Looking to explore Tulsa without spending too much? Fortunately, Tulsa offers plenty of fun, family-friendly, and culturally rich activities that are completely free or low-cost. Whether you’re a local looking for budget-friendly ideas or a visitor wanting to make the most of your time, here are 8 free things to do in Tulsa, Oklahoma that won’t break the bank.
1. Stroll Through the Gathering Place
Voted one of the best public parks in the country, The Gathering Place is a must-see during your visit to Tulsa. This 66.5 acre world-class park features imaginative playgrounds, gardens, walking trails, a skate park, and beautiful views of the Arkansas River. It’s perfect for kids, families, or anyone who wants to spend a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
2. Explore the Philbrook Museum Gardens
While the Philbrook Museum charges admission for its exhibits, the museum offers general admission for $5 after 5 PM on Fridays. Wander through the different exhibits and stroll through 25 acres of beautifully maintained Italian-style gardens. It’s a serene slice of nature in the heart of the city.
3. See the Center of the Universe
One of Tulsa’s quirkiest attractions, the Center of the Universe, is an acoustic anomaly where sounds echo back louder than expected. Stand in the small circle downtown and try it yourself — your voice will seem to bounce right back at you. The Center of the Universe can be accessed in downtown Tulsa from a brick path that leads visitors from the Boston Avenue pedestrian overpass.
4. Watch a Horse Race at Fair Meadows
Experience the thrill of live horse racing at Fair Meadows Race Track in Tulsa’s Expo Square. The track hosts races featuring Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Appaloosa, and Paint horses. Races typically occur Thursday through Sunday and admission is free, making it a budget-friendly outing for families and racing enthusiasts.
5. Attend First Friday Art Crawl
On the first Friday of every month, Tulsa’s Arts District comes alive with gallery openings, live music, street performers, and pop-up exhibits with the First Friday Art Crawl. It’s a lively, completely free celebration of art and community — and a great way to meet local artists.
6. Visit Woodward Park & Gardens
This beautiful park in midtown Tulsa offers a peaceful retreat with walking paths, floral gardens, and shade-covered picnic areas. Be sure to check out the Tulsa Rose Garden and Conservatory Greenhouse, both of which are free to explore.
7. Tour the Historic Route 66 Landmarks
Tulsa is a key stop on historic Route 66, and there are several free landmarks to visit at the Route 66 Historical Village. Snap a photo with a restored Frisco 4500 Steam Engine, see the Route 66 Rising sculpture, or visit the historic site of the first oil strike. It’s a stop filled with history and fun!
8. Listen to Free Live Music
Tulsa has a vibrant music scene, and you can catch free concerts throughout the year — especially during spring and summer. Look for events like:
- Guthrie Green’s Sunday Concerts
- Tulsa’s Mayfest (in May)
- Live music at parks and breweries – Check community calendars for current listings.
Book Your Tulsa Vacation Rental Direct & Save!
Tulsa proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to have a great time. From stunning parks and public art to historic sites and free events, the city is full of budget-friendly adventures. When you book your Tulsa vacation rental directly on our website, you can skip out on the fees often associated with online travel agencies. So grab your walking shoes, your camera, and your curiosity — and explore all that Tulsa has to offer, for free!
Whether you crave international flavors or something that reminds you of home, you’ll get your fill in Tulsa. The city has incredible dining options from historic diners and cozy cafés to upscale eateries and international cuisine. Discover the best places to eat in Tulsa with Stay in Tulsa’s hot, fresh list of recommendations!
NĀTV
1611 Main St. Broken Arrow, OK 74012
NĀTV is a modern casual Native American restaurant owned and operated by Chef Jacque Siegfried, a semifinalist for the 2024 James Beard Awards in the Best Chef Southwest category. Serving modernized dishes like Bison Poyha and Pork Belly Succotash, grab a bite of authentic Native American cuisine the next time you’re staying at Boho Chic – less than 5 minutes away in Broken Arrow, OK!
