Discover Tulsa's Budget-Friendly Gems in 2 Days

Discover Tulsa's hidden gems on a budget-friendly adventure.

21 June 2023

Tulsa is a great destination for budget travelers, offering a host of free or low-cost attractions. The Philbrook Museum of Art offers free admission on the second Saturday of each month, while the Tulsa Zoo and the Gathering Place have low-cost admission fees. The Tulsa Air and Space Museum is also a must-see and offers military discounts on admission.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Tulsa Treasures

  • Check in at the comfortable and budget-friendly Aloft Tulsa Downtown hotel
  • Get your art fix at the Philbrook Museum of Art, featuring over 14,000 artworks, including works by Van Gogh and Monet
  • Visit the historic Cain's Ballroom, a legendary music venue where Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys made history
  • Explore the sprawling Gathering Place park, the largest public park in the country, with plenty of green spaces, playgrounds, and even kayaking
  • Relax and grab a bite at Chimera Café, a funky spot with eclectic décor and tasty sandwiches
Day 2

Route 66 and more

  • Start the day at Tulsa's iconic Blue Dome District, known for its quirky shops, vintage boutiques, and street art
  • Hop on historic Route 66, which runs through Tulsa, and drive to the quirky Buck Atom's Cosmic Curios on 66, a souvenir shop and museum dedicated to the Mother Road
  • Head to the Tulsa Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including rhinos, giraffes, and tigers
  • Indulge in some classic American eats at Ted's Café Escondido, a local chain serving up delicious Tex-Mex fare
  • End the day with a visit to the Tulsa Garden Center, a beautiful garden and mansion that offers classic Southern charm and stunning views.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tulsa by plane is to fly into Tulsa International Airport (TUL) from major cities such as Dallas, Chicago, Denver, and Atlanta. Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest operate daily flights to and from Tulsa.

Car

Driving to Tulsa is easy as it is centrally located in the United States and has good road connections. You can take the Interstate 44, US-412, or US-75 to get to Tulsa. There are plenty of car rental companies available at Tulsa International Airport or in the city.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Tulsa. However, you can take Amtrak to Oklahoma City and then transfer to a bus or rent a car and drive to Tulsa.

Boat

Due to its inland location, there are no direct waterway routes to Tulsa. However, you can take a boat tour along the Arkansas River in Tulsa for a scenic experience.

Bus

Taking a bus from nearby cities such as Oklahoma City or Dallas is an affordable option. Greyhound operates daily buses to and from Tulsa at the Greyhound Bus Station located at 317 S Detroit Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120.

More travel plans

A Perfect Romantic Day Trip to Tulsa

Escape to Tulsa for a romantic getaway like no other. Stroll through the stunning gardens at the Philbrook Museum, indulge in a candlelit dinner at the Palace Café, and take a serene sunset cruise down the Arkansas River. Make unforgettable memories with your special someone in Tulsa.

Explore Tulsa's Best Sights on a Budget

Tulsa is an affordable destination for budget travelers seeking a taste of American Midwest culture. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, art galleries, and parks such as the Philbrook Museum of Art and Tulsa Botanic Garden. Cheap eats abound with local favorites such as Tulsa-style chili and barbecue available at budget-friendly cafes and food trucks throughout the city.

4 Days of Fun: Exploring Tulsa on a Budget

A trip to Tulsa, United States on a limited budget could prove to be a fun-filled yet wallet-friendly adventure. Enjoy exploring the city's many free attractions, such as the Philbrook Museum of Art and Woodward Park, and enjoy cheap but tasty cuisine at local eateries like Elote Cafe and Bill's Jumbo Burgers. You can also save on accommodation by booking a budget-friendly hotel or opting for a cozy Airbnb.

4 Days of Adventure in Tulsa, USA

Tulsa, Oklahoma is a hidden gem in the United States, with a rich history and thriving cultural scene. Visitors can explore museums, parks, and stunning art deco architecture in the city's downtown area. Don't miss the chance to sample some of the city's famous barbecue and visit the nearby Tulsa Air and Space Museum for an out-of-this-world experience.