Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture

Nov 14, 2024

Last Updated on: Sep 25, 2026

Travel Guides

Once known as the Oil Capital of the World, Tulsa today is known for its concentration of Art Deco architecture and a cosmopolitan vibe.  

On the Arkansas River, the city of Oklahoma is also the quintessence of the famous “Southern Hospitality” of the nation.  

Further, Tulsa offers the best fine dining experience, making it an ideal destination for culinary tourism in Oklahoma or the entire USA.  

In fact, forums like Secret Food Tours are now conducting food tours in the city.  

This is the ultimate food adventure where you peek into famous restaurants’ kitchens. 

Nevertheless, beyond food tourism, the entire travel landscape in Tulsa looks promising.  

In fact, the Tulsa Regional Chamber has decided that Tulsa Regional Tourism will market the city as a center for tourism, sports, and culture.  

Do you also want to explore this beautiful city in Oklahoma? Here is a brief guide for you.

Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Explore Food And More 

Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture

The Tulsa Regional Chamber portrayed a happy picture of Tourism in Tulsa in 2022-2023.  

In the 2022-23 fiscal year, the hotels in Tulsa created a market impact of $317.2 million.  

The numbers being so promising have encouraged the Tulsa Regional Chamber to start the Improve Our Tulsa program.  

This is an improvement package with a capital of $ 814 million to improve the Cox Business Convention Center, Tulsa Zoo, Tulsa Performing Arts Center, etc.  

All these market figures and initiatives show Tulsa’s rise as a tourism destination in the USA.  

However, to explore the unique things to do in Tulsa, you will have to get your itinerary right first.

1. Visiting the Cave House

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq0vYy7purr/?img_index=1

Built in Tulsa in 1924, the Cave House is now one of the city’s most important landmarks.  

It was a chicken restaurant earlier, and today, it is a great place for family adventure with amusing stories.  

The entry fee to the Cave House is $15, and kids under 13 can get entry to the Cave House for $7.50. 

2. Exploring the Gilcrease Museum

https://www.instagram.com/p/CLMchHKj1KV

Operating Hours: 6 AM to 11 PM 

Entry Fee: $5-8 

Do you want to visit the best artwork of the American West? Gilcrease Museum should be your go-to destination.  

Frederic Remington, Charles Marion Russell, and Frank Tenney Johnson are some noted artists featured in this museum.  

The Pioneer Garden, Rock Garden, and Pre-Columbian Garden are part of its 23-acre outdoor theme garden. 

3. Visiting the Philbrook Museum of Art 

Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture

Operating Hours: Wednesday to Sunday (Except Friday) – 9 AM to 5 PM

Friday: 9 AM to 9 PM

Monday And Tuesday – Closed 

Entry Fee: Free for Children below 2, $18 for Adults and $8 for Youth

Operating Hours: 6 AM to 11 PM 

Entry Fee: $5-8 

Do you want to visit the best artwork of the American West? Gilcrease Museum should be your go-to destination.  

Frederic Remington, Charles Marion Russell, and Frank Tenney Johnson are some noted artists featured in this museum.  

The Pioneer Garden, Rock Garden, and Pre-Columbian Garden are part of its 23-acre outdoor theme garden.

4. Visiting Tulsa Zoo

Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture

Operation Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free for children below 3 Years, $10 for children from 3-11, $12 for 18-64 years old, and $12 for 65 years and above

Located in Mohawk Park in Tulsa, the Tulsa Zoo has state-of-the-art exhibits. It is also a place to encounter animals from all over the world. 

In this zoo, you will meet animals like the Malayan Tiger, Komodo dragon, snow leopard, Chinese alligators, etc. 

Further, the zoo is a great place for birders with species like the “fawn-breasted bowerbird,” blue-crowned hanging parrot, and more.

Did You Know?

Tulsa Zoo was recently in the news for welcoming five Malayan tiger cubs.  
 
These tigers belong to a critically endangered species, and the birth of the five cubs has increased the number of Malayan tigers in North America by 10%. 

“The survival of these five cubs is a major milestone for the critically endangered Malayan tiger population.  
 
Each day, we weighed the cubs and completed health checks and supplemental feedings.  
 
The opportunity to visually inspect the cubs, monitor their progress, and intervene if necessary is paramount.”

Jordan Piha, Curator of Mammals, Tulsa Zoo

Fine Dining: Experience One Of The Best Things To Do In Tulsa 

Trying the local delicacies at fine dining restaurants is one of the best things to do in Tulsa.  

