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).

5 Vegan Spots In Tulsa

Vegan in Tulsa: A Guide to the Best Plant-Based Eats That Even Your Carnivore Friends Will Love

So, here’s the thing about being vegan (or at least trying to cut out meat on most days): People still think it’s all kale smoothies and rabbit food. And I’m here to tell you, my friend, that they couldn’t be more wrong—especially if you live in Tulsa, where plant-based eating is no longer the sidekick, but the main event.

Whether you're fully committed to the vegan life, dipping a toe into the vegetarian pool, or just trying to eat a little cleaner during the week (because weekends are for pizza, let’s be real), Tulsa has more to offer than you might think. Forget everything you know about boring salads and grain bowls; we’re talking flavor-packed, creative dishes that’ll make even your die-hard carnivore friends jealous.

Here’s a rundown of some of the best vegan and vegetarian spots in Tulsa, straight from your favorite local guide. Let’s dig in!

1. Chimera Café: Coffee and Tacos for the Win

Breakfast Tacos Vegan Style?

Yes please!

Chimera Café might just be my spirit animal. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a cup of ethically sourced coffee, sit back in a cozy spot, and let the world slow down for a minute. But don’t let the chill vibes fool you—this place brings the heat with its vegan and vegetarian options.

Their breakfast tacos? Legendary. You can get them loaded with scrambled tofu, veggies, and house-made salsa that has just the right amount of kick. And for my avocado-loving friends, their avo toast game is next level—simple, but seriously delicious.

Pro Tip: If you’re the type to love brunch any day of the week (and who isn’t?), their vegan pancakes are chef’s kiss.

2. The Vault: Nostalgia Meets Plant-Based Perfection

Retro Vegan Vibes?

Throwback style, but modern taste.

The Vault is the kind of spot that feels like stepping back in time—housed in an old mid-century modern bank building, it's got all the nostalgia feels. But when it comes to their food, they're serving up fresh, forward-thinking, and plant-based goodness.

Their menu isn’t strictly vegan, but don’t worry, they’ve got options. Their vegan Reuben? Game changer. With marinated tempeh, sauerkraut, vegan cheese, and thousand island dressing on rye, it’s the kind of sandwich that makes you forget it’s plant-based.

And yes, they do vegan desserts. Think coconut milk ice cream that will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about dairy.

3. LTO (Lone Wolf): Fusion Flavors to Blow Your Mind

Banh Mi For Me!

If you’ve never tried Banh-mi…TRUST, you’ll be happy you gave LTO a go!

If you haven’t heard of Lone Wolf, I’m not sure what rock you’ve been living under, but it’s time to change that. This place is where Vietnamese flavors meet Southern soul, and yes, they’ve got plenty of options for the plant-based crowd.

Try their Banh Mi with tofu or Tofu Rice Bowl, and your taste buds will thank you. The pickled veggies, the perfect amount of crunch from the tofu, and that sauce... it’s pure magic. Plus, if you’re a spice lover, their Sriracha mayo (vegan-friendly, of course) is a must.

Pro Tip: You can’t go wrong with their Kimchi Fries (don’t ask, just order them). And yes, they can make them vegan!

4. Pure Food and Juice: For the Health Nut in All of Us

Hands down - BEST Buddha Bowls in town!

Colorful, delightful and FRESH!

There’s something about Pure Food and Juice that just makes you feel like you’re doing your body a favor. Maybe it’s the fact that everything on the menu is raw, organic, and plant-based, or maybe it’s the sleek, spa-like atmosphere. Either way, this is the place to be when you want to fuel up without the guilt.

Start with one of their fresh juices (the Beet Retreat is a personal fave), then dive into one of their colorful, nutrient-packed bowls or wraps. The Buffalo Cauliflower Wrap is spicy, crunchy, and satisfying—basically everything you want in a meal, without the heaviness.

Bonus points for their selection of raw vegan desserts, like the raw cacao brownie that tastes way too good to be healthy.

5. Roppongi Ramen: Slurping Good Vegan Noodles

Half Price Ramen!

Every Thursday from 5pm - Close!

I get it, when you think of ramen, your mind might go straight to pork broth and soft-boiled eggs, but at Roppongi Ramen, they’ve created something special for the plant-based crowd: vegan ramen that’s rich, savory, and totally satisfying.

Their vegan miso ramen is the star of the show, featuring a flavorful broth, springy noodles, and fresh veggies that make you feel like you’re eating something comforting without the post-meal food coma. Pair it with some veggie gyoza, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate comfort meal.

Pro Tip: This is a cozy little spot, so get there early if you want to avoid the lunch rush.

6. Que Gusto: Ecuadorian Eats with a Vegan Twist

Ask about the VEGAN choices!

Even your non-V friends will love this place!

Que Gusto might not be the first place you think of for vegan eats, but trust me, it should be. This charming Ecuadorian spot offers vegan versions of many of their dishes, and they do it so well.

Their vegan empanadas are crispy on the outside, filled with savory veggies, and paired with a spicy, tangy dipping sauce. You’ll also find plant-based soups, sandwiches, and even desserts on their menu, so whether you’re vegan or just curious, there’s plenty to try.

Pro Tip: Get the vegan ceviche if it's available—it’s one of those dishes that you’ll be dreaming about long after you’ve left.

7. Trenchers Delicatessen: Sandwiches, But Make It Vegan

Vegan Scramble

Need we say more…

Trenchers is a deli, yes, but it’s one that knows how to do plant-based. Their Vegan BLT is a must-try, made with smoky tempeh bacon, fresh lettuce, and tomato on hearty bread that’s perfect for soaking up all the goodness.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, their Vegan Reuben also hits the spot. The fact that they can take a traditional sandwich and make it plant-based without sacrificing any of the flavor? That’s a win in my book.

Pro Tip: Pair your sandwich with their vegan potato salad. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Honorable Mention:

• Antoinette Baking Co.: Yes, they have vegan cupcakes, and yes, they’re just as good as the real thing.

Insanely good pies!

So good even meat lovers will want a bite.

The Bottom Line: Tulsa’s Vegan Scene is Thriving

Gone are the days of settling for a side salad or fries when you’re eating plant-based in Tulsa. Whether you’re craving a hearty sandwich, a fresh juice, or a comforting bowl of noodles, the vegan and vegetarian scene here has so much to offer.

So the next time someone gives you that “but what do you even eat?” look, just smile and start rattling off these spots. Because in Tulsa, eating vegan doesn’t mean missing out—it means leveling up.

- Stacey & Mark 🌿