Top Recommended Layover Activities:
1. Cherokee Heritage Center
Tahlequah, OK · 918-456-6007
At the Cherokee Heritage Center, you can experience Cherokee life the way it was before it was touched by European influences. You will witness tasks such as food preparation, basket weaving, weapon making, and recreation. Have a first-hand view of Cherokee crafts such as pottery and jewelry. While at the center, be sure to visit the museum and ancient village, as well as the Ho-Chee-Nee Prayer Chapel and Cherokee Hall of Fame. The Heritage Center allows you to dip into a culture and experience it first-hand. ADMISSION: Adult $7.50, Child (6-12) $3.50, Children (under 6) Free.
2. Oxley Nature Center
36th St North and Sheridan, Mohawk Park, Tulsa, OK 74115 · 918-669-6644
Oxley Nature Center is located in Mohawk Park and covers a span of over 800 acres. Within this park, you can experience hands-on educational programs on wildlife, take bird watching hikes in the early morning, or learn where to find the prettiest butterflies. There are multiple programs designed for children who love nature. If you like being in the great outdoors, chances are you're going to love Oxley.
3. Tallgrass Prairie Reserve
Pawhuska, OK 74056 · 918-287-4803
Tallgrass prairie is dying out as an ecosystem in the United States. Only 10 percent of the original ecosystem remains. There is now a move to preserve and expand the existing tall grass prairie land. The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is located in Oklahoma and Kansas, and on the grounds you will see grazing bison amid the 500 different plant species. The drive through the preserve takes about two hours, and within there are hiking trails, picnic grounds, and camping grounds. The preserve has already grown to cover 37,000-acres of land and is definitely worth a visit.
4. Tulsa Garden Center
2435 South Peoria, Woodland Park, Tulsa, OK 74114 · 918-746-5125
The Tulsa Garden Center is a great way to learn more about your favorite pastime in horticulture or maybe to learn a little about gardening if you don't know very much. Groups meet here to discuss and learn about specific flowers or plants and gardening techniques. There are classes to take, shows to attend, and tours through the Garden Center. The general public is welcome to come and enjoy and learn! ADMISSION: Free
5. Tulsa Zoo
5701 East 36th St North, Tulsa, OK 74115-2100 · 918-669-6600
With over 400 species and nearly 1,500 animals, the excitement never stops within the Tulsa Zoo's walls. Meander down the walks in the zoo and peer face to face with exotic and rare animals. While you are there, be sure to enjoy the feedings of sea lions, alligators, sharks, and giant tortoises! You and your children will delight in this experience! ADMISSION: Adult $5, Senior $4, Child (3-11) $2, Children (2 & under) Free
6. Will Rogers Memorial
1720 West Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore, OK 74017-3208 · 918-341-0719
The Will Rogers Memorial is located on 20 acres of land that Rogers originally purchased for his retirement home. After his death, his wife donated the land for the site for a memorial to her husband. Now, Rogers, his wife, and their infant son are all buried on this site. Located in the memorial museum is a statue of Rogers with his famous words, "I never met a man I didn't like." The museum is filled with statues, artwork, and Rogers' own personal mementos, including his collection of rare saddles and other cowboy items. This is a great way to honor the life of Will Rogers. Donations are accepted.
7. Woodward Park and Municipal Rose Garden
1370 East 24th Pl, Tulsa, OK 74114-1329 · 918-596-7275
Woodward Park is a beautiful escape into a world of colorful floral explosions. Within the park, you will find a multitude of separate specialty gardens, each with its own unique beauty. Some gardens feature tropical plants and cacti, and others feature spring florals. You will also find a retreat of azaleas, irises, and roses that will surround you with beautiful sights and smells. The Municipal Rose Garden is a special delight with over 9,000 roses of over 250 varieties that have been blooming beautifully since 1935.
Top Weekend Getaways And Day Trip Excursions:
1. Bluegrass and Chili Festival
400 Veterans Pkwy, Claremore Expo Center, Claremore, OK 74017 · 918-342-5357-203
In September, you can enjoy a great celebration Oklahoma-style. Every year, crowds of people show up for the Bluegrass and Chili Festival. There is much to do, from music concerts to dance exhibitions to the famous chili cook-off! So bring an appetite for chili and for fun because both will be more than filled!
2. Gatesway International Balloon Festival
Corner of 41st St and 129th East Ave, Occidental Center, Tulsa, OK 74146 · 918-664-6400
In the late summer, August, Gatesway sponsors a weekend of family fun. At this three-day event, you will see over 100 balloons, two entertainment stages, arts and crafts, and, of course, food. This festival benefits children and adults with disabilities.
