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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BY  Arnab May 12, 2023

The Acropolis of Athens is an iconic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and a testament to human achievement in architecture, engineering, and art. What’s even better? You get Acropolis of Athens tickets at quite affordable prices! The Acropolis of Athens is located on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Athens. It consists of several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, as well as the Propylaea. These buildings were constructed in the 5th century BC and are considered some of the most impressive examples of classical Greek architecture. If the Acropolis of Athens is the place that you want to visit, you will need to purchase Acropolis of Athens Tickets. These tickets can be purchased online or even at the entrance of the site. 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This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas!

BY  Mashum Oct 19, 2023

Do you know what the seven magic mountains are? Listening to the name brings excitement, especially for those who love traveling! When traveling interstate across Las Vegas, you catch a magical and interesting sight! Curiosity gets the better of you when there are colorful boulders kept one above another, thus creating an eye-catching spectacle. Yet humans have marked the place with their secretion of waste and garbage! So, instead of looking magical, it seems like a forceful creation of human afterthought! Many tours have been organized around it, and people go crazy with their cameras and photographs! Want to know more about this colorful beauty amid the desert? I was hoping you could read the article where I will discuss the artist, his inspiration, and his creation. You will also learn how to visit the seven magic mountains and the right time to go! There are some other factors necessary to know before you go, which we will discuss here in detail! 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He was born in 1964 and has become popular based on his expansive emotional range, channeling his creativity through art! By embracing fluid and diverse media and forms, the artist uses his profound insight and psychological expressivement to relay the relationship between nature and human beings! The artist highlights the human conditions through his work. The artist brings romanticism, the natural world, and existentialism together to encapsulate symbolization and representation. The profound instinct he uses to create the art underpins the purpose of the exhibitions. Producers! nevadaart.org The Nevada Museum of Art has been at the root of art in Nevada, and it is one of the producers of the Seven Magic Mountains. New audiences are efficiently reached through a partnership with the Art Production Fund located in New York. Contemporary art expands awareness among people! 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A wax figure takes around 6 to 8 months to be constructed; hence, after the survey, they finalize the theme or the individual and create the wax statue accordingly! Everything from clothing preference to facial expressions and hairstyle is researched! Sometimes, celebrities are requested to visit Tussaud's stylists for the correct measurements! Almost 200 photos and 150 measurements are taken to create the perfect look! They use an oil-based paint, which helps in giving a realistic skin complexion to the statue. For the statues, steel, and clay are also used apart from wax! There are celebrities across the world who have been directly involved in the statue-making process. So what can be more fun than checking out these life-sized dolls of your favorite celebrity and clicking some pictures? Shark Reef Aquarium At Mandalay Bay thrillophilia.com Take a taxi, shuttle, or car to visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay! You can also opt for the free Excalibur-Luxor-Mandalay Bay Tram and reach the aquarium while wandering around the tunnel, considered one of the largest exhibits! The shark exhibit is one of the largest, with a shipwreck surrounded by 4.9 million liters of water, thus creating a unique ecosystem for the sharks! There are also freshwater fish, saltwater fish, golden crocodiles, giant rays, and sea turtles. Some younger visitors love the touch pool, where they can have their collection of animals to touch! They will have certified divers who help them with the touching and create an opportunity to dive in the tanks, i.e., scuba diving! There are many passes in Las Vegas for multi-attraction sightseeing; the aquarium is included in the passes. Closer to Mandalay Bay Resort, the Shark Reef Aquarium is located near the South Convention Center's end of Las Vegas Boulevard. High Roller nbcnews.com Visiting Las Vegas and not going to the High Roller is a spoilsport! It is one of a one-of-a-kind experience with Happy Half Hour cabins at the High Roller Observation Wheel. You will have a bartender, an open bar, along with a 30-minute rotation of the wheel! There is a self-guided curriculum sheet along with a 30 to 40-minute lesson plan. You can discuss technology, science, math, geography, and architectural design. Keep The Travel Shoes On… The Seven Magic Mountains is an artificial art that bridges the gap between the synthetic and the natural! With the mountains and a lake as a backdrop, the art acts like a portal, making visitors realize the significance of the relationship between nature and human beings. In my opinion, the artist also tries to highlight how people can connect to nature; it is a sacred place! Hence, the boulders are an inspiration and a place to pay homage to the beauty of the desert and its significance in our lives. Comment below regarding your perspective on the art and how you interpret it! 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Making The Most Of The Gold Coast’s Whale Watching Season

