If you're a pet lover planning to visit Tulsa, Oklahoma, you might wonder how to make the most of your trip with your furry friend. Tulsa is a vibrant and diverse city with many attractions, activities, and experiences for you and your pet. In this blog post, we'll give you some tips and recommendations on exploring Tulsa with your pet, from its geographic location and climate to its historical background and fun facts, to its transportation options and neighborhoods, to its pet-friendly facilities and services. Let's get started!
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History
Tulsa has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century, inhabited by various Native American tribes, such as the Creek, Osage, and Cherokee. Tulsa became a boomtown in the early 20th century when oil was discovered there. It was known as the "Oil Capital of the World" for most of the century until the oil industry declined in the 1980s. Tulsa also played a significant role in developing American music, especially jazz, blues, and country. Some famous musicians born or lived in Tulsa include Leon Russell, J.J. Cale, Bob Wills, Woody Guthrie, and Garth Brooks.
Location & Climate
Tulsa is the second-largest city in Oklahoma and the 47th-largest in the United States. It is located in the northeastern state, along the Arkansas River. Tulsa has a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot and humid summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The average high temperature in July is 93°F (34°C), while the average low temperature in January is 26°F (-3°C).
Fun Facts
Tulsa is also a city with fun facts and trivia that might surprise you. For example, did you know that:
Tulsa is home to the most extensive collection of American West art and artifacts at the Gilcrease Museum.
Tulsa has one of the country's largest concentrations of Art Deco architecture, with buildings such as the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, the Philcade Building, and the Philtower.
Tulsa is the birthplace of Route 66, the iconic highway that stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Tulsa has a giant statue of a praying mantis called Mantisaurus Rex that stands outside a children's museum.
Tulsa has a replica of the Statue of Liberty that is 17 feet tall and weighs 2,500 pounds.
Transportation options
Tulsa is a car-friendly city with an extensive network of highways and roads that connect different parts of the city. However, you prefer not to drive or rent a car. In that case, other transportation options are available for you and your pet. For example:
You can take public buses operated by Tulsa Transit, which cover most city areas. You can bring your pet on board if it is in a carrier or leash.
You can use ridesharing services such as Uber or Lyft, which allow you to request a ride from your smartphone. You can bring your pet if you notify the driver and follow their rules.
You can rent a bike from This Machine, a bike-sharing program with stations throughout downtown and other neighborhoods. You can bring your pet with you in a carrier or on a leash.
You can walk around downtown and other pedestrian-friendly areas such as Brookside, Cherry Street, Utica Square, and Brady Arts District. You can enjoy the scenery and architecture while walking with your pet on a leash.
Neighborhoods
Downtown
This is the city's heart, where you can enjoy the urban vibe and admire the Art Deco architecture. You can also visit the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, the Philbrook Downtown Museum, or the BOK Center for some live music. If you want to break the hustle and bustle, stroll along the Arkansas River Trail with your dog or relax at the Guthrie Green Park.
Suppose you're looking for fun and adventure. In that case, you can take your pet to the Tulsa Zoo to see more than 400 animal species and learn about conservation efforts. You can also take your pet to the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium, where you can see historic aircraft and experience a simulated flight. Or, if you're feeling lucky, you can try your hand at one of the casinos in the area.
Cherry Street
This historic district features charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can browse for antiques, books, or art or sample some of the local cuisine. Your pet will love the friendly atmosphere and the many outdoor seating options. You can also check out the Cherry Street Farmers' Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and homemade treats.
Suppose you're looking for some culture and history. In that case, you can take your pet to the Philbrook Museum of Art, where you can admire a stunning art collection worldwide and explore the beautiful gardens. You can also take your pet to the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum, where you can learn about Tulsa's past and see exhibits on topics such as oil, music, and sports. Or, if you're looking for some nature and recreation, you can take your pet to Woodward Park, where you can enjoy the rose garden, the arboretum, and the Linnaeus Teaching Garden.
Brookside
This is a trendy and upscale neighborhood that offers a variety of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. You can find everything from fashion boutiques to gourmet restaurants to cozy pubs. Your pet will appreciate the wide sidewalks and the lush landscaping. You can also visit Gathering Place, a vast park with trails, playgrounds, gardens, and a dog park.
If you're looking for relaxation and pampering, you can take your pet to one of the many spas or salons in the area. You can also take your pet to one of the yoga studios or fitness centers for some exercise and wellness. Or, if you're looking for some entertainment and nightlife, you can take your pet to one of the bars or clubs in the area, where you can dance, sing karaoke, or play trivia.
Brady Arts District
This is a creative and cultural hub that showcases Tulsa's artistic side. You can explore galleries, studios, and museums or catch a show at the Cain's Ballroom or the Brady Theater. Your pet will enjoy the colorful murals and sculptures that adorn the streets. You can also join the First Friday Art Crawl, a monthly event that features live music, food trucks, and free admission to some venues.