3. Greenwood Jazz Festival
322 North Greenwood Ave, Archer & Greenwood Aves, Tulsa, OK 74152 · 918-584-3378
HISTORIC GREENWOOD DISTRICT. This is the perfect event for any jazz lover. The Greenwood Jazz Fest sponsors jazz musicians from all over the country, including both regional and local musicians. It takes place in the Greenwood Cultural Center, where the state's Jazz Hall of Fame is located. ADMISSION: Free
4. Juneteenth
Greenwood Ave, Downtown Greenwood District, Tulsa, OK 74120 · 918-596-1001
This annual festival is held in June and is sponsored by the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. It is a three-day event that features jazz, blues, and gospel music. Both local and national performers grace the stage. You can also indulge yourself in a variety of delicious cuisines, including New Orleans-style treats!
5. Oktoberfest
717 South Houston Ave, River West Festival Park, Tulsa, OK 74127 · 918-596-2005
Oktoberfest has been attracting families from miles for over 20 years! Without a doubt, you will be bombarded by fun once you arrive! Live music and dancing, crafts, food, art, food, and children's activities. Did we mention food?? You can't leave without trying some of the delicious German foods at the festival. Bring the entire family, as there's something for everyone!
6. Powwow of Champions
21st St and South Pittsburg Ave, Expo Square, Tulsa, OK · 918-744-1113
Every summer, more that 100 Native American tribes come together for exhibition and competition. You will see traditional ceremonial dances and will be introduced to the Native American cultures. Call for specifics.
7. Tulsa Indian Art Festival
6363 East 31st St, Expo Square, Tulsa, OK 74135 · 918-838-3875
All of the art shown at the Tulsa Indian Art Festival celebrates the pride and beauty of Native American culture. Native American artists from all over the country are invited to showcase their work in this festival. The volunteer group that sponsors this festival also provides qualified Native American students with scholarships.
1. Cherokee Heritage Center
Tahlequah, OK · 918-456-6007
At the Cherokee Heritage Center, you can experience Cherokee life the way it was before it was touched by European influences. You will witness tasks such as food preparation, basket weaving, weapon making, and recreation. Have a first-hand view of Cherokee crafts such as pottery and jewelry. While at the center, be sure to visit the museum and ancient village, as well as the Ho-Chee-Nee Prayer Chapel and Cherokee Hall of Fame. The Heritage Center allows you to dip into a culture and experience it first-hand. ADMISSION: Adult $7.50, Child (6-12) $3.50, Children (under 6) Free.
2. Oxley Nature Center
36th St North and Sheridan, Mohawk Park, Tulsa, OK 74115 · 918-669-6644
Oxley Nature Center is located in Mohawk Park and covers a span of over 800 acres. Within this park, you can experience hands-on educational programs on wildlife, take bird watching hikes in the early morning, or learn where to find the prettiest butterflies. There are multiple programs designed for children who love nature. If you like being in the great outdoors, chances are you're going to love Oxley.
3. Tallgrass Prairie Reserve
Pawhuska, OK 74056 · 918-287-4803
Tallgrass prairie is dying out as an ecosystem in the United States. Only 10 percent of the original ecosystem remains. There is now a move to preserve and expand the existing tall grass prairie land. The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is located in Oklahoma and Kansas, and on the grounds you will see grazing bison amid the 500 different plant species. The drive through the preserve takes about two hours, and within there are hiking trails, picnic grounds, and camping grounds. The preserve has already grown to cover 37,000-acres of land and is definitely worth a visit.
4. Tulsa Garden Center
2435 South Peoria, Woodland Park, Tulsa, OK 74114 · 918-746-5125
The Tulsa Garden Center is a great way to learn more about your favorite pastime in horticulture or maybe to learn a little about gardening if you don't know very much. Groups meet here to discuss and learn about specific flowers or plants and gardening techniques. There are classes to take, shows to attend, and tours through the Garden Center. The general public is welcome to come and enjoy and learn! ADMISSION: Free
5. Tulsa Zoo
5701 East 36th St North, Tulsa, OK 74115-2100 · 918-669-6600
With over 400 species and nearly 1,500 animals, the excitement never stops within the Tulsa Zoo's walls. Meander down the walks in the zoo and peer face to face with exotic and rare animals. While you are there, be sure to enjoy the feedings of sea lions, alligators, sharks, and giant tortoises! You and your children will delight in this experience! ADMISSION: Adult $5, Senior $4, Child (3-11) $2, Children (2 & under) Free
6. Will Rogers Memorial
1720 West Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore, OK 74017-3208 · 918-341-0719
The Will Rogers Memorial is located on 20 acres of land that Rogers originally purchased for his retirement home. After his death, his wife donated the land for the site for a memorial to her husband. Now, Rogers, his wife, and their infant son are all buried on this site. Located in the memorial museum is a statue of Rogers with his famous words, "I never met a man I didn't like." The museum is filled with statues, artwork, and Rogers' own personal mementos, including his collection of rare saddles and other cowboy items. This is a great way to honor the life of Will Rogers. Donations are accepted.
