Family Fun & Travel: TulsaKids’ Family Favorites
Whether you’re looking for an afternoon adventure or planning a weekend getaway, there’s no shortage of family fun close to home. TulsaKids readers voted for their favorite attractions, destinations and experiences for making the most of family time.
Photo by Ian Upton
Favorite Museum
Discovery Lab
Curious kids have plenty to explore at Discovery Lab. Hands-on exhibits encourage children to build, create, experiment and discover through play. Parents appreciate that learning and fun go hand in hand. Sensory-friendly hours, birthday party rentals and summer camps add to the family fun. While you’re there, stop at the Elote Cafe for a coffee, ice cream or puffy tacos.
Finalists: Philbrook; Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve
Favorite Local Attraction
Gathering Place
Gathering Place continues to top TulsaKids readers’ lists of favorite places to visit. With imaginative playgrounds, trails, boats, gardens and year-round events, there’s something new to discover with every trip. Best of all, admission is always free.
Finalists: Tulsa Zoo; Oklahoma Aquarium
Favorite Sports Team
Oklahoma City Thunder;
It was a thrilling year to be a Thunder fan. Oklahoma City’s championship run had families across the state cheering together, whether at the Paycom Center or from the couch at home. Fast-paced basketball and exciting stars make every game fun for fans of all ages. It’s easy to see why so many Oklahoma kids are growing up wearing Thunder blue. A trip to a Thunder game is an experience the whole family can enjoy.
Finalists: Tulsa Drillers ; Tulsa Oilers Hockey
Favorite Local Park/Place to Get Outside
Gathering Place
Sometimes the best family outings don’t require much planning. Gathering Place offers plenty of room to climb, run, play and explore across its 100-plus acres—and TulsaKids readers agree. This is the seventh-straight year for Gathering Place to win this category. Whether spending an hour or an entire afternoon, families can always find something to do.
Finalists: Elam Park; Turkey Mountain
Favorite State Park
Natural Falls State Park
A stunning 77-foot waterfall makes Natural Falls State Park one of Oklahoma’s most scenic destinations. Hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing give families plenty of reasons to visit throughout the year. You can even book a yurt for an unforgettable overnight adventure.
Finalists: Robbers Cave State Park; Keystone State Park
Favorite Place to Camp in Oklahoma
Robbers Cave State Park
Camping at Robbers Cave is a classic Oklahoma adventure. Families can pitch a tent, park an RV or stay in a cabin while enjoying hiking, fishing and exploring the park’s rugged beauty. It’s a great place to unplug and enjoy the outdoors.
Finalists: Keystone State Park; Sequoyah State Park
Favorite Hotel in Tulsa
The Mayo Hotel
The Mayo Hotel has welcomed guests for generations and remains one of Tulsa’s most iconic places to stay. Beautifully restored rooms, downtown views and a touch of history make it a popular destination for staycations and special occasions alike. The rooftop bar is a favorite spot for parents.
Finalists: River Spirit Casino Resort; Brut Hotel
Favorite Weekend Getaway
Branson, Missouri
Just a few hours from Tulsa, Branson makes an easy family getaway packed with fun. Spend the day riding roller coasters at Silver Dollar City or cooling off at White Water. Mini golf, go-karts, museums and plenty of family-friendly attractions mean there’s something for every age to enjoy.
Finalists: Broken Bow, Bentonville
Favorite Place to Buy an RV
Wade’s RV
For families dreaming of life on the open road, Wade’s RV helps make those adventures possible. A wide selection of RVs gives shoppers plenty of options for weekend camping trips and cross-country vacations. With an RV, road trip season is always just around the corner.
Finalists: Bob Hurley RV; Camperland of Oklahoma
Favorite Entertainment Venue
Main Event
Bowling, laser tag, arcade games and great food all under one roof make Main Event a great choice for family fun. Whether celebrating a birthday or escaping a rainy day, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Parents might even get in on the competition.
Photo by Valerie Wei-Haas
Favorite Place to Play Indoors
Discovery Lab
When Oklahoma weather doesn’t cooperate or it’s too hot to be outside, Discovery Lab offers hours of indoor fun. Interactive exhibits encourage kids to touch, build and explore while burning energy along the way. Hands-on activities invite children to experiment, solve problems and let their imaginations run wild. Parents appreciate having a place where the whole family can play—including sliding down the tape tunnel!
Finalists: Adventure Avenue; Slick City
Favorite Family-Friendly Live Performance
The Nutcracker by Tulsa Ballet
For many Tulsa families, attending The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition. Young performers share the stage with professional Tulsa Ballet dancers, bringing beloved roles like mice, soldiers and party guests to life. Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music, beautiful costumes and magical storytelling make it a wonderful introduction to live performance for children of all ages. It’s a tradition many families look forward to each year.
Finalists: Summer’s Fifth Night at Utica Square; Hot Toast Music Co.
Favorite Festival
Oktoberfest. Photo by Patrick Quiring
Tulsa Oktoberfest
Tulsa Oktoberfest brings families together for food, music, dancing and fun. From polka bands and carnival rides to apple strudel and pork schnitzel, there’s something for every age to enjoy. It’s a fall tradition that Tulsans have loved for 46 years.
Finalists: Mayfest; Owasso Harvest Festival
