Do you live in the Tulsa area? Maybe you are planning a visit soon? If so, you will definitely want to keep this list of free things to do in Tulsa handy. These are great activities that will expose you to some of the best that Tulsa has to offer, all without breaking your budget.
15 Free Things to do in Tulsa:
Woodward Park
2435 S Peoria Ave, Tulsa, OK 74114
(918) 746-5125
Hours: 5am-11pm
Woodward Park is home to 45 acres of gardens featuring various varieties of rocks, herbs, roses, azaleas, and a Victorian style conservatory and arboretum. It’s a beautiful location for a visit AND it’s free. They often host events and entertainment as well. Check out their website for more info on programs and learning opportunities. If you only have time for a visit, make sure you check out the beautiful gardens!
Road Trips
Did you know there are a lot of really interesting places that you can visit in the Tulsa region that are within the radius for a great day trip? How about a weekend getaway? If you are looking for a road trip location in the Tulsa area, this guide will help get you started!
River Parks
2424 E 21st St #300, Tulsa, OK 74114
(918) 596-2001
River Parks in Tulsa is an awesome network of trails, picnicking spots, and areas for bicycling, fishing, rowing, and kayaking. You can enjoy the various works of art as well. River Parks is a great option for everyone because they have a little bit of everything! If you enjoy spending time outdoors, you have to check out River Parks.
Dog Parks
Tulsa has some great dog parks! Spend some of your free time with your pup at these great spots. They’re free and open to the public so you can hang out with other dog lovers AND allow your beloved furry friend some quality off leash time.
Keystone Ancient Forest
160 Ancient Forest Dr, Sand Springs, OK 74063
(918) 246-2562
The Keystone Ancient Forest is a hike unlike any other! You’ll be surrounded by 500 year old cedar trees! There are some truly magnificent views to be had on the trail which takes about an hour. You can see deer, mountain lion, bobcats, American eagles, birds, and more than 80 species of butterflies that inhabit this area. The gates open at 8am and close by 2pm. Plan accordingly so you can enjoy this awesome natural wonder.
Fall Foliage
Start planning now for your fall trips! There are some beautiful locations in Tulsa to see the Fall foliage. If you know where to look you can enjoy these changing views from a prime location, all without spending a dime. Enjoy the natural beauty all around us that we often take for granted.
Tall Chief Cove Recreation Area
Sperry, OK 74073
(918) 396-3170
The Tall Chief Cove Recreation Area features beaches for swimming, picnic areas, nature trails, playground equipment and even some educational programs. You can go fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and several species of sunfish. There are more than 6,000 acres of public land in the lake area that is open to hunters as well! You can stay and go camping for a fee but you can enjoy the recreational areas for free. There is plenty to do no matter how much time you have to spend!
Biking
When it comes to free things to do in Tulsa you can’t go wrong with biking. Especially this time of year. There are so many great places to go biking in and around the Tulsa area. Use the guide we’ve created above to help you get started exploring the area on two wheels!
Historic Route 66
3770 Southwest Blvd, Tulsa, OK 74107
Some people travel from all over the country to see the sights on historic Route 66. It’s right nearby! Check it out, and if you’ve already been there, go again. You never know what you might have missed or what fun you can have introducing your kids and friends to these awesome treasures.
Picnic Time
It’s never a bad time for a picnic with friends and family. You can enjoy good food, great company, and the beautiful natural landscapes of Tulsa. You can pick out your favorite park for the kids to play or you can take a romantic trip with your significant other. Pick a spot, pack your picnic lunch, and head out for a day of fun. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
Oklahoma State Capitol
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
It doesn’t cost a thing to head to the Oklahoma State Capitol to gawk at the amazing architecture of the buildings. There are some truly beautiful and amazing creations to behold. Plus, you can learn something in the process. Make it a weekend trip and spend some time touring the area, there are a lot of great historic and architectural elements throughout the city!
Gilcrease Museum
1400 N Gilcrease Museum Rd, Tulsa, OK 74127
(918) 596-2700
Open 10am-5pm
Tours are free of charge. You can bring the whole family for a delightful guided tour or come and go as you please and guide yourself through the collection of artifacts and art. The Gilcrease Museum houses collections of art and artifacts fromt he American West and Native Americans.
Philbrook Museum of Art
2727 S Rockford Rd, Tulsa, OK 74114
(918) 749-7941
Open 10am-5pm
On the Second Saturday of every month the Philbrook Museum of Art is open free of admission! Sponsored by ONEOK, Inc., with the assistance of the Oklahoma Arts Council, Bank of America, and the Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation. You can explore the museum and view their massive collections. You can learn something and enjoy some time with the family. They often have events and entertainment running as well. On regular days, children 17 and under are admitted free along with active duty military members and students from the following colleges:
- Northeastern State University – Broken Arrow, OK
- Northeastern State University – Tahlequah, OK
- Oral Roberts University – Tulsa, OK
- OSU – Institute of Technology – Okmulgee, OK
- OSU – Stillwater, OK
- OSU – Tulsa, OK
- OU – Tulsa, OK
- Rogers State University – Claremore, OK
- Tulsa Community College – Tulsa, OK
- University of Tulsa – Tulsa, OK
Broken Arrow Parks & Recreation
220 S 1st Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012
(918) 259-7007
There are 38 parks in the Broken Arrow Parks and Recreation system. They cover more than 800 acres of land. They are all open to visitors and families free of charge! Almost anywhere in the Broken Arrow area you can find a free park to visit where you can enjoy some fresh air, sunshine, and fun. If you live in our MCLife community, The Place at Quail Hollow, these are all right in your neighborhood!
Spring Fun
The sun is out, it’s time to start checking things off your to do list! There is a lot of fun to be hand in Tulsa this Spring. Check out our guide to Spring Fun in Tulsa above for some Spring only activities that you can enjoy with friends, family, or both.
