15 Things Tulsa, Oklahoma is Famous For

Tulsa, Oklahoma—what comes to mind? Cowboys? Tornadoes? Or maybe you’re just wondering, “Where exactly is Tulsa again?”

Well, Tulsa is packed with history, culture, and nostalgia, along with some unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re thinking about moving to Tulsa or just visiting, here are 15 things that make this city truly special.

1. The Oil Capital of the World

Tulsa wasn’t just built on oil—it was once known as the “Oil Capital of the World.” In the early 1900s, oil was gushing from the ground, and Tulsa became a booming hub for the industry. The city’s oil wealth led to the construction of skyscrapers, historic mansions, and iconic landmarks that still stand today.

2. Art Deco Architecture

Thanks to oil money, Tulsa boasts some of the best Art Deco architecture in the country. Downtown Tulsa looks like it was pulled straight from The Great Gatsby, featuring golden doors, geometric patterns, and luxurious old-school designs. Must-see buildings include the Boston Avenue Methodist Church and the Philcade Building.

3. The Gathering Place

This isn’t just a park—it’s the park. Located along the Arkansas River, The Gathering Place is a world-class public park featuring massive playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, trails, and even a boathouse. Best of all? It’s completely free.

4. Route 66 Nostalgia

Tulsa is a major stop on the historic Route 66. The city is filled with classic diners, neon signs, and quirky roadside attractions, such as the Route 66 Rising sculpture and the famous Blue Whale of Catoosa.

5. Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan Centers

Music lovers, rejoice! The Woody Guthrie Center celebrates the legendary folk singer behind This Land is Your Land, while the Bob Dylan Center houses an extensive archive of one of America’s greatest songwriters.

6. The Golden Driller

Standing 75 feet tall, the Golden Driller is one of Tulsa’s most iconic landmarks. This massive statue of an oil worker has watched over Expo Square since the 1960s. Fun fact: During Tulsa’s bid to land a Tesla factory, the statue was given an Elon Musk makeover!

7. Tulsa’s Thriving Performing Arts Scene

For a city its size, Tulsa has an impressive performing arts scene, including the Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera, and the Tulsa Symphony. Broadway shows frequently make their way to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

8. Cain’s Ballroom

Known as the “Carnegie Hall of Western Swing,” Cain’s Ballroom is one of the most legendary music venues in the country. Over the years, it has hosted artists from Bob Wills to the Sex Pistols.

9. The BOK Center

Designed by renowned architect César Pelli, the BOK Center is Tulsa’s premier arena for major concerts, NBA preseason games, minor league hockey, rodeos, and even monster truck rallies.

10. The University of Tulsa

One of the most prestigious private universities in the country, TU is known for its engineering, law, and business programs. The campus features historic buildings and beautiful landscapes, making it a great place to explore.

11. Philbrook Museum of Art

Imagine a 1920s Italian villa in the heart of Tulsa—that’s the Philbrook Museum of Art. This stunning former mansion-turned-museum is surrounded by breathtaking gardens and is worth a visit, even if you’re not an art enthusiast.

12. Gilcrease Museum

Currently under construction and set to reopen in 2025, the Gilcrease Museum houses one of the world’s best collections of Native American and Western art.

13. The Center of the Universe

One of Tulsa’s weirdest attractions, the Center of the Universe is a mysterious acoustic anomaly downtown. If you stand in the middle and talk, your voice will echo back louder than it should—science or magic? You decide.

14. The Tulsa Race Massacre and Greenwood District

Tulsa has a powerful and painful history. The Greenwood District, once known as Black Wall Street, was one of the most prosperous Black communities in America before the tragic 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Today, you can visit the Greenwood Rising Museum to learn about the resilience and history of the district.

15. The Outsiders House Museum

Fans of The Outsiders movie will love visiting this museum, located in the house from the iconic 1983 film. It’s packed with movie props, memorabilia, and plenty of 80s nostalgia.

Final Thoughts

From its rich history to its vibrant cultural scene, Tulsa has something for everyone. Whether you’re considering a move or just planning a visit, this city offers a mix of nostalgia, charm, and modern attractions.

Thinking about moving to Tulsa? Contact me—I’d love to help you with your journey. And if you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more great Tulsa content!