Favorite Eats and Treats:
Fast Food
Tulsa families are eating more chicken and opt for Chick-Fil-A as their number one place to grab food on the go. It’s a healthy alternative with fast, nutritious choices that taste great and cost less! McDonald’s trails closely behind as first runner-up followed by the quick-service Mexican fast-food joint, Taco Bueno.
Others mentioned were Sonic, Arby’s, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, Burger Street, Subway and Pei Wei.
Kid’s Menu
McDonald’s pops up again, this time as the favorite for kid’s menu, serving up their world-renowned Happy Meals, yet also offering tasty, nutritious menu options that are still quick and easy for Mom and Dad. There are several more great options for taking your kids out such as Chimi’s, TGI Fridays, The Brook Restaurant and Bar (unique to Tulsa), and Wendy’s, our first runner-ups. Red Robin and Sonic come in together as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Chili’s, Incredible Pizza, Mimi’s, Olive Garden, Panera, and Texas Roadhouse.
Family Restaurant
Cheddar’s tops them all as favorite family restaurant in the Tulsa area – maybe because there’s something for everyone. Their eclectic menu offers 10 tantalizing appetizer choices, a variety of chicken dishes, salads, steaks, sandwiches and soups. The Brook and Red Robin appear again to be at the top of list for families, as well as Applebee’s for a three-way tie for first runner-up as favorite family restaurants. Steak expert and western-themed Texas Roadhouse comes in as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Chimi’s Incredible Pizza, Zio’s, Abuelo’s, Mimi’s, Charleston’s, Delta Café, McAlister’s, Pei Wei and Ted’s Escondido.
Ice Cream/Frozen Treats
I scream, you scream, we all scream for…Braums! An old family favorite for its famous banana splits, smoothies, cones and shakes to die for. What better way for your kids to enjoy a cold, sweet treat this summer? Tulsa families also chose Oklahoma’s very own Freckles Frozen Custard as first runner-up, known for their “Drillers,” and Cold Stone Creamery, second runner-up, as great places to beat the heat and give in to that sweet tooth!
Other favorites included were Marble Slab, Maggie Moo’s, Baskin Robbins, Freddie’s, and Sonic.
Non-chain Restaurant
The next time you and your family are up for great home-style Italian food, make a trip to Mary’s Italian Trattoria, a cozy, quaint restaurant on Cherry Street. The family atmosphere is quiet and subdued, with wonderfully prepared Italian pastas, salads and other tasty dishes – you’ll feel like you’re in Italy! If you’re not in the mood for spaghetti, you could head to The Brook Restaurant and Bar on Brookside, appearing again as a family favorite and the first runner-up in yet another category. Or, you can indulge in some homemade flour tortillas or hand-rolled enchiladas at Compadres Mexican Grill in Broken Arrow, our second runner-up.
Others were Brownies, Green Onion, Savastano’s, Shawkat’s, Shiloh, St. Michael’s Alley, Thai-Siam, The Sport’s Page, and Wild Fork.
Pizza
Tulsa area parents once again stay true to their roots as they mark Hideaway at the top of their list for best pizza. With eight Oklahoma locations, Hideaway offers original topping combinations and a relaxed, fun environment for the entire family. Mazzio’s Italian Eatery comes in as first runner-up, and CiCi’s Pizza (what’s better than all you can eat?) as second runner-up.
Others mentioned included Papa John’s, Pie Hole, Savastano’s, Mario’s, Umberto’s, Incredible Pizza and Pizza Hut.
Burger (non-chain)
For the best burger in town, head to Ron’s Hamburgers and Chili. Families love “Ron’s Special,” a 1/3-pounder loaded with ham, bacon, and onions with a side of beer-battered onion rings — dine in, or take it to go. First runner-up is Goldie’s Patio Grill, and Brownie’s Hamburger Stand, chosen as second runner-up for its great burgers and frosty mugs of root beer, has been at the same site near 21st & Harvard for over 40 years.
Others mentioned were Johnny’s, The Brook, Weber’s and Atlas Grill.
Make Your Own Dinners
Yes, you do have time to make home-cooked meals – just don’t make them at home. A unique new concept allows busy families to make several meals in advance and take them home to serve throughout the hectic week. All ingredients and instructions are on-site. Make it a party and assemble meals with friends. The Dinner Market and Pass Your Plate tied for favorite places to make dinner. “Home” came in a distant third.
