Best photo spots in Tulsa

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 12/8/2024

Stepping foot into Tulsa, Oklahoma, you're diving into a world splashed with vibrant colors, stunning architecture, and scenic beauty just begging to be immortalized in a frame. Well-known as the “Oil Capital of the World”, from towering golden statues to majestic Art Deco buildings to tranquil botanical gardens, Tulsa is a photographer's paradise. This post uncovers the ultimate gems hidden in this city's landscape, showcasing not just popular spots, but also less-known corners that offer unique perspectives for your lens. Grab your camera, let your creativity run wild, and watch as the captivating charm of Tulsa fills your viewfinder, frame by frame.

  • Golden Driller statue
    The iconic Golden Driller statue stands tall against a sunset sky in Tulsa, symbolizing the city's rich oil history.
    The Golden Driller

    Meet Tulsa's very own superhero, The Golden Driller - a titan standing tall in the heartland of America! This gleaming 75-foot giant is more than just a monument, it's a beacon of Tulsa's rich oil industry history. Garbed in a hard hat and boots, with one hand firmly planted on a real oil derrick, he looms jovially at the state's fairs, his burnished gold skin gleaming under the Oklahoma sun. Our Golden Driller not only pays tribute to the city's petroleum heritage but also symbolizes the city's resilience and invincible spirit. So, next time you're in Tulsa, make a pit stop at The Golden Driller for a glimpse of this iconic sentinel, who's every bit as unforgettable as Tulsa's vibrant culture and history.

  • Colorful Botanic Garden
    A vibrant display of tulips lines the symmetrical walkways of Tulsa Botanic Garden, accentuated by elegant water features and staircases.
    Tulsa Botanic Garden

    Welcome to the verdant paradise known as the Tulsa Botanic Garden, an absolute gem tucked away in the heart of Tulsa, Oklahoma. This lush oasis serves up an enticing alchemy of meticulously manicured gardens, undulating landscapes, and vibrant blooms that dance with colors as the seasons change. It's a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, green thumbs-in-training, and anyone who appreciates the quiet delights of a leisurely stroll through captivating foliage. As your self-appointed tour guide, I can't wait to introduce you to the hidden stories whispering among the flowers and leaves of this charming urban retreat. So lace up your walking shoes and join me on this picturesque journey through the Tulsa Botanic Garden.

  • Museum entrance sculpture
    The entrance to the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, United States, is adorned with a dynamic bronze sculpture set amidst landscaped grounds.
    Gilcrease Museum

    Welcome to the Gilcrease Museum, a delightful treasure trove nestled in the heart of Tulsa, United States. This wonderful museum houses the world's most comprehensive collection of art and artifacts of the American West. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by astonishing exhibits that narrate the vibrant and diverse history of the Americas. From ancient Native American crafts to captivating works by famed artists like Thomas Moran and Albert Bierstadt, every corner of the Gilcrease Museum is filled with wondrous surprises. Get ready to journey back in time and imbibe the rich cultural history of the American West in a fascinating and enjoyable way.

  • Mural of Woody Guthrie
    A vibrant mural honoring folk legend Woody Guthrie adorns the side of a building near the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa.
    Woody Guthrie Center

    Welcome to the Woody Guthrie Center, a bright beacon of Tulsa, where inspiration and creativity come to dance joyously together. This precious gem is an interactive museum honouring the life and legacy of Woody Guthrie, a beloved folk musician and singer-songwriter. From his heartfelt lyrics to soul-stirring melodies, every aspect of Guthrie's riveting journey is laid out here for you to explore. So, fasten your seatbelt and step into a world where music meets history, and where stories come alive in the most melodious ways.

