About River Parks
Tulsa’s River Parks, located along the Arkansas River, is one of the premier attractions for Midtown Tulsa residents and visitors. River Parks is visited daily by many joggers and cyclists, and on weekends, families come to picnic and bring children to play on the playground equipment. Tulsans come to the river to walk their dogs and enjoy the views.
Tulsa River Parks Trail
Tulsa River Parks includes 26 miles of surfaced trails for jogging and cycling – weaving through picnic areas, playgrounds, sculptures, and fountains – along the banks of the Arkansas River.
Landscaping varies from neatly manicured areas to the rugged terrain of the Turkey Mountain wilderness. In addition to providing areas for jogging, walking, and cycling, many people fish, row, or kayak on the river. Others enjoy the natural wildlife of foxes, beavers, and raccoons, while others enjoy bird-watching bald eagles, pelicans, herons, and songbirds.
Scattered throughout the River Parks are a collection of fourteen bronze wildlife sculptures, all gifts from NatureWorks, Inc., a local organization that promotes wildlife conservation and education projects in our area.
The Gathering Place
Of course, the big draw to the River Parks is The Gathering Place, a public park that spans over 100 acres along the banks of the Arkansas River. The community developed the park with the vision of creating a vibrant gathering space with a wide range of recreational, educational, and cultural experiences. Learn more here.
Tulsa River Parks Events and Activities
Throughout the year you’ll find many outdoor events on the river, including concerts, festivals, and fireworks. The annual Tulsa Tough cycling competition is famous for Crybaby Hill, where onlookers cheer on the sweating participants.
Most events are located on the west side of the river, including the annual Scottish festival and popular Oktoberfest. Also accessible from the west bank is the Reynolds Floating Stage and Amphitheater which feature concerts and performances.
People come from all over the area to enjoy the annual July 4th festivities, especially the magical displays launched from the 21st Street bridge, along with various activities throughout the day.
The Spotlight Theater, located in the Riverview neighborhood, is home to The Drunkard, the longest-running play in America. The Spotlight Theater, an important local example of the Art Deco style, was built in 1928 as the Riverside Studio.
Visit the Tulsa River Parks website for an updated calendar of events and trail conditions updates.
Lori Cain, REALTOR®, Serving Midtown and the greater Tulsa, OK area. Call 918-852-5036.
