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 - Directions

  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, if you want 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 re-opens briefly for the special Botanic Garden of Lights holiday event (Nov 28–Dec 28) before shutting down again through February. This seasonal schedule lets the Garden staff 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

    • Ages 16 +: $15

    • Ages 3 – 15: $10

    • Children under 3: Free (ticket required)

• Philbrook Museum of Art - Directions

  I grabbed a quick lunch and arrived at Philbrook around 1:30 PM just as 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 nearby; 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

    • Adults (18 +): $18

    • Youth (3–17): $8

    • Children 2 & under and Philbrook Members: free

    • Friday after 5 PM: $5 general admission