Woody Guthrie Center
Explore the life and legacy of folk icon Woody Guthrie through archives, exhibits, and immersive experiences in Tulsa.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Woody Guthrie Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the life and legacy of folk icon Woody Guthrie through archives, exhibits, and immersive experiences in Tulsa.
"Sam is absolutely the best! The monolog he delivered prior to the Woody Guthrie movie was exceptional!"
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Staff like Sam offer exceptional, captivating tours filled with history and insights. Highly recommended!
🎟️ Check for Events
The center hosts special events, including teacher appreciation nights and exhibit openings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dust Bowl VR Experience
Immerse yourself in the Dust Bowl era through an educational and impactful VR simulation. A must-do for understanding Guthrie's context.
Hip Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit
Explore the rich history of hip-hop, celebrating icons, fashion, and the cultural impact of rap music. A vibrant and nostalgic addition.
Woody's Drawings and Writings
See the personal side of Woody Guthrie through his sketches, poetry, and handwritten lyrics, offering deep insight into his life and activism.
Bruce Springsteen & Jay Farrar Exhibits
Discover connections to modern music legends like Bruce Springsteen and Jay Farrar, showcasing their artistic ties to Guthrie's legacy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Staff like Sam offer exceptional, captivating tours filled with history and insights. Highly recommended! +1
🎟️ Check for Events
The center hosts special events, including teacher appreciation nights and exhibit openings.
🚗 Parking Downtown
Downtown Tulsa parking can be tricky. Be prepared for paid parking lots, which are usually close by.
🎶 Explore Music History
Beyond Woody, discover exhibits on other Tulsa music legends like Bob Dylan and Leon Russell.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Staff like Sam offer exceptional, captivating tours filled with history and insights. Highly recommended! +1
🎟️ Check for Events
The center hosts special events, including teacher appreciation nights and exhibit openings.
🚗 Parking Downtown
Downtown Tulsa parking can be tricky. Be prepared for paid parking lots, which are usually close by.
🎶 Explore Music History
Beyond Woody, discover exhibits on other Tulsa music legends like Bob Dylan and Leon Russell.
✍️ Engage with Archives
Interactive stations and poetry displays offer a deep dive into Guthrie's work and activism.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Woody Guthrie Center for its well-preserved legacy and engaging exhibits, particularly the impactful Dust Bowl VR and the vibrant Hip Hop America installation. The staff, especially guides like Sam, receive high marks for their knowledge and passion, making the experience deeply enriching. While parking downtown can be a minor inconvenience, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the center's educational value and cultural significance.
"I had first learned about Woody while watching A Complete Unknown and expected to have a good time here! But it ended up being even more incredible than I imagined. Woody’s legacy is one worthy of preserving and is well preserved here. I loved how they used his drawings and the inclusion of the hip-hop exhibit. Very friendly staff and beautiful exhibits! Adored the movie props, too."
madeline
"It was great to learn more about Woody Guthrie. The Dust Bowl VR was awesome! He lived thru so much and wrote & sang all about it! A must do when in the area!"
Irene Estlund
"We went here to check out the Hip Hop exhibit which I liked but if you are interested in Woody Guthrie you will love it! The information on the dust bowl was educational especially the VR part. It is right down town so tons of stuff to do in walking distance. We had to pay to park in the bank for$10 but it's close. Parking is limited downtown"
Sharina Preston
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Woody Guthrie Center is located in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma. It's easily accessible by car, and public transportation options are available. Many visitors find it convenient to park in nearby paid lots, as downtown parking can be limited.
Yes, there are parking garages and lots available in the downtown area. Some visitors have noted paying around $10 for parking in a bank lot. It's advisable to check for available parking apps or signs upon arrival.
If you are staying in or exploring downtown Tulsa, the Woody Guthrie Center is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. The surrounding area is vibrant and great for exploring on foot.
Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is the main airport serving the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or shuttle to reach downtown and the Woody Guthrie Center.
The Woody Guthrie Center is designed to be accessible for all visitors. If you have specific accessibility needs, it's recommended to contact the center in advance to ensure they can accommodate you.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Woody Guthrie Center typically has set operating hours, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding holidays or special events.
Admission fees can vary. It's recommended to visit the official Woody Guthrie Center website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts or special offers.
Purchasing tickets in advance is often a good idea, especially during peak seasons or if you plan to visit during a special event. Check the center's website for online ticketing options.