Bakery/donuts /cakes
Tulsa’s own Merritt’s Bakery takes the cake as the family favorite for bakery, serving a wide selection of cookies, donuts, specialty cakes and other yummy desserts for any occasion. Krispy Kreme, the first runner-up, bakes warm and delicious donuts daily, sure to satisfy any donut lover’s craving, with Daylight Donuts, a Tulsa tradition, not far behind chosen as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Mallory’s Mudpies, Ann’s Bakery, OK Country Donut and Great American Cookies.
Favorite Shopping:
Kids’ Books
Keep your kids reading this summer and stay cool by hitting Border’s Bookstore, a family favorite, to grab the newest releases, bestsellers and more. It has an extensive collection of books for young readers, and Mom and Dad can indulge in the café. Both Barnes & Noble, first runner-up, and Childcare Resource Bookstore, as second runner-up, are tops in literary stops according to Tulsa area parents.
Other favorites mentioned were Gardner’s Used Books, Cat & the Fiddle, Mardel’s, Scholastic Books, and Usborne Books.
Toys
It’s toy heaven! Toys R Us will always be an all-time winner among parents, but mostly children, as readers vote it the number one place to shop for gifts and goodies. The aisles are endless and are sure to put a smile on every child’s face. Voters deem locally owned Kiddlesticks as first runner-up for terrific toys. Wal-Mart came in as second runner-up, a place where parents can also one-stop shop for items at low prices.
Other favorites were Target, Cat & the Fiddle, Discovery Toys, and the Disney Store.
Home Furniture
If the recliner looks shabby and the in-laws are coming for Christmas, TulsaKids’ readers choose Mathis Brothers as the place to get new furniture. Evans/Rooms Today was first runner-up, with Sunshine Furniture coming in close behind as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Ethan Allen, Norwalk, Four Day Furniture, IQ Furniture, Pottery Barn, and Snow’s Furniture.
Baby/Children’s Furniture
For a unique collection of children’s furnishings, head straight to Pottery Barn Kids for the same comfortable, durable and classy pieces they’ve always been known for. Parents love the look and style of the accessories and furniture made just for their little ones. They also like Babies R Us, voted as first runner-up, and Mathis Brothers Furniture, as second runner-up, where the best, high quality brands and lowest prices are found.
Others mentioned include Target, More Than Dreams, Baby Emporium, Baby Exchange and Crib City.
Clothes for Babies
Babies never stop growing! Parents chose Babies R Us (again!) as the very best place to find a wide selection of clothing at affordable prices for both boys and girls. Moms also love Baby Gap, first runner-up, and the second runner-up, Old Navy, for outfitting the fashion-conscious infant.
Other favorites were Gymboree, Kathleen’s Kids, Children’s Place, Dillard’s, Kohl’s, Mudpies, and Wal-Mart.
Clothes for Preschoolers
Every time you look, your children have grown another three inches and their shoes are two sizes too small. That’s no problem because parents have chosen Gap and Old Navy as their favorite venues that make shopping for kids easy and affordable. Target is their first runner-up, followed by Children’s Place as second runner-up, both of which offer the cutest looks and comfortable outfits for growing toddlers.
Others mentioned were Gymboree, J.C. Penny’s, Kathleen’s Kids, Kohl’s, Mudpies, Dillard’s and Macy’s.
Clothes for School Age
Gap and Old Navy top the list once again for those active, trendy school-aged children with random growth spurts. Parents also like to dress their kids at Target, first runner-up, and Kohl’s as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Limited Two, Dillard’s, J.C. Penny’s, Abercrombie & Fitch, Aero Postal, Children’s Place and Wal-Mart.
Clothes for Teens
Teens are out to make fashion statements and love to follow the trends of their friends. Yet, apparently, their tastes don’t change much from the younger years. Gap and Old Navy, yet again top the charts as the best store for fashionable teens, tying with Kohl’s, with its huge juniors department. Better yet — the clothes are affordable and tasteful. Aeropostal and American Eagle are also popular with the teens, as our first and second runners-up.
Other favorites include American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, Target and Dillard’s.
Kids’ Shoes
If you’ve been in Tulsa very long, you know Trippett’s. This long-time Tulsa establishment has been providing kids with the best fit and highest quality shoes for many years. Coming in as first runner-up, Feet First for Kids at 81st & Harvard also prides itself on providing a perfect fit with personal attention. Payless was second runner-up with its affordable shoes and convenient locations.
