Explore Tulsa's Best Sights on a Budget

Experience Tulsa's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Tulsa's Artistic Side:

Visit Philbrook Museum of Art for its fabulous indoor and outdoor collections of art pieces.
Take a drive to Tulsa Arts District, browse the colorful street murals and boutique art galleries.
Grab a coffee and snack at the retro Joe Momma's Coffee, known for its superb ambiance and extensive collection of bike accessories.
Budget hotel to stay in: Aloft Tulsa Downtown.

Day 2

Get your adrenaline pumping:

Take an exhilarating ride on the zipline or swing at the Gathering Place park.
Test your skateboarding skills at the Stonebrook Skate Park.
Catch a game at ONEOK Field, home to Tulsa's Drillers minor league baseball team.
Affordable eatery to try: Bill's Jumbo Burgers, a classic burger joint that's been around since 1950.

Day 3

Historic Tulsa Tours:

Explore the Woody Guthrie Center, an interactive museum that honors the legendary folk singer.
Take a stroll down Cherry Street, sampling the local cuisine and browsing the vintage shops.
Visit the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum, and learn about the city's rich and colorful past.
Budget hotel to stay in: Campbell Hotel located in the heart of Route 66.

Day 4

Nature Trail Trekking:

Hike the Turkey Mountain Trail, surrounded by lush landscape and breathtaking views.
Visit Oxley Nature Center, home to a plethora of flora and fauna including eagles and hawks.
Go fishing at the Mohawk Park's three-acre lake.
Affordable eatery to try: Dalesandro's Italian Cuisine, a family-owned Italian restaurant serving delicious pasta dishes.

Day 5

Sights and Sounds of Tulsa:

Listen to the melodious tunes of Tulsa jazz at the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame.
Take a walk in the tranquil Tulsa Garden Center, and appreciate the medley of plants and flowers.
Watch a live concert or show at the famous Cain's Ballroom.
Budget hotel to stay in: Red Roof Inn Tulsa.
Tulsa is a vibrant and fun city that offers something for everyone, regardless of budget. From art museums, hiking trails to live concerts, you're sure to have a great time exploring this underrated cosmopolitan.

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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

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.