These restaurants have their staples and daily specials for the gastronomic delight of the visitors.  

Here is a list of some of the best fine-dining restaurants in Tulsa.

1. Kilkenny’s Irish Pub

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4YdPUPOl-n

Phone Number: +1 918-582-8282

Tour and Travel Rating: 4.5

With a quaint charm, Kilkenny’s Irish Pub serves the best corned beef in Tulsa.  

Also, you can never have enough of the Irish stew at Kilkenny’s Irish Pub. 

Further, Kilkenny’s Irish Pub is an excellent eatery to try seafood like oysters and lobsters.  

Moreover, the bartender service here is friendly. So, you will feel like coming back.

2. SMOKE On Cherry Street

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-li45JoaAM

Phone Number: +1 918-949-4440

Tour and Travel Rating: 4.4

It’s a bliss to try smoked trout salad and grilled oysters at SMOKE.  

The restaurant does every bit of justice to its name. Further, the chicken pasta here is delicious. 

The menu of SMOKE is “Inspired American.”  

So, the food served here is the quintessence of American delicacies served in the southern part of the country.  

Moreover, celebrated chef Erik Reynolds and other chefs here use locally produced veggies and steaks.  

In addition, you will find vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and vegetarian options in the restaurant. 

3. Sisserou’s

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb0Q1EROJBm/?img_index=1

Phone Number: +1 918-576-6800

Tour and Travel Rating: 4.4

Do you want to try the Caribbean or Jamaican food in Tulsa? Sisserou’s is the go-to destination.  

It’s a sin not to try the rum cakes or the crab appetizers here.  

Further, the waffles here are quite good, and the presentation is even better with syrup and bananas. 

You can even try the fried jerk chicken at Sisserou’s. Moreover, the service here is good and quick. 

4. Mahogany Prime Steakhouse

https://www.instagram.com/p/CeBvV5QM8tk

Phone Number: +1 918-494-4043

Tour and Travel Rating: 4.3

We had the best steak in Tulsa at Mahogany Prime Steakhouse. You will also find the sautéed mushrooms and  New York Strips here yummy.  

One more thing I am in absolute love with at Mahogany Prime Steakhouse is the crab cake.  

Of course, you will love the American staple, mac and cheese, here.

Exploring The Art Deco Architecture Of Tulsa  

You will find the Deco District in Downtown Tulsa. Here, the most prominent buildings of the city have formed a compact group.  

Further, the Tulsa Preservation Commission has preserved and maintained the following Art Deco buildings in the city. 

  • Boulder on the Park 
  • Christ the King Church 
  • City Veterinary Hospital 
  • Davis Residence 
  • Webster High School, etc. 

The people of Tulsa have been in love with the Art Deco style since the oil money boosted the economy of Tulsa Downtown.  

Making its debut in a Paris exposition in 1925, the Art Deco style came to Tulsa a few years later.

Getting To Tulsa And Best Time To Visit

Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture

Between the museums, the Zoo, the Deco District walking tour, and a proper fine-dining crawl, a Tulsa trip fills up fast. 

Here is what to know about getting into the city and when to plan around. 

Getting There: Flights And Driving Distances 

Tulsa International Airport (TUL) handles domestic flights from most major U.S. hubs, including direct routes to cities like Dallas, Denver, Chicago, and Atlanta. 

It sits only about 15-20 minutes from the Deco District and downtown restaurants. 

So, a rental car isn’t strictly necessary if you are sticking to the attractions in this guide.  

If you are road-tripping instead, Tulsa sits roughly an hour and 45 minutes from Oklahoma City via the Turner Turnpike. 

It is about four hours from Dallas, and around six hours from Kansas City. 

So, it is a reasonably easy weekend add-on for travelers already in the region.  

Within the city, downtown Tulsa and the Deco District are walkable. 

However, Philbrook Museum, Gilcrease Museum, and Tulsa Zoo are spread further out in their own garden and park settings. 

So, a car or rideshare is the practical way to string all four museum-and-zoo stops together in one day. 

Best Time Of Year To Visit Tulsa 

Spring (April-May) and fall (late September-October) are generally the most comfortable months. 

Mild temperatures make walking the Deco District and the Philbrook’s outdoor gardens genuinely pleasant. 

Also, fall foliage adds a nice backdrop to the historic architecture.  

Summer brings Oklahoma’s full heat and humidity, which can make an all-day museum-and-zoo itinerary more tiring. 

However, it is also peak season for outdoor food-tour events and patio dining at spots like SMOKE on Cherry Street.  

Winter is Tulsa’s quietest tourist season. 

You will find shorter lines at the Gilcrease and Philbrook museums and easier restaurant reservations. 

However, it is worth checking hours in advance since some attractions and outdoor garden sections scale back over the colder months.  

Whichever season you choose, it is worth booking Philbrook’s current special exhibits and Gilcrease Museum tickets a few days ahead. 

Both are popular enough to see periodic sell-outs around exhibit openings.

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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READ MORE best hotels in mexico city

Best Hotels In Mexico City: Here Are the 25+ Options To Check Out

BY  Sibashree Aug 19, 2023

Want to know about the best hotels in Mexico City? Was your last experience difficult? Not to worry! I have made a list of 25 of the best hotels in Mexico City, where you can experience luxury, art, beauty, comfort, accessibility, aesthetics, and adventure. It's one of the most populated areas in the world, with the second-highest number of museums! Please read the article to learn about the best hotels in Mexico City and what your budget should be for it! Here Are The 25+ Best Hotels In Mexico City If you visit Mexico City, you'll want accommodation that offers the amenities you need and meets your requirements. I have listed hotels near some of the best places in Mexico City for travelers. For example, Coyoacan is an artsy, modern village; you must visit it. So, I will name some of the best hotels you can book to access the village. The village offers a sense of traditional experiences. Also, when you visit the hotels, you will notice that Mexico City is big on art and beauty, as many hotels display art such as paintings, sculptures, and more. So you're wondering where to stay in Mexico City? About Mexico City Mexico City is known for significant features such as the Frida Kahlo Museum, El Zocalo, Chapultepec Castle, Palacio Nacional, and more! So when creating the list of best hotels, it is important to consider these attractions. The city has historical and cultural connections through its buildings and diverse ethnicity! Visiting Mexico City can also be because you have some work or business opportunities. I will include some hotels that are the perfect backdrop for the meeting or conference. Best Hotels In Mexico City The name Mexico City means "the navel of the moon," and it has many beautiful castles, buildings, and places. It also boasts some monarchic buildings you must visit when you visit the city! I am shortlisting the 25 best hotels in Mexico City based on their services, accommodation amenities, affordability, and accessibility. 1. Sofitel Mexico City Reforma Want to eat and look over the sweeping panoramic vistas of Mexico City? The Sofitel Mexico City Reforma gives you just that! A Five-Star hotel, it is one of the best in the country. As a French luxury brand, the hotel offers luxurious amenities and style, along with some of the city's best services. They have built a strong name for themselves and offer some of the city's most breathtaking views. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant where you can reserve a table for lunch, enjoy an amazing breakfast, and take in beautiful city views! Rooms are $428.64 per night. 2. Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel Hotel The location is the most convenient if you book the Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel Hotel, based on Paseo de la Reforma. That way, you can easily catch an Uber or walk if your destination is nearby. On a tight budget, you can book a room for $126.74 per night! You will get free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and a fantastic city view, including the iconic Angel of Independence. The rooftop pool has an even better feature. When I stayed there, it was mostly empty! You will get a healthy breakfast, a restaurant, and a coffee shop. If you are body-conscious, you need not worry. The hotel has an on-site gym! Meeting rooms and facilities will allow you to host conferences and special events. You need to book it in advance, though! 3. Octavia Casa The retreat has been crafted by fashion designer Roberta Maceda, who has expanded her business along with the Octavia clothing line. You can also shop from the clothing line when you book this hotel. It is one of the best Mexico City hotels! If you consider buying that button-up crisp shirt, this is your chance. The home is perfect for a group holiday, with cotton-satin bedding, homeware, and other beautifully designed interiors. The price of the beautiful home starts from $422.42, and there is delicious food and drink! 4. Le Meridien If you are attracted to modern design and architecture, this is for you! The Le Meridien Mexico City is a Marriott property situated along Paseo de la Reforma. The rooms are quite large, almost apartment-sized, with windows extending from floor to ceiling! The large suites include a separate living room with a giant television set, a large sofa, a desk, and a chair! This creates a workspace for you! You will also get free Wi-Fi. The room per night costs around$125.07. There is an indoor swimming pool and a jacuzzi where you can relax and rejuvenate. The hotel also has a gym downstairs, which is a great option for people who regularly work out! The Mexican restaurant connected to the restaurant offers amazing delicacies; you must take advantage of it when you visit! 