2-Day Oklahoma Adventure

I wanted a weekend getaway I could truly conquer in just two days (April 26-27, 2025), and Oklahoma was the perfect choice. In 48 hours, I explored Oklahoma City’s vibrant arts districts, savored local flavors along the Bricktown Canal, and discovered Tulsa’s charming riverfront and historic neighborhoods. Compact yet full of surprises, the Sooner State proved ideal for a whirlwind adventure.

Pace Note: This two-day trip through Oklahoma was an action-packed whirlwind, and honestly, it might be a bit intense for everyone. If you’d prefer a more relaxed pace, I’ve also put together a 3-Day Oklahoma Adventure itinerary at the end of this post for an extra day of discovery. Feel free to pick the version that best fits your travel style!

Day 1: Tulsa Highlights

Tulsa Botanic Garden - Map

I arrived at 10:30 AM and spent two peaceful hours wandering through serene trails and themed gardens, until I reached the main flower display and found only brittle stalks where vibrant blooms should have been. It was a genuine letdown. Lesson learned: visit in early March, right when the garden officially opens, to catch those flowers at their peak.

Tulsa Botanic Garden’s regular hours run from March 2 through November 21 because the grounds are open for their main spring-through-fall season only. After November 21, the Garden closes for routine maintenance and colder winter weather, then reopens briefly for the special Botanic Garden of Lights holiday event (November 28–December 28) before shutting down again through February. This seasonal schedule allows the Garden staff to focus on planting, pruning, and preparing exhibits for spring, while ensuring you see the grounds at their bloom-filled best.

• Hours (March 2–November 21, 2025)

  • Tuesday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

  • Extended Thursday hours (April 3 – Oct 30, 2025): open until 8 p.m.

  • Closed Mondays

  • Member Early Mornings: Fridays at 8:30 a.m.

• Admission Fee

  • Ages 16 +: $15

  • Ages 3 – 15: $10

  • Children under 3: Free (ticket required)

Philbrook Museum of Art - Map

I grabbed a quick lunch and arrived at Philbrook around 1:30 PM just as the rain began. I ducked into the grand villa’s galleries, admiring intricate Native American basketry and vibrant Chihuly glass. When the shower lingered, I took a brief drive through the nearby area; those historic homes looked downright enchanting in the drizzle. Minutes later, the skies cleared, and I returned to wander the formal gardens, where fountains and statuary framed a picture-perfect scene.

• Hours

  • Wednesday – Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM

  • Fridays: open until 9 PM

  • Closed Monday & Tuesday

• Admission Fee

  • Adults (18 +): $18

  • Youth (3–17): $8

  • Children 2 & under and Philbrook Members: free

  • Friday after 5 PM: $5 general admission

Philtower Building - Map

I reached the philtower around 3:45 PM and had no trouble finding parking nearby. Downtown has just a few tall buildings against the cloudy sky. A group of high school kids, likely celebrating an event, were dressed up and taking pictures inside and outside the building, which gave the place a lively atmosphere. I walked around for a bit, grabbed some tea, and enjoyed the moddy view of the clouds brushing the skyline.

• Hours

  • Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 4 PM

  • The lobby was open when I arrived, not sure if it's because of this high school group.

Boston Avenue Methodist Church - Map

Before heading to Boston Avenue, I passed several other churches within walking distance of each other. Most were closed, but one happened to be open, and people were gathered inside to pray, since Pope Francis had just passed away on April 21, 2025. I finally reached the city's most famous landmark at around 4:30 PM. The church was built in 1929 and is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco religious architecture in the U.S.

• Hours

  • Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 5 PM

  • Sunday: 8 AM - 1 PM

Gathering Place - Map

Gathering Place spans over 66 acres along the Arkansas River and was designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates. I arrived around 5:30 PM, and the reception area, known as Williams Lodge and its “gathering” space, immediately caught my eye with its architectural details, natural materials, and light streaming through tall windows.

After admiring the design, I strolled through the park before dusk. With the rain gone but clouds still hanging low, it felt calm and quiet, with moody light over the lush pathways. The kids’ play area stood out for its creativity, and the on-site café offered a cozy spot to grab coffee, snacks, or dessert.

• Hours

  • Daily: 7 AM - 9 PM

The Copper Dome - Map

I ended my day in Tulsa with dinner at Copper Dome, a fine-dining spot tucked inside the Silo Event Center. The space felt intimate and elegant, perfect for winding down after a full day of exploring.

I opted for the chef’s tasting menu, and it was nothing short of amazing. Each course felt thoughtful and beautifully presented, from delicate starters to rich entrées. The portions were so generous that I couldn’t even finish them all, but every bite was worth savoring. It was the perfect way to wrap up a rainy, moody day in Tulsa, as it was comforting, refined, and memorable. I highly recommend it.

