Are you looking for fun and exciting things to do near Tulsa? There are so many incredible day trips from Tulsa, Oklahoma to choose from. With this extensive list of day trip ideas, you are sure to find somewhere that will guarantee an amazing day!
Since I am a local who lives near Tulsa, I have personally visited almost all of the places listed. I hope this gives you some ideas of fun places to check out nearby!
Day Trips from Tulsa, Oklahoma
Whether you are into outdoor activities like hiking and biking or prefer indoor attractions like museums and art galleries, there are plenty of options within 3 hours of Tulsa that make great day trips. So pack up the car and hit the road – these amazing day trips from Tulsa await!
(Times and miles listed below are one-way approximations.)
1. Claremore
30 minutes / 30 miles
Start off your adventure in Claremore with a tour of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum and J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum. Then, take a stroll down Main Street and visit some of the unique local shops. Admire the beauty of the Belvidere Mansion and learn about the history of the town at the Claremore Museum of History.
The city also offers numerous outdoor activities such as fishing and boating at Claremore Lake, hiking and biking at the Claremore Mountain Bike Trails, and meandering through nature at the RSU Nature Reserve.
If you are traveling with kids, check out one of the two splash pads in town. Once you have worked up an appetite, eat at one of the many family-owned restaurants including the Hammett House Restaurant, The Pink House, and J Farley’s.
2. Catoosa
20 minutes / 20 miles
Catoosa is most famous for the Blue Whale of Catoosa, a historic Route 66 attraction. But, there are other attractions to visit while in town. The D.W. Correll Museum is just down the street and displays a large variety of rocks and vintage automobiles.
The Catoosa Historical Museum is a great place to stop to learn more about the history of the town. There is an old railroad car and a post office. Climb aboard the Charley Border towboat at the Oklahoma Maritime Education Center located in the Port of Catoosa.
For adult fun, stop in at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Get a tee time at the golf course or enjoy some live entertainment at one of the entertainment venues. There is also a large selection of dining options to choose from.
3. Oologah
30 minutes / 30 miles
Oologah is often overlooked, but it has a few attractions that make it worth the trip. Oologah is home to the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch. This is where you can see the “White House on the Verdigris” where Will grew up. It is a quiet place. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the views.
Skull Hollow Nature Trail, located in the Hawthorn Bluff Campground & Fishing Area, is a great place to hike. There are three options to choose from: Short Loop, Long Loop, and the Hiking Trail. Along the trail, you are nestled into the woods and then rewarded with gorgeous views of Oologah Lake.
When you are done hiking, head down to Oologah Lake for some fishing, swimming, or boating.
4. Bixby
30 minutes / 25 miles
Take a short drive to Bixby. Spend the day at Bixhoma Lake with friends and family, where you can boat, fish, and hike around the lake. Head over to Harmony Bridge to play some outdoor instruments, watch the kids play, and take in the relaxing vibes.
Pick up some fresh locally grown organic produce at Joe’s Farm. You can do your own strawberry picking or buy pre-picked produce in the shop.
Bring out your inner detective at the Escape Hatch. If you’re visiting in the fall, Carmichael’s Pumpkin Patch promises plenty of fun-filled activities with sensational sunflowers in the background.
5. Broken Arrow
20 minutes / 15 miles
Home to the Succulent Shop, Bass Pro Shops, and endless other shopping and dining options, there’s something for everyone in your family on a day trip to Broken Arrow.
The Ray Harral Nature Center is an ideal spot for nature lovers, offering hiking trails and opportunities to observe local wildlife. Haikey Creek Park provides a disc-golf course, walking trails, and multiple playgrounds for little ones. Beat the summer heat at the Family Aquatics Center.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Military History Museum and Broken Arrow Historical Society’s The Museum Broken Arrow. End your day with a movie experience that won’t soon be forgotten with a visit to the Warren Theater.
6. Jenks
20 minutes / 15 miles
Jenks is a great day trip destination for couples, families, and friends. The Riverwalk has tons of options for dining and shopping. The nearby GolfSuites is ideal for golf fanatics looking to perfect their swing.
The Oklahoma Aquarium offers fun opportunities to learn about sea life. Some highlights include the sea turtle and otters. The Jenks Planetarium is a great place for visitors to explore the stars with a variety of planetarium shows offered on select evenings.