Yes, the center frequently features special exhibits that highlight specific aspects of Woody Guthrie's life, his contemporaries, or related musical genres like hip-hop. The 'Hip Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit' and the 'Melody of Riot' exhibit are notable examples. 
Yes, the Woody Guthrie Center has a store where you can find merchandise, books, and other items related to Woody Guthrie and folk music. Some artists even create designs for the center's merchandise.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on Woody Guthrie's life, music, and activism, including his drawings and writings. Highlights include the Dust Bowl VR experience and special exhibits like 'Hip Hop America: The Mixtape.' +1
Yes, the center offers interactive stations, poetry displays, and immersive experiences like the Dust Bowl VR, making it engaging for visitors of all ages.
The Dust Bowl VR experience is highly praised for being educational and impactful, allowing visitors to virtually step into the hardships of that era.
Absolutely! The center often features exhibits or mentions of artists deeply influenced by Guthrie, such as Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and the hip-hop community.
Photography policies can vary by exhibit. It's best to check for signage within the center or ask staff if photography is permitted in certain areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Woody Guthrie Center is in downtown Tulsa, which offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can easily find places within walking distance.
While the center focuses on exhibits, it typically does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there are many eateries nearby to grab a bite before or after your visit.
Downtown Tulsa has a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from American comfort food and BBQ to international cuisine. You'll find options to suit various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the exterior of the center, any special exhibit installations, and potentially displays featuring Woody's artwork or famous quotes. The 'Hip Hop America' exhibit offers vibrant visuals.
Photography rules can differ for permanent and temporary exhibits. Always look for posted signs or ask a staff member if you're unsure about taking pictures.
The building itself, especially with its signage, can make for a good photo. The surrounding downtown Tulsa arts district also offers urban backdrops.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you plan to photograph specific exhibits where flash is prohibited, a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around cultural institutions. It's highly unlikely to be permitted and may be illegal. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking for any family-friendly events or programming the center might offer. The gift shop also provides opportunities for souvenirs. It's a great place to introduce younger generations to the power of music and storytelling in shaping history.
🎵 Music Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the special exhibits that often connect Guthrie's legacy to contemporary music scenes. The archives offer a deep dive for serious enthusiasts, and the guided tours provide invaluable context and stories.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond Guthrie himself, exhibits often touch upon broader historical contexts, including his interactions with other historical figures and his impact on American culture. The Dust Bowl VR experience offers a powerful historical immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Woody Guthrie's Enduring Legacy
The Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa serves as a vital hub for preserving and promoting his legacy. It houses his archives, including manuscripts, recordings, and personal effects, allowing visitors to connect with his life and work on a profound level. The center actively engages with contemporary issues, drawing parallels between Guthrie's activism and modern social movements, demonstrating the timeless relevance of his message.
Beyond his music, Guthrie was also an artist, and his drawings and writings are prominently featured in the center, offering a multi-faceted view of his creative spirit. His influence extends across genres, inspiring musicians from folk legends like Bob Dylan to rock icons like Bruce Springsteen and even hip-hop artists, underscoring the broad and lasting impact of his work.
+1Exploring Special Exhibits: Hip Hop and Beyond
This innovative approach highlights the interconnectedness of music and social commentary, drawing parallels between Guthrie's protest songs and the lyrical narratives of hip-hop. It demonstrates how music, regardless of genre, can serve as a powerful tool for social change and cultural expression. The center's ability to host such dynamic and relevant exhibitions makes it a dynamic cultural destination.
+1Other special installations, like 'The Melody of Riot: Jay Farrar, Son Volt, and the Legacy of Woody Guthrie,' further showcase the center's commitment to exploring artistic connections. These exhibits often feature contemporary artists and their relationships with Guthrie's work, providing fresh perspectives and attracting a wider audience interested in the evolution of American music.
The Power of Guided Tours
Sam, in particular, is described as a gifted storyteller with charisma and passion, making the history of Woody Guthrie and his contemporaries, such as Bob Dylan, incredibly compelling. Visitors have been completely captivated by his monologues and insights, often calling it a highlight of their visit. His knowledge extends to Guthrie's complex relationships and his contributions to cultural movements.
Taking a guided tour is highly recommended for anyone seeking a deeper understanding and a more personal connection to Woody Guthrie's legacy. It transforms the museum experience from passive observation to an active, memorable journey through American history and music.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit