Tulsa, Oklahoma Travel Guide

Explore Tulsa, Oklahoma: A city where historic charm meets vibrant culture, offering a rich mix of art, music, nature, and culinary delights. Perfect for a diverse travel experience.

Nestled in the northeastern part of Oklahoma, Tulsa is a city that beautifully blends the charms of the past with the vibrancy of the present. Known for its rich oil history, Tulsa boasts an impressive collection of Art Deco architecture that stands as a testament to its prosperous past. As you stroll through downtown, you'll find an array of historic buildings that transport you back to the roaring twenties. Tulsa is also a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. The Philbrook Museum of Art, located in a stunning Italian-style villa, offers a diverse collection of art from around the world. Meanwhile, the Gilcrease Museum houses the world's largest collection of art and artifacts from the American West. Music lovers will appreciate the Woody Guthrie Center, dedicated to the legendary folk musician, and the vibrant live music scene that fills the city's many venues. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Tulsa does not disappoint. The city is home to an extensive system of parks and trails, including the scenic River Parks along the Arkansas River. Here, you can enjoy biking, jogging, or simply relaxing by the water. Tulsa's Gathering Place, a sprawling park with playgrounds, gardens, and sports courts, is a must-visit for families and nature lovers alike. Foodies will find plenty to savor in Tulsa's diverse culinary scene. From gourmet eateries to food trucks and farmers' markets, the city offers a range of dining options that cater to every palate. Don't miss out on trying some local favorites like barbecue, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food. Tulsa is a welcoming city with a rich cultural tapestry, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, art, nature, and culinary delights.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tulsa.

Visit the Philbrook Museum of Art on the second Saturday of each month for free admission.
Take a guided tour of Tulsa's Art Deco architecture to fully appreciate the city's historic buildings.
Head to the Blue Dome District for a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music.
Explore the Tulsa Farmers' Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts.
Check out the events calendar at Guthrie Green for free concerts, yoga classes, and food truck Wednesdays.

Neighbourhoods in Tulsa

Downtown Tulsa

Brookside

Brady Arts District

Cherry Street

Pearl District

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Tulsa

Explore Tulsa: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Tulsa

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Gathering Place

Discover Gathering Place, Tulsa's premier park for relaxation, recreation, and community events in a stunning natural setting.

4.8

Tulsa Zoo

Explore the vibrant world of wildlife at Tulsa Zoo, a family-friendly destination filled with adventure, learning, and conservation efforts.

4.5

Oklahoma Aquarium

Explore the Oklahoma Aquarium: A captivating journey into the depths of marine life, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

4.6

BOK Center

Discover the excitement at BOK Center, Tulsa's premier venue for concerts, sports, and unforgettable events in the heart of Oklahoma.

4.6

Best landmarks in Tulsa

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Best Landmarks

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Gathering Place

Explore Gathering Place in Tulsa, OK: A Stunning Park with Lush Landscapes, Play Areas, and Vibrant Community Events.

4.8

Tulsa Zoo

Experience the thrill of wildlife at Tulsa Zoo, where conservation meets adventure in a fun-filled family destination.

4.5

Center of the Universe

Explore the Center of the Universe in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a unique acoustic phenomenon that offers a quirky and memorable experience for all visitors.

4.4

Philbrook Museum of Art

Explore the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, where exquisite art collections meet breathtaking gardens in a historic Italian villa.

4.8

Best restaurants in Tulsa

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Kilkenny's Irish Pub

Discover Kilkenny's Irish Pub in Tulsa: A lively destination for authentic Irish cuisine and culture amidst friendly faces.

4.7

Nola's ...Creole & Cocktails

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine at Nola's Creole & Cocktails in Tulsa’s Cherry Street—where every dish tells a story.

4.6

JINYA Ramen Bar - Tulsa

Discover authentic Japanese ramen at JINYA Ramen Bar in Tulsa's Blue Dome District – where every bowl tells a delicious story.

4.5

Charleston's Restaurant

Discover delightful American cuisine at Charleston's Restaurant in Tulsa – where comfort food meets exceptional service.

4.5

Best bars in Tulsa

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Best Bars

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The Max Retropub

Discover The Max Retropub, Tulsa's unique blend of retro gaming, craft drinks, and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Blue Dome District.

4.4

Valkyrie

Discover the art of mixology at Valkyrie, Tulsa's premier cocktail bar in the vibrant Arts District, where every drink is a masterpiece.

4.7

Hodges Bend

Discover Hodges Bend, a vibrant cocktail bar in Tulsa, where unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.

4.6

Saturn Room

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Saturn Room, a bar in Tulsa's Arts District offering creative cocktails and stunning skyline views.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Tulsa

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Night Trips

Unleash your inner night owl at Night Trips, Tulsa's top destination for vibrant nightlife, electrifying music, and unforgettable experiences.

4.3

Club Majestic

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club Majestic, Tulsa’s premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable social experience.

4.1

Rodeo Nightclub

Discover the vibrant energy of Rodeo Nightclub, Tulsa's top destination for nightlife, dancing, and unforgettable memories.