7. Pawhuska
1 hour / 60 miles
With vast outdoor spaces such as the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve and Osage Hills State Park, you can explore some of Oklahoma’s most beautiful landscapes near Pawhuska. Other outdoor activities include walking across the Swinging Bridge and taking a dip at Blue Stem Falls.
The city also offers bountiful shopping and dining options. Stop by to see what all of the hype is about at the Pioneer Woman Mercantile. Grab a coffee at Treats Coffee Shop before heading out to the Lodge for a tour.
Don’t forget about the cultural attractions like the Osage Nation Museum, Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum, and Osage County Historical Society Museum— all excellent opportunities for learning about local history and culture.
8. Bartlesville
45 minutes / 50 miles
Bartlesville provides a great day trip from Tulsa for travelers of any age.
Spend the day exploring attractions like Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, Price Tower Arts Center, and Frank Phillips Home. To learn about the impact of the oil industry on the town, check out the Bartlesville Area History Museum, Phillips Petroleum Company Museum, and the Nellie Johnstone No. 1.
Enjoy an evening at the Bartlesville Kiddie Park for inexpensive entertainment for the little ones.
Grab lunch at Frank and Lola’s Neighborhood Restaurant and dinner at the Painted Horse Bar & Grille.
9. Tahlequah
1 hour 15 minutes / 75 miles
A day trip to Tahlequah from Tulsa is the perfect way to learn about the rich Cherokee history and culture of the area. Explore the many Cherokee Museums including the Prison Museum, History Museum, Supreme Court Museum, and the John Ross Museum. Hunter’s Home is another place to view Cherokee history.
Take a stroll down the Tahlequah History Trail which connects numerous historic sights in town and serves as a recreational area for walking and biking.
A favorite summer activity is floating on the Illinois River. Lake Tenkiller is another great place to get on the water near Tahlequah with water activities including sailing, scuba diving, water skiing, fishing, and more.
Tenkiller State Park, J.T. Nickel Nature and Wildlife Preserve, and Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area are all great places to hike. With so much natural beauty and rich cultural history, Tahlequah is a must-visit!
10. Muskogee
50 minutes / 50 miles
Muskogee offers a variety of attractions and is perfect for a day trip from Tulsa.
Stop in at the Castle of Muskogee during the annual Renaissance festival or other seasonal festivities during Halloween and Christmas time. Also, stop and see the USS Batfish.
Honor Heights Park, home to the region’s premier azalea gardens and holiday lights, is a must-see while in town. If you are visiting during the warmer months, make sure to view the Papilion Gardens and Butterfly House. Another fun summer attraction is the River Country Water Park.
Learn about the history of the area at one of the town’s museums. The Five Civilized Tribes Museum displays artifacts and art exhibits honoring Native American history. The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame celebrates Oklahoma’s musical heritage. The Three Rivers Museum displays local industry.
History buffs might enjoy adding on a short drive from Muskogee to the Fort Gibson Historic Site and the Fort Gibson National Cemetery.
11. Blue Hole Park
1 hour / 65 miles
For a quick summer getaway from Tulsa, Blue Hole Park in Salina is the perfect place. Blue Hole Park is a popular swimming destination. Since the water is very shallow, it is a great place for all ages including young kids.
Cool off on a hot summer day in the refreshing spring-fed water. Once you work up an appetite, visit the concession stand for burgers, hotdogs, and other tasty treats.
12. Oklahoma City
1.5 hours / 110 miles
You can’t see all of Oklahoma City’s attractions in one day, but here are some ideas to include in a day trip from Tulsa. Start your day downtown at the emotional Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, or the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
Add in some cultural and historical sights like the First Americans Museum, the Oklahoma State Capitol, or the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Kids will love attractions such as the Oklahoma City Zoo, Science Museum Oklahoma, Frontier City, and the Museum of Osteology.
Head to the Boathouse District to enjoy RIVERSPORT Adventure Park or to Bricktown to ride the Bricktown Water Taxi. To get outdoors and admire nature’s beauty, check out Lake Hefner, Martin Park Nature Center, or Scissortail Park.