Others deserving to be mentioned include Stride Rite, Shoe Carnival, Famous Footware, Journeys, Kathleen’s Kids, Target and Wal-Mart.
Consignment Shop
The Echo Shop and Plato’s Closet tied as favorites of families shopping for the trendiest in resale items. Children’s Orchard, with locations in Tulsa and Owasso, and its endless selection of clothing, toys, strollers and other gear, came in a very close first runner-up. Children’s Closet rounded out the top tier as second runner-up for cost-conscious consumers.
Others mentioned include Bearlee New, Clothesline, Déjà Vu, Just Between Friends and Uptown Resale.
Maternity
Expectant moms chose Motherhood and Pea in the Pod in a tie as their top favorites for looking fabulous in maternity wear. Target, both fashion-forward and affordable, pulls up as first runner-up and All Things Maternity in Broken Arrow was voted as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Burlington Coat Factory, Expecting Again, Gap and Just Between Friends.
Arts & Crafts Supplies
Hobby Lobby is the winner of the arts & crafts category in the Tulsa area. It is the ideal place for creative minds to explore the vast amount of hobby materials, craft supplies and home project necessities and decorations. Michael’s was first runner-up for crafters and artists, and Mardel’s came in second runner-up in this category.
Other favorites were Ziegler’s, The Learning Shop and Triangle.
Sports Equipment
When TulsaKids’ families are ready to run, jump, catch, throw and play, they go to Academy Sports, a store that can outfit everyone in the family with sports equipment and clothing. Sliding into home as first runner-up is Sports Authority. And TulsaKids’ readers must be golfers, because they chose Golf Galaxy as second runner-up.
Others include Kmart, Soccer Zone, Sun & Ski, The Learning Shop, Trophy Tack and Push, Pedal, Pull.
Moms’ Boutique
Even moms want to stay stylish, and it was obvious from our four-way tie for the winning boutique that TulsaKids’ readers love to shop at unique boutiques! Readers chose Chico’s, Donna’s, Kay’s in Broken Arrow, and The Pavilion as their favorite places to find flattering fashions for the on-the-go, modern woman.
Others mentioned were Bella Dame, Berkshire and Bliss.
Gifts & Cards
Hallmark, with its large selection and plethora of locations, won as a favorite gift & card shop. Paper Chase, a local specialty store with a personal touch, and mega-market Target tied for first runner-up honors, while On the Corner at 31st & Harvard, the Perfect Touch and Wal-Mart came in as tied for second runner-up.
Others mentioned include Barnes & Noble, Mardel’s, Snow Goose, J. Spencer, and You’re Invited.
Favorite Places to Learn:
Child Care
For fun, safe, hourly child care, parents chose the Tot Spot as their favorite place to leave the kids. A four-way tie popped up in the first runner-up category. They are: Crosstown Learning, First United Methodist, Koala Care and Polliwogs.
With no clear second runner-up, we’ll list a few worth mentioning: Chapman Learning Center, Destiny Church, First Lutheran, Happy Campers, John Knox CDC, Marquette ECDC, Patti Johnson Wilson YWCA, Playtime Plus.
Preschool
Miss Helen’s, a long-time Tulsa favorite, which is not only a preschool, but an elementary school, was named top pick. Kirk of the Hills’ preschool program was first runner-up and Monte Cassino and Riverfield tied for second runner-up.
Close behind the top three were Betty Rowland, Marquette ECDC, Bethany, Channing, First United Methodist, and Tulsa Public Schools.
Athletics
Velocity Sports came in first as the favorite place for kids who are serious about learning, and improving, their athletic ability in a variety of sports. Jenks Gymnastics was voted first runner-up, and TulsaKids’ readers once again gave the YMCA top standing as second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Champions, Kang’s Taekwondo, LaFortune, Metro Tulsa Soccer Club, Soccer City, SSB and Tulsa World of Gymnastics.
Drama/Theatre
Midtown School of Performing Arts, at 31st & Harvard, has appeared in more than one category. This time, the school with multiple choices in programming, whether it’s performing or learning to play an instrument, tops the list as Favorite Place to Learn Drama/Theatre. In a VERY tight race, Theatre Arts was one vote short and came in as first runner up. Second runner-up was American Theatre Co.
Also mentioned were Brook Fine Arts, Clark Theatre, So. Tulsa Dance Co., Spotlight Theatre.
Dance
Parents have plenty to choose from in this competitive category, but two schools rose to the top in a tie for first place: Miss Shelly’s and That’s Dancing. First runner-up as the place to learn dance is South Tulsa Dance, with Brook Fine Arts as second-runner up.
Others places our readers like are Cherry Street Dance, Nancy Clark, Miss Micki’s, Miss Kristy’s in B.A., Theatre Arts, and Pied Piper.
Academic Tutoring
When kids need some extra help with math and reading, parents turn to Kumon as their favorite pick. Sylvan was first runner-up for tutoring, and Learning Rx and Reading for Kids tied for second runner-up.
Kids’ Cooking Classes
If your kids learn to cook, they can make dinner for you. The favorite place to learn how is Savory Chef on South Memorial, a favorite store for cooks and future cooks. Wild Oats and Whiteside Community Center tied for first runner-up in this category.
Gymnastics
An all-time favorite sport, gymnastics schools are popular with Tulsa parents. The Tulsa World of Gymnastics, which has trained tots to professional gymnasts in its many years in Tulsa, was voted number one. SSB came in as first runner-up, and The Little Gym, specifically for very young children, came in as second runner-up.
Others who were right behind in votes were Jenks Gymnastics, Krafft Academy, Tulsa Parks and Tumblebus.
Art Studio/Classes
The Tulsa Parks’ many-faceted Waterworks studio was the winner in this category. With on-going classes from pottery, to watercolor, to jewelry-making to painting, for all ages, Waterworks has it all. Brook Fine Arts, a Family Favorite in several categories, comes up again as a first runner-up. The Purple Glaze, a fun ceramic painting studio, is second runner-up.
Others mentioned were Art & Play Center, Philbrook, Young Rembrandts, 3rd Street Clayworks, Gilcrease.
Music
Brook Fine Arts, with its variety of classes from art to music to performance, comes in once again as a Family Favorite winner for music classes. Midtown School of Performing Arts is first runner-up, and Saied’s, a music store that has served Tulsa musicians for many years, is second runner-up.
Very close behind the top three was Janell Whitby, long-time piano instructor, Barthelmes Conservatory, and Kindermusik.
Swimming
Miller Swim School, which has taught many Tulsa families to swim over the years, was a hands-down winner as the favorite place to learn to swim. YMCA, a player in several categories, comes in again as a first runner-up, and Big Splash is second runner-up, which has Red Cross Swimming lessons before opening for the day.
Others mentioned were YWCA, Jane Whitt and Swim America.
Horseback Riding
Saddle up and ride! What kid doesn’t want to learn to ride a horse? Tulsa has lots of choices, with KJM Stables topping the list. First runner-up is Brashears, and a four-way tie for second runner-up featured Aberdeen Farms, flying G Ranch, River Run Farm and Therapeds.
Favorite for Mom and Dad:
Beauty Salon/Spa
Give yourself the royal treatment at Family Favorite winner Ihloff Salon & Day Spa for the ultimate pampering experience. It’s classy and hip with a talented team of stylists and massage therapists. Moms also chose Indigo, first runner-up, and Identity, second runner-up, as personal favorites to spoil themselves with a day of beauty.
Other relaxing places mentioned were B Jolie, House of Style, Woodhouse Day Spa, A Perfect Touch, and Adonia Day Spa.
Place to Meet Other Single Parents
The number one place to meet other single parents in the Tulsa area is at church. Second runner up is A Bar (former Grapevine) on Peoria, and eHarmony.com, second runner-up for the tech-savvy way to connect.
Other mentions were Wild Oats and Woodland Hills Mall.
Bank/Financial Institution
Where do parents turn for car loans, mortgages and more? Bank of Oklahoma! BOK is top dollar when it comes to family finances. Tulsa Teachers Credit Union was a close first runner-up and Arvest was right behind as second runner-up.
Other mentions were Bank of America, F&M, IBC, Mid First, and Spirit Bank.
Family Car
Camry, Sienna, Sequoia, Prius, Highlander, 4 Runner – what do they all have in common? They’re Toyotas, the top pick for TulsaKids’ readers’ favorite family car. First runner up was a tie between Honda (most mentioned were Odyssey and Pilot) and Chevrolet (especially the popular Suburban and Tahoe) and rounding out the favorites as second runner-up was Ford, especially the Explorer, Windstar and Expedition.
Others that made a good showing in our list were Nissan, Volkswagon, and Chrysler.
Health Club for Adults
YMCA, with its variety of programs from yoga to basketball, came in first as the place for Mom and Dad to work out. Aspen Athletic Clubs, with two locations in Tulsa and one in B.A., was voted as first runner-up by parents, and All American Fitness and Sky Fitness tied for second runner-up honors.
Curves, St. John’s, Grand, St. Francis Health Zone and The Platinum Center were additional favorites among readers as well.
Place for Date Night
Call your babysitter and sneak away for the night at the Riverwalk Crossing in Jenks. Catch a movie and have dinner on the patio, listen to the live entertainment at the outdoor amphitheatre, or take a peaceful stroll along the Arkansas River. Readers also enjoy watching movies in 3-D at first runner-up Cinemark Imax Theater, or having a romantic dinner for two at second runner-up Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
Parents also chose Cherokee Casino, Flavors, home alone, In the Raw, Kilkenny’s, Mahogany, Mary’s Trattoria, Palace Café, Petroleum Club, and Renaissance Hotel as their favorite spots when date night rolls around.
Favorite Family Services:
Family Health Club
YMCA was voted, not only the favorite for adults, but for the entire family as well. It’s no wonder, with its many offerings, including sports teams for all ages. The Jewish Community Center and Sky Fitness tied for first runner-up, and All American Fitness was again voted second runner-up for families who want to keep fit.
Other mentions include Curves, Grand Health Club, and Saint Francis Health Zone.
Photographer
Say cheese! When TulsaKids’ readers want to get that unique, heirloom photograph, they turn most often to Andy’s Fine Portraits or Chris Claussen Studios who tied for first place honors. Moto Photo & Portrait Studio came in as first runner-up, with a photo finish tie between Bob McCormick, Ken’s Photography and Photographic Reflections for second runner-up.
Other family faves include Montag and Picture People.
Parent Education Classes
What do I do with this kid? When parents want a parenting class, they turn to Family & Children’s Services and Jenks Parent Care Center, tying for first place. Dr. Bob Hudson of First Steps Guidance, Parents as Teachers, and Tulsa Community College tied for first runner-up. The Child Care Resource Center was second runner-up.
Parents also picked SouthCrest, St. Francis, St. John and Tulsa Health Department.
House Cleaning
The shining clear winner in the clean house category was Merry Maids.
Others mentioned with equal votes were 2 Sister’s Cleaning, Clean Freaks, Clear Results, Cottage Care, and Maid-in-a-Minute.
Dry Cleaning
More TulsaKids readers trust their clothing to Yale cleaners, favorite family dry cleaner. A close second was first runner-up Spiffy’s, and Fox Cleaners was second runner-up.
Others mentioned as favorites were Gindstaff, Image Cleaners, La Mode, Redfork Cleaners, Village Cleaners and Waterstone.
Home Services
Who’s your handyman? Our readers chose an all-purpose store, Home Depot; electricians at S&J Electric; and plumbers at Sage Plumbing in a three-way tie for Family Favorite.
A variety of other services received equal mention: Airco, Ark Plumbing, Bubba’s Carpet Cleaning, Chem Dry, Dri-Rite Carpet, Dynamic Carpet, Gary’s Handyman Service, King Plumbing, Lowe’s Omega Electric, Quick Plumbing, Sears, Service Master, Southside Plumbing, Tom’s Electric, Wick’s Plumbing and Williams Plumbing.
Interior Design
Brookside Home Interiors took top honors for readers who want a personalized style for their homes. Larry Brown Interiors garnered first runner-up honors for interior design.
Others mentioned were Eye for Design, GS Interior, Julie Wiscarver, Margaret Ferrell, Signatures, Stephanie Miller, The Market and Woman’s Touch.
Roofing
A-Best Roofing topped off the favorite roofing category. There were no clear first or second runners-up, but others listed were AA Roofing, Bell Dog, C&S Roofing in Catoosa, Pro Tech, South Tulsa Roofing, Superior Roofing and Turner Construction.
Remodeling/Builder
Favorite Builder was Hollinger & Associates, followed in a tie for first runner-up by Kerns and Williams.
Also mentioned were AAA-Derrick Tyner, Allied, Better Built Homes, Goldstar, Herb Orr, Larry Christian, Murphy Properties, Paragon Builders, Shaw Homes.
Realtor
Readers voted Peter McGraw of McGraw Davisson, Stewart as their number one pick for helping them find a new home or sell their old one. Coldwell Banker was listed as first runner-up, and another company – Accent Realtor – came in a close second runner-up.
Other realtors deserving of mention were Keller Williams, Scott Douglas Realty, The Wright Home Team, Walter & Associates, Chinowth & Cohen, Cutec, John Housely, Patterson and Willie & Shirley Burger.
Favorite Baby Stuff:
Best Place to Have a Baby
OK, “home” did get one vote in this category. Coming in first was the big pink hospital on the hill – St. Francis. St. John’s in midtown followed as first runner-up, and relative newcomer SouthCrest followed close behind as second runner-up for moms having babies.
Childbirth Classes
Once again, St. Francis turns up again as the place to take childbirth classes. In this category, SouthCrest moved into the first runner-up slot, and St. John rounded out the top three as second runner-up.
Another service mentioned that new moms picked was Natural Lullabies.
Mommy & Me Classes
What do you do with that baby once you have him or her? Take her to a class. Tulsa World of Gymnastics topped the list as the best place for kids and moms to have fun together. Midtown School of Fine Arts was first runner-up and Natural Lullabies was right behind as second runner-up.
Others worth mentioning are Miller Swim School, South Tulsa Dance Co. , The Little Gym and Kindermusik.
Pre- & Post-Partum Exercise
We did get a few moms who said, “Should have, but didn’t” in this category, but for those who do exercise, Natural Lullabies came in as the favorite choice. First runner-up was the wonderfully-outfitted St. John Health Club, and SouthCrest followed as second runner-up.
Unique Baby Gifts
Peek A Boo Baby is unique to Tulsa and the very best in the city when it comes to specialty nursery décor and baby gifts. They take pride in their trendy products that cannot be found in large chain stores. Baby Emporium-Baby Exchange and Kathleen’s Kids tied for first runner-up with gifts for every occasion and the chic boutique, Inviting Place, was voted second runner-up.
Other favorites include Jazzy Kids, Kiddlestix, Mudpies and Spiffy Spoons.
Baby Furniture
New mommies and old say “Head to More Than Dreams,” a locally owned baby-furnishing store fully equipped with one-of-a-kind furniture, bedding, accessories, gifts and fabrics. Design your own special nursery look or let owner Jill Solomon help you customize the bedding, furniture and entire room. Peek A Boo Baby and Pottery Barn Kids prove to be favorites again in a tie for first runner-up, along with second runner-up, Babies R Us.
Other mentions include Baby Emporium/Exchange, Mathis Brothers and Target.
Favorite Birthday Parties:
Entertainer
Magicians never go out of style, and local favorite Bradini tops our list as the favorite entertainer at birthday parties. And who doesn’t love a clown? Fire clown Huffy the Clown is first runner-up. Rounding out the list for favorite entertainer is Mad Science, fun and educational, as second runner-up.
Other favorite entertainers include Earl Clark, Jumpin Jolly Jupiter Jumps, Pony on the Spot, Safari Joe, Whiskers the Clown, and yes, even Mom.
Place to Buy Party Favors
It’s not a party until you’ve shopped at Party America and they’re the best in the business, according to area parents. They know what it takes to host and entertain guests with the best selection of favors, invitations, balloons decorations and more. And don’t count out Ehrle’s and Paper Warehouse while you’re planning your big blowout, our first and second runners-up.
Parents like Hobby Lobby, Parties Plus, Party City, The Paper Chase and Tuesday morning for their party needs as well.
Place for a Party: Preschool
Gather up your little balls of energy and throw a big birthday bash at The Little Gym for an hour and a half of jumping, tumbling and just plain fun. They’ll set it all up and clean up, too, for a hassle-free, exciting experience for the kids and parents. Chuck E. Cheese’s, first runner-up, and the Tulsa World of Gymnastics, second runner-up, also host some of the best parties in town—all you have to do is sit back and relax.
Others mentioned were Pump It Up, Incredible Pizza, the Zoo, Build A Bear, and South Tulsa Dance Co.
Place for a Party: 6-8 year olds
Sign up for an indoor party anytime of the year at Pump It Up, the “inflatable party zone,” but don’t forget to bring your socks! It’s private, affordable and unforgettable. Also at the top of the list are Incredible Pizza, first runner-up, and My Little Dollhouse, a very close second runner-up.
Kids also choose Tulsa World Gymnastics, Chuck E. Cheese and Celebration Station as their favorite place to party.
Place for a Party: 9-12 year olds
Incredible Pizza appears again as a birthday bash hotspot where food and fun are guaranteed. It’s mess-free and all you can eat! Kids and parents also love Laser Quest, first runner-up, live laser tag, and Miller Swim School, second runner-up, where you can find several party packages, private parties and cake themes.
Others that made our list were Pump It Up, Paintball Adventure, and once again, South Tulsa Dance Co.
Place for a Party: 13 & up
Lights, camera & action…it’s movie-time! Catch a new flick and invite everyone to come along to Cinemark Theaters. You can even purchase your tickets in advance for unreleased films, or head to the IMAX for a thrilling 3-D experience. Teens still love Incredible Pizza, first runner-up, and second runner-up New Heights Rock Climbing, a challenging but safe and original party scheme.
The older kids also like Paintball Adventure, Pump It Up, Laser Quest and the Riverwalk Crossing.
Favorite Local Attraction:
Cultural Spot/Museum
Tulsa parents support The Arts. Round up the troops and teach your children an appreciation of art and take in the creativity for yourself at the Philbrook Museum of Art. A rich array of permanent and traveling exhibits keep everyone interested. Educational programs and classes for all ages make Philbrook a favorite (And the lawn and gardens are great for a little energy release). Another family favorite coming in as first runner-up is Tulsa’s other internationally renowned art museum — Gilcrease. Make a day out of it at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum and the Tulsa Zoo, close in location and tying as our second runners-up.
Other favorites mentioned were the Aquarium, Will Rogers Museum and Woolaroc.
Hike/Bike Trail
Want to spend some quality time with your kids and the great outdoors? Grab your helmets and cycle through Rivers Parks, stretching nearly 20 miles and weaving in and out of picnic areas, playgrounds, sculptures and fountains. You can make your way over to the rugged paths at Turkey Mountain from there, our first runner-up in family favorites. Catch some of the best views of downtown Tulsa at Chandler Park, or head to Hunter Park, both second runners-up and great ways to spend your weekend.
Families also enjoy Chandler Park, Forest Ridge, Greenleaf, and Manion Mark.
Place to Take Visitors
Tulsans can enjoy the Riverwalk Crossing in Jenks nearly any night of the week, but that doesn’t mean that visitors won’t be impressed by all of the restaurants, shops and activities that it has to offer. From there you can zip on over to the Aquarium, as families love to take their out-of-town guests to the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks, our first runner-up. The ever-favorite Tulsa Zoo rounds out the top three as second runner-up.
Other mentions were Philbrook, Tulsa Air and Space Museum, Utica Square, Woodward Park, Incredible Pizza, Discoveryland, Brookside and downtown Tulsa.
Children’s Theatre
The Tulsa Performing Arts Center was a clear winner in this category. Families love the variety of programming, and the Imagination Series geared especially for children, makes the PAC a real winner. First runner up is the Spotlight Children’s Theatre. This Art Deco building on Riverside also houses the longest running melodrama in the U.S., The Drunkard. Clark Theatre, second runner up, is run by Tulsa Parks, has productions for children and teens to participate in and to watch – a win-win.
Festival
Rides, rides, rides, bratwurst and strudel – and the Chicken Dance! Tulsa families love it all, so they voted the 4-day OctoberFest on the West Bank as their favorite fun festival. Mayfest, a long-standing downtown Tulsa arts tradition was named first runner-up, and the Tulsa State Fair, a fall highlight for families, came in as second runner-up.
Tulsans also enjoy the Greek Festival, Kid’s World, Blue Dome Festival, and the Renaissance Fair.
Sports Team
Take me out to the….Oiler’s Game! Support your home team, and family favorite, as they battle it out in the CHL at the Tulsa Convention Center and watch fun, fast hockey action as the Ice Oiler’s continue their winning tradition. Families take pride in their hometown and also root for the Tulsa Drillers, first runner-up, and the Tulsa Hurricane, second runner-up, athletic teams.
Other favorite home teams include the 66ers and ORU basketball,
Family-Friendly Hotel/Motel
Ah, an indoor pool, free breakfast and roomy rooms – all make Embassy Suites a top family favorite. Holiday Inn Express with its family-friendly amenities is first runner-up and the new crown jewel of 71st Street, the Renaissance, is second runner-up for families.
The DoubleTree Warren Place and the Radisson also received mentions.
Playground/Park
Get off the couch and burn some energy at family favorite LaFortune Park, located in the heart of Tulsa. Have a picnic, play on the playground toys, watch or play baseball, tennis, swim, croquet and golf as well as get some exercise on the beautiful walking and jogging trail. Our first runner-up invites families to take a brisk walk, or relax in the shade and watch the kids on the playground at Hunter Park. Whiteside Park, second runner-up, at 41st between Harvard & Yale has terrific kid and adult classes ranging from dance to soccer. Another park with a walking trail gives families places to ride bikes, walk or run, and the Kompan playground is perfect for creative outdoor play. Did we mention the kiddie pool?
Others mentioned include Helmerich Park, Woodward, Centennial Park, Chandler Park and Haikey Creek.
Local Family Field Trip
Pack up the kids and wear comfy shoes for a fun local family field trip to the Tulsa Zoo, a family favorite winner once again. It’s cheap and you can see up to 1500 animals and elaborate, educational exhibits. Take a tour through the Oklahoma Aquarium, first runner-up, and see a variety of marine and aquatic animals in over 200 exhibits, or enjoy a picnic at Tulsa’s very own historical Swan Lake in midtown, second runner-up.
Families also love Big Splash, Geoscience Center and Woolaroc.
Place to Volunteer
Tulsa families are giving families as evidenced by the LONG list of favorites in this category. Church was named as the top pick for family volunteer hours. Close behind was school as first runner-up, and The Day Center for the Homeless was named second runner-up as a favorite place to volunteer.
People also enjoy volunteering at St. Francis Hospital, Catholic Charities, Habitat for Humanity, Tulsa Air & Space, Volunteers of America and the Zoo.
Oklahoma Getaway
When families take a weekend off, their favorite pick is a tie between either a leisurely time at Grand Lake, or a trip down the turnpike to Oklahoma City to visit the fun attractions there. First runner-up is another favorite lake, Lake Tenkiller, and Jenks Riverwalk is listed once again as a fun place for families to hang out.
Others that were mentioned include Alabaster Caverns, Lake Eufala, the Oklahoma Panhandle, and Osage County.
Favorite Camp:
Local Summer Day Camp
For an all-around day camp experience, complete with canoeing, swimming, archery, ropes course and more, all in a beautiful setting, Camp Loughridge was the number one pick as favorite day camp. Riverfield, a school during the year, and Camp Raven during the summer, tied with Tulsa Community College, with its award-winning College for Kids and Teens program during the summer, as first runner-up. The Tulsa Zoo pops up again in yet another category as second runner-up.
Other mentions were Kirk of the Hills Preschool, Miss Helen’s, and TASM.
Sleep Away Camp
Dry Gulch, with its fun Western themed buildings, was voted as a favorite place to spend the night. YMCA Camp Takatoka, a tradition for many Tulsa families, was a close first runner-up. In a three-way tie for second runner-up was Girl Scout camp, New Life Ranch and Shepherd’s Fold.
Good News Camp, Sky Ranch and Victory Christian were among other favorites.
Arts Camp
Philbrook Museum of Art turns up in yet another category as a favorite place for art camp. Philbrook’s special summer classes for kids are a Tulsa treasure. Midtown School of Performing Arts, and Theatre Arts were named in a tie for first runner-up in this category. A four-way tie for second runner-up shows that Tulsa families love art camps and have lots of choices: Brook Fine Arts, South Tulsa Dance Co., Waterworks, Young Rembrandts.
Other favorites include American Theatre Co., Dana Gilpin, Janell Whitby, That’s Dancing and Upscale Artists.
Sports Camp
Monte Cassino School offers a camp for almost every sport imaginable during the summer. With so many choices, it’s no wonder it was voted number one. Bishop Kelley and Velocity Sports tied for first runner-up, and once again, there was a four-way tie for second runner-up: First Methodist Church, ORU Baseball, SSB Kids!, YMCA.
Others deserving mentions are Harlem Globetrotters, Mac’s Soccer Camp, OU Football camp, Sky Fitness, Tennis Indian Springs and Wright Christian Volleyball Camp.
Academic Camp
Once again, parents name Tulsa Community College’s College for Kids as a Family Favorite. The University School at TU received first runner-up, and Kumon and Riverfield tied for second runner-up.
Other favorites include Bart Conner Gym. Camp and Camp Shalom.
Other
Camps or activities we missed in the Favorite Camp category were Catholic Diocese, church, Holland Hall, Indian Basketball Camp, and the Little Lighthouse. |
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