Tulsa is a city in the heart of the United States in the state of Oklahoma. It was originally settled between 1828 and 1836 by the Lochapoka Band of Creek Native American tribe, and over the years Tulsa has grown from its humble beginnings into a vibrant metropolis. The city’s early history is deeply intertwined with the relocation of the Five Civilized Tribes, including the Creek, Cherokee, and Osage Nations, who were moved to the area following the Indian Removal Act of 1830. This diverse cultural foundation laid the groundwork for Tulsa’s unique heritage.

The development of Tulsa accelerated in the late 1800s and early 1900s, particularly with the discovery of oil in 1901. Dubbed the Oil Capital of the World, Tulsa became a major hub for the American oil industry, attracting investments, entrepreneurs and workers from across the country. The city’s rapid growth during this period is reflected in its architecture and infrastructure, which continue to tell the story of its prosperous past, which is interesting today.

One of the most striking features of Tulsa is its impressive collection of Art Deco architecture. Tulsa actually boasts one of the nation’s most extensive collections of Art Deco architecture, much of which can be seen in the appropriately named Deco District. A visit here is like transporting yourself back to the roaring 1920’s. South Boston Avenue is the main street through the Deco District and downtown Tulsa. You will see old highrises from the art deco-period mixed with modern office towers in a streetscape.

There are numerous buildings to see, and a famous one from the booming art deco era is the Philcade Building from 1931 with a brick and terra cotta zigzag facade and a stunning period interior. The Oklahoma Natural Gas Company Building from 1925 is another great example of the style, and the same goes for the Boston Avenue United Methodist Church. It was completed in 1929, and it stands as a prime example of the art deco style with its stunning tower and intricate stonework. The church is unlike any other in both the exterior and the interior.

Tulsa was a small town before the discovery of oil, and then the population exploded. The new arrivals called for better logistics and transportation, which was also built during the art deco time. The former railway station, Tulsa Union Depot, stands just north of downtown in beautiful architecture and serves today as the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. When at the station, continue north to the Center of the Universe to try out the famous acoustics. When coming to Tulsa, travelers could stay at hotels like the Mayo Hotel from 1925 with its impressive lobby. Guests count John F. Kennedy, J. Paul Getty and Charles Lindbergh. And recently, the Denver Avenue bus station was built in a neo-art deco style as a tribute to the boomtown style from the 1920s and 1930s.

Tulsa is also home to several other historic sites and cultural institutions. The Philbrook Museum of Art is housed in a former 1920s villa, and it offers a glimpse into the city’s opulent past while showcasing an impressive collection of art. You can also visit the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum, located in the historic Travis Mansion just south of the Tulsa Garden Center and Woodward Park. At the museum, changing exhibitions tells the stories and Tulsa heritage and present. You can explore the Tulsa Arts District as well. It is located in the heart of downtown, and it is a lively area filled with galleries, theaters, and music venues.

There are many attractions for fun and learning for all ages in Tulsa. The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium is a place with STEM activities & simulators, and there are lots of interesting exhibits at the museum. You can also go outdoors in the Gathering Place, a riverfront park with playgrounds, paddleboats, and much more. Tulsa Zoo at Mohawk Park and the beautiful Tulsa Botanic Garden are other great escapes into nature. The A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces and the Children’s Discovery Garden are two of the highlights of the garden.