Tulsa: More Than Just a Rhyme with Discombobulate (Unless That's Your Thing)
So, you're headed to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Maybe you're on a road trip adventure, maybe you're visiting family (bless their hearts), or maybe you just saw a picture of the Gathering Place and thought, "Hey, that water park looks pretty epic!" Well, buckle up, buttercup, because Tulsa's got more to offer than just childhood pronunciation challenges (though it is undefeated in that category).
Art Deco Delight: Tulsa's architecture is like a party thrown by Gatsby and Amelia Earhart. We're talking sleek lines, chrome accents, and enough zigzags to make your head spin. Take a walking tour (bonus points for wearing a cloche hat and a jaunty scarf) and marvel at the Philbrook Museum of Art, a stunning Italian villa that's also an art haven. Don't forget to snap a pic with Tulsa's iconic art deco landmark, the Golden Driller – just try not to let his shiny posterior blind you.
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Foodie Fun: Forget the whole "deep-fried everything" stereotype. Tulsa's got a culinary scene that's as diverse as its residents (which is to say, very). From trendy gastropubs to down-home barbecue joints, your taste buds will thank you. Indulge in upscale eats at Deco Diner, or grab a legendary onion burger at Joe Momma's – just don't judge a book by its slightly sassy cover.
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Hitting the High Notes: Tulsa's music scene is no joke. Catch a live show at the historic Cain's Ballroom, where music legends like Bob Dylan and The Who have graced the stage. Did someone say Dylan? You can delve deeper into the folk hero's life at the Bob Dylan Center, or pay homage to another musical icon at the Woody Guthrie Center.
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The Great Outdoors (Because We Can't All Be Art Deco Devotees): Tulsa boasts some pretty darn impressive outdoor spaces. The Gathering Place is a sprawling park on the Arkansas River with something for everyone – from a majestic pedestrian bridge to a children's play area that will make your inner child squeal with delight. Take a kayak trip down the river, or take a walk through the Tulsa Botanic Garden and pretend you're a horticulturalist (it's easier than you think, just say "hmm, fascinating" a lot).
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Nightlife that Goes Bump in the Night (But Hopefully Not Too Bumpy): Tulsa's after-dark scene is as vibrant as its art deco buildings. Sip on craft cocktails in the Blue Dome Entertainment District, or catch a live band at one of the many local music venues. If you're feeling fancy, try your luck at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – just don't come crying to me if you lose your shirt (metaphorically or literally).
Bonus: Embrace Your Inner Weirdo: Tulsa has a quirky side that shouldn't be ignored. Visit the Center of the Universe, a random spot in downtown Tulsa where echoes supposedly amplify (perfect for existential screaming). Explore the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium, and learn all about the cosmos (because who doesn't want to contemplate the vastness of space after a night of karaoke?).
What To Do In Tulsa Oklahoma |
How-To Tulsa:
- How to Get There: Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is your gateway to fun.
- How to Get Around: Rental car? Sure. But Tulsa's also pretty bike-friendly, and the bus system is decent.
- How to Not Offend the Locals: Avoid asking if they ride horses to work. It happens more often than you think.
- How to Speak Tulsan: "Fixin' to" means you're about to do something. "Y'all" is plural you, always.
- How to Have the Best Time: Be open to adventure, embrace the unexpected, and don't forget your dancing shoes!