13. Route 66 Northeast
2 hours / 100 miles
A day trip along Route 66 headed northeast from Tulsa is a fun way to see some of the lesser-known towns and attractions in Oklahoma. Start off in Catoosa where you can visit the iconic Blue Whale and check out the old cars and rocks displayed at the DW Correll Museum.
Claremore has plenty of attractions that bring visitors back in time with its’ Will Rogers Memorial Museum, J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum, and Claremore Museum of History.
As you make your way to Chelsea, don’t miss Totem Pole Park. Some stops in Chelsea include the Pedestrian Underpass and the Pryor Creek Bridge.
Vinita offers the classic Hi-Way Cafe as well as the Eastern Trails Museum. Continue on to Miami for a look at its Gateway Sign, Coleman Theater, Dobson Museum, incredible murals, and grab a bite at Waylan’s KuKu.
Continue on to Commerce where you can see Mickey Mantle’s Boyhood Home and pose next to Allen’s Conoco Fillin’ Station. For one more stop on your journey before heading back to Tulsa, swing by Quapaw and grab some food and ice cream for the road from Dallas’ Dairyette.
14. Route 66 West
1.5 hours / 95 miles
Head west along Route 66 from Tulsa for some good food and unique sights. Start your journey in Sapulpa and explore the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum before heading to Stroud, where you can grab a classic meal at the Rock Cafe.
Onward to Chandler, you’ll find the Route 66 Interpretive Center. Make sure not to miss the Saeba Station Motorcycle Museum in Warwick for an awe-inspiring collection of vintage cycles. Next is Wellston, where you can stop off at The Butcher BBQ Stand for some tasty barbecue.
Last but certainly not least is Arcadia where travelers are welcomed with warm hospitality at The Chicken Shack as well as getting an eyeful of iconic landmarks like the Acadia Round Barn and POPS which have become top Route 66 attractions in Oklahoma.
15. Grand Lake
1.5 hours / 85 miles
Packed with exciting activities and picturesque scenery, Grand Lake offers visitors plenty to explore in just one day. It has long been a popular water sport and fishing destination.
To get out on the lake, look no further than Water Trix! This trusted company offers a variety of rental options from pontoon boats to jet skis and kayaks. Whether you’re looking for the perfect fishing boat or just want to hang out with family and friends on the water, Water Trix has what you need.
Outdoor seekers should head to Bernice State Park to enjoy the short hiking trail. Here, you can take in the stunning views of the beautiful lake. Make sure to stop in at the nature center to see their animals during your visit.
Head into Grove for a visit to Har-Ber Village. Step back in time and explore an impressive collection of America’s past spanning from the mid-1800s to early 1900s. At this pioneer-era village, you’ll find more than 100 captivating exhibits that will provide a unique insight into American history.
Not far away is Lendonwood Gardens. With its eight distinct gardens, you are sure to find some beauty any time that you visit.
16. Lake Eufaula
1.5 hours / 85 miles
A day trip from Tulsa to Lake Eufaula is the perfect escape for a summer getaway! Start your journey at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park for some family fun. Or, spend a day in the sun along one of Lake Eufaula’s numerous beaches.
Afterward, head to nearby Lake Eufaula State Park. Check out the nature center, play some disc golf, go for a walk on one of the nature trails, or go for a swim.
Go on a longer hike at Arrowhead State Park or play a round of golf on the 18-hole course. Fishing and swimming are other popular activities in the park.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite dine at Captain John’s for some delicious seafood. Come experience all that Lake Eufaula has to offer!
17. Sapulpa
20 minutes / 15 miles
A day trip to Sapulpa from Tulsa is a great way to explore the quaint attractions this town has to offer. Take a stroll down memory lane at one of the many Route 66 sights or enjoy the outdoors.
Visit the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum, Sapulpa Historical Museum, Waite Phillips-Barnsdall Filling Station Museum, and Rock Creek Bridge to learn about Sapulpa and Route 66 sites around town.
Enjoy an afternoon outdoors hiking or fishing at Pretty Water Lake or take a boat out on Sahoma Lake. If you want all the fun a big pool has to offer head over to the Sapulpa Aquatic Center. While you’re close check out Liberty Park‘s many amenities including playgrounds, picnic pavilions, the Rotary Centennial Splash Pad, and multiple sports courts.