5. Casa Polanco The Casa Polanco Hotel Boutique charges $496.80 for a room for one day, and the surroundings are so beautiful that you'll feel like you're in a timeless, unique space. The staff is well aware of guests' needs. Most visitors to the hotel are quite sophisticated. Hence, the rooms are well-furnished. You can access different places in Mexico City from the hotel, such as Mariano Escobedo, Paseo de las Palmas, and Paseo de la Reforma. The hotel offers several services to enhance your stay, including free parking, free breakfast, couples massage, bicycles, a fitness center, and more. It is one of the best places to stay in Mexico City! 6. Volga A luxury hotel, Volga Hotel opened in June 2023 and has already made a name for itself with its urban yet soothing room experience. The rooms feature a skylight and a sleek design. The rooftop terrace has a music stage, cabanas, and loungers, so you can chill out or even bring your laptop and work! A bar is in the works, based out on the terrace. Room prices start from $839.85 per night! 7. Mondrian Mexico City Condesa The Mondrian Mexico City Condesa is located at the crossroads of two of the most popular neighborhoods, Condesa and Roma. If you want to have the most alluring views while staying in a hotel, this is the hotel you should book your room in! The hotel has 183 rooms and 18 luxury suites! The hotel charges $169.11 for one room per night. You will get free Wi-Fi, private parking, and access to the fitness center. 8. La Valise A luxury hotel, La Valise is a 1920s French-style townhouse situated in Roma Norte. I can assure you that it is one of the most intimate luxury hotels in Mexico City. The price of the rooms starts at $459.87 per night! Three rooms are available in La Valise: La Terraza, La Luna Suite, and El Patio Suite. The suite called La Terraza allows the guests to sleep under the stars as well as a king-size bed. It also includes a private terrace. The hotel is beautiful in design, aesthetics, and architecture. You can book the hotel if you are planning on a romantic getaway! Book it fast; there are only three! 9. Casa Prim This family-owned hotel is also a gorgeous small boutique that offers a luxurious experience. Rooms are $115.96 per night, so if you are on a tight budget but still want to feel luxurious, this is your moment! It is one of the city's top hotels, with historic architecture and design. As a guest, you will experience a positive stay with thoughtful, supportive amenities. For example, the room includes free toiletries, bathrobes, a wardrobe, and a coffee maker. You can also access free Wi-Fi and room service in this hotel! Complimentary breakfast is included, and the location gives you easy access to Paseo de la Reforma and Roma Norte. 10. Intercontinental Presidente Mexico City It is one of the most popular business hotels in Mexico City, where business travelers and conference attendees go! Seminars and workshops are a major part of guests' itineraries at the Intercontinental Presidente Mexico City! If you book a room in this hotel, you will be charged $273.80 per night! The hotel hosts many bars and onsite restaurants! If you're a fitness freak, you can access the spacious fitness center and health club. The hotel is pet-friendly. Very few of those are there in Mexico, so if you are a dog or a cat lover, you know which hotel to book! If you are lucky enough, you can get rooms that give you a view of the National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Park. 11. Zocalo Central Hotel The terrace restaurant at Zocalo Central Hotel offers an incomparable view. If you are visiting Mexico City for a good time, you must book rooms in this hotel to enjoy lunch or a drink. One of the best views you can access from this hotel is the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. If you book rooms at the hotel, you must pay $152.12. Your stay will be charming, especially with kitchenettes in the rooms. 12. Barcelo Mexico Reforma The hotel is considered one of the best hotels in Mexico City, where the starting price of the rooms is $133.02. The hotel is located on Avenida Paseo de La Reforma and provides Wi-Fi, a fitness center, conference facilities, a business center, a bar, and others. 13. Four Seasons Mexico City The hotel is one of the Five-star luxury hotels in Mexico City, and if you have the moolah, do not miss your chance to stay in this hotel. It is undeniably one of the best luxury hotels in the city. Room rates start at $603 per night! As a guest, you will enjoy comfortable suites and guest rooms for a private retreat, with free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and in-room dining, a private bar, and luxury bath products. You will also get a rooftop outdoor pool and a fitness center! The hotel has two restaurants: Becco, which specializes in Italian cuisine, and Pan Dulce, which serves French pastries and traditional Mexican food. There is also a gastro bar, Fifty Mills, one of the city's best! If you are looking for rejuvenation, you can avail yourself of the Mexico City-type luxury spa in the hotel. Gentlemen's Tonic is an English-style barbershop hosted by the hotel. 14. JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City If you are a Marriott Bonvoy member and want to experience a luxurious stay, you can book JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City. You will love the hotel; it combines modern style and classic luxury. Plus, guests can review the hotel's features. The hotel offers spacious rooms with all the amenities you need. Rooms are $439.08 per night and offer a spectacular view of the city. The hotel offers attentive staff, a health club, a large pool, and fine dining options. The hotel caters largely to business travelers, and guests can also access Polanco's restaurants and shops. 15. Andaz Condesa Andaz Condesa opened in January 2023, and rooms are priced at around $307 per night. It is one of Mexico City's beauties, with its magenta mirrored escalators and neo-lit cacti at the hotel's entrance. The hotelis furnishings feature blonde timbers, which contrast with the pastel velvet-covered seating and decor-esque curves. There is a terrace where you can hang around with delicious food such as tacos and seafood. 