not a UFO, the unusual Prayer Tower at Oral Roberts University is nonetheless a distinctive structure.

This iconic edifice stands at 200 feet high and its placement at the center of the campus symbolizes the belief that spirituality should be central to all aspects of life.

Visitors can ascend the tower to the observation deck from Monday to Saturday, between noon and 5 PM.

8. See an art deco icon

The Boston Avenue Methodist Church in Downtown Tulsa was completed in 1929.

This building is widely celebrated as an exemplary model of ecclesiastical art deco architecture. The church is best appreciated from various angles to fully admire its intricate design.

The church regularly hosts sermons, musical events, and community gatherings.

9. See another art deco icon

Although not as famous or esteemed as the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, the Philcade Building located at the intersection of East Street and South Boston Avenue is another remarkable instance of art deco architecture.

Currently, the building functions as office space, but its exquisite lobby design merits admiration.

The architect responsible for this impressive work is Leon B. Senter.

10. Orbit the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium

The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium, which began operations in 1998, initially operated within an old hangar but has since moved to a dedicated 18-acre facility.

The accompanying planetarium was inaugurated in 2006 and became the first of its kind in Oklahoma. Since its inception, the museum has welcomed over two and a half million visitors.

Exhibits encompass topics such as the science behind flight and space, simulators, and historic artifacts. Be sure to attend a planetarium show in the dome during your visit.

11. Catch a show or two

The premier venue for performing arts in Tulsa is undoubtedly the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

The center features six distinct performance venues, including four theaters, a studio space, and an art gallery. It serves as the home for esteemed organizations such as the Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera, and the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.

Tickets can be acquired online, encompassing both local performances and national productions.

12. Stare at an overweight oil worker

The Golden Driller, a monumental statue representing an oil worker in Tulsa, weighs an impressive 43,500 pounds. The statue pays tribute to Tulsa’s historical status atop the world’s largest known oil reservoir.

Initially erected by an oilfield supply company from Texas for a trade exhibition, the statue later became a beloved landmark. While two additional statues were constructed, all three fell into neglect until the city provided significant maintenance to the Golden Driller, including the branding of “Tulsa” on the driller’s belt buckle.

13. Go to the zoo

The Tulsa Zoo spans an expansive 75 acres and is operated by the City of Tulsa. It functions as a not-for-profit organization and is home to over 1,500 animals representing more than 430 distinct species. Among the notable inhabitants are Asian elephants, American alligators, and white rhinoceroses.

The zoo is categorized into various themed exhibits, including Asia, Africa, and The Rainforest, each showcasing unique habitats and animal collections.

It remains open year-round, except on Christmas Day and the third Friday of June.

14. Appreciate Jewish art

Regarded as the largest collection of Jewish art in the Southwestern United States, the Sherwin Miller Museum was established in 1966.

Current exhibitions feature ‘Jews Rock,’ a visual collection of photographs portraying Jewish icons in rock music, alongside displays concerning Jewish history, culture, and memorials for the Holocaust.

This year marks the museum’s 50th anniversary, celebrated with a special event featuring brunch and a performance by a Jewish rock orchestra.

15. Dance the night away

Cain’s Ballroom, an iconic venue dating back to 1924, has evolved significantly since its inception.

Starting as a garage, then a dance hall for affordable entry, it has emerged as one of the city’s premier dancing establishments.

The venue also hosts live concerts, attracting notable international artists as well as local talent.

16. Go under the sea

Located just outside of Tulsa in Jenks, the Oklahoma Aquarium is situated along the banks of the Arkansas River. This aquarium boasts more than 200 marine animals, themed exhibits, and even a fishing tackle museum.

Covering over 72,000 square feet, the most notable exhibit is the Extreme Fishes section, which highlights fish with remarkable abilities, including air-breathing and other unique adaptations that enable their survival.

17. Make a splash

The Paradise Beach Waterpark is Tulsa’s sole water park, featuring rides and attractions suitable for all ages and levels of adventure.

Notably, the Master Blaster is the only water rollercoaster in the state, offering a thrilling experience along with three flume rides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and children’s pools.

The most thrilling ride is undoubtedly the Silver Bullet, a steep 72-foot drop flume lasting just seven seconds of pure adrenaline.

18. Explore urban wilderness

The Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area spans 300 acres across Tulsa. This area is densely wooded and features a network of winding trails that invite exploration.

This locale defies typical expectations of Oklahoma’s natural landscapes, characterized by thick vegetation and steep inclines, making it ideal for both bikers and cross-country runners.

The area is open to the public from dawn to dusk.

19. Go shopping at Woodland Hills

Woodland Hills Mall in Tulsa is an expansive shopping destination that exceeds one million square feet.

This mall features over 165 stores, including all major retail chains, as well as 80 unique shops found exclusively within the mall.

Additional amenities include glass elevators, a play area for children, and a decent food court offering a variety of dining options.

20. Visit a landmark theater

The Tulsa Theater, located on Brady Street, is well-known throughout Oklahoma and across the United States. Originally erected in 1914, it has undergone two significant renovations in 1930 and 1952.

During the 1921 race riots, the theater was used as a detention center. Today, it primarily hosts concerts while occasionally featuring comedy shows and theatrical performances.

21. Drink at Tulsa’s best bar

Voted as Tulsa’s premier bar, Leftys in the Greenwood District offers an impressive selection of 15 beers on tap, alongside quality food and cocktails.

The interior features walls adorned with vinyl records from local artists, creating an eclectic yet engaging atmosphere. The bar broadcasts significant sports events on its eight screens.

22. See the Cave House of Tulsa

The unconventional Cave House of Tulsa has intrigued numerous passersby over the years.

For those curious, this distinctive structure is available for tours.

Constructed in the 1920s with the intent of serving as a cave-themed restaurant, it boasts striking stalactites and stalagmites.

23. Journey to the center of the universe

The Tulsa Center of the Universe is notably distinctive as an acoustic phenomenon. To the casual observer, it appears as a mere worn circle measuring approximately eight feet in diameter; however, upon entering the circle and producing sound, the noise reverberates back significantly amplified.

Interestingly, individuals situated outside the circle are unable to hear the sound.

This legend aside, the reality is that the noise is simply distorted outside the circle.

24. Stroll around the University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa encompasses a pleasant environment for a leisurely stroll, allowing visitors to appreciate its well-maintained grounds and elegant stone structures.

The university prides itself on combining a significant urban presence with the charm of a small town.