Tulsa’s unique mix of architecture, history, and art makes it an ideal city for walking tours. Its Art Deco buildings stand out as some of the best-preserved examples in the country, and exploring downtown on foot lets you appreciate the city’s design and stories firsthand.
We especially like the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour for its detailed insights and insider access.
The tour’s focus on Tulsa’s iconic buildings, such as the Philtower and the Philcade, offers a window into the city’s oil boom era and its stylish future. Plus, starting next to Topeca Coffee, you can fuel up before wandering through Tulsa’s most photogenic streets.
For those interested in Tulsa’s secret passages, the Underground Tunnels Tour offers an intriguing peek beneath the city streets, revealing a network of passageways connecting historic skyscrapers—something that adds a layer of mystery and adventure to your visit.
If you prefer art, the Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado provides a more casual, app-led exploration of murals and public art around Tulsa, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of Tulsa’s top walking tours. Each offers a unique perspective, whether it’s architectural grandeur, underground secrets, or vibrant murals.
1. Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour
This highly-rated tour (5.0/5 from 51 reviews) is a solid choice for anyone interested in Tulsa’s signature Art Deco style and historic buildings. Starting at a dazzling landmark in the Deco District, guided by experts, this 2-hour walk takes you through Tulsa’s most iconic structures, including the Atlas Life Building, Philtower, Tulsa Club, and Pythian Temple.
The guides bring the buildings’ stories alive, explaining why Tulsa became a showcase for Neo-Gothic and Art Deco architecture, even in a city of its size.
What makes this tour stand out is its insider access—walking inside some buildings and seeing architectural details up close. It’s perfect for architecture lovers or those wanting a rundown of Tulsa’s design history. The tour runs most Saturday mornings and costs $52 per person, a reasonable price given the depth of insight and the opportunity to explore downtown Tulsa’s most photogenic corners.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the engaging storytelling, with many noting it as a highlight of their visit.
Bottom line: If you want a deep dive into Tulsa’s architectural gems with expert narration, this tour is a top pick. It offers excellent value and a memorable way to spend a couple of hours.
2. Tulsa: History Walking Tour of Underground Tunnels
For around $40, this 1.5-hour tour offers a unique look at Tulsa’s underground tunnels—a secret world beneath the city’s streets. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore the passageways connecting some of downtown’s earliest skyscrapers like the Philtower and Philcade, uncovering stories of Tulsa’s booming oil period.
The tunnels were originally built for practicality—serving as delivery routes and safety passages—but over time, they’ve become a fascinating part of Tulsa’s lore.
What makes this tour special is the chance to walk through a maze of tunnels that few visitors see, with stories about what was buried beneath the city and how these passageways played a role in Tulsa’s development. Reviews highlight the tour’s engaging storytelling and the thrill of discovering a hidden side of Tulsa.
If you’re a history buff or love urban exploration, this tour offers a rare glimpse into Tulsa’s past that you won’t find on most city walks.
Bottom line: This tour is well-suited for those curious about Tulsa’s secret infrastructure and the oil boom era; it’s an engaging, story-rich experience that won’t break the bank.
3. Tulsa: Art Deco Walking Tour of Tulsa
If you’re especially drawn to the visual beauty of Tulsa’s Art Deco buildings, this 2-hour guided walk is a must. Rated 5/5 from 6 reviews, it focuses on the different styles and European influences that shaped Tulsa’s skyline.
During this tour, you’ll get up close with buildings like the Philcade and the Mayo Hotel, learning about the materials, motifs, and cultural influences that make Tulsa’s Art Deco architecture so distinctive.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on architectural details and artistic influences, helping you appreciate the design elements that often go unnoticed. It’s especially good for design enthusiasts and visitors wanting a detailed look at Tulsa’s decorative styles.
The $54 price reflects the quality of the guided experience and the opportunity to see Tulsa’s architecture through a more artistic lens.
Bottom line: If you want a focused exploration of Tulsa’s Art Deco style with detailed explanations, this tour offers a rich, visually engaging experience.
4. Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado
For a more casual, flexible experience, this app-led art walk (costing $14.99) takes you through Tulsa’s vibrant mural scene. Over approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll explore murals, public art, and hidden artistic surprises around the city, with challenges and trivia to keep things lively. It’s ideal for those who enjoy self-guided adventures or want a flexible way to see local art at their own pace.
While it currently has no reviews, the format makes it accessible and fun for families, groups, or anyone wanting to experience Tulsa’s modern artistic expression without a formal tour. This option suits travelers on a budget or those with limited time, looking for a light but engaging activity.
Bottom line: If you’re into street art and want a flexible, budget-friendly way to discover Tulsa’s murals, this app-based tour offers a modern, interactive experience.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Tulsa
When selecting a walking tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend exploring. If architecture and historical buildings fascinate you, the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour is an excellent choice. For those curious about Tulsa’s secret underground passages, the Underground Tunnels Tour offers a rare peek beneath the city streets.
Art lovers who prefer murals might enjoy the Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado, especially if they want a self-paced experience.
Budget, physical activity level, and time availability also matter. The underground tunnels tour is shorter and more affordable, while the architecture tour provides more comprehensive insights. Booking early, especially for the popular architecture tours, is recommended—Tulsa’s vibrant cityscape and art scene are worth exploring sooner rather than later.
Final Thoughts
Tulsa offers a surprising variety of walking tours that cater to different interests. If you love historical architecture and detailed stories, the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture with Expert Guide Walking Tour is a standout. For a sense of adventure and mystery, the Underground Tunnels Tour provides an intriguing underground tour.
Meanwhile, the Art Walk Tulsa’s Mural Tornado is perfect if you want a quick, flexible, and visually stimulating experience.
No matter your preference, these tours give you a chance to see Tulsa from new angles and learn about its unique character. To get the most out of your trip, consider booking your preferred tour early—Tulsa’s vibrant streets and stories won’t wait. Happy walking!