Tulsa might not be the first city you think of for walking tours, but its architecture, underground tunnels, and historic districts make it a surprisingly walkable and engaging destination. The city’s Art Deco buildings stand out, a reminder of Tulsa’s roaring twenties prosperity fueled by oil. Meanwhile, its underground tunnel system and historic streets offer stories that truly come alive on foot. Whether you’re into architectural details, local history, or secret passageways, Tulsa has something to offer explorers willing to lace up their walking shoes. For those interested in a range of experiences, these tours showcase Tulsa’s diverse appeal, from its iconic buildings to underground mysteries.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the top walking tours in Tulsa, each with its unique focus. From the highly-rated Art Deco and architecture tour to the fascinating underground tunnels adventure and a dedicated Art Deco heritage walk, this list helps you choose based on your interests and schedule.
1. Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour
Starting at the heart of Tulsa’s Deco District, this tour is the top-rated way to explore the city’s famous Art Deco buildings. Led by an expert guide, you’ll visit landmarks like the Philtower, Tulsa Club, and Philcade, learning how Tulsa became a showcase of Neo-Gothic and Art Deco styles. The tour kicks off at a dazzling Art Deco landmark and includes inside visits to several notable buildings, providing insights into Tulsa’s boom era fueled by oil wealth.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of expert guidance and insider access. The guide shares stories about Tulsa’s rich history, the architects behind the buildings, and the city’s unique concentration of Art Deco architecture for a city of its size. The 2-hour walk is highly praised, with reviews emphasizing the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see beautiful design details firsthand. It’s perfect for architecture lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a solid overview of Tulsa’s most iconic structures.
The tour costs $52 per person, representing good value considering the depth of history and architecture you’ll see. Keep in mind it runs most Saturday mornings, making it easy to plan around other activities. If you only have a few hours and want to see Tulsa through an architectural lens, this is your best bet.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive and engaging look at Tulsa’s architectural treasures with expert insight, making it ideal for those wanting an in-depth experience.
2. Tulsa: History Walking Tour of Underground Tunnels
For a different kind of story, Tulsa’s underground tunnel system is a fascinating way to explore the city’s early 20th-century urban development. This 1.5-hour tour guides you through the tunnels connecting key downtown buildings like the Philtower and Philcade, revealing a hidden layer of Tulsa’s past. You’ll learn about the passageways that once allowed secret movement of goods and people, and hear stories about Tulsa’s oil boom era.
This tour is unique because it combines architecture with urban legends and historical anecdotes. Jeffrey, the guide, makes the experience interactive and engaging, enriching the walk with stories of Tulsa’s roaring twenties. The underground network, which many city visitors overlook, adds a mysterious and adventurous element to your visit. It’s perfect for travelers interested in urban exploration, local history, or secret passageways.
Reviews highlight how Jeffrey’s interactive style and the intriguing stories make the experience memorable. At $40, it’s an affordable way to see a different side of Tulsa that isn’t covered by typical city tours. Keep in mind, the tunnels require some walking and a bit of curiosity, but the experience is well worth it.
Bottom Line: This underground tunnels tour offers a unique, story-rich experience for those intrigued by hidden city secrets and Tulsa’s 1920s prosperity.
3. Tulsa: Art Deco Walking Tour of Tulsa
If you’re fascinated by design details and European influences, this Art Deco walking tour provides a closer look at Tulsa’s distinctive architectural styles. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the 2-hour stroll takes you along Tulsa’s streets to examine buildings that showcase intricate ornamentation and craftsmanship.
This tour emphasizes visual appreciation—you’ll learn about the cultural influences that shaped Tulsa’s skyline and appreciate the timeless beauty of Art Deco details. The guide’s engaging approach makes complex architectural features accessible, even fun. The reviews reflect a high level of knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. For $54, it’s slightly pricier but offers a more detailed focus on design elements compared to the broader architecture tour.
Ideal for visitors who want a deeper understanding of Art Deco styles and how Tulsa’s buildings reflect European influences and local culture. Its length and focus make it a good choice for architecture enthusiasts and those craving a more detailed exploration of Tulsa’s iconic skyline.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers interested in appreciating Tulsa’s detailed Art Deco craftsmanship and European architectural influences.
How to Choose the Right Tulsa Walking Tour
When choosing between these options, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. The Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture Tour offers a broad overview with inside building visits, ideal for architecture fans and first-timers. The Underground Tunnels Tour appeals more to those curious about hidden city secrets and urban stories, with a shorter, more adventurous vibe. Meanwhile, the Art Deco Heritage Walk focuses on visual details and European influences, perfect for design lovers.
Budget-wise, all three are fairly comparable, though the tunnels tour is the most affordable. Timing is also a factor: the architecture tour runs most Saturday mornings, while the others require checking availability. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons when these popular tours fill up.
In summary, Tulsa offers a variety of walking tours that cater to different interests—from the detailed Art Deco architecture to secret underground passageways and historic streets. If you love design and history, the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture is a standout. For a mysterious urban adventure, don’t miss the Underground Tunnels Tour. And if you’re drawn to decorative details, the Tulsa Art Deco Heritage Walk will satisfy your curiosity. Booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these engaging experiences that reveal Tulsa’s unique character, one step at a time.