The Gathering Place is truly one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots in Tulsa. It's definitely my favorite spot. I love to bird watch here! I bring my binoculars and always spot a great variety of birds. The trees are absolutely stunning... there are over 100 species of trees. Honestly... it's a little escape from a hectic world. It's the perfect place to bring a book, find your spot, and just relax for a while. Whether you're looking to unwind, enjoy nature, or have a quiet moment to yourself...this park is a hidden gem that never disappoints. Perfect for getting in your steps too! I like to go early morning before it gets too hot or busy. Starting in May they have free canoe rentals!! They also have very good food. Love their fresh fruit cups which they prepare every morning daily, their sandwiches are fresh and very good! I've also had their ice cream and it's delicious. When you first walk into the main building, you can check out chess pieces and other games. Some of the tables have the chessboard design printed on them. Perfect for getting your chess game on. Every Wednesday and Sunday, you can bring your dog. Over at the boathouse on the bottom floor they have a little museum called "Drawers of curiosity." Hard to believe The Gathering Place doesn't charge an entrance fee!! It's just simply amazing! read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

whether it was me seeing the roots perform while sitting on a hill, getting my steps in or catching the scenes for photography, the gathering place came a long way from it being a concept to it being brought to life. i had a previous job that was in the news field so i remember first reading about this place. i've tried the food.. i've walked across all of the paths.. i've seen art galleries.. you'll have to come see for yourself. it can get congested as for parking. coming along riverside can be backed up here & there. that also comes with the events that the gathering place hosts often. they're very local driven just as much as national talent that's been by for live music. it's wild for me to remind myself that it's (already) been 8 years since the park's been in place along with me first hearing about it. the grand opening also took place a day (9/8/18) before my birthday (9/9). i'm set to make a visit later this week & i'm already looking forward to treating myself. i miss the smoothie spot that used to be there. read more

My wife and I had the pleasure of coming here for the first time during a recent visit home for the holidays. In all honesty, I was taken aback at the attention to detail and the extravagance of this park. There is so much to see and so much adventure to be had in this space! It is impeccably crafted. From the architectural details of the buildings (welcome center, museum spaces, cafes), to the expansive bridge (+ tide pools) that cross the Arkansas river, which includes a wonderful view of downtown Tulsa. The landscaping is also very thoughtful. The team that designed this park exceeded our expectation. It is truly a gem for families and the community in the Midwest to enjoy for years to come. Now, we know that every time we come to visit my mom, we have a beautiful outdoor space to come hang out, and enjoy the nature and the art of Tulsa. read more

This is such an amazing place! There's so much to do for everyone of any age. The kids will love the different playgrounds, the zip line, and seeing the ducks and fish in the pond. Adults will like the numerous chairs available to sit down and relax. The Cafe in The Lodge or the little restaurant in the patio area are both great when you need something to eat or drink. The only issue may be parking if it's a really nice day. If so, just be prepared to walk a little ways since you may have to park a little further away. read more

See all

Gathering Place is a 100 acres park created to be a gathering space for recreational, civic, and cultural activities for all walks of life. Since its opening on September 2018, it has been voted USA Today's Best City Park in 2021 and Best New Attraction in 2019. Before Gathering Place, recommending an attraction to visit in Tulsa was difficult. Since its inception, it's my number one destination to visit when visiting Tulsa. At the center, the park is a gathering place for many attractions including gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, skate parks, sports courts, boathouse, and cafes. It is the epicenter of the annual Global Gatherings World Festival. Dining options include Redbud Cafe, The Patio, and Vista at the Boathouse which only opens on special occasions. Every visit to the Gathering Place for me has been nothing but exceptional. Each visit has felt like a new experience and I've discovered something new each time. The park transforms with each season, from lush greeneries in the early summer to serene wonderland in the winter. I cannot compliment enough about the architectural designs of the park by the Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates. The brick wall maze is my favorite. It's truly "a park like none other" just like what it was intended to be. read more

