Fun Near Tulsa - [Updated November 2024]

Squeeze in the Last of Tulsa Fall Days

Hurry Before Time Runs Out

We’re teetering on the edge of winter, and while pumpkin spice season is in full force (don’t worry, we’re already stocked up), let’s not rush things. After all, we still have a few warm, sunny days left to squeeze out every drop of outside fun in and around Tulsa. Whether you’re looking to get outdoors, explore the arts, or simply take a little road trip to a nearby town, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the end of the fall season before the cool breezes blow in and all the leaves disappear.

So, here’s your guide to the best things to do near Tulsa for all season fun. Grab your keys, throw on those shades, and let’s make the most of these last autumn moments.

Take a Day Trip to Keystone Lake

Relax, Cool Down & Take In The Views

Cool down all day and stay for the sweet sunset at night.

You don’t have to drive far from Tulsa to experience a perfect end-of-summer day by the water. Just about 20 minutes west of Tulsa, Keystone Lake is the ultimate spot for boating, fishing, or just hanging out on the shore with your toes in the sand. This massive reservoir has plenty of beaches, marinas, and picnic spots that make it perfect for a low-key day outdoors.

What to Do: Rent a pontoon from Keyport Marina, grab some snacks, and spend the afternoon lazily drifting along the lake. Or, if you’re feeling a little more active, give wakeboarding or paddleboarding a try (or at least pretend like you’re going to).

Local Tip: Don’t forget to stop by Harbor House Café for a post-lake burger or some fresh catfish. It’s the perfect spot to refuel after a day in the sun.

Explore the Tulsa Arts District for a Culture Fix

Hidden Gems…Right In Downtown!

From Woody Guthrie to Bob Dylan…there’s all sorts of musical history and art to choose from.

If you’re more of an art-and-urban-wanderer than a nature enthusiast, the Tulsa Arts District is calling your name. As the temps start to cool just a touch (we can hope), it’s the perfect time to stroll through the district’s galleries, grab a craft cocktail, and soak in the creative energy before the buzz of fall events take over.

What to Do: Start your day at Philbrook Museum, where contemporary art blends seamlessly with Tulsa’s rich history. Next, wander over to Guthrie Green for a relaxing afternoon with live music or a yoga class. The park often has food trucks and pop-up vendors, so you can snack while you people-watch.

Local Tip: End the day with a cocktail at The Tavern—a Tulsa Arts District favorite. Their “Problem Solver” is basically an art form.

Camp or Hike at Redbud Valley Nature Preserve

Have Your Camera Ready!

A great way to get your steps in, take in nature and get some amazing snaps along the way.

If the thought of fall has you dreaming about cool nights and camping under the stars, then make a quick drive to Redbud Valley Nature Preserve, just 30 minutes from Tulsa. The end of summer is the perfect time to hike the trails, explore the limestone cliffs, and marvel at the views before the trees start turning.

What to Do: The main trail at Redbud is a loop, making it perfect for a light, 2-hour hike. You’ll wind through shady trees, rocky outcrops, and open fields that feel like you’re miles away from civilization. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—this area is known for deer, foxes, and even armadillos (yep, they’re out there).

After your hike, pack up for a night of camping at Osage Hills State Park, where the campsites are clean and quiet. Plus, nothing says end-of-summer like roasting marshmallows by the campfire.

Local Tip: Redbud Valley has some challenging terrain, so pack proper shoes and a camera because the views are worth snapping. Also, it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Spend a Lazy Day at The Gathering Place

A Great Place to Gather…For Adults Too!

You can even float on their free to rent boats!

If you’ve lived in Tulsa for more than five minutes, you already know that The Gathering Place is a must-visit. But if you haven’t spent a lazy, end-of-summer afternoon there yet, you’re missing out on one of Tulsa’s crown jewels. This isn’t just any park—it’s a 100-acre wonderland of activities, food trucks, and yes, plenty of places to simply relax and soak in the final rays of warmth prior to the winter.

What to Do: Start by grabbing a coffee at Redbud Cafe (their iced drinks are lifesavers in the heat) and take a walk around the QuikTrip Great Lawn, which is perfect for a quick picnic or nap under the trees. If you’ve got kids (or if you’re just a kid at heart), the Williams Lodge has a variety of interactive water features that are perfect for cooling off.

For those who want to keep moving, rent a paddleboat and take a spin around Peggy's Pond, or hit up the skate park for some late-summer adrenaline.

Local Tip: Weekdays are quieter than weekends, but if you go on a Saturday, make sure to check their event calendar—there’s always something going on, from live music to family-friendly festivals.

Float Down the Illinois River

Float, Float Away…

So picturesque, peaceful and a great way to spend the last hot days of September.

Located just over an hour east of Tulsa, the Illinois River is the perfect place for a lazy river float to soak in the last bit of sunny days. Grab a few friends, rent some tubes, and float your way through scenic landscapes that will make you feel like you're a world away from city life.

What to Do: Most people float for 4-6 hours, which is just the right amount of time to take in the scenery, snack on some trail mix, and maybe even sneak in a nap on the water. Companies like Arrowhead Resort offer float rentals, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Bring sunscreen, a cooler with drinks (non-alcoholic, of course), and prepare for ultimate relaxation.

Local Tip: If tubing isn’t your thing, you can always rent a kayak or canoe and paddle your way down the river. Just make sure to book your float in advance—it’s a popular activity, especially on the weekends.

Catch an Outdoor Concert at Guthrie Green

All Genres of Music - FREE On Stage

Check the monthly events listing to bookmark your favorites.

The end of summer brings cooler evenings, and there’s no better way to enjoy the sunset than with live music. Guthrie Green, located in Tulsa’s Arts District, regularly hosts outdoor concerts and performances that are perfect for those who want to soak up the electric energy.

What to Do: Bring a blanket, grab some food from the rotating lineup of food trucks, and settle in for an evening of tunes. There’s usually something for every taste—from indie bands to jazz ensembles—so no matter your music preference, you’ll find a vibe that fits.

Local Tip: Check out their Sunday Salsa series in partnership with Tulsa Remote for a mix of local and regional talent. The shows are free, and you’ll be surrounded by people who are just as excited to dance in the warm summer air.

Head to Downtown Bartlesville for a Quick Getaway

Get Your Frank Lloyd Wright On!

Marvel at the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower located in Bartlesville.

If you’ve got the itch for a mini road trip, take a scenic drive north to Bartlesville—just over an hour from Tulsa. This charming little town is known for its art-deco architecture, unique museums, and a surprising amount of history for a town its size.

What to Do: Stop by the Price Tower, designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, and take a tour to learn more about the building’s fascinating history. Next, check out Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, where you can experience both art and nature. It’s an eclectic mix of Native American artifacts, Western art, and a sprawling outdoor wildlife preserve filled with buffalo, elk, and longhorn cattle.

Local Tip: Bartlesville is also home to some great mom-and-pop diners—stop by Dink’s Pit BBQ for some legit barbecue before heading back to Tulsa.

The Bottom Line: Make the Most of the Remaining Sunny Days in & Around Tulsa

Just because sunny days are winding down, it doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Whether you’re soaking up some sun at Keystone Lake, floating down the Illinois River, or catching a live concert at Guthrie Green, there are plenty of ways to squeeze out those last bits of sun before winter arrives.

So, pack your bags (or your cooler), grab some friends, and make these final days of daylight count. After all, those pumpkin spice lattes can wait just a little longer.