BY  Shahnawaz Aug 23, 2024

The Gold Coast isn’t just a paradise for sun-seekers and surfers. It’s also one of the best places in the world to witness the annual migration of majestic humpback whales. Yes, we are talking about the whale watching season. From June to November, these gentle giants make their way along the eastern coast of Australia, captivating locals and tourists alike.  But did you know that this natural spectacle can be the perfect backdrop for a culinary adventure?  For foodies, the whale-watching season on the Gold Coast offers a unique blend of breathtaking marine views and mouth-watering gastronomic experiences.  In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best spots to watch whales, responsible whale-watching practices, and the finest dining options to complement your day out. Where to Watch the Best Spots and Timing Whether you want to watch the whales during your time on the water or from the land, Gold Coast is a great place of choice. But always go there during the whale watching season. There are some prime viewing locations to consider if you want to catch a glimpse of these beautiful and magnificent creatures.  Best Spots If you’re eager to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures, the Gold Coast offers several prime viewing locations.  Point Danger: Head to Point Danger. Look out for panoramic views of the coastline, which are perfect for spotting whales in the distance. The sweeping ocean views are the prime location if you want to see the migrating whales from a close distance.  Burleigh Heads National Park: This is another fantastic option, as it provides elevated viewpoints along scenic walking trails. For an even closer look, consider booking a whale-watching tour from the Gold Coast Seaway, where experienced guides take you out into the open ocean. Greenmount Bay: Located between Coolangatta and Rainbow Bay, Greenmount Bay is another headland on the Gold Coast with many viewing points. Yes, there are many viewing points for whale watching, and the green foliage just compliments the scenic beauty of Greenmount Bay. Best Timing Timing is crucial to maximize your chances of seeing humpback whales. The peak season typically runs from late June to early November. Early morning and late afternoon are often the best times for sightings, as the whales are more active during these periods.  To stay updated on whale activity, check local whale-watching reports or download a specialized app like 'Whale Report,' which gives real-time updates and sighting locations. Eco-Friendly Whale-Watching Tips and Practices While watching whales is fun, you must also keep safety in mind. A safe practice is to watch them from at least 100 meters. There are other practices to follow to keep the entire process eco-friendly.  Respect Marine Life When engaging in whale watching, it’s essential to follow eco-friendly practices. Maintain a safe distance of at least 100 meters from the whales to avoid disturbing them. Turn off boat engines when nearby to reduce noise pollution and minimize the risk of injury to the animals. Choose Sustainable Tours Opt for whale-watching tours that prioritize sustainability. Companies like 'Whale Watching Gold Coast' and 'Spirit of Gold Coast' are renowned for their responsible practices, including using eco-friendly boats and educating guests on marine conservation. Leave No Trace Whether you’re on a boat or watching from the shore, always clean up after yourself. Dispose of any rubbish properly and avoid using single-use plastics. By keeping the environment pristine, you’re helping to ensure that future generations can enjoy whale watching, too. Ideas for a Post-Whale-Watching Meal Give your heart all the taste it desires. A wonderful day spent watching whales should be followed by a healthy and tasty meal. If you were wondering about ideas, here’s a list you should remember –  Seaside Dining After a thrilling day of whale watching, reward yourself with a delectable meal at one of the Gold Coast’s top restaurants. Many restaurants in Burleigh Heads offer a stunning oceanfront setting and a menu brimming with fresh, locally sourced seafood. Casual Eateries For a more relaxed vibe, try out a Gold Coast restaurant with a view. You’ll be spoiled for food options, and you’ll have the best views on the coast. Another great spot is a night market - they feature an array of food stalls, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere! Hidden Gems Don’t miss out on hidden culinary gems in Mermaid Beach, or for a taste of local produce, visit one of the many bakeries in Miami, where you can enjoy artisanal bread, pastries, and gourmet coffee in a charming setting. Dishes to Try at Gold Coast During the Season From freshly caught fish and other marine delicacies to a gourmet experience, it’s best to try everything a little. Here’s a guide if you want directions – Fresh Catches The Gold Coast boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, making it a haven for foodies during whale watching season. Sample local favorites like Moreton Bay bugs, a type of slipper lobster, or indulge in freshly shucked oysters from Stradbroke Island. Pippies, a local shellfish, are often served with delectable garlic and chili sauce. Gourmet Experiences For a more gourmet experience, try dishes like pan-seared barramundi or grilled snapper, typically accompanied by seasonal vegetables and aromatic herbs. Many upscale restaurants on the Gold Coast also offer degustation menus, allowing you to savor a variety of flavors in one meal. Street Food If you prefer street food, don’t miss the chance to try fish tacos or prawn skewers from local food trucks and markets. These quick bites are perfect for enjoying as you stroll along the beachfront or explore local attractions. Economic Impact of the Whale Watching Season & Local Food Scene Whale watching seasons welcome people from different places to the Gold Coast. Not only is it a great time for visitors, but it’s also important for the place thanks to the jobs and businesses the seasons create.  Tourist Attraction Whale watching significantly boosts the local economy, attracting thousands of visitors each year. This influx of tourists, in turn, benefits local restaurants, cafes, and food markets. Many eateries offer special promotions and seasonal menus to cater to the increased demand during whale watching season. Job Creation The tourism surge also creates job opportunities in the hospitality and service industries, from chefs and waitstaff to tour guides and hotel employees. This economic boost helps sustain the local community and ensures the continued success of the Gold Coast’s vibrant food scene. Community Engagement Finally, whale watching fosters a sense of community engagement and pride. Local businesses often collaborate on events and promotions, creating a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. This sense of community enhances the overall experience for tourists and locals alike, making the Gold Coast a top destination for both whale watching and culinary delights. Encouraging Sustainable Tourism and Appreciation In conclusion, the Gold Coast’s whale-watching season offers more than just the chance to see magnificent marine mammals. It’s an opportunity to explore the region’s rich culinary landscape, support local businesses, and practice sustainable tourism.  By following eco-friendly whale-watching practices and indulging in the area’s exceptional dining options, you’re contributing to the preservation of this beautiful destination for future generations. Ready to make the most of your whale-watching adventure? Book a tour, discover new restaurants, and immerse yourself in the Gold Coast’s vibrant food scene. And remember, every bite and every whale sighting is a step towards appreciating and protecting our natural world. Happy whale watching and bon appétit! Also read Beginner Tips For Your First Camino de Santiago. Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience.