Gathering Place
A 66-acre riverfront oasis in Tulsa, OK, featuring the nation's largest playground, water features, and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Gathering Place
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 66-acre riverfront oasis in Tulsa, OK, featuring the nation's largest playground, water features, and scenic trails.
"I have NEVER been to such a well-planned, beautiful, extensive, interactive park."
🎯 Plan for a Full Day
You can easily spend all day here! Bring snacks & water.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Essential for the splash pad to keep little feet comfy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Adventure Playground
Central Park Area
The largest playground in the US, offering endless climbing, sliding, and imaginative play for kids of all ages.
Water Play Areas
Various Locations
Splash pads and water features provide a fun way to cool off during warmer months. Water shoes are recommended!
Pedal Boating & Kayaking
Arkansas River
Enjoy scenic views from the water with free pedal boating and kayaking opportunities. Kids must be 5+ to ride.
Pedestrian Bridge & Zink Lake
Riverside
A beautiful spot for evening walks with stunning views, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for a Full Day of Exploration
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for a Full Day
You can easily spend all day here! Bring snacks & water.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Essential for the splash pad to keep little feet comfy.
☀️ Sunscreen & Hats
Protect yourself from the Oklahoma sun, especially in summer.
💰 Quarters for Fish Food
A fun little extra for the kids to feed the fish.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for a Full Day
You can easily spend all day here! Bring snacks & water.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Essential for the splash pad to keep little feet comfy.
☀️ Sunscreen & Hats
Protect yourself from the Oklahoma sun, especially in summer.
💰 Quarters for Fish Food
A fun little extra for the kids to feed the fish.
🚶♀️ Explore Every Corner
So much to discover, don't miss any of the unique areas!
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Parking is plentiful and conveniently located near park sections.
🧘 Outdoor Yoga Classes
Check schedules for free, family-friendly yoga sessions on the Great Lawn.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Gathering Place as an exceptionally well-designed, beautiful, and extensive park offering endless activities for families. The thoughtful layout, clean facilities, and abundance of play options are frequently highlighted as major positives. While the summer heat can be intense, the park's cooling areas and the recommendation to visit during cooler months or early in the day help mitigate this.
"Can we talk about a PARK?! I have NEVER been to such a well-planned, beautiful, extensive, interactive park. There is so much to do for families, from water play, to sand, to engineering play, but it is not only done well from an experience level, but it is beautiful. The paths, the textures, the different levels, and the variations in the plants all show the time and dedication that was put into making this space so amazing. Restrooms are clean, many water fountains in each of the different spaces, and multiple opportunities for children to climb, slide, and run. Parking is ample, and close to the different spaces. Definitely would suggest bringing water bottles and quarters for the fish food dispensers, and sunblock. The splash pad suggests water shoes, we didn't have them, but if we went back I would bring them. Love this park!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Nastassja Wallace
"We drove 5 hours to come spend some time with our kids at this amazing park and we loved it! The heat is brutal during the summer but they have a cooling area so you can continue your journey throughout the park. I recommend bringing lots of water and some snacks. There's so much to discover!"
Nely Romero
"This place is fantastic. The fact that it us men made blows my mind. You can easily spent 4 hours here, kids will have a blast exploring, lots of space for picnic or walk your dog. They have a little cafe, kayak and boat rides. If this place is on your way- do yourself a favor and stop by."
Maria Shinder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gathering Place is located at 2650 S. Utica Ave, Tulsa, OK 74114. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors also enjoy walking or biking along the Arkansas River trails to reach the park.
While direct public transportation routes might vary, Tulsa's public transit system can get you close to the park. It's recommended to check the Tulsa Transit website for the most current routes and schedules.
Parking is ample and spread across several lots, with convenient access to different park areas. Visitors note that parking is generally easy to find, even during busy times.
Absolutely! The park is connected to Tulsa's extensive trail system along the Arkansas River, making it a fantastic destination for cyclists.
No, The Gathering Place is completely free to enter and enjoy! This makes it a fantastic option for budget-friendly family fun.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no tickets required for entry to The Gathering Place. It's a public park, open to everyone to enjoy its amenities and activities free of charge.
The park is generally open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, but hours can vary seasonally or for special events. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While most areas are open to all ages, some activities like pedal boating and kayaking require children to be at least 5 years old.
Yes, The Gathering Place is dog-friendly! However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
The park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wide pathways, accessible play structures, and other features to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the massive Adventure Playground, the interactive water play areas, the scenic pedestrian bridge, and the opportunities for pedal boating or kayaking on the river. +2
Most visitors recommend dedicating at least 4-6 hours, or even a full day, to fully explore the park and enjoy its many offerings.
There's a huge variety, including the largest playground in the US, sand play areas, climbing structures, slides, and sensory play zones designed for all ages and abilities.
Yes, the park features numerous open green spaces perfect for picnics, as well as shaded areas and comfortable seating throughout.
Essentials include water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and water shoes for the splash pad. Quarters for fish food dispensers are also a fun addition.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few cafes and eateries within the park offering snacks, light meals, and beverages. However, bringing your own picnic is also a popular and recommended option.
Absolutely! Bringing your own snacks and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for families with young children, to save money and ensure you have what you need.
The cafes typically offer a range of options like sandwiches, salads, ice cream, and coffee. It's best to check their current menus if you plan to purchase food on-site.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic tables scattered throughout, as well as plenty of open grassy areas perfect for spreading out a blanket.
While specific recommendations vary, visitors generally find the on-site cafes convenient for quick bites. Many prefer to pack their own meals to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The pedestrian bridge offers stunning skyline views, especially at sunset. The diverse play structures and lush landscaping provide endless picturesque backdrops throughout the park.
Definitely! The vibrant colors, unique architecture, and beautiful natural elements make it an ideal location for memorable family portraits.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light. However, the park is visually appealing throughout the day with its varied landscapes. +1
Typically, drone usage is restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check the park's official regulations regarding drones.
Yes, many creators share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the park's beauty and activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the thoughtful amenities like clean restrooms, ample shade, and convenient parking, which significantly ease the logistics of a family outing. Bringing water shoes for the splash pads and packing plenty of snacks and drinks are highly recommended to maximize comfort and enjoyment.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can spend an entire day exploring its vast grounds, enjoying the playgrounds, water features, and scenic riverfront without spending a dime on admission. To keep costs even lower, pack your own picnic and drinks. While there are cafes on-site, bringing your own food is a popular and cost-effective strategy, especially for families.
couples
Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's many serene spots, or simply find a quiet bench to soak in the atmosphere. The park's beauty and diverse landscapes also make it a wonderful backdrop for photography or simply enjoying each other's company amidst nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision Behind The Gathering Place
+1This dedication to inclusivity and thoughtful design is evident in every aspect of the park. From the accessible play structures to the diverse landscaping and interactive water features, the park aims to spark joy, imagination, and a sense of belonging. It has been recognized nationally for its excellence, winning awards such as USA Today's Best Park in 2021 and being named the Nation's Best City Park for 2024.
+1The park's creation has significantly enhanced Tulsa's recreational offerings and has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. It stands as a prime example of how public-private partnerships can create transformative community assets.
Family Fun at The Gathering Place
Many visitors emphasize the park's thoughtful design for all ages. Toddlers have dedicated areas, while older children can tackle more challenging structures. The sheer scale of the park means there's always something new to discover, ensuring that even repeat visits remain exciting.
For a truly memorable family experience, consider bringing water shoes for the splash pads and packing plenty of snacks and drinks. The opportunity for pedal boating or kayaking also adds an extra layer of adventure for families with children aged five and older.
Riverside Relaxation and Recreation
Visitors can take advantage of the free pedal boating and kayaking services available on the river, offering a unique perspective of the park and its surroundings. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the water and get some light exercise while taking in the scenic beauty.
Beyond the water activities, the park's extensive trail system connects to the broader Riverside Trail network, inviting longer bike rides or walks. The open green spaces along the river are perfect for yoga sessions or simply unwinding amidst nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit