John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park
A poignant memorial to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, this park offers powerful art and a space for reflection and reconciliation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beautiful light for photos
John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park
Best Time
Beautiful light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant memorial to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, this park offers powerful art and a space for reflection and reconciliation.
"Beautiful, haunting, informative. The sculptures are just stunning. You can't help but feel connected."
🎯 Read the Plaques
Gain deep historical context about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
🚶♀️ Walk the Labyrinth
A meditative experience for reflection and inner peace.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tower of Reconciliation
Center of the park
A striking monument symbolizing the history of African Americans in Oklahoma and the path to healing.
Sculptures by Ed Dwight
Throughout the park
Powerful artistic representations of pain, resistance, and the climb toward healing.
Peaceful Healing Walkway
Along the park's perimeter
A serene path designed for contemplation and meaningful conversations.
Tulsa Race Riot of 1921 Plaque
Near the entrance
Provides crucial historical context and details about the tragic events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Allow Time for Reflection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Read the Plaques
Gain deep historical context about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
🚶♀️ Walk the Labyrinth
A meditative experience for reflection and inner peace.
📸 Capture the Art
The sculptures are stunning and tell a powerful story.
🤝 Connect with History
This park is a vital space to understand Tulsa's past.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Read the Plaques
Gain deep historical context about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
🚶♀️ Walk the Labyrinth
A meditative experience for reflection and inner peace.
📸 Capture the Art
The sculptures are stunning and tell a powerful story.
🤝 Connect with History
This park is a vital space to understand Tulsa's past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park as a beautiful, haunting, and deeply informative memorial to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Many highlight the powerful sculptures and the park's ability to foster reflection and conversation, calling it a 'Tulsa treasure' and a 'must-visit' for understanding history. Some note the peaceful atmosphere and the thoughtful design that aids in contemplation.
"This little park seems like a fitting memorial to the tragic events of 1921. Reading the plaques around the sides gives perspective on the history, and the statues are a reminder of the times. The peaceful healing walkway and waterfall give a sense of calm for reflection."
K O
"Sacred space & place; can only imagine time, consideration & planning that went into rendering such creative use of imagery, texture & story telling at every turn. It’s a Tulsa treasure. Thank you ♥️♥️♥️"
Vernice Calloway
"The construction of the John Hope Franklin reconciliation Park is a wonderful idea. If the idea was to create an environment within a cityscape to lead to talk, reflection and relaxation I think this park nails it. There are a number of plaques and statues that reminds everyone of what the reconciliation should be about. However the landscape, the seating and the open space certainly leads to one having meaningful conversations with others or just taking the time for thought and reflection"
Ron P. (Texas Born)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located at 321 N Detroit Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120. It's accessible by car, and there's often street parking available. Some visitors mention it's a good stop when exploring downtown Tulsa or the Greenwood District.
Yes, it's situated in the Greenwood District, near Greenwood Rising Black History Center and not far from downtown Tulsa attractions.
Information on specific bus routes is limited, but Tulsa has a public transit system. Checking local transit schedules for routes near the Greenwood District is recommended.
While specific parking details can vary, visitors generally find parking options nearby, especially on weekdays.
The park features walkways and open spaces, designed for reflection. Specific accessibility details can be confirmed with park management if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park is a public park and generally free to enter.
As a public park, it is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check for any special event hours.
There is no admission fee to visit John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park.
Yes, the park is a venue for various community events, including marches and awareness walks.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, the park's design and informational plaques offer a self-guided historical experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key features include the Tower of Reconciliation, powerful sculptures by Ed Dwight, the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921 plaque, and the Peaceful Healing Walkway. +1
It stands as a central monument memorializing the history of African Americans in Oklahoma and the journey toward reconciliation.
Yes, photography is encouraged, especially during golden hour for beautiful shots.
The park offers seating areas and open spaces conducive to reflection and conversation.
Take your time to walk through, read the historical markers, and absorb the artistic expressions. Allow for moments of quiet reflection.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tower of Reconciliation, the various sculptures, and the overall landscape offer great photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the park's atmosphere and monuments.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances or park rules before flying a drone.
Capturing the emotional resonance of the sculptures and the historical markers can lead to powerful images.
If an event is taking place, be mindful of participants' privacy and any event-specific photography guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the artistic elements and the message of hope and healing. The sculptures can spark conversations about resilience and overcoming challenges. It's a place to teach about important historical events in a respectful and thoughtful manner.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to read every marker and absorb the narratives. Consider researching the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre beforehand to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the park's significance. The Tower of Reconciliation and the works of Ed Dwight are particularly noteworthy.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Visitors
Allow yourself ample time to wander, read, and simply be present. The park's atmosphere is conducive to quiet thought and processing the profound history it represents. It's a place to connect with yourself and the broader human experience of resilience and hope.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Purpose of the Park
+1The park's design incorporates powerful artistic elements, including sculptures by renowned artist Ed Dwight, which visually narrate the story of pain, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward a more equitable future. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the historical plaques and monuments to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events and their lasting impact.
Ultimately, the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park aims to transform years of racial division into a hopeful future. It's a place where history is not forgotten, but actively remembered and used as a foundation for building stronger, more unified communities.
Artistic Expressions of Reconciliation
Visitors often describe the sculptures as 'stunning' and 'haunting,' noting how they create a profound connection to the history being honored. The Tower of Reconciliation itself is a significant artistic and symbolic landmark, representing the collective memory and the aspiration for peace.
Beyond the major monuments, the park's layout, including the Peaceful Healing Walkway and labyrinth, is designed to encourage introspection and dialogue. The creative use of imagery and texture throughout the park invites visitors to engage with the history on a personal and emotional level, making it a truly immersive and moving experience.
Community and Events at the Park
For instance, the park has been a venue for events like the 'March for Humanity' and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's Breast Cancer Awareness 'Candy' Walk, demonstrating its versatility as a gathering place for various causes and community groups.
These events underscore the park's role as a hub for civic engagement and a platform for dialogue. By hosting such activities, the park continues to foster a sense of community and collective action, reinforcing its commitment to reconciliation and a brighter future.
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