3.4

St. Vitus

Discover the electrifying nightlife at St. Vitus, Tulsa's premier night club, offering vibrant cocktails and exhilarating dance experiences.

4.5

Best shops in Tulsa

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Best Shops

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Garden Deva Sculpture Company | Gift Shops Tulsa

Explore the captivating artistry at Garden Deva Sculpture Company, a must-visit gift shop and art studio in Tulsa's Pearl District.

5.0

Oz (CuriOzity)

Explore CuriOzity in Tulsa, a whimsical gift shop offering unique items from clothing to incense, perfect for every curious traveler.

4.7

DECOPOLIS

Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Decopolis, Tulsa's premier destination for eclectic gifts and tourist information.

4.8

Black Moth

Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts, collectibles, and educational wonders at Black Moth in Tulsa, a must-visit shop for all ages.

4.9

Explore Tulsa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tulsa, mapped for you.

Tulsa Essentials

Tulsa is accessible via Tulsa International Airport (TUL), which offers both domestic and limited international flights. The airport is located about 8 miles northeast of downtown Tulsa. For those driving, Tulsa is situated at the intersection of several major highways, including I-44, US-75, and US-64. Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to Tulsa, and Amtrak offers train services with connections from Oklahoma City.
Tulsa has a variety of transportation options. The Metropolitan Tulsa Transit Authority (MTTA) operates buses throughout the city. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Taxis can be found at major hotels and the airport. Renting a car is another convenient option, especially if you plan to explore areas outside the city center. Biking is becoming increasingly popular, with several bike-share programs and dedicated bike lanes.
The official currency in Tulsa is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Some smaller businesses might prefer cash, so it's advisable to carry a small amount of cash for such occasions.
Tulsa is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it's important to stay vigilant. Areas to exercise caution include parts of North Tulsa and certain neighborhoods in East Tulsa, which have higher crime rates. Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure. Downtown Tulsa is generally safe but still requires standard precautions.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Tulsa has several hospitals, including St. John Medical Center and Hillcrest Medical Center, which offer emergency services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS are available throughout the city.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably but not too casually if you're dining in upscale restaurants. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local religious practices, especially if visiting churches. Public Transport: Do have exact change for bus fares. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and be polite to servers. Don’t tip less than 15% in restaurants, as it is considered rude.
To experience Tulsa like a local, visit the Cherry Street Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the Blue Dome District for nightlife and unique dining experiences. Don't miss out on visiting the Gathering Place, a world-class park along the Arkansas River. Engage with locals at community events and festivals, such as Mayfest and the Tulsa State Fair, to truly absorb the local culture.

When is the best time to visit Tulsa?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tulsa

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tulsa. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
- Thank youThanks
  [th-anks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sorry
  [par-dn me/sor-ee]
- How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
- Fine. And you?Just fine. How 'bout you?
  [just fine. how 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak Ing-lish]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' ya
  [I ain't get-tin' yuh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a gander at the menu, please
  [kan ah take a gan-der at the men-yoo, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle up, please
  [I reckon I'll set-tle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get on outta here!
  [Get on out-ta here!]
- Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [Call the Cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poor-ly]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [I'm fix-in' to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just look-in']
- How much is it?How much is that?
  [how much is that?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [That's a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [Can ya knock the price down?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMornin'
  [Morn-in']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Even-in']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Tulsa

Tulsa was officially founded in 1898, but its roots go back to the 1830s when it was first settled by the Lochapoka Band of Creek Native American tribe. The Creek were one of the Five Civilized Tribes forcibly relocated to Indian Territory, which is now Oklahoma, during the Trail of Tears.
In 1901, Tulsa's destiny changed forever with the discovery of oil in the nearby Red Fork region. This discovery led to an oil boom, and Tulsa quickly earned the nickname 'Oil Capital of the World.' The influx of people and wealth transformed Tulsa into a bustling urban center almost overnight.
One of the darkest chapters in Tulsa's history occurred on May 31 and June 1, 1921, when the thriving African American community in the Greenwood District was attacked by a white mob. The Tulsa Race Massacre resulted in the deaths of an estimated 300 African Americans and the destruction of what was known as 'Black Wall Street.'
The prosperity brought by the oil boom in the early 20th century left a significant architectural legacy in Tulsa. The city is home to one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the United States, including iconic buildings like the Boston Avenue Methodist Church and the Philcade Building.
In recent years, Tulsa has undergone a cultural renaissance, with the revitalization of historic neighborhoods and the establishment of new cultural institutions. The Gathering Place, a world-class riverfront park, and the Woody Guthrie Center, dedicated to the famous folk musician, are just two examples of how Tulsa is embracing its cultural heritage.
Tulsa is also known for its unique contribution to music, particularly the Tulsa Sound, which blends rockabilly, country, rock 'n' roll, and blues. Notable musicians like Leon Russell, J.J. Cale, and the GAP Band have roots in Tulsa, making it a significant city in the American music landscape.