27 Aug Best Places in Tulsa To Take Your Kids in the Fall For Cheap
Best Places in Tulsa To Take Your Kids in the Fall For Cheap
Fall in Tulsa is a magical time for families, with crisp air, colorful leaves, and a variety of budget-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of places to take your kids that are both fun and easy on the wallet. This article will explore the best spots around Tulsa to enjoy the season, from outdoor parks to educational museums, ensuring memorable experiences for the whole family.
Outdoor Parks and Nature Trails
Exploring Tulsa’s outdoor spaces is a fantastic way to enjoy fall without spending much. These parks and nature trails offer beautiful scenery, fresh air, and plenty of opportunities for kids to burn off energy.
Woodward Park
Woodward Park is a beautiful 45-acre space located in midtown Tulsa. Known for its extensive gardens and spacious lawns, it’s an ideal spot for a fall picnic or a leisurely stroll. The park’s playground provides a great place for kids to play, while the Tulsa Rose Garden, filled with vibrant autumn blooms, offers a perfect backdrop for family photos.
Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area
For a bit more adventure, take the family to Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. This 300-acre park features rugged trails suitable for hiking and biking, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River and the Tulsa skyline. It’s a great way for families to enjoy some outdoor exercise while appreciating the beauty of Tulsa in the fall.
Oxley Nature Center
Situated within Mohawk Park, Oxley Nature Center provides an educational and fun experience for families. The center has several trails that wind through different ecosystems, allowing kids to learn about local flora and fauna. With free admission, it’s an excellent choice for an affordable day out in nature.
Educational and Fun Museums
Museums can be both entertaining and educational, and Tulsa boasts several that cater to children and families.
Tulsa Children’s Museum
Located in the downtown area, the Tulsa Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits that focus on science, art, and music. Kids can engage in hands-on learning while having fun with activities like building structures, experimenting with water physics, and exploring the art station. Admission is affordable, and the museum often hosts special events that are perfect for a fall family outing.
Tulsa Air and Space Museum
For children fascinated by aviation and space, the Tulsa Air and Space Museum is a must-visit. The museum features aircraft displays, flight simulators, and a planetarium. Kids can learn about the history of flight and explore interactive exhibits, making it both an educational and exciting experience. The museum frequently offers discounted admission days, making it a budget-friendly option.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
Fall is a season of festivals, and Tulsa has plenty of family-friendly events that are either free or very affordable.
Tulsa State Fair
A highlight of the fall season, the Tulsa State Fair is filled with rides, games, and food that kids love. While there are costs associated with rides and certain attractions, there are many free activities, such as livestock exhibits, live entertainment, and arts and crafts displays. Consider visiting on a discount day to save on admission fees.
Pumpkin Town Farms
Located just outside of Tulsa, Pumpkin Town Farms offers a quintessential fall experience with a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and petting zoo. Entry is relatively inexpensive, and there are plenty of free activities, including a playground, games, and a photo booth area. It’s an excellent spot for a fun family day out in the crisp autumn air.
BooHaHa at Brookside
BooHaHa is a beloved Halloween event in the Brookside district. The festival includes a costume contest, parade, and trick-or-treating along the street. It’s free to attend, and local businesses often provide treats and activities for kids. This event is perfect for a fun and cost-effective way to celebrate Halloween with the whole family.
Budget-Friendly Indoor Activities
When the weather gets a bit too chilly or rainy, there are plenty of indoor options in Tulsa to keep kids entertained.
Tulsa City-County Library Storytimes
The Tulsa City-County Library offers free storytime sessions for children of all ages. These sessions often include interactive elements such as songs, crafts, and puppet shows, making them a fun and educational experience. Check the library’s schedule for events at different branches throughout the city.
Roller Skating
For a bit of active fun, take the kids to go roller skating. Roller skating is a great way to get some exercise and have fun at the same time. There are a variety of places through the Tulsa area to go roller skating.
Scenic Picnic Spots
Enjoying a fall picnic is a fantastic way to spend quality time with the family without spending a lot of money. Tulsa offers several scenic spots perfect for a relaxing meal outdoors.
Guthrie Green
Located in the Tulsa Arts District, Guthrie Green is a vibrant urban park that often hosts free community events. With plenty of green space, it’s perfect for a picnic. The park also features a splash pad, which can still be fun for kids in early fall, and an outdoor stage for free concerts.
LaFortune Park
LaFortune Park is a popular spot for families with its wide-open spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails. It’s a great place to lay out a blanket, enjoy some homemade snacks, and watch the kids play. The park also has a small fishing pond, which can be a fun, relaxing activity for kids.
Gathering Place
Gathering Place is one of Tulsa’s most celebrated parks, offering a variety of activities and areas for families. With several playgrounds, water features, and picnic areas, it’s a great place to spend an entire day. Best of all, entry to the park is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for families.
Hands-On Learning Experiences
Hands-on experiences are a fantastic way for kids to learn and have fun simultaneously. Tulsa offers several opportunities for interactive learning that are also easy on the budget.
Tulsa Garden Center
The Tulsa Garden Center offers a range of educational programs and workshops for children, particularly in the fall when the garden’s colors are most vibrant. Kids can learn about gardening, plant biology, and environmental conservation through interactive activities and tours.
Philbrook Museum’s Gardens
While the Philbrook Museum itself has an admission fee, the gardens are often free to access and provide a beautiful setting for a family outing. The museum sometimes hosts garden tours and workshops for kids that focus on art, nature, and culture, providing a rich, educational experience.
Unique Historical Sites
Exploring historical sites can be both fun and educational for kids, and Tulsa has several unique options.
Gilcrease Museum
The Gilcrease Museum, which focuses on American art and history, offers plenty of kid-friendly exhibits and activities. The museum grounds are also perfect for a fall day, with trails and gardens to explore. Admission is affordable, and the museum often has special events that cater to families.
Will Rogers Memorial Museum
A short drive from Tulsa, the Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of Oklahoma’s most famous figures. The museum features exhibits that are engaging for kids, including a large collection of Will Rogers’ memorabilia and interactive displays.
The Cave House
For a quirky, off-the-beaten-path experience, visit The Cave House, a uniquely designed home in Tulsa that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Tours are affordable, and the house’s unusual architecture and stories make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Affordable Outdoor Sports Facilities
For active families, Tulsa has a variety of outdoor sports facilities that are perfect for a day of fun without breaking the bank.
Disc Golf at Chandler Park
Chandler Park offers a well-maintained disc golf course that is free to use. Disc golf is a fun, easy-to-learn sport that’s great for kids and adults alike. The park also has other amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds, making it an excellent spot for a family outing.
Soccer & Baseball Fields at Mohawk Park
Mohawk Park is one of the largest parks in Tulsa and has numerous soccer and baseball fields available for public use. It’s a great place for a family game, whether you’re looking to kick around a soccer ball or play a friendly baseball match.
Family Bike Rides on River Parks Trails
The River Parks Trails offer miles of scenic paths along the Arkansas River, perfect for a family bike ride. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels. Bring your own bikes or rent them locally for a fun, active day outdoors.
In Conclusion
Tulsa offers a wide range of affordable, family-friendly activities that cater to all interests and ages. From exploring the great outdoors and visiting educational museums to attending seasonal festivals and participating in hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone. So, pack up the family and explore the best of what Tulsa has to offer this fall!