• Hours

  • Thursday - Saturday: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

  • Sunday: 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM

  • Monday - Wednesday: Closed

Day 2: Oklahoma Highlights

The Lighthouse (Route 66 Mural) - Map

My first stop was the Route 66 “Lighthouse” mural, a striking tribute to the old highway’s spirit. The colors popped against the soft dawn light, and with so few people around, I got to really take it in without distractions.

Oklahoma City Zoo - Map

I arrived at the Oklahoma City Zoo around 9:15 AM. In my opinion, this is one of the best zoos I have ever visited. The morning was a little chilly, but as I walked through the grounds, it warmed up nicely.

What stood out most was the spaciousness of the habitats. The zebras, ostriches, bison, and other animals all had wide-open enclosures that felt natural and spacious. There was even a camel-back ride (for an additional charge), but I didn’t have time to try it. I am pretty sure there are other activities to try as well.

I got to see a wide range of animals, including tigers, zebras, bison, mountain lions, a family of Asiatic lions, bears, gorillas, orangutans, elephants, and giant tortoises, as well as butterflies, birds, and a variety of indoor exhibits. A few moments really stuck with me:

1. The mountain lion was pacing around; it looked restless, and I couldn’t tell if it was stressed or just active.

2. The bear came right up to the glass, walking and even napping close by, which had the kids around me laughing and pointing.

3. A gorilla walked directly in front of me, then sat down near the glass. I was thrilled to be that close.

4. The orangutan was hanging lazily in a tree, dozing in such a funny way that it made me laugh out loud.

5. The elephants were clearly enjoying themselves, and as someone who loves elephants, I half-joked to myself that I’d keep one as a pet if I could.

6. The lion family was sleeping close together like a big, happy family.

7. And the giant tortoise, I have never seen one so massive and so close before.

The zoo is huge; honestly, it could easily take a full day to explore. I had to rush through some areas, but what I did see left a lasting impression.

Tip: If you visit, give yourself plenty of time; it’s not a zoo to rush.

• Hours

  • Daily: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Admission Fee

  • Adults (12–64): $20

  • Children (3–11): $17

  • Seniors (65+): $17

  • Children 2 & under: Free

• Parking

  • On-site parking is available

Oklahoma State Capitol - Map

I reached the Oklahoma State Capitol around 1:30 PM. Since it was Sunday, the building was closed to visitors, so I only got to see the outside. The grounds were tranquil, with just a security guard on duty, which gave me plenty of space to walk around and take photos.

The Capitol building itself is impressive, with its white limestone façade and central dome, which was only added in 2002, even though the building dates back to 1917. A statue called The Guardian stands atop the dome, representing a Native American warrior and serving as a powerful symbol of the state’s heritage.

• Hours

  • Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM

  • Weekends & Holidays: Closed

  • Free admission and guided tours are offered on weekdays.

Saint Joseph Old Cathedral - Map

At 2:00 PM, I stopped by Saint Joseph Old Cathedral, a historic church built in 1889 and one of the oldest landmarks in downtown Oklahoma City. From the outside, its Gothic revival design, with pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and a simple steeple, stands out quietly against the modern skyline. I was able to step inside, and while it wasn’t crowded, the atmosphere felt calm and reverent. The stained glass filtered in soft light, and the church had that timeless, peaceful feel that made me linger a little longer. It wasn’t the most elaborate cathedral I’ve visited, but it carried a strong sense of history and resilience that made the stop worthwhile.

Did you know? Saint Joseph Old Cathedral was severely damaged during the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, with windows shattered, walls cracked, and the roof partially collapsed. It was later carefully restored and now stands as both a place of worship and a symbol of the city’s resilience.

• Hours

  • Weekdays (Tuesday -Friday): 12:00 PM

  • Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM

  • Sunday: 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM (Spanish), 4:00 PM

  • Monday: Closed

Oklahoma City National Memorial - Map

The memorial is right next to Saint Joseph Old Cathedral, so I walked there next. The open space with the reflecting pool and empty bronze chairs immediately felt calm yet heavy, each chair representing a life lost in the 1995 bombing.

I didn’t know much about the event until I entered the museum, where I learned what really happened that day. Hearing the actual audio recording from a court hearing during the explosion was heartbreaking. I can never understand the violence behind such an act, harming innocent people to make a point.

The exhibits included artifacts from the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, pieces of debris, personal items, and photos. It was both disturbing and moving to see how tragedy was turned into a place of remembrance and peace.

• Hours

  • Museum: Daily 9 AM - 6 PM

  • Outdoor Memorial: Open 24 hours (free)

• Admission Fee

  • Adults: $18

  • Seniors/Students: $15

  • Youth (5–17): $12

  • Children 4 & Under: Free