4 Days of Fun: Exploring Tulsa on a Budget

Discover Tulsa's treasures without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Downtown Tulsa

Check into the Fairfield Inn & Suites Tulsa Downtown, a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of the city.
Head over to the Tulsa Arts District for a stroll through the galleries, boutiques and restaurants.
Take a tour of the iconic Art Deco-style buildings including the Philcade and Mayo Hotel.
Visit the Woody Guthrie Center, a museum dedicated to the American folk singer-songwriter.
Catch a show or concert at The BOK Center or Brady Theater.
End your day by grabbing a bite at the retro diner, Tally’s Good Food Cafe.

Day 2

Tulsa’s Outdoor Attractions

Start your day with a hike or bike ride along the Arkansas River on the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area.
Head to the Tulsa Zoo, home to over 400 species of animals, including rare white rhinos and red pandas.
Take a picnic to the nearby Mohawk Park, the city’s largest park featuring 2 golf courses, a botanical garden, and a lake.
Walk around the Tulsa Garden Center and the Linnaeus Teaching Gardens, showcasing Oklahoma’s horticultural diversity.
Catch a local baseball game at the ONEOK Field ballpark.

Day 3

Tulsa’s Cultural Gems

Start your day by visiting the sprawling Gilcrease Museum, a collection of over 10,000 artworks from across America.
Drive out to the nearby Keystone Lake for some water activities, including fishing, kayaking or paddleboarding.
Head to the Philbrook Museum of Art for a glimpse into the historic villa and its impressive collections of art and period furniture.
Take a break at Tulsa's Hurricane Soccer Club's home stadium, Oral Roberts Soccer Complex.
Enjoy dinner at the popular local chain Ted’s Escondido Cafe, known for it's tasty Tex-Mex cuisine.

Day 4

Tulsa’s Historic Route 66

Start your day with a cup of coffee at the retro style Meadow Gold sign building in the Brady Arts District.
Head on a driving excursion on the iconic Route 66 highway, stopping at historic landmarks such as the Blue Whale, Tulsa’s Giant Golden Driller and the Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the bakery Sally’s Cookies, famous for their Route 66 inspired designs.
Visit the 11thStreet Diner, featuring the classic car-themed decor you’d expect from a Route 66 spot.
End your day with a relaxing dinner and drinks at the Vintage Wine Bar, a hidden gem with a cozy intimate atmosphere and an extensive wine list.

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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