16. Gran Hotel Ciudad De México The hotel is very classy, with an ornate design and a beautiful interior that gives off a luxurious vibe, even at a lower price. Room prices start at $174.09 per night. So it can be affordable if you have a set budget. The hotel has a Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, giving a stunning feel for a Five-Star hotel, even if it isn't one. The rooms are quite spacious and offer a beautiful view of the city! 17. Courtyard By Marriott Mexico City Airport Courtyard By Marriott Mexico City Airport has a restaurant and fitness center and is considered one of the best hotels in the Mexico system. The hotel also provides free airport transportation. The hotel charges $131.13 for one night. There is housekeeping, and the rooms are completely soundproof! 18. The Red Tree House This beautiful home, with 1930s style, has been turned into a classy house decorated with art and paintings. If you are a global traveler, this place is for you! The beautiful home has rooms of all shapes and sizes, with 22 rooms. This boutique hotel is perfect for people who want to socialize and enjoy their social lives! With an attractive garden courtyard, the hotel is ideal for artsy guests! You can try local dishes such as soups made of fried corn flour shells accompanied by refried beans, cheese, and onion. The room costs around $150.38 and offers a beautiful view. 19. Hostel Barrio Downtown One of the best hostels in Mexico, Hostel Barrio Downtown is an attractive hostel for people with a low budget! In 2022, the hotel opened with a Mexican theme, featuring decorations such as neon lights, lucha libre wrestling masks, and comic skeletons. The price of the rooms in the hotel starts from $40.61, while you can book the room on a first-come, first-serve basis. The hostel is quite popular among individuals who are always on the go, traveling and working, sometimes called digital nomads. Food items such as crisp tortilla triangles with salsa and other trimmings are easy to find! 20. Durango 219 Another hotel with a cool vibe is built with pink Cantera local stone and is beautifully designed. The hotel has 12 rooms in contemporary styles, each with one signature piece, such as an unfussy sculpture or a vintage chair. The hotel rooms are quite expensive. The color palette of the rooms is grey, beige, and neutral colors. There are balconies in the hotel, and you can access the Condesa and Roma neighborhoods. 21. Pug Seal Anatole France Pug Seal Anatole France is ranked number 1 out of 62 special hotels. Based on 122 Tripadvisor reviews, the hotel has a rating of 5 out of 5. The hotel rooms are priced at $275.95. The services are good, and you will get free breakfast, airport transportation, and parking. 22. H21 Hospedaje Boutique Were you looking for something to soothe your soul in Mexico City? Please book your rooms at H21 because it's like an oasis of calm, with the beautiful market, plaza, and Blue House of Frida Kahlo surrounding it. The current owner's grandfather built this hotel in 1928, and the guest rooms follow the original house plan. The rooms vary in size and shape, offering peace and tranquility. The walls and interior have a wonderful design in beige and grey shades. You can also see a beautiful blend of colours to create a satisfying palette. The hotel features unique visuals, including distressed white wood and quarry stone floors. The hotel is decorated with vintage figurines and seems inspired by photography books. The hotel's approach is very casual and comfortable, where you can either order room service or help yourself in the kitchen. The hotel is well known for its continental breakfast! The starting price for rooms at the hotel is $164.65. 23. Cape Pepe It is a luxurious stay for solo travelers; rooms start at $60.07 per night, and it is considered one of the best hotels in Mexico City. It offers history, sustainability, and a sense of familiarity. Moreover, it offers different sleeping arrangements, such as neat bunks, curtained pods, and private rooms for couples or families, all in a renovated historic building. The hotel displays beautiful art by Mexican artists and luminaries; one of them is Jose Vasconcelos, a popular writer and philosopher. 24. Casa Tuna The entry gate will steal your heart with traditional piñata and bougainvillea spread across the property in Coyoacan. The surrounding beauty is unmatched; the hotel's location is the selling point! The Coyoacan market and Frida Kahlo's Blue House are nearby and easy to reach from this property. It charges $131 per night for the room, and you have to take a short taxi ride to visit the museum studio house of the Mexican mural painter Diego Rivera. 25. NaNa Vida At $150.08 per night, this hotel offers a taste of luxury through local living. The rooms are colorfully furnished, along with timber finishes on the furniture. Enjoy the view, and have tea, coffee, and pastries on the rooftop terrace. There is also a popular tavern called La Nuclear that serves a traditional alcoholic beverage called pulque. The property is stylish and lives up to the name 'nana vida,' which means pleasurable surprise in Zapotec, an indigenous language. What Do We Know? So, are you visiting Mexico City and making a list of the best hotels in Mexico City? I have already made you that! Now all you have to do is create an itinerary so you can decide which hotel to book! Mexico City also carries the impact of the Spanish invasion, another historical influence you will experience when you visit. Comment down below to let us know about your expectations from the city or the purpose based on which you are visiting the city! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! Top Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room In Las Vegas – Travel Guide Best Pet Friendly Hotels Near Me In Florida City – Reviewed 10 Best Hotels In Sanibel Island – Tour And Travel Guide