7. Woodward Park and Municipal Rose Garden
1370 East 24th Pl, Tulsa, OK 74114-1329 · 918-596-7275
Woodward Park is a beautiful escape into a world of colorful floral explosions. Within the park, you will find a multitude of separate specialty gardens, each with its own unique beauty. Some gardens feature tropical plants and cacti, and others feature spring florals. You will also find a retreat of azaleas, irises, and roses that will surround you with beautiful sights and smells. The Municipal Rose Garden is a special delight with over 9,000 roses of over 250 varieties that have been blooming beautifully since 1935.
Top Weekend Getaways And Day Trip Excursions:
1. Bluegrass and Chili Festival
400 Veterans Pkwy, Claremore Expo Center, Claremore, OK 74017 · 918-342-5357-203
In September, you can enjoy a great celebration Oklahoma-style. Every year, crowds of people show up for the Bluegrass and Chili Festival. There is much to do, from music concerts to dance exhibitions to the famous chili cook-off! So bring an appetite for chili and for fun because both will be more than filled!
2. Gatesway International Balloon Festival
Corner of 41st St and 129th East Ave, Occidental Center, Tulsa, OK 74146 · 918-664-6400
In the late summer, August, Gatesway sponsors a weekend of family fun. At this three-day event, you will see over 100 balloons, two entertainment stages, arts and crafts, and, of course, food. This festival benefits children and adults with disabilities.
3. Greenwood Jazz Festival
322 North Greenwood Ave, Archer & Greenwood Aves, Tulsa, OK 74152 · 918-584-3378
HISTORIC GREENWOOD DISTRICT. This is the perfect event for any jazz lover. The Greenwood Jazz Fest sponsors jazz musicians from all over the country, including both regional and local musicians. It takes place in the Greenwood Cultural Center, where the state's Jazz Hall of Fame is located. ADMISSION: Free
4. Juneteenth
Greenwood Ave, Downtown Greenwood District, Tulsa, OK 74120 · 918-596-1001
This annual festival is held in June and is sponsored by the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. It is a three-day event that features jazz, blues, and gospel music. Both local and national performers grace the stage. You can also indulge yourself in a variety of delicious cuisines, including New Orleans-style treats!
5. Oktoberfest
717 South Houston Ave, River West Festival Park, Tulsa, OK 74127 · 918-596-2005
Oktoberfest has been attracting families from miles for over 20 years! Without a doubt, you will be bombarded by fun once you arrive! Live music and dancing, crafts, food, art, food, and children's activities. Did we mention food?? You can't leave without trying some of the delicious German foods at the festival. Bring the entire family, as there's something for everyone!
6. Powwow of Champions
21st St and South Pittsburg Ave, Expo Square, Tulsa, OK · 918-744-1113
Every summer, more that 100 Native American tribes come together for exhibition and competition. You will see traditional ceremonial dances and will be introduced to the Native American cultures. Call for specifics.
7. Tulsa Indian Art Festival
6363 East 31st St, Expo Square, Tulsa, OK 74135 · 918-838-3875
All of the art shown at the Tulsa Indian Art Festival celebrates the pride and beauty of Native American culture. Native American artists from all over the country are invited to showcase their work in this festival. The volunteer group that sponsors this festival also provides qualified Native American students with scholarships.
Helpful Tips & Resources
Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through TUL Airport:
- Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
- If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite, peruse the shops, or jump on the free wifi and surf galore!
- Are you a frequent flyer or traveling in business or first class? Check out where the airline lounges are located.
- Once you have passed through security, you can use the interactive terminal map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
- Need some cash for your trip? Check here for the location of in-terminal ATMs or currency exchangers.
- If you're flying in from out of town and need transportation to your destination, consider renting a car from one of these rental car providers.