The Top Attractions In Tulsa
Tulsa is not only Oklahoma’s second most populated city, but it’s surprisingly also a sought-after hub of oil in the Midwest today. Deriving most of its finances from the same industry, this fascinating city is more than what the mainstream media portrays it to be. Brimming with history and culture of its own, Tulsa truly lives up to being “the gem of Oklahoma.”
Don’t be mistaken by the mainstream rhetoric that the city doesn’t have much to offer because this article is all about the countless sites and attractions in Tulsa that you may not have learned about previously.

Take your next weekend trip to this city and find out for yourself. But before then, don’t forget to stroll through this article and get your homework sorted for the top attractions in Tulsa you shouldn’t miss out on.
Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame
While it may surprise many, Tulsa played a key role in the evolution of Jazz music in the region. In fact, the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame stands witness to the very fact. Since the genre is a quintessentially American art form, its power and importance are realized worldwide.
If you’re wondering what the hall consists of, musical legends are some of the many aspects the monument represents. Among other things, it chronicles musical legends such as Chet Baker Jr, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dizzy Gillespie. Here, you can access in-depth knowledge about the genre and its influence on the world as well as America. You can also learn how this monument became one of the top Tulsa attractions over the last decade. It signifies theee city’s contribution and the state to the genre’s development.
Oklahoma Aquarium
The famous Oklahoma Aquarium in Tulsa does tend to leave people astounded, especially since the state is entirely landlocked. However, that didn’t stop the city from being home to one of the most popular aquariums in America.
Inaugurated in 2003, the aquarium roughly covers up to 72,000 square feet of land. Not only is it a premier tourist site, but it’s also home to incredible wildlife. Being in a landlocked region for too long can make you forget how glorious the views of marine creatures are. However, with Oklahoma’s top-tier aquarium, you can reignite your memories as you observe sea turtles, lionfish and jellyfish swimming through the waters.
The adventure does not end here. The vicinity also features a “Shark Adventure” exhibit to provide tourists and local visitors with a stunning exhibit of bull sharks. Here, you can learn about various other species, such as nurse sharks.
The Gilcrease Museum
Speaking of Tulsa attractions, it’s important to acknowledge that the city does a wonderful job of commemorating American art, which becomes an integral part of the cultural conversation in the world. Hence, the Gilcrease Museum, located close to the city’s downtown, consists of several creative expressions of American descent.
Created in 1949 by Thomas Gilcrease, this place holds thousands of pieces that represent American history and North American and British history. It’s home to some artifacts that go back to 12,000 BC. Several other pieces of work rendered in screenprinting, marble and paint can also be found here. And don’t forget to capture the beauty of gorgeous gardens surrounding the museum. After all, the Gilcrease Museum isn’t the most profound contribution to the cultural scene of Oklahoma for nothing.
Tulsa Zoo
If there’s a place in the city of Tulsa that is surely worth visiting at least once, it’s the Tulsa Zoo. This sanctuary for animals provides shelter to several species. However, it doesn’t limit itself to the concept of providing animals with a place to sleep and eat. It also goes the extra mile to ensure that their home environments are replicated to help them avoid homesickness.
Some species that enjoy complete engagement and respect include rhinoceros, chimpanzees and elephants. Furthermore, the zoo authorities also place a lot of emphasis on conserving and protecting vulnerable species. All in all, you may end up feeling incredibly touched by the amount of work the zoo authorities put in.
The Boxyard
There’s no better way to remember your trip than by grabbing a souvenir on the way back. This is where the Boxyard comes in. Filled with top-notch shopping options, here you will have variety unlike anywhere else.
The cherry on top, it’s also a hub of other businesses in the area. Some of them include a souvenir store by the name of Okie Dokie, Blank Med Spa and a women’s fashion store by the name of Modern Mess. Other places to explore more shopping options include the Brookside and Deco Districts.
Safari Joe’s H20 Water Park
Looking for some aquatic fun in the scorching summer heat? Head over to Safari Joe’s H20 Water Park right away. Since it’s the only water park in the city of Tulsa, more often than not, it witnesses a huge influx of visitors.
Thanks to all the refreshments and thrills the park provides, you will surely have a lot to explore once you set your foot in the vicinity. Some of the best attractions the park has to offer include water slides, a lazy river and a wave pool. However, you don’t want to take the water slides too lightly. These may just turn out to be some of the most impressive ones you’ll ever go down.
So, if the thrill is what you’re seeking, remember that Safari Joe’s H20 Water Park isn’t just impressive but also consists of many heart-stopping rides. However, if you’re looking for some non-aquatic fun, then head over to the numerous animal exhibits and, of course, the park’s famous Reptile World.
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Speaking of top attractions in Tulsa, there’s no way we can miss out on the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. After all, no trip is complete without placing your bets at least once. The superior entertainment experience here will surely match your expectations, especially if you also have a room at the same casino.
However, gambling thrills are not the only highlight of this casino. It also lets you live among some great artifacts from the world of rock. From Blue October to Tom Petty, you’ll come across several items associated with other legends of rock. While you’re here, you may as well be able to catch other events such as comedy, hip-hop nights and of course, a rock concert.
Fat Guy’s Burger Bar
If you’re super conscious about their diet, then you may want to steer clear of this one. However, if guilty pleasures once in a while don’t hurt your body, then head over to this sinfully delicious delight in the heart of Tulsa.
Fat Guy’s Burger Bar is a place that conveniently combines creativity with comfort. No matter what you order, you will see it dripping with flavor and served in style. On the one hand, you have traditional choices such as cheeseburgers and hamburgers on the menu, while on the other hand, there are also specialty burgers like Bacon, Peanut Butter and Pizza Burgers.
If you’re more into leaner items, don’t worry because the menu also consists of veggie burgers, but if you end up feeling like you need a challenge, then there’s the burger bar challenge for you. This is where you can unlock the opportunity to have your face on the wall if you’re able to gulp down a pound of french fries and a two-pound patty burger.
Utica Square
Are you a shopping enthusiast looking for a decent place to spill your money? Head over to this shopping haven called Utica Square. However, don’t take the budget planning too lightly because going there unplanned may put you under a mountain of debt.
The entire property here is dedicated to high-end stores like Coach and Sak’s Fifth Avenue. Oh, and if your stomach starts making grumbling noises in the middle of your shopping spree, the street still has you covered with its pristine bistros.
Conclusion
In the end, it’s safe to conclude that the city of Tulsa is surely a haven for those who love to take walking tours. At the same time, the city is still home to several small diners and cafes that sell $2 breakfasts and other feasts.
However, if you’re here for the architecture, you will most likely find it in every corner of the city. From the Art Deco architecture in the downtown streets to museums that display art in various forms, Tulsa was made to be explored by the philosophers, artists and deep thinkers.
Much like everywhere else, this city too can be best experienced through its food streets, architecture, parks, downtown centers and walking tours. So, the next time you plan on visiting this wonderful city of Oklahoma, don’t forget to skim through this article unless you want to miss out on some premier attractions in the city.