READ MORE New Orleans with kids

New Orleans With Kids Vacation | Know The Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

READ MORE Guide To Indiana National Parks

A Guide To Indiana National Parks – Latest Guide

BY  Mashum Aug 2, 2021

Indiana state is famous globally as the “Covered Bridge Capital” because there are 32 covered bridges alone in Historic Parke County, which are discoverable through a road trip. Apart from the Indiana national parks, the state is also famous by the name of “great lakes state” since it shares 40 miles of shoreline with Lake Michigan.  The four national parks in Indiana are renowned as outdoor adventure destinations, namely the Indiana Dunes National Park, President Lincoln’s Boyhood Cabin, George Roger Clark, and the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail. Of the four national parks, Indiana Dunes National Park is a must-see destination. Indiana Dunes National Park and George Rogers Clark National Historical Park are national parks in the term's true meaning. And, the other two national parks in Indiana, i.e., Lincoln’s Boyhood National Memorial and Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, are the two memorial sites in Indiana, recognized for their routes of historical significance or original trails by the National Historic Trails. Let’s check more details about each of the national parks in Indiana and see how we can spend our day if we plan a trip there. The Four Noted Indiana National Parks 1. Indiana Dunes National Park:  Of the four celebrated Indiana national parks, this one is an unmissable destination if you are in the state. The national park shares 15 miles with the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Indiana Dunes National Park is spread over 15,000 acres and has a lot to offer.  Your search for rare species of birds will end here, along with 1,100 native plant species and the fun of flying kites on the sandy beach. You will feel enchanted with every step you take in this national park as this place is among the most biologically rich areas in the nation.   The park offers 50 miles of trails over rugged dunes, sunny prairies, mysterious wetlands, peaceful forests, and meandering rivers for hikers. Shall we now check out basic information about the national park to plan our tour accordingly? Directions To The Park: You can access Indiana Dunes National Park through Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road, U.S. Highway 12 & 20, Indiana State Road 49, and several other local roads. To visit the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, you need to take Indiana State Road 49, between U.SD. Highway 20 and Interstate 94. Operating Hours Of The National Park: This Indiana national park has general areas that are open throughout the year but have specific hours of operation. The standard working hours of the general areas of the national park are Monday to Sunday from 06:00 am to 11:00 pm. The entrance to the Indiana Dunes National Park is through the west beach. The hours of operation of this portion of the park is Monday to Saturday from 07:00 am to 09:00 pm. Weather News: Usually, July is the warmest month in the national park, and January is the coldest month. June month witnesses the heaviest rainfall with 4.66 inches of rain on average. Entrance Fees To The Park:  West Beach - Standard Entrance Fee $6.00, Senior Pass Entrance Fee $3.00, Access Pass Entrance Fee $3.00, Bus Entrance Fee $30.00. Dunewood Campground - Standard Camping Fee $25.00, Senior Pass Camping Fee $12.50, Access Pass Camping Fee $12.50. This campground is 1.5 miles from the beach and boasts 67 campsites made for both RVs and tent camping.  One-half of the site is open for reserve, and the other half is given on a first-come-first-served basis. You will find showers and restrooms at the campground but no water or electric hookups.  Indiana Dunes Visitors Centers:  Dorothy Buell Visitor Center - This Indiana national park visitor center is open on all days except New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. The operation hours are 09:00 am to 04:00 pm Central Time (Due to covid-19). At Dorothy Buell, you will view lobby displays, read brochures about Porter County, Dunes State Park, Indiana, and Indiana Dunes National Park. You can also shop in the Eastern National Bookstore and enjoy watching educational displays and two short orientation videos. Paul H. Douglas Center For Environmental Education - This visitor center is open from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm Central Time during Summers and from 09:00 am to 04:00 pm during Winters. This center is