  • Park aerial view
    An aerial view of The Gathering Place in Tulsa highlights the sprawling playgrounds, luscious greenery, and meandering pathways.
    The Gathering Place

    Welcome to the whimsical marvel that is The Gathering Place, nestled in the heart of Tulsa, USA. It's far more than a park—it's an enchanting wonderland enthusiastically embracing the power of shared public spaces. Littered with quirky features such as magic-laced playgrounds, leafy trails for serene strolls, and state-of-the-art sports spaces, it's like stepping into another world. So, grab your sense of adventure— we're off to uncover the lovingly woven secrets of this local gem!

  • Philbrook Museum exterior
    The vibrant gardens and grand architecture of the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, showcasing the natural beauty that envelops this cultural landmark.
    Philbrook Museum of Art

    The Philbrook Museum of Art is full of delightful surprises! Nestled in the heart of Tulsa, this beloved cultural jewel is more than just an art museum – it’s a celebration of creativity, history, and nature. Set within a beautiful Italian Renaissance villa, formerly owned by an oil tycoon, the Philbrook showcases nine diverse collections featuring works from around the globe. It's not just a feast for the eyes; the museum is surrounded by lush, enchanting gardens that are just begging to be wandered. A visit to Philbrook is truly a magical fusion of art and nature, making it an essential stop on any Tulsa itinerary!

  • Church interior
    The grand interior of the Boston Avenue Methodist Church in Tulsa, showcasing its intricate stained glass windows and elegant light fixtures.
    Boston Avenue Methodist Church

    Nestled in the heart of Tulsa, Oklahoma, we find the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, a true architectural marvel. Known for its remarkable Art Deco design and staggering tower that stands tall at the city's skyline, this extraordinary edifice is more than just a place of worship. Enveloped in rich history, the church resonates with stories of faith, community vitality, and a celebration of art and culture. It's a must-see gem that carries a piece of Tulsa's heart and soul within its beautifully sculpted walls.

  • Art Deco District

    Ah, let's step into the exciting world of the Art Deco District in Tulsa, folks. It's like stepping into a time machine, back to the Roaring Twenties! Known for its stunning architectural style that emerged in the Jazz Age, our beloved Art Deco District is nothing short of a visual treat. The ornate buildings, with their vibrant colors and intricate designs, relive the glamour and dynamic energy of decades past. Some of downtown Tulsa's most iconic structures—the Philcade and Philtower buildings, anyone?—stand tall and proud as shining examples of Art Deco design. This slice of historical paradise isn't just a district; it's Tulsa's heart beating to the rhythm of yesteryears. So, buckle up to explore and immerse yourself in the architectural marvels of the Art Deco District. It's not just a tour, it's a journey through time!

  • Aquarium viewing dome
    Children observe marine life through a unique viewing dome at the Oklahoma Aquarium, immersed in an underwater experience.
    Oklahoma Aquarium

    Say hello to the Oklahoma Aquarium, a magical underwater world nestled in the heart of Tulsa, United States. This aquatic haven is home to thousands of marine and freshwater species, providing an intimate peek into the deep blue. From the mesmerizing jellyfish that dance like dreams to the exotic sharks prowling their mammoth 500,000-gallon tank, each exhibit is a riveting glimpse into aquatic life's intrigue and beauty. Get ready to embark on an aquatic journey that promises delightful discoveries and fin-tastic fun!

  • Tiger at Tulsa Zoo
    A majestic tiger strides confidently through its enclosure at the Tulsa Zoo, surrounded by a backdrop of stone ruins.
    Tulsa Zoo

    Welcome to the Tulsa Zoo, a little piece of wildlife wonder nestled in the heart of Tulsa, United States of America. A sensory smorgasbord awaits as you wander through the exotic realms of Africa, Asia, and the Ocean, discovering the inhabitants in near-natural habitats! From joy-struck chimpanzee youngsters playing to the rhythm of Africa, to the world's largest seadwellers making a splash in the Ocean's exhibit. The Tulsa Zoo stands as a vibrant testament to the planet's biodiversity, and a source of non-stop delight for the wild at heart. So, grab your explorer hats, your curiosity, and step into the wild!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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