Thrilling Tulsa on a Tight Budget

Experience Tulsa's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Tulsa on a limited budget would involve seeking out affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget-friendly hotels. Exploring the city's free attractions including the Philbrook Museum of Art or the Woodward Park gardens would be an excellent way to save money while still experiencing Tulsa's rich culture. Additionally, trying out local street food or taking advantage of happy hour specials at restaurants and bars can also help keep spending within budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Tulsa Treasures

  • Check in to Hotel Indigo Tulsa Downtown
  • Breakfast at Dilly Diner, serving up classic American fare with a modern twist
  • Visit the Philbrook Museum of Art for a glimpse into Tulsa's artistic side
  • Lunch at Antoinette Baking Co. for scrumptious sandwiches, soups, and pastries
  • Stroll through the Tulsa Garden Center and admire the beautiful landscape
  • Dinner at The Tavern for gastropub fare and craft beer
Day 2

Route 66 Nostalgia

  • Breakfast at Tally's Good Food Cafe, a Route 66 staple
  • Explore the history of the Mother Road at the Tulsa Route 66 Main Street Office & Gift Shop
  • Visit Cain's Ballroom, a legendary music venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music
  • Lunch at Linda-Mar Drive In, another Route 66 classic serving up burgers and fries since 1947
  • Take a tour of the iconic art deco Tulsa Union Depot
  • Dinner at Flo's Burger Diner, a retro-themed diner with burgers, shakes, and friendly service
Day 3

Outdoor Adventure

  • Breakfast at Chimera Cafe, where coffee meets creativity
  • Hike through Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area for stunning views of the city
  • Visit the Tulsa Zoo and see a variety of animals from around the world
  • Lunch at Andolini's Pizzeria for delicious Neapolitan-style pizza
  • Spend the afternoon fishing or kayaking at Keystone Lake
  • Dinner at El Guapo's Cantina, serving up Mexican cuisine with a modern twist
  • Note: remember to check local Covid-19 safety protocols before undertaking any travel.

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

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 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.

Discover Tulsa's Budget-Friendly Gems in 2 Days

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.

3 Days of Adventure in Tulsa, USA

Tulsa offers visitors a blend of outdoor activities, art museums, and historical landmarks. A stroll through the Philbrook Museum of Art's gardens is perfect for art lovers, while the Gathering Place offers a serene stretch of land for picnics and hiking. Walk through history at the iconic Gilcrease Museum and the Route 66 attractions for a true American experience.