Tulsa is home to a rich history, which means there are plenty of interesting places to explore. Having lived in Tulsa my entire life, I've come across some "hidden gems" other Tulsans, and surely other non-natives, may not be familiar with. It was difficult to choose just seven, but I did my best to narrow it down to some of the most unique and obscure locations around T-Town. Since this list certainly isn't comprehensive, I encourage you to do some digging and find your own favorites!
1. Tulsa Spotlight Theatre
The Tulsa Spotlight Theatre on Riverside Drive has hosted plenty of great performances over the years, including America's longest running play, "The Drunkard and The Olio." The play has been presented at the Tulsa Spotlight Theatre every Saturday evening since 1953, where audience members may enjoy a variety of refreshments while watching a classic comedy complete with fake tomatoes to throw at the villain!
2. The Cave House
The Cave House, located at 1623 Charles Page Boulevard, is one of Tulsa most intriguing buildings. Originally built in the 1920's as a chicken restaurant, the house has been redecorated by its current owner Kate Collier, who now offers official tours to inquisitive passersby. Many are interested to see inside, not only because of its unique exterior but to hear about the Cave House's exciting past, which includes a now sealed speakeasy from prohibition and talk of the paranormal.
http://cavehousetulsa.com/index.html
3. VW Bug Spider
https://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/22611
This one's simple but adorable. On North Sheridan Road en route to the zoo, stands a little VW Bug set atop four long legs. The creation serves as an advertisement for a pest control business but does so in the cutest way possible. So, if you're a bug-lover (of either the insect or car variety) you should check this one out.
4. Campbell Hotel
The Campbell Hotel is a beautiful place to stay if you happen to be passing through historic Route 66. Starting its life as the Casa Loma Hotel in 1927, the Campbell has since been refurbished to accommodate a new, more modern crowd. However, many rooms still boast classic architecture and decor reminiscent of its quaint hospitality throughout the decades. Guests may enjoy a stay in one of these themed rooms, have a drink in the lounge and relax at the spa.
https://www.thecampbellhotel.com/
5. The Center of the Universe
This attraction is a bit more well-known, but I hate to leave it off the list as it is a favorite for many and a truly unique feature of downtown Tulsa. On a pedestrian bridge leading from Archer and Boston near the old Train Depot stands a tall cloud-shaped sign. Below it is a circle of bricks embedded in concrete. By standing inside this circle and speaking, one may experience quite an unusual phenomenon. While those outside the circle hear a normal speaking voice, the person inside will hear their own voice echoed back at them at a greater volume, as if speaking into a microphone. Perhaps this has something to do with the orientation of the buildings? Whatever the cause, it's undoubtedly awesome.
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-center-of-the-universe
6. The Abundant Life Building
This strange looking building, located just south of downtown Tulsa, certainly stands out with its geometric and windowless design. The Abundant Life Building was built in the late 1950's and was subsequently abandoned in the 80's. It served as the headquarters for Oral Robert's Ministry and later as a call center for Southwestern Bell. The public is unable to access the building at the moment (which isn't to say some haven't managed to do so...), and while it has seen better days, those who have made it inside remarked that in its current condition, it was like walking back in time-- and that it was creepy as hell.
http://www.abandonedok.com/abundant-life-building/
7. The Council Oak
I chose to finish with the Council Oak Tree since it's more or less the ~root~ of Tulsa (pun intended). This old post oak served as the meeting ground for Tulsa's earliest residents after their tragic forced relocation to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears. In fact, the name "Talasi," given by the Muscogee Creeks to this newly established village led the name we now know as Tulsa.
http://www.tulsapeople.com/Tulsa-People/June-2017/...
Now that you know about them, why not go check out these hidden gems for yourself! Or better yet, make your own discoveries.