Grab a bite to eat at Crossroads Cookery or the classic Happy Burger before heading back to Tulsa.
18. Sand Springs
15 minutes / 10 miles
Begin your day by walking the trails of Keystone Ancient Forest or Keystone State Park. Keystone State Park also offers boat rentals for you to enjoy some time on Keystone Lake.
Delve into history at the Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum. Test your skills at SKATES, where you can participate in Glow Nerf Wars or simply skate around the rink.
In the fall, Pleasant Valley Farms hosts the Winter Squash and Pumpkin Festival which includes vendors, games, and animals. Finally, no trip would be complete without a stop at OkieSpice and Trade Co to pick up eclectic souvenirs and delicious spice mixes!
19. Ponca City
1.5 hours / 95 miles
The charming Oklahoma town of Ponca City has tons of attractions to offer, no matter what your interests are. Architecture enthusiasts can tour Marland Mansion and Marland’s Grand Home, two stunning examples of early 20th-century architecture.
The Poncan Theater offers a glimpse into the town’s cinematic roots, while the Conoco Museum provides a fascinating look at oil drilling in the region. For those interested in the history and culture of the area, the Pioneer Woman Museum and Standing Bear Museum are must-sees.
Nature lovers will find a peaceful walk at the La Cann Estate Gardens. During the summer months, head to Kaw Lake for recreational activities and the swimming beach.
20. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
3 hours / 205 miles
For a day trip from Tulsa that has something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast, head to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and experience some of Oklahoma’s most beautiful nature.
Driving to the top of Mt. Scott is a must for this trip. Stop at the parking lot on the top of the mountain to get a 360-degree view of the refuge and decide where you want to start exploring.
The refuge has 59,000 acres that include plenty of outdoor activities, such as fishing in one of the 12 man-made lakes, hiking along the 15 miles of trails, and even rock climbing. There’s also an abundance of wildlife such as free-range bison, Texas longhorn cattle, prairie dogs, elk, and deer roaming around the refuge.
You can explore further by visiting the Quanah Parker Nature and Visitor Center which offers Ranger-led programs like guided nature walks and educational programs.
While you are in the area, make sure to visit the Holy City of the Wichitas. Oklahoma’s first resort town, Medicine Park, is also worth a visit
21. Talimena National Scenic Byway
2.5 hours / 155 miles
A day trip from Tulsa along the Talimena National Scenic Byway is a great option for outdoor-loving adventurers looking for an escape from the busy city. Spanning 54 miles between Talihina, Oklahoma, and Mena, Arkansas, this scenic route offers magnificent panoramic views with numerous pullouts for taking a break or setting up a picnic.
You can also explore two state parks, Talimena State Park and Queen Wilhelmina State Park, and extensive hiking trails within the Ouachita National Forest during your journey.
The byway is one of the best places to see fall foliage in Oklahoma typically around the first week of November, when it showcases the vibrant fall foliage.
22. Chickasaw National Recreation Area
2.5 hours / 145 miles
For those looking for a memorable day trip from Tulsa, Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a fabulous option.
Check out Travertine Nature Center for park information and interactive displays. Take advantage of the Junior Ranger Program where kids can earn their very own Junior Ranger Badge by learning about the park.
Explore the Lake of the Arbuckles where you can do all kinds of activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. For those with smaller watercraft visit Veterans Lake where you can bring your canoes, kayaks, and no-wake boats or enjoy a nice swim.
Splash around in Travertine Creek or Rock Creek to cool off from the summer heat. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails to discover! This national recreation area has so much to explore that you won’t want to miss out on the incredible experiences available here!
23. Turner Falls Park
2.75 hours / 160 miles
The picturesque Turner Falls Park, owned by the City of Davis, covers over 1,500 acres and consists of everything necessary for a perfect day trip. The park’s highlight is the 77-foot waterfall, but there’s more to this beauty than meets the eye!
Swimming and wading can be done in the crystal-clear waters below the waterfall, in the Blue Hole pool, and also in Honey Creek.
Architecture fanatics won’t be disappointed either, as Turner Falls Park is also home to an incredible ‘castle’ with English-style architecture. Immerse yourself in the past as you explore Collings Castle.
For further exploration, visitors may take a hike through the park to find the natural caves in Oklahoma’s Arbuckle Mountains or enjoy fishing from November through March.
24. Stillwater
1 hour / 70 miles
For a quick and fun getaway from Tulsa, consider taking a day trip to Stillwater! If you’re a sports fan, check out Boone Pickens Stadium for an OSU football game or head over to Gallagher-Iba Arena for an OSU basketball game. And speaking of sports, make sure to swing by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame while you’re visiting!
If you’re more into the outdoors, you’ll love wandering the gorgeous campus of Oklahoma State University or strolling through the Botanic Garden. And for a truly unique experience, don’t miss out on a visit to Lost Creek Safari Exotic Animal Park.
And, you can’t visit Stillwater without eating at the iconic Eskimo Joe’s.
25. Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park
3 hours / 165 miles
The Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park, formerly Red Rock Canyon State Park, is a must for anyone seeking outdoor activities and family fun. The park has numerous hiking trails that offer great views of the surrounding canyon and its red rock formations.
For those who enjoy fishing, there is a large pond where you can catch various types of fish. If you want to cool off in the summer, the swimming pool with its small splash pad is the perfect spot. The pool also has a climbing wall and tunnel slides.
There is a small daily admission fee per vehicle to access the property.
Day Trips from Tulsa, Oklahoma: State Parks
If you’re looking for a great day trip from Tulsa, why not explore one of Oklahoma’s many beautiful state parks? With so much natural beauty to discover, there are plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and swimming. These day trips from Tulsa to immerse yourself in nature will leave you with lasting memories!
26. Sequoyah State Park
1 hour / 50 miles
Taking a day trip to Sequoyah State Park from Tulsa offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Whether you are an experienced or novice hiker, it is easy to find a trail suited for you. If horses are your preferred mode of transportation around the park, the stables offer guided tours on horseback as well.
The Three Forks Nature Center is worth checking out during your visit. It has displays of animals found in the area including live snakes! Go outside to see foxes, a coyote, a beaver, and an otter.
There’s ample opportunity for fishing, boating, and swimming in the park. If a round at the golf course is more your style, there is an excellent 9-hole course as well.
27. Greenleaf State Park
1 hour / 70 miles
Located near Tulsa, Greenleaf State Park is the perfect destination for an outdoor-filled day trip in the summer.
Take the kids to explore the Nature Center before heading out on a hike. Even if you aren’t up for hiking the entire 18-mile Greenleaf Ankle Express Trail, walk the mile and a half to the swinging bridge. For a shorter trail option, walk along the easy Family Fun Trail loop.
Bring your swimsuits to enjoy the fun. Get a line in the water for a peaceful morning of fishing, or rent a small watercraft (kayak, paddleboat, canoe, or pontoon boat) and explore the beauty of the lake. There is also a splash pad and a swimming beach.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy some friendly competition on the 18-hole miniature golf course or compete with friends at volleyball or horseshoes.
28. Robbers Cave State Park
2 hours / 130 miles
Located in the San Bois Mountains of Southeast Oklahoma, Robbers Cave State Park is a great place to visit in order to explore nature.
Visit the Nature Center before you get started. Pick up a map and get information and hours on activities that are currently offered. Animal lovers won’t be disappointed with Robbers Cave Stables which offers horseback riding and a petting zoo.
There are plenty of trails to explore at this beautiful state park, but one of the best hikes is to the park’s namesake, Robbers Cave. Make the climb to the cave and enjoy the views of the surrounding scenery.
This scenic park also offers plenty of other activities for visitors including an 18-hole miniature golf course, a 9-hole disc golf course, and playgrounds for the kids. Bring your swimsuits for Lake Carlton where you can take a dip and even rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats.
29. Little Sahara State Park
3 hours / 185 miles
A day trip from Tulsa to Little Sahara State Park offers a unique and exciting opportunity to explore the beautiful sand dunes Oklahoma has to offer. The park features massive sand dunes that stretch across an impressive 1,650 acres of land, providing plenty of terrain for visitors to enjoy.
Explore these dunes on an ATV or a dune buggy and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget! You can bring your own vehicles or rent them from nearby vendors.
30. Salt Plains & Gloss Mountain State Park
2.5 hours / 155 miles
A day trip from Tulsa to Salt Plains State Park and Gloss Mountain State Park is an exciting adventure, full of outdoor exploration and fun. From April through October, visitors can dig for hourglass crystals at the Great Salt Plains Selenite Digging Area.
Head over to Salt Plains State Park for a variety of outdoor activities including swimming at the swimming beach, hiking, taking a walk on a nature trail, fishing, and boating.
End your day by driving about an hour southwest to catch Gloss Mountain State Park at sunset. Take a hike on the 1.5-mile-long Cathedral Mountain Mesa Trail for panoramic views of the red dirt landscape.
31. Natural Falls State Park
1 hour / 80 miles
Embark on an exciting day trip from Tulsa to Natural Falls State Park to explore the outdoors! Enjoy a variety of activities in this picturesque park including hiking and fishing. Little ones will love the playgrounds.
The park is popular for the waterfall called Dripping Springs. It is a short hike to get there with benches at the base. In addition to that hike, there are numerous other trails in the park to keep you busy.
For more summer fun, Flint Creek Water Park is just a few minutes away. Head there to finish your day with a swim.
32. Lake Wister State Park
2 hours / 140 miles
A day trip from Tulsa to Lake Wister State Park is a great way to take a break and relax. This scenic park has plenty of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Beat the heat at the swimming beach or take the kids to the splash pad.
The park offers miniature golf, making it perfect for family outings and other large groups. With its variety of activities as well as wonderful views, this state park offers plenty of opportunities for fun.
Day Trips from Tulsa: Kansas & Missouri
If you are willing to venture outside of Oklahoma, there are even more options for day trips from Tulsa. Here are a few in Kansas and Missouri.
33. Wichita
2.5 hours / 180 miles
Head to Wichita for a day filled with history, nature, and art. Travel back in time at the Old Cowtown Museum where you can wander the streets of an 1860s town.
Kids will love seeing the animals at the Sedgwick County Zoo. Other kid-friendly attractions include Exploration Place, Wichita Toy Train Club and Museum, and The Arcade.
Get outside at Botanica, The Wichita Gardens, and the Great Plains Nature Center. The Keeper of the Plains statue is definitely worth seeking out along the Arkansas River.
If you enjoy museums, Wichita is the place for you with a large variety of museums to choose from. Select a handful of these to explore during your visit. Options include the Museum of World Treasures, Pizza Hut Museum, Great Plains Transportation Museum, Mid-America All-Indian Center, Wichita Sedgwick County Historical Museum, Kansas Aviation Museum, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House, Wichita Art Museum, Kansas Firefighters Museum, The Kansas African American Museum, Ulrich Museum of Art, and the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.
34. Fort Scott
2.75 hours / 160 miles
A day trip to Fort Scott, Kansas from Tulsa is full of history. If you are visiting on a Friday or Saturday, start your trip by taking a 50-minute narrated tour of the town on the Fort Scott Trolley.
Nestled on 17 acres, the Fort Scott National Historic Site offers visitors an immersive journey back in time. Here, explore military structures and immerse yourself in educational displays that tell a story of this site’s past use. For even more military history, visit the nearby Fort Scott National Cemetery.
One of the most notable figures from Fort Scott is the groundbreaking photojournalist Gordon Parks. Visit the Gordon Parks Museum to learn more about the man and see his iconic photographs.
Another great place to learn about notable figures is the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes. Here, you can learn about ordinary people that made a significant impact. There are wartime heroes, civil rights pioneers, and STEAM trailblazers represented at the center.
If outdoor activities are more your style don’t miss the Rock Creek Lake Waterfalls, located just outside of town. Gunn Park is another place to check out that offers visitors a beautiful, serene setting for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
35. Springfield, Missouri
3 hours / 185 miles
Springfield, Missouri is an excellent day trip from Tulsa! Fantastic Caverns is a popular attraction and is one of the only caves in the world that you are driven through.
For the kids, there are plenty of attractions to keep them busy including Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, Dickerson Park Zoo, Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, and Discovery Center of Springfield.
If you prefer outdoor activities, Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden and Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park are both excellent choices. You can also check out the Springfield Conservation Nature Center and Jordan Valley Park.
History buffs will be thrilled to explore Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, Air & Military Museum, and History Museum on the Square. Take in the art at the Springfield Art Museum, tour Pythian Castle, and get your kicks with a trip to the Route 66 Car Museum.
Day Trips from Tulsa: Arkansas
Arkansas is a beautiful state with plenty of attractions to choose from. Take a day trip from Tulsa to one of these northwest Arkansas destinations.
36. Bentonville
2 hours / 120 miles
Bentonville is a wonderful town that has been heavily influenced by the Walton Family. The Walmart Museum & Visitor Center shows the humble beginnings of Sam Walton and how Walmart grew into what it is today. The Museum of Native American History is another good museum to stop at while in town.
Art lovers will find plenty to appreciate at Crystal Bridges Museum of Art. In addition to touring Frank Lloyd Wright’s home, take one of the many trails surrounding the museum with outdoor art displays along the way.
For families visiting, the Scott Family Amazeum is a must. The Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink is a fun winter activity, while The Fountains at Lawrence Plaza is the perfect place to cool off in the summer.
Bentonville has some great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Take a stroll through Orchards Park, wander through Compton Gardens & Arboretum, or venture north to Bella Vista to explore the 2.2-mile Tanyard Creek Nature Trail.
37. Eureka Springs
3 hours / 150 miles
Eureka Springs is picturesque with a Historic Downtown. Stop in at the Eureka Springs Historical Museum to learn all about the town before checking out other sights. Are you a fan of the supernatural? Then take an eerie ghost tour of the 1886 Crescent Hotel.
See the rescue efforts being conducted at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. Get outdoors and explore Beaver Lake, Onyx Cave, Blue Spring Heritage Center, and Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge.
Eureka Springs is also home to some beautiful churches including Thorncrown Chapel and St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church. Make sure to also visit the seven-story Christ of the Ozarks.
38. Fort Smith
2 hours / 120 miles
Start your visit to Fort Smith off at the Fort Smith National Historic Site and National Cemetery, where you can learn about the historical significance the fort played during the 1800s.
Afterward, check out some of the city’s many attractions. Dive into the risque at Miss Laura’s Visitor Center, a former bordello.
There is an abundance of museums and galleries to explore including the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, US Marshals Museum, Clayton House, Fort Smith Museum of History, Fort Smith Trolley Museum, and Chaffee Barbershop Museum where Elvis had his infamous haircut.
Nature lovers won’t want to miss the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. Head over to Parrot Island Waterpark in the summer for a day of outdoor fun. Finally, be sure to visit The Park at West End for nostalgic rides, a splash pad, and other summer activities.
This day trip from Tulsa offers no shortage of attractions and activities for all ages!
39. Fayetteville, Arkansas
2 hours / 115 miles
Fayetteville, Arkansas is a charming city that offers plenty of options for a day trip from Tulsa.
One must-visit destination is Terra Studios, an art center and gallery known for its beautiful glassworks and sculptures. Visitors can explore the art park and even take classes to create their own glass art pieces.
Another must-see attraction is the Clinton House Museum, where visitors can learn about the early years of Bill and Hillary Clinton’s relationship while touring their first home together.
Nature lovers will also find plenty to do in Fayetteville, with the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks being a top recommendation. This garden features stunning displays of native plants and flowers.
40. Devil’s Den State Park
2.5 hours / 140 miles
Devil’s Den State Park in Arkansas provides an adventure for outdoorsmen and nature enthusiasts alike, with its 2,500 acres of sheer beauty. The park offers Lake Devil, an 8-acre lake perfect for fishing and boating, with canoes and pedal boats available for rent. During the summer months, the pool is open for enjoyment.
Check out the visitor center to see the exhibits on display. Those who want to delve deeper into the park can explore one of the many hiking trails or multi-use trails, making it easy to experience the beautiful landscape.
Final Thoughts: Day Trips from Tulsa
I hope this list of day trips from Tulsa inspires you to get out and explore all that Oklahoma and the nearby states have to offer! These destinations within a short drive of Tulsa are perfect for a day trip or add a few together to make a memorable weekend getaway. Now all that is left to do is load up the car and hit the road for some fun!
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