The Tavern
201 N Main St. Tulsa, OK 74103
The Tavern, an endeavor of McNellie’s group, is a modern interpretation of the classic neighborhood pub. Want to feel like a VIP for the night? The Tavern – Chef’s Table offers an exclusive culinary experience with a private chef’s table nestled right inside the heart of their bustling downtown Tulsa kitchen. Before you make your reservation with The Tavern, book Downtown View to enjoy a nightcap over the Downtown Tulsa cityscape from your private hot tub courtesy Stay In Tulsa, OK.
Country Bird Bakery
1644 E 3rd St. Tulsa, OK 74120
Do you love to be in the know? Well consider yourself a Tulsa insider and join the line that wraps around the block for the hole-in-the-wall The New York Times named one of best U.S. bakeries – Country Bird Bakery – yet another Tulsa favorite joining the list of James Beard semi-finalists. Their mission, storytelling through baked goods, is definitely one we can get behind! Within walking distance from The Union Building, don’t sleep in. You’ll be sorry!
Gambill’s
1921 S Harvard Ave. Tulsa, OK 74112
Gambill’s, offering Italian-inspired Tulsa brewery, Italian Market, and Neighborhood Italian Scratch Cooking is your neighbor’s favorite Italian restaurant. Family owned and operated, they mean business about their Pastaria and Tulsans are serious about Gambill’s! Book your stay nearby at Breezy Billiards and make it a real Tulsa la festa!
Rise Soufflé
2054 Utica Square Tulsa, OK 74114
In every corner of their restaurant, you’ll find elements of character. Tulsa, OK is the newest home to Rise Soufflé, an intimate salon de soufflé and wine bar designed with French influence. Tucked inside Tulsa’s renowned Utica Square, among the luscious lawns and rich bouquets of color, Rise guests might choose one of the many exquisite savory or sweet soufflés, or perhaps try the Marshmallow Soup – carrot and tomato bisque with goat cheese. Yum! Book your stay at Expo Oasis, less than 5 minutes from Utica Square, and allow yourself to indulge in all the finest things Tulsa has to offer with Stay In Tulsa, OK.
Bird & Bottle
3324 E 31st St. Tulsa, OK 74135
Whether you’re in the mood for fresh crab cakes, steam buns, or Tulsa’s best $4 martini, look no further than Midtown Tulsa’s Bird & Bottle. Nestled inside charming Ranch Acres neighborhood, and a stone’s throw from Stay in Tulsa’s own Ranch Acres Expo – Heart of Tulsa, Bird & Bottle bar and restaurant offer a fresh ingredient menu that strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant. So throw on your walking shoes and pull up a chair at Bird & Bottle, Midtown Tulsa’s best-kept secret.
Book Your Tulsa Vacation Rental with Stay in Tulsa OK
Now that you know all the best places to eat in Tulsa, it’s time to start planning your trip! ERB Properties/Stay in Tulsa OK offers a collection of stunning Tulsa vacation homes. Our accommodations feature top-of-the-line amenities, just minutes from Tulsa’s best restaurants and attractions.
Known for its Southern hospitality, diverse arts and culture scene, and activities, Tulsa offers families the chance to blend fun and education on vacation. From enjoying the outdoors to learning about the history of Tulsa, there’s something for everyone. Explore our list below of the top things to do with family in Tulsa.
Tulsa Family Friendly Things to Do – Outdoor
The Gathering Place
The Gathering Place is one of Tulsa’s most popular parks, and for good reason! This 66.5-acre riverfront park offers amazing attractions for everyone in the family, all with no entry fee. The littles will love the Chapman Adventure Playground, a five-acre playground where kids can let their imaginations run wild. Hit up Slide Vale Swing Hill for some extra fun. The park also features a skate park, dining options, hiking trails, and more to entertain the kids (and you!).
