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

Tulsa on a Budget: Art, History, and Adventure!

Tulsa, United States, offers a unique blend of art deco architecture, Native American history, and modern attractions, all affordable for visitors on a budget. Exploring the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Gilcrease Museum can provide a glimpse of the city's rich history, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic hikes at the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. To save on accommodation costs, budget travelers can opt for hostels or affordable hotels in downtown 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.

Unforgettable Weekend in Tulsa, USA

As a tourist in Tulsa, visitors can explore its cultural heritage at the Philbrook Museum of Art and admire the breathtaking views of the Arkansas River at River Parks. They can also enjoy the city's bustling nightlife, with plenty of live music venues, bars and restaurants to choose from. Overall, Tulsa offers a unique blend of history, art, nature and entertainment that will leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

Tulsawesome: A Fun-Filled Day Trip Guide

As a tourist visiting Tulsa, you can explore the city's rich culture and history by visiting popular sites like the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Tulsa Zoo and Gilcrease Museum. You can also enjoy outdoor activities in Tulsa's beautiful parks, including Mohawk Park and Woodward Park. For a taste of the city's culinary scene, you can check out local favorites like Burn Co. Barbeque and Andolini's Pizzeria.