RV Road Trip: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is a big city with a small-town feel. Warm midwestern hospitality combines with world-class attractions making Tulsa an unexpected gem of a destination.

In the 1830s, this part of Oklahoma was designated Indian Territory, and many Native American tribes were relocated to the area from the Eastern United States. The railroad brought more settlers into the area in the 1880s.

The early part of the 20th century was transformative for Tulsa. Oil was discovered in 1901, and by the 1920s, the small town had transformed into the “Oil Capital of the World.” Oil money sparked new development with art deco designs gracing everything from office buildings to churches, which can still be visited.

The Mother Road, Route 66, bisected the town in that same era, and numerous places in the area still celebrate the famed road. Route 66 stretched from Chicago to Los Angeles and birthed an era of cross-country road trips.

Tulsa’s food scene is fantastic, with restaurants offering cuisine from around the world. After dinner, sample the rich music scene featuring the “Tulsa Sound.” Visit multiple music venues and two museums dedicated to rock legends.

So come on down to “T-town” and get your kicks on (and off) Route 66.

Family RVers

Must-Do

Five years ago, 100 acres of Tulsa’s waterfront was transformed into an amazing natural space. The Gathering Place includes the Chapman Adventure playground with unique towers, climbing structures, slides, and more. While there, borrow a pedal boat or canoe (it’s free!), hike the trails, or try the awesome skate park.

On the Menu

I want pizza! No, tacos! No, barbecue! We’ve all been there. Satisfy your group at the Mother Road Market, a food hall with more than 15 local restaurants to choose from. The Market is a testing area to give new restaurateurs a low-cost place to try their ideas before investing in a retail space of their own. Eat on their large back patio, listen to music, and let the kids burn off energy in the play area or mini-golf course.

Off the Beaten Path

The Route 66 Historical Village is an open-air museum that chronicles the history of Tulsa’s oil industry as well as our country’s most famous road. See the #4500 steam engine, gawk at the tallest oil derrick in North America, and snap a pic with the huge Route 66 sign.

Stay Here

Mingo RV Park is a gated community not far from downtown Tulsa. Have fun at the Good Sam Park’s playground, horseshoe pits, and basketball courts.

Weekend Warriors

Must-Do

A Tuscan-style villa with lavish gardens in Tulsa? Yes! The stunning mansion houses the Philbrook Museum of Art, a treasure trove of American, Native American, and European art. Allow plenty of time to explore both the museum and the beautiful grounds.

On the Menu

Try the Tasting Menu at Juniper, which is a five-course meal of smaller portions of their most popular menu items such as pork tenderloin, vegetarian ravioli, or poached pear salad. Juniper uses farm-to-table ingredients, so the menu changes seasonally.

Off the Beaten Path

Greenwood was a thriving black community once called “Black Wall Street.” Greenwood Rising brings to light the tragic 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, where 36 square blocks of Greenwood were destroyed and hundreds of residents killed.

Stay Here

Canyon Creek Campground has lots of shade covering their roomy campsites. Full hookups and free DirecTV and Wi-Fi are included in the low fee.

Retired RVers

Must-Do

At the Woody Guthrie Center, learn about more than just his iconic music. The Center chronicles his messages of diversity, justice, and equality. After your visit, head next door for another homage to a music legend at the Bob Dylan Center.

On the Menu

Make sure to reserve a table well ahead of time for The Hemingway—A Steakhouse. The elegant restaurant is very popular due to its fabulous steaks, asparagus, pan-seared mushrooms, and other delectable dishes.

Off the Beaten Path

Sewing machines of all types line the walls and floor of the Vintage Sewing Center and Museum. The owner is passionate about his collection, and it shows on his tours. You can even try to sew on some of the machines!

Stay Here

West Bend RV Outpost is a truly unique RV park located in a revitalized industrial complex. The quirky campground is located in an artist community. Sorry, leave the kids and grandkids at home, as this park is open to guests 18 and older only.

Full-Time RVers

Must-Do

The Tulsa Botanic Garden is wonderful in every season but really shines during its Autumn festival (September 22–October 30). Listen to music on Thursday evenings during Bands & Blooms, relive your youth with a fall-themed scavenger hunt, or vote for your favorite scarecrow.

On the Menu

For a new take on classic American fare, stop by The Vault. The retro decor is inviting, and the menu includes many delicious vegan and vegetarian options, such as polenta and avocado, followed by a scrumptious 24 Karat Cake. Meat lovers can choose from various chicken, fish, and steak dishes as well.

Off the Beaten Path

Take Tulsa Tour’s Art Deco Tour to learn about the city’s transformation from a small town to the “Oil Capital of the World.” The tour visits several beautiful examples of art deco architecture, popular in the 1920s and 1930s. The mile-long tour runs just under two hours.

Stay Here

Riverview RV Park is just outside of Tulsa in Sand Springs. Enjoy lovely views of the Arkansas River from the park as well as hiking trails and a fenced dog park. Be sure to visit the city, which offers shopping, restaurants, golf, cycling trails, and even a new splash pad in River City Park.