Suppose you're looking for some education and inspiration. In that case, you can take your pet to the Woody Guthrie Center, where you can learn about the life and legacy of the legendary folk singer. You can also take your pet to the Tulsa Glassblowing School, where you can watch artists create glass art or try it yourself. Or, if you're looking for some sports and action, you can take your pet to ONEOK Field, where you can watch the Tulsa Drillers baseball team or the FC Tulsa soccer team.
Things to Do
Attractions
Tulsa has many attractions that are pet-friendly and fun for the whole family. Some of the most popular ones include:
The Gathering Place
This vast park features playgrounds, trails, gardens, boathouses, and more. You can enjoy the scenic views of the Arkansas River, play with your pet in the designated dog areas, or join one of the many events and programs throughout the year.
Tulsa Zoo
You can visit the Tulsa Zoo with your pet if you want to see some exotic animals and learn about conservation. The zoo allows leashed dogs in most areas, except for indoor exhibits and some animal habitats. You can also rent your pet a stroller or wagon if they tire of walking.
Philbrook Museum of Art
This beautiful museum showcases art from various periods and cultures, as well as a stunning garden spanning 25 acres. You can explore the museum with your pet on a leash or let them roam free in the park. The museum also hosts special events for pets and their owners, such as Paws & Pictures, where you can watch a movie on the lawn with your pet.
Landmarks
Tulsa has some iconic landmarks worth seeing and snapping photos with your pet. Some of them are:
The Golden Driller
This is a giant statue of an oil worker that stands 76 feet tall and weighs 43,500 pounds. It is a symbol of Tulsa's oil industry and history and one of the most giant freestanding statues in the world. You can find it at the Tulsa Expo Center, where it welcomes visitors to various events and shows.
The Blue Whale
This is a whimsical attraction that features a blue whale-shaped structure that you can enter and climb on. It was initially built as an anniversary gift by a local man for his wife, who loved whales. It is now a popular roadside attraction that attracts tourists and locals alike. You can also picnic, fish, or swim in the pond beside the whale.
The Center of the Universe
This is a mysterious spot in downtown Tulsa where you can experience a strange acoustic phenomenon. If you stand in the middle of a concrete circle and make a sound, you will hear it echo back louder than it was. However, no one else outside the process will listen to it. You can try it out with your pet and see how they react to the sound.
Museums and Cultural Institutions
Tulsa has a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene to explore with your pet. Some of the museums and cultural institutions that are pet-friendly include:
Gilcrease Museum
This is a museum that showcases American art and history, with a focus on the West. It has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, artifacts, documents, and more. Enjoy the beautiful grounds with themed gardens, trails, and wildlife. You can bring your pet on a leash to the museum and the settings, but not to the restaurant or cafe.
Woody Guthrie Center
This museum celebrates the life and legacy of Woody Guthrie, one of American history's most influential folk musicians and social activists. It features exhibits, artifacts, archives, and interactive displays that tell his story and impact on music and society. You can bring your pet on a leash to the museum but not to the theater or the gift shop.
Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium
This museum showcases Tulsa's aviation history and achievements and the wonders of space exploration. It features aircraft, simulators, exhibits, and a planetarium that offers immersive shows. You can bring your pet on a leash to the museum and the planetarium but not to the flight deck or the simulator.
Outdoor Activities
Tulsa has plenty of outdoor activities you can enjoy with your pet, whether looking for adventure or relaxation. Some of them are:
River Parks
This network of parks lines both sides of the Arkansas River, offering trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, sculptures, fountains, and more. You can walk, bike, skate, or jog along the river with your pet on a leash or rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the boathouses. You can also catch live music or festivals at some parks yearly.
Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area
This natural area offers hiking trails, biking trails, horseback riding trails, and camping sites. You can explore the rugged terrain and the wildlife with your pet on a leash or off-leash in some areas. You can also enjoy the city and river views from the lookout points.
Mohawk Park
This large park features a golf course, a disc golf course, a fishing lake, a nature center, and more. You can play, picnic, fish, or learn about nature with your pet on a leash or off-leash in the designated dog park. The dog park has separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, water stations, and benches.
Events and Festivals
Tulsa has many events and festivals celebrating its culture, diversity, and community. Some of them are pet-friendly and fun for the whole family. Some of them are:
Tulsa Oktoberfest
This festival celebrates German culture and cuisine with beer, food, music, dancing, games, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to the festival grounds but not to the tents or the carnival rides. You can also enter your pet in the Dachshund Dash race or the Pet Costume Contest.
Tulsa State Fair
This fair features rides, games, shows, exhibits, competitions, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to the fairgrounds, not the buildings or the midway. You can also watch or participate in some of the animal events, such as the Dog Agility Show or the Pet Parade.
