Summer in Tulsa is officially here, and the city is packed with ways to make the most of the season. From outdoor concerts and local markets to riverfront trails, splash pads, and summer festivals, there is no shortage of ways to soak up the sunshine. Here is your ultimate 2026 Tulsa Summer Bucket List filled with activities, events, and local favorites to enjoy all season long.
The Tulsa River Parks Trails offer miles of scenic views along the riverfront, perfect for walking, biking, or running as part of Tulsa's popular outdoor recreation system.
In addition to sand volleyball courts at various public parks throughout the city, some of the liveliest volleyball games are played at Pearl Beach Brew Pub just outside of downtown. You can reserve courts, join a league, or enjoy lawn games with friends.
Explore the Tulsa Garden Center in beautiful Woodward Park, your local hub for gardening, nature, and education. Enjoy free events, classes, and plant shows year-round, and tour the historic Snedden Mansion with its stunning original features.
Just south of downtown, Turkey Mountain offers rugged hiking and biking trails with beautiful wooded terrain and river views.
Just outside of Tulsa, Tulsa Botanic Garden offers a beautiful escape filled with vibrant seasonal blooms, scenic walking paths, and thoughtfully designed gardens. It is a great place to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and experience nature throughout the summer. In addition to its stunning landscapes, the garden hosts a variety of special events and family-friendly activities that make every visit a little different, including:
Located in Mohawk Park, Oxley features miles of trails through forests and wetlands, making it a great spot for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Tulsa's FreedomFest features live music, food trucks, kids' activities, and one of Oklahoma's largest free fireworks displays launched from the 21st Street Bridge over the Arkansas River.
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 | 6 PM
Where: 2100 S Jackson Ave & 1875 S Boulder Ave
Spend a summer evening watching the Tulsa Drillers at ONEOK Field, complete with fireworks nights, giveaways, and family-friendly fun. Fans can also take advantage of popular promotions throughout the season like $2 Tuesdays featuring $2 lawn tickets and select concession items, Bark in the Park nights, and Thirsty Thursdays with discounted drinks and themed giveaways.
Enjoy summer nights under the stars done right by watching double features from the comfort of your car at this classic drive-in theater on Route 66. Visit Admiral Twin’s website or Instagram to check out the latest features!
A Tulsa favorite since 1959, Big Dipper serves up classic shakes, cones, sundaes, and other sweet treats that are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. With locations across the Tulsa area:
Every Thursday from May through the end of July (7–9 PM), Utica Square hosts this beloved free outdoor concert series showcasing jazz, rock, country, and more in a laid-back lawn chair environment. Bring a picnic basket with snacks and drinks or grab a bite from one of Utica Square's local favorites.
2026 Lineup
Catch an outdoor concert at Guthrie Green, a lively downtown green space at 111 E Reconciliation Way that hosts free, open-air concerts throughout the summer. From jazz to symphonic performances and local indie artists, there is always something to enjoy. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for a great evening under the stars.
Upcoming & Regular Summer Concerts at Guthrie Green
2026 T.E.G. International Jazz Fest – Friday, June 5 | 6 PM
The free event will coincide with Guthrie Green's art market during the June First Friday Art Crawl.
With local food, outdoor seating, lawn games, and events happening year-round, Mother Road Market is a go-to destination for summer fun. Grab pizza from Andolini's, a burger from Howdy Burger, sushi and ramen from Akira Sushi & Ramen, or something sweet from Super Secret Donuts, then spend the evening enjoying the patio! It's the perfect spot to gather with friends and family on a summer night.
Summer is patio season, and Tulsa has several newer spots worth adding to your list. Grab dinner at Little Belly on Brookside, enjoy drinks and a view at Soma Rooftop Bar, experience the patio at Maestro in Santa Fe Square, or spend an evening on Tina's patio. These newer additions are quickly becoming favorite spots for outdoor dining, happy hours, and summer nights with friends.
Enjoy laid-back live music events along the scenic Riverwalk in Jenks on Friday evenings. These concerts bring together community vibes and showcase local talent in a relaxed outdoor setting. Bring a picnic or grab a bite from nearby vendors and spend the evening soaking in the music and beautiful river views.
The VFW is a great place to see free live music. The show is 21+, but open to the public. The address is 1109 E 6th St. There's free parking, a rooftop patio & a guaranteed fun time! More information can be found on the Centennial Lounge Instagram account.
Tulsa Zoo hosts Zoo Nights throughout the summer, an adults-only after-hours experience featuring themed nights, live music, drinks, yard games, animal encounters, and keeper chats. This summer’s themed events include the Masquerade Party on Friday, June 12, 2026, and a Luau on Friday, August 14, 2026. Events take place from 6–9:30 PM, tickets start at $36.99, and all guests must be 21 or older with a valid photo ID required for entry. It is the perfect way to enjoy a summer night out with friends while exploring the zoo in a completely different atmosphere.
Gathering Place is a nationally acclaimed, award-winning park along the Arkansas River and one of Tulsa’s best destinations for summer fun. Families can cool off at the interactive splash pads and water play features located throughout Adventure Playground, including the popular Misting Maze, Water Mountain, and Lotus Pond areas. Kids can run through sprays, climb and explore themed play structures, or enjoy shaded spots throughout the park. With multiple playgrounds, Peggy’s Pond, walking trails, and plenty of places to relax by the water, Gathering Place offers countless ways to beat the Oklahoma heat while spending the day outdoors.
Philbrook Museum of Art offers stunning formal and woodland gardens alongside the museum, providing serene grounds ideal for summer strolls and outdoor art installations. Families can also explore the new Tandy Pavilion, a family-friendly space featuring interactive activities, outdoor play areas, and hands-on experiences designed for younger visitors.
Paradise Beach Waterpark at 4707 East 21st Street in Tulsa offers a fun tropical escape with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and a special Toddler Paradise. Open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM during the summer, it’s perfect for families looking to cool off and make lasting memories in a safe, welcoming environment.
Shop locally year-round at the Tulsa Farmers’ Market, Oklahoma’s largest farmers’ market, located at 1 S Lewis Avenue in downtown Tulsa. From April through September, the market is open Saturdays from 7 to 11 AM, with additional Wednesday hours from May through August, 8 to 11 AM. Enjoy fresh produce, locally raised meats, cut flowers, baked goods, and artisan crafts from regional growers and makers. It is a vibrant way to support the community and savor the season.
On the First Friday of every month from 6 to 9 PM, the Tulsa Arts District comes alive with creativity and community during First Friday. Galleries and artist studios open their doors to showcase an exciting range of local artwork, including paintings, photography, sculpture, and mixed media. As you explore, you can enjoy live music performances, food trucks, and local craft beverages, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere. It is a perfect opportunity to meet the artists, discover unique pieces, and support Tulsa’s vibrant arts scene while enjoying an evening out with friends or family.
Much like the Saturday Farmer's Market in Kendall Whittier - the Midweek Market in downtown is a great place to shop local and get connected with local sellers, artists and businesses. The Midweek Market happens during the Summer, takes a break in August & picks back up in September for the Fall. The most up-to-date information can be found on their Instagram. Chapman Green is located at 600 S Main St.
From outdoor adventures and local markets to live music, family fun, and community events, there are countless ways to experience Tulsa this summer. Grab your friends and family, explore something new, and start checking off your 2026 Tulsa Summer Bucket List. ☀️