This page is your resource for all things staycation and vacation, as voted on by Tulsa-area parents! Find the rest of our Family Favorites winners and finalists at tulsakids.com/tulsakids-family-favorites.
Favorite Museum
Photo by Ian Upton
Discovery Lab
Science, technology, engineering, art and math – STEAM – mean hands-on fun for kids visiting Discovery Lab. Engaging exhibits encourage creativity and critical thinking. Members-only hours, Gizmo Guild special hours, Monday Morning programing for early learners, Sensory Friendly hours, birthday party rentals and summer camps add to the family fun at this children’s museum. While you’re there, visit the Stemcell Science Shop and grab a bite at the Bean Sprouts Café.
Finalists: Philbrook Museum; Oklahoma Aquarium
Favorite Local Attraction
Gathering Place
TulsaKids’ readers voted Gathering Place, Tulsa’s award-winning, 66.5-acre park, as their Family Favorite again this year. The park has something for everyone – from the five-acre Chapman Adventure Playground to the Skywalk Forest where pathways float 20 feet above the ground, Gathering Place is magical. Basketball courts, a skate park, a special play area for toddlers, a boathouse, along with world-class entertainment, families can always find something to do. Three dining options will help everyone refuel for more play!
Finalists: Tulsa Zoo; Oklahoma Aquarium
Favorite Local Professional/Semi-Professional Sports Team
Tulsa Drillers
As the weather warms up, families head to ONEOK Field for a fun evening of Drillers baseball. Adults can enjoy the game from the lawn of the kids’ playground. Or kids can play for free on inflatables at QuikTrip Hornsby’s Hangout. On Funday Sundays kids eat free, and on Friday evenings fireworks light up the sky after the game.
Finalists: Oklahoma City Thunder; Tulsa Oilers
Favorite Local Park/Place to Get Outside
Gathering Place
Tulsa’s favorite park wins in another category for the fifth year in a row. Gathering Place has so much to offer, from incredible play equipment to quiet storytimes at the Reading Tree to holiday and cultural events. The new Whitewater Flume at Zink Lake next to Gathering Place and the new pedestrian bridge are sure to attract more visitors to the park.
Finalists: Tulsa Zoo; Turkey Mountain
Gathering Place. Photo by Annie Tyndall
Favorite State Park
Natural Falls State Park
Natural Falls takes the top spot once again. Breathtaking falls, hiking, camping and Instagram-worthy views make this a reader favorite. Before you go, watch Where the Red Fern Grows with your kids. It was filmed here.
Finalists: Robbers Cave State Park; Keystone State Park
Favorite Place to Camp in Oklahoma
Beavers Bend State Park
Whether it’s tent camping or cabin camping, families love Beavers Bend. Float trips, horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, golf – there’s something for every nature-lover in the family in this gorgeous setting!
Finalists: Robbers Cave State Park; Keystone State Park
Favorite Hotel in Tulsa
The Mayo Hotel
The historic Mayo in downtown Tulsa opened in 1925 and has hosted numerous luminaries such as Babe Ruth, Lucille Ball and Elvis Presley over the years. Chic, elegantly restored guest rooms, dining options and a rooftop bar make the Mayo a favorite cozy weekend getaway for parents.
Finalists: Stoney Creek; River Spirit Casino Resort
Favorite Weekend Getaway
Branson, Missouri
TulsaKids’ families love Branson. A perennial favorite, parents can take the kids for a fun-filled weekend at Silver Dollar City, White Water, Marvel Cave and more – all in a beautiful setting in the Ozarks. There’s something for everyone!
Finalists: Eureka Springs, AR; Broken Bow
Favorite Place to Buy an RV
Wade’s RV
With the tagline “Turning Miles into Memories,” it’s no surprise that parents love Wade’s RV. Vacations create memories, and what better way to travel the country than in a luxurious RV. Families can take the kids, the dog and the grandparents for a summer of fun on the open road.
Finalists: Bob Hurley RV; Lazydays RV of Tulsa at Claremore (formerly Dave’s Claremore RV)
Favorite Place to Play Indoors
Discovery Lab
Tulsa’s awesome children’s museum is a Family Favorite for its engaging and educational STEAM exhibits that invite children into endless exploration. Spending a few hours or an entire day at Discovery Lab is always fun, and parents know that it’s time well spent.
Finalists: Urban Air; Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Favorite Family-Friendly Live Performance of 2023
The Nutcracker by Tulsa Ballet
A holiday tradition for generations of Tulsans, Tulsa Ballet’s The Nutcracker never disappoints. Families are wrapped in the warmth and magic of the season as they experience the music, costuming and spectacle of this beautiful ballet.
Finalists:Disney on Ice;Bluey’s Big Play – Celebrity Attractions
Favorite Festival
Tulsa State Fair
Offering “11 days of awesome” each fall, it’s easy to see why the Tulsa State Fair is a Family Favorite. Rides, animals, entertainment – and, of course, food – keep families coming back year after year.
Finalists:Oktoberfest; Rooster Days
Categories: Family Favorites