Mayfest
This arts festival showcases local and regional artists, musicians, performers, and vendors. You can bring your pet on a leash to the festival area but not to the stages or the food courts. You can also enjoy pet-friendly activities like the Paws on Parade or the Pet Portrait Booth.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Tulsa has a lively entertainment and nightlife scene that offers something for everyone. Some of the areas in the city that are known for it are:
Brady Arts District
This historic area has been transformed into a hub for arts and entertainment. It features galleries, studios, theaters, museums, restaurants, bars, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to some of the venues and events in the district, such as the First Friday Art Crawl or the Guthrie Green concerts.
Blue Dome District
This area gets its name from a blue dome-shaped building that used to be a gas station. It features restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, hotels, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to some of the venues and events in the district, such as the Barktoberfest or the St. Patrick's Day Party.
Brookside District
This area offers upscale and casual dining, shopping, nightlife, and services. It features restaurants, bars, cafes, boutiques, salons, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to some of the venues and events in the district, such as the Taste of Brookside or the Brookside Farmers Market.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Tulsa has a diverse and delicious dining and culinary scene that reflects its history, culture, and innovation. Some of the areas in the city that are known for it are:
Cherry Street
This is an area that offers a variety of cuisines, from American to Asian to Mediterranean to Mexican. It features restaurants, cafes, bakeries, delis, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to some of the venues and events in the area, such as the Cherry Street Farmers Market or the Art on the Square.
Utica Square
This area offers fine dining, casual dining, and shopping. It features restaurants, cafes, bistros, shops and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to some of the venues and events in the area, such as the Summer's Fifth Night concerts or the Lights On occasion.
East Village
This area offers modern and eclectic dining, drinking, and entertainment. It features restaurants, bars, breweries, coffee shops, and more. You can bring your pet on a leash to some of the venues and events in the area, such as the East Village Block Party or the East Village Boos & Brews.
This link will take you to a website listing the best dog parks in Tulsa, their locations, features, and reviews. You'll find various options, from fenced-in areas to open fields, agility courses, and water fountains. This information will be helpful when you want to give your dog some exercise and socialization.
This link will take you to a website listing the best pet stores in Tulsa and their addresses, hours, and ratings. You'll find various products, from food to toys, grooming to health care.
This information will be helpful when you need to buy something for your pet or treat them to something special.
This link will take you to a website listing Tulsa's best pet clinics, phone numbers, services, and reviews. You'll find various options, from general care to emergency care, vaccinations to surgeries. This information will be helpful when you want to keep your pet healthy and safe.
Travel Tips
Tulsa is a beautiful destination for pet owners. Still, there are some things you should consider before and during your trip. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit and avoid any problems.
Seasonal Considerations
Tulsa has four distinct seasons, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Spring
This is a beautiful time to visit Tulsa, as the flowers bloom and the weather is mild. However, this is also the peak of the tornado season, so you should be prepared for severe storms and follow the local warnings and instructions. You should also be aware of the pollen levels, which can affect you and your pet if you have allergies.
Summer
This is a hot and humid time to visit Tulsa, as the temperatures can reach over 100°F, and the humidity can make it feel even more hot. You should avoid leaving your pet in a car or outside for too long, as they can suffer from heatstroke or dehydration. You should also provide plenty of water and shade for your pet and avoid walking them on hot pavement, as it can burn their paws.
Fall
This is a pleasant time to visit Tulsa, as the leaves change color and the weather is cool. However, this is also the peak of the football season, so you should expect large crowds and traffic around the stadiums and downtown. You should also be careful of ticks and fleas, which can be active during this time and transmit diseases to you and your pet.
Winter
This is a cold and snowy time to visit Tulsa, as the temperatures can drop below freezing, and the snow can accumulate. You should dress warmly and provide extra layers for your pet, especially if they have short fur or are sensitive to the cold. You should also watch out for ice and salt on the roads and sidewalks, as they can be slippery and harmful to your pet's paws.
Sustainable Travel and Eco-Friendly Options
Tulsa is a city that cares about the environment and offers many ways for visitors to travel sustainably and eco-friendly. Here are some options you can consider:
Public Transportation
Tulsa has a public transportation system includes buses, trolleys, and bike share programs. You can use these services to get around the city without using a car or emitting greenhouse gases. However, you should check the rules and regulations for each service, as some may not allow pets or may require them to be in carriers or leashed.
Green Hotels
Tulsa has many hotels certified as green or eco-friendly by various organizations. These hotels use recycling, water conservation, energy efficiency, and organic products to reduce their environmental impact. You can choose these hotels to support their efforts and enjoy their amenities. However, you should check their pet policies, as some may not accept pets or may charge extra fees or deposits for them.
Local Businesses
Tulsa has many local businesses that offer products and services that are organic, fair trade, vegan, or otherwise environmentally friendly. You can choose these businesses to support the local economy and community and reduce your carbon footprint. However, you should check their reviews and ratings, as some may not meet your expectations or standards.
Ready to have a pleasant time with your pet?
Now, it's time to take action. Show your pet how much you care by investing time and effort into their grooming routine. And if you're looking for the utmost convenience, book an appointment with Pawgo. Your pet will thank you with wagging tails and endless affection.