The 4 Best Walking Tours in Tulsa
Tulsa is a city that’s full of surprises, particularly for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Its downtown area boasts stunning Art Deco architecture, historic underground tunnels, and colorful murals—all easily accessible on guided walks. We especially like the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour for its deep dive into Tulsa’s iconic buildings, and its highly praised guides make it a standout experience. Whether you’re a lover of architecture, history, or just want a pleasant way to see the city, Tulsa’s walking tours have something for all.
If you prefer exploring Tulsa’s underground secrets, the Tulsa: History Walking Tour of Underground Tunnels offers a fascinating look at the hidden passageways connecting early 20th-century skyscrapers. For those interested in the decorative arts, the Tulsa: Art Deco Walking Tour of Tulsa explores the city’s architectural flourishes up close. Lastly, for a more relaxed, colorful experience, the Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado features vibrant murals and street art that showcase Tulsa’s creative side. Each tour provides a unique perspective, making Tulsa an ideal city for walking enthusiasts.
1. Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour
At number 1, this tour is the highest-rated architecture walk in Tulsa, and for good reason. It’s led by guides with insider access and a deep knowledge of Tulsa’s famous Art Deco buildings. Starting from a dazzling landmark in the Deco District, the 2-hour tour takes you inside and outside notable structures like the Atlas Life Building, Philtower, and Philcade.
What makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance and the chance to see buildings that embody Tulsa’s prosperity during the oil boom of the early 20th century. It’s perfect for architecture lovers wanting a comprehensive look at Neo-Gothic, Art Deco, and other styles that define Tulsa’s skyline. Many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the relaxed pace, making it an engaging way to learn about Tulsa’s history without feeling rushed. The tour costs $52 per person, roughly a two-hour walk, with most Saturday mornings offering a choice of 9am or 10am sessions.
Bottom Line: If you love architecture, this tour offers a detailed, accessible introduction to Tulsa’s most iconic buildings with a highly rated guide.
2. Tulsa: History Walking Tour of Underground Tunnels
Located in downtown Tulsa, this tour explores the city’s hidden underground tunnels—an aspect of Tulsa’s history that sparks the imagination. For around $40, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours walking through a network of passageways connecting early skyscrapers like the Philtower and Philcade.
The tour is led by an expert guide who reveals stories of how these tunnels were used during the Roaring Twenties and the oil boom era. You’ll learn what’s buried beneath the streets and why these tunnels were built—whether for secure passage during Prohibition or for utility access. The tour is especially appealing to those interested in Tulsa’s architectural history and secret spaces. The experience is praised for its engaging storytelling and the chance to see the city’s hidden infrastructure up close.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about Tulsa’s underground secrets and enjoy history with a touch of mystery, this tour offers a fascinating 1.5-hour walk through the city’s past.
3. Tulsa: Art Deco Walking Tour of Tulsa
For around $54, this 2-hour tour focuses solely on Tulsa’s stunning Art Deco architecture. It’s perfect if you want to learn about the decorative style that defines much of Tulsa’s downtown. The guide leads you through different examples of Art Deco and European-influenced designs, highlighting the intricate details and cultural influences that shaped Tulsa’s skyline.
During the walk, you’ll see buildings like the Southern Bell Building and The Tulsa Club, gaining appreciation for the craftsmanship and historical context behind each structure. Though this tour is newer and has fewer reviews, those who have participated praise its visual richness and educational approach. It’s best suited for visitors who want a focused experience on Tulsa’s decorative arts, with plenty of opportunity for photos and close-up viewing of architectural details.
Bottom Line: If architecture and design fascinate you, this guided walk offers a detailed look at Tulsa’s Art Deco masterpieces, enriching your understanding of the city’s aesthetic heritage.
4. Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado
At just $14.99 for about 90 minutes, this tour offers a more informal experience exploring Tulsa’s vibrant street art and murals. Using the Let’s Roam app, you’ll be challenged with trivia and puzzles as you move from mural to mural, discovering local artists’ work and the stories behind them.
While this tour doesn’t have reviews yet, it’s a great choice for families, casual explorers, or anyone who wants a relaxed, interactive way to see Tulsa’s creative side. It’s especially suitable for those interested in contemporary urban art and seeking a flexible, self-guided experience. The art pieces include murals that celebrate Tulsa’s culture, history, and community spirit, making it a lively alternative to more traditional walking tours.
Bottom Line: For a budget-friendly, fun exploration of Tulsa’s street art, this tour combines technology and art, perfect for a quick, colorful adventure.
$14.99 per person
How to Choose the Right Tulsa Walking Tour
When deciding which tour to pick, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. If architecture is your passion, the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour offers an in-depth look at Tulsa’s most iconic buildings. For those fascinated by urban stories and hidden infrastructure, the Tulsa: History Walking Tour of Underground Tunnels provides a captivating underground perspective.
Budget-conscious travelers or families might prefer the Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado, which offers a fun, interactive experience at a lower price. Think about your pace, interests, and whether you want a guided, curated experience or a flexible, app-led exploration. Also, check the seasonality—most tours run most weekends, but it’s wise to book early during peak times.
Final Thoughts
Tulsa’s walking tours open a window into the city’s unique character—from the elegance of Art Deco to the secret tunnels beneath the streets. For those who love history and architecture, the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture tour is a standout. If underground secrets intrigue you, the tunnel tour is a must. For colorful murals and street art, the mural walk offers a modern, casual outing.
No matter your interests, Tulsa’s guided walks provide a great way to experience the city’s stories firsthand. We recommend booking in advance, especially for popular times, to ensure you don’t miss out on these enriching experiences. Happy exploring!