Woodward Park is a beautiful park that is a must-visit for anybody who loves gardens. The 45-acre (18.21-hectare) park features rock gardens, a 3-acre (1.2 hectare) arboretum and an area with over 15,000 azaleas. The terraced Tulsa Municipal Rose Garden was constructed as a W.P.A. project in 1934 and 1935, and today it features over 5,000 rose plants of nearly 250 different varieties. The roses usually bloom from May until November. Woodward Park also features the Anne Hathaway Herb Garden, which was founded in 1939 and is named after William Shakespeare's gardening-loving wife.
Formerly a private mansion, the Villa Philbrook near downtown Tulsa was donated by its residents more than 50 years ago for use as an art museum. Besides hosting special temporary exhibits throughout the year, this massive structure holds thousands of permanent exhibits from European, American, Asian, African and Native American artists. Built in the Italian villa style, the house itself is a work of art. Going through its many rooms gives one the feel of viewing someone's personal art collection. In addition to the museum itself, the Philbrook also has acres of beautiful gardens, which are open to the public, a lecture theater, restaurant and gift shop.
Set on about 5 square miles (12.95 square kilometers) in the heart of South Tulsa, LaFortune Park is a favorite outdoor spot for many Tulsans. Besides wooded picnic and playground areas, the park contains a golf course, baseball diamonds and batting cages, a community center, a public swimming pool, and a walking trail. Certain picnic areas are available to reserve for parties. Visitors can workout or just relax and enjoy the scenery. The main entrance is on South Yale Avenue between East 61st Street and East 51st Street.
The Mary K. Oxley Nature Center seeks to education visitors about the diverse ecology of the Tulsa region. On-site is an interpretive building, which features a wildlife viewing area and hands-on exhibits that are perfect for children. At the center you can pick up a trail map. The area has over nine miles of trails, most of which are flat and able to be explored by all visitors. Across the center's 804 acres is a diverse selection of wildlife as well, including over 200 types of birds and 50 varieties of butterflies.
Meadowlake Ranch is a dude ranch on the outskirts of Tulsa, in Sand Springs. The ranch offers bed and breakfast cabins as well as camp-style tipi tents for guests. A host of recreational activities keep your visit interesting, including a 'Dude for a Day' program and hayrides for kids. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a day out fishing or hunting on the property, and the spring-fed lakes are ideal for bass fishing. Visitors can either opt to stay overnight or simply purchase the day package. Other activities here include trail rides, rifle shooting, archery, straw calf roping, sling shot, horse riding classes and much more.
At the Oklahoma Aquarium there are hundreds of exciting aquatic creatures for you to see. Giant sharks and many other marvels and mysteries of the deep await you at the Oklahoma Aquarium. The place is also home to the Karl and Beverly White National Fishing Tackle Museum, featuring a $4 million antique collection making the museum a delight for adults who are history buffs. Be sure to also stop in the Gift Shop for a unique selection of clothing, books, toys and gifts.