Tulsa Zoo
Take a walk on the wild side and plan a visit to the Tulsa Zoo. With 84 acres filled with more than 2,000 animals from around the world, this Tulsa family-friendly activity is a must-do when visiting the area. The zoo features several exhibits to explore where you’ll get the chance to see tigers, elephants, and more up close. Elevate your Tulsa Zoo experience with a safari tour. You’ll take a mini passenger train that circles the zoo and features views of animal exhibits and behind-the-scenes areas around the park.
Oxley Nature Center
Home to 804 acres of secluded land, nine miles of trails, over 700 species of plants, and an interpretive center, the Oxley Nature Center is the best place to get out and explore the outdoors. The Oxley trails take you into the nature center’s forest, fields, and wetlands. Most trails are easy to navigate and relatively flat and smooth. After hiking, stop by the interpretive center, where you’ll find hands-on exhibits, a wildlife viewing area, restrooms, and a small gift shop.
Tulsa Botanic Garden
Admire the lush greenery and vibrant flowers as you stroll through the Tulsa Botanic Garden. Those with children will appreciate the Josephine G. and Timothy W. Driskill Children’s Discovery Garden, which offers 2 acres of a majestical garden environment with several different garden features. From a sensory walk that invites you to look, touch, smell, and feel to trails great for spotting nature and walking, Tulsa Botanic Garden is a great outdoor activity to relax and unwind. The garden’s hours vary throughout the year, so check the website for updated times.
Chandler Park
Chandler Park features scenic trails perfect for hiking and exploring, as well as spacious picnic areas for family gatherings. Kids will love the playgrounds and open spaces to run and play and the splash pad on a hot day while others may enjoy a game of pickup basketball or disc golf. With its beautiful views, recreational facilities, and peaceful natural setting, Chandler Park provides the perfect backdrop for a fun and memorable day with loved ones.
Tulsa Family Friendly Things to Do – Indoors
Philbrook Museum
Set in the historic home of Waite and Genevieve Phillips, the stunning Philbrook Museum of Art sees more than 150,000 visitors a year. Whether exploring the gardens on a sunny day or admiring artwork indoors, Philbrook is a wonderful place to spend quality time with family. Throughout the year, Philbrook offers several free-with-admission daily programs for kids, including Little Garden Explorers, Storytime, Family Nature Walk, Fish Feeding, and Nature Fun Fridays.
Discovery Lab
Learn, make, explore, and design at Discovery Lab. A favorite amongst locals and visitors, Discover Lab is an interactive kids’ science museum offering unique learning experiences through hands-on exhibits and DIY crafts. The Ballapalooza exhibit is a nod to the oil and gas history of the region, while the Imaginarium exhibit provides an immersive experience through different Oklahoma landscapes. Stop by the Stemcell Science Shop and grab a souvenir to remember the day.
Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium
For an out-of-this-world experience, a visit to the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium is a must-do for children (and adults!) interested in aviation and space history. You’ll find hands-on exhibits, stunning aircraft displays, and immersive planetarium shows that make for an inspiring learning destination for the whole family.
Oklahoma Aquarium
The Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks is the perfect destination for a family-friendly outing, offering an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Home to thousands of fascinating aquatic creatures, the aquarium features exhibits like the Shark Adventure, where you can walk through a tunnel surrounded by some of the largest bull sharks in captivity. Kids will love the hands-on touch tanks in the EcoZone, where they can interact with stingrays, small sharks, and other marine life.
Gilcrease Museum
The Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa is a fantastic, family-friendly destination, blending art, history, and culture into an enriching experience for all ages. Known for its collection of American West artifacts and stunning artwork, the museum offers engaging exhibits for children and adults. Families can explore interactive displays, participate in hands-on activities, or stroll through the picturesque gardens surrounding the museum.
Book Your Family Getaway to Tulsa Today!
Our selection of Tulsa vacation rentals is perfect for families. Whether a trip for a family of four or a multigenerational vacation, our properties provide the ideal escape for all. Start planning your next family vacation in Tulsa with many fun activities, from hiking nature trails to discovering mom-and-pop shops and restaurants. Tulsa promises an unforgettable family getaway.