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Philbrook Museum of Art

4.8
·4k reviews·Tulsa, United States

An Italian Renaissance villa showcasing global art collections amidst breathtaking formal gardens in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Philbrook Museum of Art - Shot on OptiColour 200

Philbrook Museum of Art

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An Italian Renaissance villa showcasing global art collections amidst breathtaking formal gardens in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"The scenery and tranquility that exudes in this whimsical garden is something worth coming for."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Garden Stroll Essential

Don't miss the gardens! They're a magical escape with fountains, koi ponds, and stunning landscaping. :evergreen_tree:

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Weekend parking can be a challenge, so arrive early or consider alternative transportation if possible. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Italian Renaissance Villa

Italian Renaissance Villa

Main Mansion

Explore the historic home of oil pioneers Waite and Genevieve Phillips, designed as an Italian Renaissance villa.

Expansive Formal Gardens

Expansive Formal Gardens

Outdoor Gardens

Wander through lush, manicured gardens with fountains, koi ponds, and a rotunda. A truly magical outdoor experience.

Diverse Art Collections

Diverse Art Collections

Museum Galleries

Discover a mix of modern and timeless art pieces, with some visitors highlighting favorite artists and historical clothing exhibits.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Avoid large children's events for a more peaceful experience. Check the museum's calendar for special exhibits or events that might require timed entry or increase crowds. Weekday mornings are generally less busy than weekends.

Picnic or Cafe?

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful gardens, or utilize the on-site cafe for snacks. The cafe is not a full restaurant, so plan accordingly if you're looking for a substantial meal.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Fall
Why
Ideal garden weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Wednesdays (check calendar)
Why
Potential for family events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa,OK 😍😍🤍🤍🌷🌷@@PhilbrookMuseum
@traveloklahomayall
80 likes • 2.9K views

🎯 Garden Stroll Essential

Don't miss the gardens! They're a magical escape with fountains, koi ponds, and stunning landscaping. :evergreen_tree:

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Weekend parking can be a challenge, so arrive early or consider alternative transportation if possible. :car:

The Philbrook Museum of Art is one of the coolest places in Tulsa! For all you art lovers, this should be on your bucket list ✔️ #UTulsa #TulsaOK #ReignCane
@utulsa
156 likes • 6.5K views
Part 6 of 20 under $20! 🖼️🌷Grab your friends and family and explore the @philbrookmuseum to enjoy the perfect mixture of history, fun and education! (Adult) Admission: $18.00 (Ages 3-17) Admission: $8.00 (Under 2) Admission: Free College Students: $14.00 Free Events with admission fee: https://philbrook.org/calendar/ . . . #tulsa #museum #history
@oklahomascu
2.8K likes • 33.6K views

📸 Perfect for Photos

The architecture and gardens are incredibly picturesque, making it a dream spot for photographers and wedding inspiration. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially exploring the extensive gardens and multiple levels of the museum. :athletic_shoe:

We absolutely love it here 😍 @Philbrook Museum of Gardens #tulsa #tulsaoklahoma #toddleractivities #thingstodointulsa
@moriahh51
220 likes • 7.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Garden Stroll Essential

Don't miss the gardens! They're a magical escape with fountains, koi ponds, and stunning landscaping. :evergreen_tree:

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Weekend parking can be a challenge, so arrive early or consider alternative transportation if possible. :car:

📸 Perfect for Photos

The architecture and gardens are incredibly picturesque, making it a dream spot for photographers and wedding inspiration. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially exploring the extensive gardens and multiple levels of the museum. :athletic_shoe:

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Outlets

Look for downstairs play areas and coloring pages that offer kids a good change of pace. :child:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Philbrook Museum of Art for its stunning Italian Renaissance architecture and its absolutely magical, meticulously maintained gardens. The diverse art collections are also a highlight, offering something for every taste. While generally a peaceful experience, be aware that large children's events can increase crowds and noise levels.

"I loved all of it, but the gardens and the architecture were definitely my favorite. The kids enjoyed the coloring pages and play area downstairs, the library room, and the garden. Those spaces gave them a good outlet and change of pace.

You can leave and come back with your receipt if you want to eat out, or you can pack a picnic for the garden. The on-site cafe has snacks but is not a full restaurant."

Melanie Lowry

"Come to visit as I had been very intrigued in the art pieces. I had to come and take a look for myself.
I was not disappointed from the inside the atmosphere was very inviting and everything was very well organized. The ambiance and timeless pieces were picturesque. I absolutely enjoyed looking at all the modern pieces.
And let’s not talk about the outdoors wow. Absolutely magical. The scenery and the tranquility that exudes in this whimsical garden is something worth coming for.
The lush and perfectly manicured gardens with the peaceful sound of the fountains I almost didn’t want to leave. The Gardens were a special treat to walk around and enjoy some peace and tranquility.
I absolutely recommend visiting Phil brook art museum if you’re in the area."

C.S

"This is a beautiful museum in a beautiful location. We especially enjoyed the grounds. Some of the art on top floor were by favorite artists of ours. Still lovely. The grounds are perfect. The hardscaping, fountains, statues, landscaping were all art in themselves. We were anticipating a quiet, peaceful time. However, we visited during a big children's event and would have visited a different day had we known. (We didn't see any mention when we were looking at hours/prices.) It was much more crowded than we anticipated for a Wednesday morning and not as peaceful in views or sound, but still lovely.
The photographer's garden (?) was closed so we were sad to miss that; however, the other side with the summer house, fountain and ascent to the house was lovely with the large swing and bench alcoves along the ascent.
The back of the house gardens sweep down, accented by descending water steps, fountains, koi pond and culminating in a lovely rotunda perched among the surrounding trees."

charlene inman

What People Like

Beautiful gardens
Stunning architecture
Diverse art collections

What People Dislike

Weekend parking issues
Crowds during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Philbrook Museum of Art is located at 2727 S Rockford Rd, Tulsa, OK 74114. It's accessible by car, and while parking can be challenging on weekends, it's generally manageable. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point in Tulsa. TikTok

Yes, parking is available, but it can be a 'nightmare on a weekend' according to visitors. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak times or special events. Reddit

Yes, you can leave and return with your receipt, which is convenient if you plan to eat off-site or need a break. Reddit

Wear comfortable shoes! You'll want to explore both the indoor galleries and the expansive outdoor gardens. There are stairs, but an elevator and lift are available for accessibility. Reddit

Yes, Tulsa offers other attractions like The Gathering Place, Black Wall Street, and various restaurants and shops that can be combined for a full day of exploration. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Adult admission is $18.00, college students are $14.00, and children aged 3-17 are $8.00. Admission is free for children under 2. Prices are subject to change, so it's always best to check their official website. TikTok

While you can buy tickets at the door, and there might not be a wait for general entry, special exhibits may have timed entry. Booking in advance is a good idea, especially for popular times or special exhibitions. Reddit

Philbrook occasionally hosts free events or has specific free admission days. It's recommended to check their official calendar for upcoming events and promotions. TikTok

The museum's hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Philbrook Museum of Art website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, including any special holiday closures. TikTok

Yes, the museum offers an elevator and lift for accessibility, ensuring visitors can navigate the different levels and areas of the museum and gardens. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Art

Photography is generally allowed for personal use in most areas of the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. The gardens are also fantastic for photos. TikTok

Philbrook features a diverse collection, including modern art, historical pieces, and decorative arts. Visitors have enjoyed both the contemporary exhibits and the timeless pieces. Reddit

The museum frequently hosts special exhibits that change throughout the year. Check their website for current and upcoming exhibitions to plan your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Art lovers will appreciate the diverse collections housed within the beautiful architecture of the former villa and its stunning gardens. TikTok

Sketching is a popular activity for visitors, with some even documenting their artistic process at the museum. Ensure you follow museum guidelines for sketching. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Philbrook has an on-site cafe that offers snacks, but it is not a full-service restaurant. Visitors often pack picnics to enjoy in the gardens. Reddit

Yes, packing a picnic is a great option for enjoying the beautiful gardens. This is a popular choice for visitors looking for a more casual dining experience. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options at the cafe is not widely available. It's best to check with the cafe directly or plan for snacks if you have specific dietary needs. TikTok

Tulsa has a vibrant food scene. Nearby options might include restaurants in the Brookside area or downtown Tulsa, offering various cuisines. TikTok

The Philbrook Museum of Art is considered a dream wedding venue, with its stunning architecture and gardens providing a beautiful backdrop for events. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Philbrook Museum of Art is a fantastic option for families looking for an enriching outing. The museum offers dedicated play areas and coloring activities downstairs, providing children with a fun and engaging space. Reddit The expansive gardens are also a hit with kids, offering plenty of room to explore and discover. TikTok+1 Consider a membership if you anticipate frequent visits, as it can be a great value for families. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

For photographers and art lovers, Philbrook is a dream. The Italian Renaissance villa architecture and the stunning formal gardens provide endless opportunities for breathtaking shots. TikTokReddit+3 The diverse art collections, ranging from modern pieces to historical artifacts, offer a rich visual experience. Reddit The museum is even considered a dream wedding venue, underscoring its photogenic qualities. TikTok

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Philbrook Museum of Art offers a romantic escape with its beautiful gardens and elegant villa setting. TikTok+2 Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the manicured grounds, admire the fountains, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Reddit It's an ideal spot for a leisurely date or a quiet afternoon together, offering both cultural enrichment and scenic beauty. TikTok

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

While admission has a fee, Philbrook can be a worthwhile investment. Look for potential discounts for college students. TikTok Packing a picnic to enjoy in the gardens is a great way to save on food costs. Reddit Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Gardens of Philbrook

The gardens at Philbrook Museum of Art are a major draw, often described as 'magical' and 'absolutely breathtaking.' TikTok+2 These aren't just any gardens; they are expansive formal gardens meticulously designed with a variety of features. Visitors rave about the lush landscaping, the peaceful sound of fountains, and the tranquility they offer. You'll find descending water steps, a serene koi pond, and a charming rotunda nestled among the trees. The hardscaping, statues, and overall design are considered art in themselves, making a stroll through the grounds a truly immersive experience. Reddit

During different seasons, the gardens offer unique beauty. From the vibrant blooms of spring and summer to the autumnal colors, the scenery is always captivating. TikTok Even on a rainy day, a walk through the gardens can be a unique and atmospheric experience. TikTok The gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk, a quiet moment of reflection, or even a romantic outing. TikTok+1

For those planning a visit, remember that the gardens are extensive and involve walking, often with stairs. However, the beauty and serenity make it well worth the effort. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply seeking a beautiful natural escape, the Philbrook gardens are a must-see highlight. Reddit

A Glimpse into History: The Villa Itself

The Philbrook Museum of Art is housed within the former Villa Philbrook, a historic home built in the 1920s for Oklahoma oil pioneers Waite and Genevieve Phillips. TikTok+2 The architecture is a stunning example of an Italian Renaissance villa, a style that is evident throughout the museum's design and ambiance. TikTok+1 Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time, with an atmosphere that is both inviting and timeless. Reddit

Exploring the villa allows visitors to appreciate the grandeur of a bygone era. The interior spaces are well-organized and filled with art, creating a picturesque setting. Reddit The museum showcases a diverse collection of fine and decorative arts within these historic walls, making the building itself a significant part of the visitor experience. TikTok+1 The blend of historical architecture and artistic exhibits creates a unique and enriching cultural destination. TikTok

For those interested in history and architecture, the villa provides a fascinating backdrop to the art collections. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering a rich tapestry of stories and visual delights. The regal experience of being within this historic home is something many visitors cherish. TikTok

Family Fun and Activities at Philbrook

Philbrook Museum of Art is a surprisingly kid-friendly destination, offering various outlets to keep younger visitors engaged. TikTok+1 While the art collections are a draw for adults, the museum provides specific areas for children, such as coloring pages and play areas located downstairs. Reddit These spaces offer a welcome change of pace and a good outlet for children's energy, making the visit more enjoyable for the whole family. Reddit

Many families find Philbrook to be a great place for a day out, with the gardens providing ample space for exploration and discovery. TikTok+1 The combination of indoor and outdoor activities ensures that there's something to capture the interest of different age groups. Some visitors even consider getting a membership if they plan to visit frequently during the warmer months, highlighting its appeal for repeat family outings. TikTok

When planning a family visit, it's worth checking the museum's calendar for any specific family-focused events or activities that might be happening. This can enhance the experience and provide additional entertainment for children. TikTok