See all

I spent a sun-dappled Wednesday at The Gathering Place in Tulsa, and wow--what a day it was. It's the kind of park where excitement and serenity coexist in perfect harmony. As I wandered down winding paths lined with sculptural gardens and gentle river views, a sense of calm washed over me. Every bend revealed something new: a hidden seating nook with perfect morning light, a colorful patch of wildflowers buzzing with bees Then came the explosion of energy: the Chapman Adventure Playground. It's a 5-acre wonderland of timber towers and slides shaped like birds' wings--kids dart through tunnels, clamber up ropes, and squeal with delighted abandon--it's a childhood dream brought to life . read more

See all

An amazing space to bring the kiddos! There's so many attractions. This is the best idea I've seen for utilizing tribal land. I want to say this is the most epic park I have seen. You could come here everyday and have a different experience. My grandchildren played themselves out. The different areas had age ranges for safety. Majority of the ground surface is soft even if it looks hard. I was even able to do a bunch of the activities with them. There were so many cubby holes of places to set up for a picnic, event, serene places to relax, little quiet areas. The park is free and open to the public. This is a must visit any time I'm in Tulsa. read more

See all

First time coming to the park qhile we were visiting family for Thanksgiving and it was an amazing and breathtaking experience! The park itself was beautiful and very well maintained and there was so many different things to see and do. My daughter loved the children's area and there was so much for her to play on and many diffrent things to climb and explore. We went fairly early in the morning and it was not to busy or crowded but as the day went on it started to get more crowded. My daughter cant wait to go back to this park when we visit! read more

See all

Amazing spaces. Lots to do. You can relax on the beautiful manicured green grass areas or take your kids to one of the many playground areas. They even have a beach area and zip line for the kids. There could be more parking spaces because on busy days there are none. Plan on being here for a couple hours if you want to see the whole park. Grab a map! read more

What an amazing park! Hard to believe a place like this exists. Go see it for yourself We got rained out the whole time we were there and still had a blast. Epic kids castle, coy fish, restaurants, trails, no admission??? No idea how someone could rate a free park that's this clean and fun any lower read more

See all

Great park in Tulsa. Nice spring day with school just out it was packed with families and since Wed is doggy day it was also packed with dogs of every size and breed. Baxter and his olfactory had a field day. read more

See all

If you are looking for a place to take a nice walk and enjoy quiet or to take the kids to burn off some energy.. The Gathering Place was voted Best City Park 2024 and I can see why!! It is Free!!! There is snacks stands to purchase drinks and food!!! You can feed the Koi Fish!!! There is plenty things for the littles to climb or swing!!! You can hang out and work if you need to!!! Highly recommend going if you are in Tulsa!! read more

See all

Park is great, food is eh. Bought a Chicharron pulled pork burrito bowl thinking I was going to get actual fried pork belly...what I got was fried pork skins. Presentation looked decent but lacked flavor. For the price, it definitely can be better. read more

Gathering Place - Chicharron pulled pork burrito bowl - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

The place is truly exceptional. You could spend all day here and never be bored. The grounds are well appointed, the restrooms are clean, and there's truly something for everyone. This is one place I would love to live near. read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

One of my favorite parks! I've lost count of how many times I've been here. Whether you want to come here to get your steps in or just get some work done, it's perfect for everyone. I come here mostly to sit by the water and watch the fish. But, I've also come here to read and do work. This place always grounds me. read more

See all

Gathering Place at Tulsa's riverfront is a great example of how communities can help people connect and feel human. While the average attention span on social media is 8 seconds, people can spend hours interacting here. This space includes areas like the landing and lodge, a woodland garden, pine valley, an adventure garden, four seasons gardens, a sports court, and a skate park. The Redbud Cafe at the William Lodge offers a cozy spot to relax, with large windows that face the park. read more

"Should I move to Tulsa," I thought to myself walking through Gathering Place on a recent work trip from Washington, D.C. As a father of a seven-year-old, Gathering Place is a dream! It's a spacious public park with lots of corners to explore and what seems like an endless adventure playground with rope courses, a zipline, a banana-themed slide, and more. There's also plenty for adults like walking trails, enjoying the gardens, or exploring the Cabinet of Wonder, a collection of things from mainly Oklahoma. Entrance is free and there's plenty of parking. read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

See all

This is one of the most beautiful! Plenty to do for all. Places to sit out of the sun or rain., lots of trails to walk, canoeing rentals, really spectacular kids, climbing areas, etc. pristine bathroom areas. Beautiful landscaping, easy parking and access. read more

See all

This place is amazing! The reason we came to Tulsa was to check this place out. Staff are extremely friendly and helpful. It seems to be impossible to get an actual calendar of events and we were misinformed by a visitor booth but it's fine. With spring break there was tons to do! My kids enjoyed all the craft stations. The magician show was the highlight for my son, and he asked to see it a second time! The playground equipment has a lot of uniquely themed areas. There was a dance off that my kids watched that was really fun. I really want to come back another weekend to come back to the gathering place! read more

See all

This establishment was so beautiful and peaceful. So many breathtaking moments. We had so much fun even spite the rain. The property is very well maintained and clean. read more

See all

Absolutely love going to Gathering Place. It's always so well kept, clean, gorgeous plants and flora. We took our 4 month old today ahead of a family brunch and let him enjoy some time outside before it got too hot. While there isn't a lot for him, we did get him out of his stroller and let him sit with us on the swing to look at trees. This is an AMAZING park that is open to the public, free, with so many different offerings. read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

See all

Come on, how could anyone not love Gathering Place?? This park is like a gift from the gods to the Tulsa Community. Nearly every time I come here I discover a new part of the park and some thing else to do. My toddler specifically loves the sand box area with the clubhouse is, the snake jungle gym, the water play area, the area to feed fish, and the movie nights they put on throughout the warmer seasons! The staff here is always super friendly and helpful. The park stays clean. We enjoy grabbing ice cream inside the lodge on hot read more

See all

It would be damn hard not to rate this place five stars. It's a kid's wonderland. We were fully entertained for three hours and barely even scratched the surface of the place. Be warned: there is sand and water play, but can be easily avoided by spending time in the other play areas instead. Be EXTRA warned: you will probably lose sight of your kids unless you're tagging along with them in the structures. So many tunnels leading different places, and especially with the sun in your eyes it can be easy to lose track of them. Make sure to lay down ground rules before entering, and be wary if your adult-to-child ratio leaves you outnumbered. Still totally worth it in my book, and ABSOLUTELY a reason for anyone with kids to visit to Tulsa. read more

See all

My small church community had a get together in the lodge. We have five children between us. The kids were playing because it was cold outside . The lady at the information desk told us to be quiet . The gathering place is a park where kids can go . If you wanna go be quiet, go to the library . read more

Love this place. It's a gem in the heart of the city that has something for everyone. The play area is simply incredible and so unique - wonderful for families with kids. Personally, I find weekdays particularly enjoyable for quieter strolls around the grounds. There are chairs on the dock where you can sit and relax. Not only is it a local favorite, it's also a fantastic spot to take guests and visitors. They have two cafes with a variety of food and drink options. Haven't tried the food yet, but the ice cream is delicious and perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day. The Boathouse offers activities like pedal boats and canoes. There are also a wide range of different events throughout the year from cultural celebrations to community gatherings and educational events. Check out their website for an events calendar to plan your visit. The Gathering Place truly offers a dynamic and enjoyable experience for everyone. read more

See all

Absolutely beautiful place. Great for the kiddos to play or just great for going on a relaxing walk. Lots of chonky squirrels around too. read more

Gathering Place - This place is full of these chonky lil guys - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

While my daughter was at a business training I was looking for a free, relaxing way to spend my morning. I had in mind a walking trail and reading my book. I found this park had great reviews for walking trails and so I headed over. WOW was I surprised when I got here and saw how much more it has!!! This park is very big with sectioned off areas. There is a river walk, a boathouse, an open field area, a lake, a couple cafes with sitting areas and a HUGE kids exploration area with more creative ideas for play than I've ever seen! It was astonishing. I started with the fairly boring part and walked around the entirety of the park and then over and across to the river walk part. They are doing work in that area and the river is low maybe(?) I'm not sure, but there wasn't really any water to view. The walking and biking path was still filled with sights and people. I like how they have biking lanes on one side and walking on the other so it is easier for both parties to navigate. As a suggestion I'd say they absolutely need more directional signs. When I started on the path there were no directions, I just took a chance. Along the path I saw only 2 directional signs at all (I walked over 3 miles for perspective here). Once I made it to the boathouse they do have paper maps available but that isn't helpful if you don't start there or if you don't want to carry a paper pamphlet around with you. That would be annoying. I would come here again just for this walking path alone. So many cool adventures along the way like a nature trail, picnic area, all season garden, grass views, river views, bike park views, etc. I also really enjoyed sitting on the upper deck of the boathouse and just relaxing and reading my book. The view is great, the chairs are comfortable and the shaded top was needed as it was a warm sunny day. As the day got warmer huge crowds ensued. A lot of families in the kids area, but i still explored a bit in the sensory park with a mirror display walkthrough. I can't rave enough about all the cool ideas in the play areas. If you have kids - BRING THEM HERE! Overall I'd recommend this park 10/10! I will say I arrived very early and there was plenty of parking. As I was leaving all the lots were full but I saw signs for nearby parking. Definitely look into the parking situation if you are coming on a nice weather day. read more

See all

Probably one of the coolest parks I've ever seen. Big enough for kids and adults alike. There is so much to see and do here. Highly recommend. read more

I'm happy Tulsa has the Gathering Place! It's a great place to enjoy with friends and family. I love being able to bring the kiddos here and let them explore in a really wonderful environment! read more

Beautiful park! Very accessible in my opinion. Great welcome center with views decor. I can't see how anyone could disagree read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

See all

I am very lucky to live close by and be able to walk the paths around the Gathering Place. There are lovely spots to sit and relax for a chat with a friend or with a book. If it is hot, hanging out in the lodge or for book club by the fire in the lodge. My husband and I have wondered around and gotten some great photos as well and just enjoyed this peaceful place. The parking can be super busy but it is worth it to wonder around and enjoy the space whether having a picnic, playing basketball, on a walk or bike ride so many options to enjoy. There are food options on the bottom floor of the lodge and a few different places throughout the park with restrooms. read more

See all

This is a great park next to the river inside the main area of the city of Tulsa. Watching this area develop over the years it looked like it would be a massive park. Although it takes over a very large area, the actual usable area is much smaller than I'd expected. A small jungle inside the city, hiding various parks, park buildings and cafe's, basketball courts, a skate park, a small pond with canoes and paddle boats, a new pedestrian bridge, and if your feeling adventurous a rapids area in the river itself. The area is very well filled in with trees, bushes, plants, grasses and flowers, and they have created hills and to help give it some elevation that hides the city from view. Parking pretty much surrounds the park on almost all sides. We went on a Saturday after Thanksgiving when it was 44 degrees outside with a good wind, it was very chilly, and it was still busy. Things are pretty much grouped together. Kids areas are all in one generalized area rather than spread out across the entire park. This is nice, since what may be considered an adult area with small boardwalk and wooden decks overlooking the small sunken pond with small water crafts is away from the screaming kids. This area had rows of benches and wooden rocking chairs. It was quiet enough down there. The boat house has several levels, it's very tall. It has a vertical rotating storage rack to hold all of the canoes and boats, they weren't running this day. Pathways are everywhere. All the paths we say away from buildings were rock covered and not just dirt. The pedestrian bridge I have to admit is a disappointment. The old peddie bridge was made from an old railroad track that linked the two sides off the river, made from wood and railroad ties, being out of commission, it was developed into a walking bridge, with the walkway under where the old train tracks used to be, so it provided some shade. Being nostalgic doesn't help, I grew up with the old bridge and enjoyed it's look and feel. Now it's a stark steel and concrete structure with absolutely no cover. It's lost its character. This made me quit sad to see it gone. A lot of the internal park is full of trees and bushes, areas fenced off with a wire fencing that is not accessible. This is what takes up a large portion of the park. This is very beautiful, and it has filled in well over the last few years. It's Tulsas version of Central Park, very much scaled down, very attractive and welcoming. read more

