Fun Things To Do In Tulsa

What’s Happening in Tulsa [September 2024]

Fun Things to Do the Rest of This Month…
Get Your Calendar Out 📲📆!

Fall is creeping in, pumpkin spice is making its annual comeback, and Tulsa is ready to give you the best lineup of fun, festive, and downright awesome events this September. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, dive into some local culture, or just hang out with friends, there’s no shortage of things to do in this city. So, mark your calendars and clear your schedule, because here’s what you won’t want to miss the last couple weeks of September!

September 19th: Fitness Bootcamp at Guthrie Green

Every Thursday…Get Ready To Sweat!

Fall Fitness at Guthrie Green

If you’ve never been to Guthrie Green, this is your sign to go. September 19th is a perfect day to catch one of their Fitness on the Green classes—because nothing says “fall fitness goals” like stretching it out in the open air. Whether you’re into yoga, Zumba, or just feeling good in general, these free classes have something for everyone. Bring your yoga mat, water bottle, and good vibes.

Afterward, stick around for Food Truck Wednesdays where you can snag some of the best bites in town. From tacos to gourmet grilled cheese, the food trucks at Guthrie Green are perfect for a post-workout treat. It’s basically guilt-free if you worked out first, right?

Vibe Check: Casual, outdoorsy, and perfect for those who like their fitness with a side of street food.

Thru September 21st: Explore Tulsa’s Local Art at 108 Contemporary

Nic Annette Miller

an interdisciplinary printmaker, designer, and teaching artist using multiple mediums to explore multicultural identities and connection to nature.

If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back, head to 108 Contemporary now thru September 21st to check out their latest art exhibits. This local gallery showcases the work of contemporary artists, with an emphasis on unique and thought-provoking pieces. This month it’s Natural Rhythms: Hayley Nichols & Nic Annette Miller

Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking to explore something new, 108 Contemporary offers a quiet and inspiring way to spend an afternoon. Plus, it’s located in the Tulsa Arts District, so you can grab a coffee at Topeca Coffee Roastery or pop into one of the nearby shops after.

Vibe Check: Quiet, artsy, and perfect for a solo outing or a cultured day with friends.

September 19th: A Night Under the Stars at the Tulsa Botanic Garden

Music, Picnic, Lights…CHEERS!

They have wine for purchase in the gift shop FYI.

Fall evenings don’t get much better than this—on September 23rd, head over to the Tulsa Botanic Garden for their Botanic Nights event. Not only will you get to explore the garden's beauty as the sun sets, but you’ll also enjoy live music, food trucks, and all the perfect Instagram photo ops.

If you’ve never been to the Tulsa Botanic Garden at night, you’re in for a treat. The glow of the lights among the trees and plants creates an ambiance that’s both magical and relaxing. Bring a picnic blanket, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy some live tunes as you unwind with nature.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check out their walking trails—it’s the perfect way to get those steps in while soaking up the garden’s beauty.

Vibe Check: Peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for couples or solo adventurers.

September 22-27th: Catch a Concert at Cain’s Ballroom

Legen-wait for it-dary!

Simply the coolest place in town to catch local talent on the rise as well as big name acts.

Ah, Cain’s Ballroom—the heart and soul of Tulsa’s live music scene. If you’re into catching some live tunes, you’re in luck because the rest of September brings some serious music action. From Elle King, Stryper, Buckethead, Tom Morello or John Moreland, Cain’s is the kind of venue that makes any concert feel intimate and unforgettable.

This month’s lineup includes a mix of genres, so whether you’re into country, indie rock, or alternative vibes, you’ll find a show that’s up your alley. Grab a drink, find your spot, and let the music carry you through the night.

Vibe Check: Cool, intimate, and perfect for music lovers who want to experience Tulsa’s iconic venue.

September 18-27th: Foodie Heaven at Mother Road Market

Check out the pop-ups and fried chicken options!

Or a great standby is a slice of pizza, gelato for dessert or the yummy Philly Cheesesteaks.

Foodies, this one’s for you. If you haven’t checked out Mother Road Market yet, now’s your chance. September 18th - 27th, there’s a different activity happening each night. Check out the options here. You can experience Dine & Drink on Route 66, where local vendors come together to serve up the best in food and drinks—all under one roof.

From artisanal pizzas to vegan tacos, Mother Road Market has it all. And the vibe? It’s laid-back but bustling, perfect for a casual date night or a fun outing with friends. After you’re done sampling all the eats, don’t forget to grab a cocktail or local craft beer to round out your meal.

Pro Tip: Grab a seat in the covered outdoor area, no matter the weather—it’s the perfect place to relax and take in the Route 66 charm.

Vibe Check: Casual, foodie-forward, and perfect for anyone who loves a great meal.

September 26th: Tulsa State Fair Kickoff

Massive Fun for the Whole Fam!

Be sure to check out the events page for concerts each night! We live close by, so we’re considering walking this year…

Yep, it’s that time of year again—the Tulsa State Fair is rolling into town from September 21st to October 1st, and let’s be real, this is the place where you can live your best fried-food-eating, Ferris-wheel-riding, livestock-petting life. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Tulsa State Fair is the event of the season.

If you're into thrills, hop on the midway rides (bonus points for not throwing up). Or, if you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, wander through the Expo Center, where you’ll find everything from quirky vendors selling homemade goods to exhibits on agriculture. And don’t even get me started on the fair food: deep-fried everything, funnel cakes, and yes, there’s always a turkey leg in sight.

Pro Tip: Head to the Beer Garden for some live music and a cold one. It's a great way to take a breather from the chaos and soak in the atmosphere.

Vibe Check: Nostalgic, high-energy, and a little bit of chaos (in the best way).

The Bottom Line: Tulsa Has It All This September

Tulsa knows how to keep the fun rolling, especially as we roll into fall. Whether you’re all about the thrills of the Tulsa State Fair, catching a concert at Cain’s Ballroom, or unwinding at Botanic Nights, there’s something for everyone this September. So, grab your calendar and start planning because these last few weeks of September are packed with excitement.

Tulsa Botanic Garden [September 2024]

Tulsa Botanic Garden: Where Nature Blooms and Dogs Roam Free (on Select Days, of Course)

This weekend, we did something that made both our hearts and our dog’s tail wag. That’s right—we took advantage of dog day at the Tulsa Botanic Garden, a.k.a., one of the prettiest places to walk, breathe, and let your four-legged friend get a sniff of the good life. If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a serene day out among some of Oklahoma’s most beautiful blooms while your dog gets to live their best life, the Tulsa Botanic Garden is the place to be.

Nestled just a short drive from downtown, this 170-acre slice of heaven is where humans and nature connect—whether you’re chasing tranquility, exploring the seasonal flower displays, or (like today) making sure your pup gets in on the action. Here’s everything you need to know about why this spot is one of Tulsa’s best-kept secrets, and why you should get it on your calendar (with or without your furry friend).

Dog Day at the Garden: A Tail-Wagging Time

Let’s start with the real MVP of today’s visit: dog day. If you’ve got a canine companion, you know how it feels to find a place that welcomes your dog and offers you a great time too. Usually, we’re relegated to the nearest dog park or trail (no complaints, but a little variety would be nice), but the Tulsa Botanic Garden changes the game by offering specific dog days throughout the year. This means your pup can roam the gorgeous grounds, make new furry friends, and soak up some nature.

Our fur-baby has special needs as a senior pup, she’s 16-years young, is blind & deaf, however she loves special outings on the weekend—sniffing every plant, feeling the breeze on her fur and maybe getting a little too excited about some of the sculptures scattered throughout the garden. The trails are spacious enough that even on busy days, you’re not constantly dodging other dogs, and there’s plenty of room for your sweet fur-baby to enjoy themselves without pulling you through a hedge.

Pro Tip: While dogs are welcome on dog days, they do require leashes, so bring one that gives your pup enough freedom to explore but still keeps them close enough to avoid flower bed casualties & please remember to be kind and pick up after your pet!

It’s All in the Details: Gardens That Wow

Keeping things real, we weren’t quite sure what to expect from the Tulsa Botanic Garden, but we were excited to check it out and if we loved it we knew we’d scoop up a membership. We figured it’d be pretty, but the variety and attention to detail here take it to the next level. The themed gardens are so thoughtfully designed that you could visit multiple times a year and still feel like you’re discovering something new.

The Children’s Discovery Garden is a hit even if you don’t have kids in tow. It’s interactive and whimsical, with giant flowers that spray mist in the summer and water features that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.

The Lakeview Terrace offers killer views of the lake and it’s super expansive…so completely relaxing. We’re excited to come back and visit during the spring blooms to see the flowers showing off in all their glory. We’re told the park is brimming over with vibrant tulips, perennials, and wildflowers that make you stop in your tracks and appreciate how good Mother Nature really is.

But let’s not forget the star attraction: the Tandy Floral Terraces. These multi-tiered terraces are like something out of a dream. Seasonal flowers line the stone pathways, and the large water feature in the center is the perfect spot to stop and snap a few pics (for both your Instagram and your dog’s IG, obviously).

The Seasonal Perks: Always Something New

What’s great about the Tulsa Botanic Garden is that it’s always changing with the seasons. So, even if you’ve been before, it’s worth returning to see what’s new. As mentioned above, in the spring, the garden goes all out for its Tulsa Botanic BLOOMS, where you’ll find over 120,000 bulbs putting on a colorful show. And if you’re more of an autumn lover, the Tulsa Botanic BOO-tanical event is the place to be, complete with festive fall displays, pumpkin decorations, and all the spooky vibes you didn’t know you needed. This is precisely what they were setting up when we arrived, so we had some fun snapping pics amongst the pumpkins, and even did a little time lapse through the pumpkin hay maze, LOL!
[You can catch a sneak peek of the fall set up, the fall blooms as well as a time lapse of the maze HERE on our IG]

During the summer, the Tulsa Botanic Garden opens up their Thursday Late nights, so you can wander the gardens in the cool evening air while catching a sunset over the lake (with or without a glass of wine from their events).

Can’t Forget the Amenities: The Details Matter

If you’re worried about comfort, (aside from there being NO shade throughout most of the park), the rest of the well thought out custom comforts will put your mind at ease. The Tulsa Botanic Garden has done a great job at making sure guests have everything they need for a relaxing visit. The bathrooms are clean (yes, I checked), the paths are well-maintained, and the signage is clear so you can easily find your way around.

The staff here is friendly & super knowledgeable about the blooms. Whether you’ve got questions about a specific plant (for when you’re ready to flex that gardening hobby) or just need advice on which path is best for a quiet stroll, they’ve got you covered. Where we were disappointed in all honesty was that 5 minutes after buying our tickets we asked if we could apply the cost of our tickets today towards a season pass if we enjoy the park and we were told we could not. The only accommodation they offer is $10 off.
ProTip: If you think you’ll come back even just once a season, it’s more affordable to get a family pass, so just ask for one PRIOR to purchasing your tickets.

And yes, the gift shop is a total delight. Think plant-inspired gifts, gardening books, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs that help support the garden. Trust me, you’ll want to grab something on your way out. We found the cutest little fairy crowns for the grand toddlers as well as cute tshirts and magnets.

The Perfect Place for Tulsa’s Best Doggone Day

Tulsa has a lot of great places to hang out with your dog (shout out to the Midland Valley and riverfront trails, which are dog-friendly every day), but the Tulsa Botanic Garden? It’s a special treat. You get the beauty and peace of nature, your dog gets to be part of the adventure, and you both leave feeling refreshed.

Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming dog days, because trust me, your pup will thank you. And even if it’s not a dog day, the Tulsa Botanic Garden is worth the trip. Whether you’re exploring solo, with friends, or with your four-legged family, it’s the perfect spot to get outside, unwind, and take in some of Tulsa’s natural beauty.

The Bottom Line: Tulsa Botanic Garden is for Everyone (Especially Dog Lovers)

If you haven’t been to the Tulsa Botanic Garden yet, it’s time to plan a visit. Whether you’re a die-hard nature enthusiast, a casual stroller, or someone who just needs a beautiful backdrop for your next dog walk, this place has something for everyone. Trust me, once you experience the charm of this place, you’ll find yourself coming back season after season (and on every dog day you can get to).