Tulsa sits in the heart of some of the region's most beautiful landscapes, making it easy to explore somewhere new. Waterfalls, mountain trails, charming small towns, lakes, and vibrant cities are all within a few hours of home. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, these destinations offer plenty of ways to recharge, discover something new, and make the most of living in Tulsa.
Location: Colcord, OK
Drive Time: About 1 hour
Hidden in Oklahoma's Ozark Highlands, Natural Falls State Park is home to one of the state's most breathtaking waterfalls. A short hike leads to a scenic overlook where you can watch the 77 foot waterfall cascade into a clear natural pool below. Spend the afternoon exploring wooded trails, enjoying a picnic, or simply taking in the peaceful scenery. It is an easy escape from Tulsa that feels worlds away.
Location: Osage County, OK
Drive Time: About 1 hour 40 minutes
Stretching across nearly 40,000 acres, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve offers a rare glimpse of Oklahoma's natural landscape before settlement. The preserve is home to more than 2,000 free roaming bison, making it one of the best places in the state for wildlife viewing. Take a scenic drive through the prairie, stop at overlooks, and enjoy the quiet beauty of rolling hills that transform with the seasons.
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Bentonville has become one of the region's favorite destinations thanks to its mix of art, outdoor recreation, and local flavor. Visit Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, browse locally owned shops, or enjoy lunch at one of the city's many restaurants. If you want to spend time outdoors, Bentonville's extensive trail system offers miles of scenic paths for hiking and biking, making it easy to experience both the city's creative energy and natural beauty in one trip.
Location: Washington County, AR
Drive Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Devil's Den State Park is known for its rugged beauty and impressive rock formations. Explore scenic hiking trails, ride mountain biking paths, or venture into the park's namesake caves. Cabins, horseback riding, and seasonal ranger programs make it a destination you'll want to return to throughout the year.
Location: Latimer County, OK
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Legend has it that famous outlaws like Jesse James and Belle Starr once used Robbers Cave as a hideout. Today, the park invites visitors to hike scenic trails, fish, climb, ride horseback, or explore the cave that inspired its name. Surrounded by rolling hills and forested landscapes, it offers the perfect mix of history and outdoor adventure.
Location: Northwest Arkansas
Drive Time: About 2 hours 50 minutes
As America's first national river, the Buffalo National River is famous for its towering limestone bluffs, crystal clear water, and incredible scenery. Spend the day kayaking or canoeing, hike to breathtaking overlooks, or relax along the shoreline while taking in one of the Ozarks' most beautiful landscapes.
Location: Indiahoma, OK
Drive Time: About 2 hours 45 minutes
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge spans nearly 60,000 acres of rugged mountains, open prairie, and scenic lakes. Keep an eye out for roaming bison, elk, and longhorn cattle as you drive through the refuge or set out on one of its many hiking trails. The dramatic landscape makes it one of Oklahoma's most unforgettable outdoor destinations.
Drive Time: About 1 hour 35 minutes
Just down the turnpike, Oklahoma City offers an easy change of pace with award winning restaurants, museums, live sports, shopping, and entertainment. Walk through Bricktown, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, catch a Thunder game during basketball season, or spend the afternoon exploring neighborhoods filled with local shops and coffee houses.
Drive Time: About 3 hours
With its winding streets, preserved Victorian architecture, and thriving arts scene, Eureka Springs feels like a destination from another era. Explore local galleries, boutique shops, and unique restaurants before strolling through the historic downtown. Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, the town also offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nearby hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
Location: McCurtain County, OK
Drive Time: About 3 hours 30 minutes
Beavers Bend State Park is one of Oklahoma's most beloved outdoor destinations, known for its towering pine forests, Broken Bow Lake, and the Mountain Fork River. Spend the day kayaking, fishing, hiking, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. It is the perfect place to unplug and experience the natural beauty of southeastern Oklahoma.
Living in Tulsa means some of the region's most memorable destinations are just a short drive away. From scenic hiking trails and charming downtowns to crystal clear rivers and breathtaking waterfalls, there's always something new to discover. Pack your favorite road trip snacks, hit the road, and see where your next adventure takes you.