Top 6 Things to Do & Places to Eat in Tulsa: A Local's Guide
After moving from LA, we spent 2.5 years in Tulsa with Tulsa Remote, and here are some of our favorite places to work, eat, explore, and actually enjoy the city.
Where to Stay
We lived in Downtown Tulsa, and it shaped almost all of our recommendations below. Many of the things we loved most were within walking distance.
If you're visiting Tulsa, we'd recommend staying downtown, too. Hotel Indigo in Downtown Tulsa is just steps from where we lived and puts you right in the heart of the walkable neighborhood where you can access many of the spots we recommend, though you'll want a car or rideshare for exploring beyond downtown.
Where to Play
We’ve enjoyed multiple shows at this historic venue. If you happen to be in town when something’s happening (which is often), definitely check it out!
One of the favorite museums I’ve visited so far, especially since I had my work exhibited there, check it out here. The grounds are beautiful, especially in spring. I'd spend hours sitting in the gardens surrounded by cherry blossoms and tulips, then explore the art exhibits inside.
I found this museum because I enjoy photographing old residences turned museums, but I realized that this was the actual film set of The Outsiders. People come to visit it from all over the country!
It’s a 66-acre park along the Arkansas River that cost $465m to construct but is free to the public. The name says it all; it is the gathering place of locals and the community in Tulsa. It’s a place that’s really hard to describe since it offers so much, and I have not explored even a fraction of the place! I especially love the Lodge, the design, the view, and it’s a great place to use as my office for the day, for a change of scenery.
Where to Eat & Drink
5) Food Scene
We've tried many restaurants in Tulsa, and being from LA, we were spoiled by one of the food capitals of the US. Most places we tried in Tulsa are a miss. But here's a list of places we really loved and went back again and again.
Amelia's Wood Fired Cuisine - we first went there for the decor and the pretty drinks, but their dishes were also amazing! My favorites are their Charred Spanish Octopus and Filet Mignon.
East Village Bohemian Pizzeria - by far my favorite pizzeria anywhere. I love their vibe and many of their hand-tossed pizza choices, like Funghi, Tre P & Bohemian BBQ.
Billy Ray's Catfish & BBQ - I would love this place even more if it were closer to us! I only love their catfish; they offer the all-you-can-eat or entree option. I usually go for the entree since that’s already enough for me. But their catfish is fried perfectly every time!
Nightlife
Roof Sixty-Six Rooftop Bar at the Hotel Indigo Downtown Tulsa - especially if you are staying at the hotel! Enjoy some of the best views of the city, delicious cocktails, and bites.
Valkyrie - an upscale bar in Tulsa, I really enjoyed their cocktails and vibes!
Fassler Hall - serves large steins of German beer and sausages and has weekly festivities and performances from local talents.
Saturn Room - Tulsa's only Tiki Bar! Fun vibes and drinks!
St. Vitus - Go early, or there will be a long line since it’s a very small venue. It’s one of our go-to clubs with our TR and startup friends.
The Penthouse Rooftop Lounge at the Mayo Hotel - I’ve been there a few times with Tulsa Remote, and to watch the fireworks during July 4th, you get a nice view of the city. Mayo hotel is also where Dwight "The General" stays in Tulsa in Tulsa King!
6) Unique Events -
We attended both of these events every year we are in Tulsa, don’t miss out if you happen to be in town!
Tulsa Tough - This is a 3-day bike race (or party, as their website calls it) in early June, which happens in three different parts of town. We usually just watch the Friday race since it’s in the Blue Dome district, right in front of our apartment. Really fun to watch!
Zeeco Oktoberfest Tulsa - they are actually the oldest and now the number 1 Oktoberfest in the USA! It’s a multi-day event, where it’s family-friendly during the day, and turns into a rave at night!
Coming from LA, we expected slim pickings (as Chandler would say), but Tulsa surprised us. We found a vibrant community, incredible food, and endless photo opportunities. If you're thinking about moving there or just visiting, these spots are your starting point.
Disclosure: This author receives a commission through recommended links in this content.