your gateway to the magnificent Paul H. Douglas Trail via Miller Woods. You will find a natural environment all through the center through its hands-on educational exhibits, animals, lectures, Nature Play Zone, ranger-guided hikes, and crafts. Popular Activities To Do At The National Park: Hiking. Picnic at the beach. Birding. Swimming. Fishing and Paddling. Geocaching. Horse Riding on the equestrian trails. Camping (Between April 1st to October 31st). Biking. Snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Shuttle Bus Services: During the summer period, on weekends, you can take the services of free shuttle buses from the Dunewood Campground to the beaches. You can stop at sites like the Miller Train Station, Marquette Park, Lake Street Beach, and The Douglas Center.  Pet Friendliness: Indiana Dunes National Park is completely dog-friendly. You can take your pet to almost all trails and other parts of the park, besides a few exceptions. For example, you cannot take your pets on Glenwood Dunes Trail’s equestrian part, in the lifeguard area of the West Beach, and the Pinhook Bog Trail. You can enjoy a free public wi-fi facility at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center. 2. George Rogers Clark National Historical Park:  Located on Southwest Indiana and beside the Wabash River, George Rogers Clark National Historical Park is one of the small Indiana national parks, which has a few monuments, a picnic spot, statutes, and a visitor center as its main center of attraction. The national park is about an hour tour in total.   Why Was George Rogers Clark National Historical Park Built? George Rogers Clark National Park was built in the 1920s in memory of an American Colonel named George Rogers Clark, who captured Fort Sackville in 1779 and his army with help from French residents of the Illinois country. The capture of the fort guaranteed the United States a claim to the frontier, which is approximately an area as big as the original 13 states. The National Park is a memorial built to commemorate Clark’s success for his unmatchable success for the revolutionary war’s 150th anniversary. When you visit this national park’s visitor center, you will discover the fort’s history, how it was built, and how it felt living in the Pullman District. In addition, at the national park, you will be shown a 30-minute short film on the life of George Rogers Clark. Things To Do At The George Rogers Clark National Park A short walk around the nearby town of Vincennes will offer you the following things to do at this small Indiana national park: Dine at restaurants. Camping at Campgrounds. The Old Cathedral. State Historic Sites. Shops to shop. Antique Stores. There are particularly no campgrounds at George Rogers Clark National Park. But, visitors can find campgrounds for RV and tent camping at the Ouabache Trails Park, located in Vincennes.  Space For Pets: Your leashed pets can accompany you on the walkways around the Memorial and the visitor center, but their entry inside any buildings is strictly prohibited. Operating Hours: The park is open for visitors on all seven days of the week. At the same time, it is closed on most of the federal holidays except Independence Day, Labor Day, and Memorial Day. Timings for the Park District: George Rogers Clark Memorial is from 09:00 am to 04:45 pm on demand. Weather At The Park: The weather inside the national park is very much typical for the Midwest. Summer months can be hot and humid, and winters quite cool. Entrance Fees To The Park: For a George Rogers Clark National Park tour, there is no entrance fee charged.  The Visitors Centers To Visit: This Indiana national park has one visitor center with the same name as the national park. This center has a small exhibit area. You will be shown a short 30-minute introductory movie titled “Long Knives,” which tells about the backstory of George Rogers Clark and his military campaign. No drinks or food are allowed at the visitor center or Memorial. Services offered here are charging stations, restrooms, bookstores, and drinking fountains. 3. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial:  In the southern part of Indiana and Lincoln City, you will find the third Indiana national park, named Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial. This is where former President Abraham Lincoln grew from youth to manhood before becoming the 16th President of the United States of America. Operating Hours Of The Lincoln Boyhood National Park: All visitors are allowed to tour the national park grounds and visit all the outside areas daily, between sunrise and sunset. Once you arrive at the park, there are plenty of things that you can do, such as two miles of trails, watching the sculptured panels on the outside of the Lincoln Memorial Visitor Center, visiting the Cabin-Site Memorial, the Pioneer Cemetery, and the Living Historical Farm. Unfortunately, the park is closed on almost all federal holidays. Weather At The Park: The climate in Southern Indiana is moderate, with a touch of warmness and moistness. The summers are warmer and winters cooler. It rains the most during Spring. Visitor Center At The Park: The Lincoln Boyhood park has a Memorial Visitor Center built in 1943 with two memorial halls and a connecting cloister. In the Memorial Court, you will find the works of E.H. Daniels and five sculptured panels that mark significant periods in Abraham Lincoln’s life. Taking a tour of the whole Memorial will take up to 30 to 60 minutes. There is also an orientation film shown at the visitor center every half an hour from 08:00 am to half an hour before the day’s closing. The Museum artifacts and exhibits speak about Abraham Lincoln’s life.  This national park is all about Lincoln’s family, boyhood, and frontier life in this Indiana national park area. During summers, the visitor center is open on all seven days from 09:00 am to 04:00 pm except for the federal holidays. And, at the time of the Fall season, the timings are 07:00 am to 03:00 pm. Place For Pets At The Park: Visitors are permitted to bring in their pets inside the park, but with certain restrictions. The pets must be restrained at all times on a leash, which should not be longer than six feet in length.  The pets are only allowed on the 2 miles of hiking trails and roads in the park and barred from entering public buildings. Things You Can Do At The Park: It will take at least two hours to complete a tour of the whole park. The indoor activities at the park include: Watching the Park Film at the Memorial, titled Forging Greatness and Lincoln in Indiana, which is 14 minutes in length. Paying a visit at the Lincoln in Indiana Museum, which would take around 15 to 30 minutes. The outdoor activities include: Hike the Trail of Twelve Stones, a type of front-country hiking of 20 minutes. Hike the Boyhood Trail, which is another front-country hike of 10 to 15 minutes. Visiting the Lincoln Living Historical Fa, you'll find a re-created homestead with outbuildings, log cabins, field crops, gardens, livestock, and split rail fences.  For kids of 05 years and above, there is a Junior Lincoln Boyhood Ranger Program. Lincoln Spring, which is an obscure waterway. The entry to the Lincoln Boyhood Indiana national park is free. 4. Lewis And Clark National Historic Trail:  The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail is nearly 4,900 miles long, starting from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the Columbia River mouth, which is near the present-day Astoria, Oregon. This Indiana national park follows the historic incoming and outgoing routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition along with the preceding section initiating from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the Wood River in Illinois. This Trail connects 16 U.S. States and many Tribal lands. Today, visitors are allowed to explore the whole Trail using varied transportation methods and interpretive means, following the approximate route of the Corps of Discovery, i.e. Lewis and Clark Expedition Members.  Places To Visit In Lewis And Clark National Park:  Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Centers and Museums: At Lewis and Clark Historic Trail Museums and Visitor Centers and Cultural Centers, visitors can learn more about the expedition and experience blissful and diversified landscapes and communities on the Trail. Directions To The National Park: You will find the Lewis and Clark Indiana national park visitor center inside the DOI, National Park Service. Weather At The Park: The summers are sweltering, so you must drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen when stepping out for a tour of the Trail. The winters are icy, with ice settling on trails and sidewalks. Since this Trail covers 16 U.S. states, you must watch the weather prediction of the state you are planning to visit. The Final Thoughts We hope that the above comprehensive guide on Indiana national parks is a one-stop solution and a valuable guide for you if you plan a trip to any of the four national parks and trails. From serenity to beautiful natural landscapes, from magnificent and ancient monuments to rare species of animals, you will find every part of each of the four national parks surprising.