Tulsa
Entertainment

add to Travel Bag (NEW)  

Tulsa is a study in harmony. This area of Oklahoma is known as "Green Country," and Tulsa is its Emerald City. Sunshine abounds throughout the year, so parks and outdoor recreation are a given, but Tulsans often indulge in more cosmopolitan pursuits. More so than in its sister city, Oklahoma City, Tulsa celebrates history and the work of master artists in several museums recognized the world over for their fine collections and exhibits. Residents here do share a passion with their OKC counterparts—one that seems to have been bred into every Oklahoman—the love of rough-and-tumble sports. Whether you are seeking an evening of classical entertainment, a sporting excursion or a romp in nature, let Tulsa be your playground.

Theater

In Tulsa, the arts have a character all their own. While the city is as modern as they come, these cultural institutions have a history, a place in Tulsa history all their own. Brady Theater is a perfect example. This distinctive theater is nearing its centennial and occupies a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, yet the show continues to go on here in the form of concerts, plays and local events. Another theater that has survived through the generations is Theatre Tulsa, a renown playhouse that produces works at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. The Tulsa Ballet also calls the Performing Arts Center home. The graceful art in motion of classic dance is sure to delight, whether at a performance of holiday standard "The Nutcracker," or at one of the troupe's season events. The ballet's classical music counterpart is the Tulsa Philharmonic Society. Director Kenneth Jean takes listeners on a symphonic journey through timeless masterpieces and more popular modern works.For a more accessible type of art, look to an Oklahoma Sinfonia concert. This orchestra has long been a community favorite for their brand of fun, contemporary musical stylings.

Museums

When it comes to museums, Tulsa is top-notch. Travelers come from across the state, and some even from across the country, to visit the city's premier collections. The two most well-known institutions are the Gilcrease Museum and the Philbrook Museum of Art. Gilcrease is a favorite of all ages, with its extensive gallery of American and, more specifically, Western art. In addition, the museum houses a collection of historical documents and Native American artifacts. The beauty isn't restricted to the museum's interior, either. Gilcrease also encourages visitors to enjoy the grounds' lush gardens, which stretch over nearly 500 acres.

The Philbrook has a similarly stellar reputation. Located in the posh mansion of an early Oklahoman oilman, this museum has an extensive assemblage of art by European masters. After touring the galleries, bask in the elegant atmosphere while you dine in the on-site restaurant. For a more specialized look at the world of fine art, take a trip to the Fenster Museum of Jewish Art, which focuses on the creative works of this people's history. History is also on display at the Tulsa Air and Space Center, a must-see for aviation buffs. With such names as Wiley Post and Will Rogers, Oklahoma often led the way early in aviation history. Visitors can get up close and personal with vintage models of those great flying machines. Travelers looking to learn more about Tulsa's rich history should head to the Elsing Museum and Sunbelt Railroad Museum, which explore the geologic and transportation evolution of the city. In this city, the appreciation of culture isn't limited to art and artifacts—Mac's Antique Car Museum, the Ida Dennie Willis Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys and the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame are just a few examples of Tulsa's looser side. Finally, the museum held most dear in the hearts of Oklahomans can be found just outside of Tulsa, in the town of Claremore. The Will Rogers Memorial and Museum is a comprehensive tribute to the state's favorite son, who was a Renaissance man of the frontier.

Parks

Tulsans follow that old adage, "Work hard and play harder." The city is teeming with sites whose aim is to charm the child's heart in all of us. The nucleus of recreation in Tulsa can be found at Expo Square in midtown. In addition to serving as the site for Oklahoma’s annual State Fair, the cluster of attractions here includes Bell's Amusement Park and Big Splash Water Park. Bell's is the place to go to feel like a kid again. Before you realize it, you will have spent the entire afternoon riding the roller coasters and water rides, and maybe even indulging in a sugary sweet or two. You'll be amazed when you visit the famed Tulsa Zoo. Upon entering the gates, guests find themselves in a tropical paradise.

The landscape of Tulsa is dotted with parks and preserves, which make perfect destinations for the intrepid urban explorer. Two of the favorite activity grounds in the city are La Fortune Park and Mohawk Park. Aside from a wide expanse of green grass and facilities for sporting events, each offers a 36-hole golf course. If you prefer your setting to be more serene, consider Woodward Park, a 40-acre wooded grove sprinkled with native flora and fauna.