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8 Fun, Affordable Summer Activities for Kids in Tulsa

Summer is finally here, and it’s time to kick things up a notch with some awesome summer activities for kids in Tulsa!

As parents, we understand the importance of keeping our kids engaged and excited during the summer break.

Not only does it ensure their continuous growth and development, but it also keeps those young minds buzzing with excitement and curiosity.

Tulsa offers plenty of affordable and enjoyable family summer activities, it’s easy to craft a summer filled with laughter, shared adventures, and priceless moments of togetherness.

To help you out, I’ve rounded up 8 super fun family summer activities that will keep everyone entertained and engaged no matter their age or interests – yes, these will even make the perfect summer activities for teens!

Ready for some fun in the sun?

Let’s go!

Outdoor Summer Activities for Kids in Tulsa

1. Gathering Place

Location: 2650 S John Williams Way E, Tulsa, OK

Photo by Gathering Place

Gathering Place is a sprawling park that perfectly combines nature’s beauty with a variety of exciting activities.

From the thrilling Adventure Playground to the sports courts and skate park, there’s no shortage of fun for kids and teens.

Following a day of fun, families can enjoy a picnic at the Unit Picnic Grove, unwind at CTCA Willow Beach, or try kayaking or paddleboarding at the ONEOK Boathouse.

Additionally, Gathering Place’s event calendar is packed with activities for the entire family, including zumba, volleyball, breakdancing, yoga, movie nights, and even dog play days.

Also Check Out:

Chandler Park

  • Location: 6500 W. 21st St, Tulsa, OK

Case Park

  • Location: 2500 S River City Park Rd, Sand Springs, OK

2. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area

Location: 6850 S Elwood Ave, Tulsa, OK

Photo by Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area

Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area is a natural gem that offers a range of trails suitable for all ages and adventure levels.

Families seeking a challenge can tackle the Red Trail, a 0.8-mile loop that is perfect for beginners, as it is paved and the ground is fairly even.

This route begins at the trailhead, then loops around, almost in a figure-eight shape, providing a gentle introduction to hiking.

For those looking for more excitement, the Blue Trail offers a challenging 1.5-mile route that leads up steep hills to the very top of Turkey Mountain.

The Yellow Trail presents a 4.4-mile route with stunning views of the Arkansas River, ideal for children and teens eager to explore rugged terrain.

Additionally, the Pink Trail winds through forested areas, providing a moderate 5.7-mile hike.

This longer route includes zig-zag paths and interesting switchbacks and can be accessed from the Blue Trail, making it a great option for families seeking a more adventurous hike.

Turkey Mountain’s variety of trails makes it a perfect location for summer activities for kids in Tulsa, providing an excellent opportunity to escape into nature within the city.

Also Check Out:

Ray Harral Nature Park

  • Location: 7101 S 3rd St, Broken Arrow, OK

Oxley Nature Center

  • Location: 6700 Mohawk Blvd, Tulsa, OK

3. Paradise Beach Waterpark

Location: 4707 E 21st St, Tulsa, OK

Photo by Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach Waterpark is the ultimate summer destination for families seeking fun and excitement.

From toddlers to teens, there’s something for everyone, with a wide range of water slides and pools.

The little ones can splash around in the kiddie pool, while the older kids and adventurous adults can experience the thrill of high-speed water slides.

If relaxation is more your style, the lazy river offers a perfect way to cool off and bask in the sun.

For parents, there are plenty of seating areas to unwind and keep an eye on their children.

With its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions, Paradise Beach Waterpark guarantees that every family member will have a memorable and enjoyable time.

It’s the go-to destination for summer activities for kids in Tulsa, ensuring a day packed with fun and lasting memories.

Also Check Out:

McLure Pool

  • Location: 7440 E. 7th St, Tulsa, OK

Herman & Kate Kaiser YMCA

  • Location: 5400 S. Olympia Ave, Tulsa, OK

4. Keystone State Park

Location: 1926 S Hwy 151, Sand Springs, OK
Photo by Keystone State Park

Keystone State Park, just west of Tulsa in northeast Oklahoma, is the perfect camping destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Nestled in the scenic park, Keystone Lake offers a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing, making it an excellent choice for summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

Land-based adventures include ATV/ORV areas below the dam, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities in Oklahoma’s lush Green Country.

The park accommodates all kinds of stays, from rustic tent camping to RV sites with full hookups across its three main campgrounds, providing ample options for summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

These campgrounds offer picnic areas, pavilions, and comfort stations with showers.

For a more luxurious experience, fully furnished cabins with modern amenities, including kitchens, bathrooms, satellite television, and select cabins with Jacuzzis, are available.

Family-friendly amenities include a children’s fishing pond and playgrounds, while designated pet areas make it suitable for the whole family.

The park’s conference center, with a full kitchen and stunning lake views, provides a picturesque setting for events.

Keystone Lake offers a versatile outdoor experience, blending natural beauty with comfort and adventure, making it an excellent choice for summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

Also Check Out:

Hawthorn Bluff Campground

  • Location: 8377 OK-88, Oologah, OK

Sequoyah State Park

  • Location: 17131 Park 10, Hulbert, OK

 Indoor Summer Activities for Kids in Tulsa

1. Philbrook Museum

Location: 2727 S Rockford Rd, Tulsa, OK

Photo by Philbrook Museum

Philbrook Museum isn’t just about art; it’s a hub of interactive activities that are both educational and fun, making it an ideal choice for summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

With $5 Fridays after 5 PM, it’s an affordable evening outing for the whole family.

The museum’s event calendar is packed with unique activities throughout the summer, including art-making sessions, storytime, and family-friendly tours of their beautiful gardens.

It’s the perfect place for families to explore, learn, and create lasting memories together, all while staying cool indoors away from the summer heat.

2. Oklahoma Aquarium

Location: 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks, OK

Photo by Oklahoma Aquarium

The Oklahoma Aquarium in Tulsa offers a fantastic indoor escape for families seeking engaging summer activities for kids in Tulsa, especially during those hot summer months.

Home to a wide variety of aquatic life, from local river species to exotic ocean dwellers, it provides a unique educational experience where kids can see marine life up close.

Highlights include touch tanks, where children can interact with starfish and small rays, and the thrilling shark adventure exhibit, featuring a walk-through tunnel that allows sharks to glide right overhead.

Beyond daily explorations, the Aquarium hosts special events that add even more excitement to your visit.

ZZZs in the Seas is a unique overnight experience where families can sleep surrounded by the soothing movements of sharks, stingrays, and seahorses.

This magical night includes fun activities like a scavenger hunt, a flashlight tour, and movies, topped off with a light snack and breakfast by the tanks.

For families with budding scientists, the STEM Night events are not to be missed.

Held on the third Tuesday of each month, these evenings are dedicated to hands-on STEM projects that teach kids about environmental conservation.

The Make & Take sessions are a hit, allowing young participants to engage deeply with science topics and take home their creations.

Whether you’re exploring interactive exhibits during the day or participating in these special summer events, the Oklahoma Aquarium is a perfect destination to add a splash of educational adventure to your family’s summer plans.

3. Discovery Lab

Location: 3123 Riverside Dr, Tulsa, OK

Discovery Lab museum is filled with interactive exhibits designed to make learning fun, making it an excellent choice for summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

Kids and teens can explore concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on activities such as building in the WorkShop area and solving puzzles in the Electric Lime exhibit.

The museum also regularly hosts various workshops and demonstrations, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

With its engaging activities that blend education with entertainment, Discovery Lab provides the perfect environment for families to enjoy fun and learning together, all while staying cool and comfortable indoors away from the summer heat.

4. Tulsa City-County Libraries

Photo by Tulsa City County Library

Tulsa City-County Libraries are an excellent choice for families looking for a variety of indoor fun summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

Beyond the shelves of books, these libraries offer a wealth of resources and activities that appeal to children, teens, and adults alike.

The Summer Reading Program is particularly exciting, offering cool rewards that motivate kids to keep reading throughout their school break.

Their Maker Space is equipped with cool tech like a 3-D printer and sticker printing, which are great for creative projects.

Families interested in gardening can take advantage of the seed library.

Additionally, the libraries host regular events such as crafts sessions, art exchanges, music classes, dance workshops, and book clubs, ensuring there’s always something new to do or learn.

Holding a TCCL card opens up even more possibilities, including movie and audiobook rentals, and access to language learning resources.

These libraries provide a dynamic and enriching environment where families can spend quality time together, learn new skills, and enjoy a summer packed with activities.

In Closing

As you can see, Tulsa is brimming with opportunities for fun and adventure, making it the perfect place to create lasting memories this summer.

From the lush trails of Turkey Mountain to the interactive exhibits at the Discovery Lab and the watery wonders of the Oklahoma Aquarium, there’s no shortage of summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

Whether you prefer the tranquility of nature, the thrill of an educational challenge, or the excitement of water slides, each location offers something unique to explore and enjoy.

So, grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and get ready to dive into the array of summer activities for kids in Tulsa.

It’s the ideal time to step out of your routine, learn something new, and perhaps even discover a new favorite spot in the city.

With so many options at your fingertips, every day can be a new adventure.

Let Tulsa inspire you and your family this summer, fostering curiosity, creativity, and joy that lasts well beyond the sunny season.

Here’s to a summer filled with exploration, laughter, and the joy of discovering all that Tulsa has to offer!

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