An awesome and unique park. It's huge and you could easily spend a whole day there with the kids. Pack a lunch and have a nice picnic

The Gathering Space represents a very creative way to activate exterior space. There is something for everyone. Play areas which engage different age groups with bespoke play structures that are fun to look at Waterways which serve as game refuge but with boating opportunities. Vistas to watch or get away from action Stuctures with coffee and warm. read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

This is a really fun park. Definitely not as big as I thought it was. There are clean bathrooms and lots of staff present. Tons of stuff to do from skate parks and bike paths for people of all ages. Our kiddo is a teenager so we didn't spend too much time at the big playground but it was fun getting to run around the castle and sliding down the slides. I think it appeals most to bikers, skaters, joggers, and parents with littles. Really beautiful scenery when walking around the park; would love to come back in the fall. read more

See all

So glad I visited the facility while I was in Tulsa! What a fabulous public amenity. It would definitely be a place I would return to if I lived here. The main building (interior and exterior) is a great place for adults to hang out. We got a coffee at the downstairs cafe. There are other structures like the boat dock/building and various areas with comfortable seating. Landscaping throughout is very nice. Entire concept is very creative. It is a dream destination for kids--tons of inventive play areas! read more

See all

Awesome place to bring your kids! I have an 8 year old son and he has a blast everytime we go! He always asks to go and it's almost like a huge playground with a bunch of parks. It's a great place for "nature walks" and to just relax. Everyone is very friendly as well! read more

I think this place is awesome. Great study/work spot at the Lodge. Awesome way to have a change of scenery. Can the Lodge PLEASE have a feature that shows the public when the Lodge rooms are reserved for private events/a schedule of field trips if they know of any? It's usually available for normal individual or small group use, but planning your day around going there and finding it a very loud environment, or just reserved and unusable is challenging. It would be an awesome feature to add. read more

This place brings me so much peace of mind. I stumble upon the gathering place by accident. I'm here for a short trip in Tulsa and wanted to go for a run. Chose to go running by the river park and ended up running into the gathering place. I fell in love with this place/park. It's so peaceful and tons of things to do with you family. I had to come back here to do my work because the scenery just make working way more enjoyable. There are a lot of really awesome play ground for kids, nice clean trail, skate park, and this amazing place you can go study or work or hang out with friends. Definitely one of the best park I have ever been to so far. read more

See all

The Gathering Place is such a wonderful public park that Tulsa locals should be proud of. Can you imagine how much love philanthropists from the Kaiser family has for Tulsa? Definitely one should come see this park by themselves. This $400+ million investment into Tulsa community from families who came from Tulsa is unreal. The park wayyyy exceeds what other parks in even major rich cities offer for sure. There are places for the public to walk, exercise (even kayaking!) and relax. Not only that, the playgrounds and facilities are top class! This is a must see, must visit places for locals and visitors for sure. It truly upgraded and made Tulsa a very nice city for the public to enjoy! read more

Gathering Place - Parks Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

See all