Itching to get out of town, Kansas Citians? Skip those pesky airport security lines and jump in your car for a road trip to Tulsa, OK instead. From exploring the lush gardens at its world-class art museum to the table steak at Bull in the Alley — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in T-Town.
📍 Essential info
Drive time: ~4 hours
Year city was established: 1898
Est. population: 413,066
Wander the 1920s Italian-style villa + its 23 acres for just $18.
Photo by Mick Haupt
🎟️ Experience
Originally the home of wealthy oilman Waite Phillips and his wife Genevieve, the modern-day museum contains ~16,000 objects and 25 acres of gardens. Want more to do outside? Try Gathering Place.
The 1920s garage-turned-music venue is a must-visit for music lovers making their way to T-Town any time of the year. As the resident home of Western Swing King Bob Wills, we recommend adding “Take Me Back to Tulsa” to the roadtrip playlist.
If you’re looking for a little Americana, you’ve found a major stop on the Mother Road. Explore the 5+ districts that share its history in this pre-planned itinerary.
🍔 Eat
We couldn’t not include it. While it’s not the same as its former name twin, the current Joe’s Kansas City, you can try the region’s most unique barbecue delicacy: smoked bologna.
Try its famous “wet burrito” — a plate-sized concoction full of enchilada sauce, shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole — at this locally beloved dive.
Want something a little fancier? You’ll need to place a reservation before you hit the road, but we hear this speakeasy-steakhouse’s impeccably designed digs and killer drink menu make this a top spot.
He’s Tulsa’s own “Muffler Man.”
Photo by Mick Haupt
🏨 Stay
The iconic Deco District building has been wowing guests with its mix of “modern comfort and historic luxury” since 1925.
Each of its 26 rooms are inspired by pieces of Oklahoma’s history, from the Wiemann Room (featuring original metalwork from the local company) to its 1960s mid-century modern Lunar Eclipse Room.
Walk one block from this Airbnb to reach Route 66 where you can bask in the glow of its iconic neon and snap a pic with the 21-ft-tall Buck Atom, right in the heart of the Pearl District.
Wait a minute, Kansas Citians. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from QuikTrip. Also, bookmark this map so you have no trouble finding all of our recommendations while visiting Tulsa.
🚗 Cruise
No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.
- With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
- You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
- Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
- Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
- Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
- Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.
