Day 1
Looking for a quick and festive getaway? Our family of three recently took a two-day trip to Tulsa and Sapulpa, Oklahoma, and it was packed with holiday magic and family-friendly fun. From dazzling light displays to interactive experiences, here’s how we spent our time:
Sapulpa’s Route 66 Christmas Chute: Oklahoma’s No. 1 Holiday Destination
Introduction
Looking for the perfect holiday outing? Sapulpa, Oklahoma, offers a delightful mix of festive charm and local attractions, with its Route 66 Christmas Chute stealing the spotlight. Running from November 14, 2024, to December 29, 2024, this annual event transforms the historic Route 66 into a dazzling winter wonderland. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers, the Christmas Chute promises a magical experience filled with lights, treats, and holiday cheer.
Sapulpa’s Route 66 Christmas Chute: Oklahoma’s No. 1 Holiday Destination
What Makes the Christmas Chute Special?
At the heart of Sapulpa’s holiday celebrations, the Christmas Chute features:
- Beautifully Themed Chutes: Stretching across Route 66, these vibrant, holiday-themed chutes are intricately designed and illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights.
- Interactive Holiday Displays: Perfect for exploring, photographing, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
- Food Booths and Trucks: Sip on hot cocoa or cider, indulge in seasonal treats, and even roast marshmallows by cozy firepits.
Plan Your Visit
To make your experience smooth and stress-free:
- Parking: Convenient parking is available at the Heritage Parking Lot, just across from the event entrance. This lot ensures easy access with a designated crosswalk for a safe and simple route.
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive around 5:15 PM to catch a stunning sunset that adds a magical glow to the festive surroundings. As night falls, the twinkling lights bring the chutes to life, creating an enchanting ambiance.
Beyond the Christmas Chute
Sapulpa’s local charm extends beyond the event itself. Don’t miss:
- Local Cafes and Stores: Open throughout the festivities, offering unique holiday gifts and delicious food.
- Side Streets and Alleys: Hosting pop-up vendors and food trucks for extra holiday delights.
Why Visit Sapulpa This Holiday Season?
Whether you’re snapping photos of the dazzling light displays, shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, or enjoying warm cider by the fire, Sapulpa’s Christmas Chute is the ultimate holiday destination. Create lasting memories with loved ones while experiencing the magic of this festive event.
Mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and head to Sapulpa’s Route 66 for a holiday experience you’ll treasure forever.
Rhema Christmas Lights: A Must-See Holiday Spectacle Near Tulsa
If you’re visiting Sapulpa for the Route 66 Christmas Chute, make the short 30-minute drive to Broken Arrow to experience the dazzling Rhema Christmas Lights. This annual holiday tradition is held at Rhema Park and offers an enchanting evening for visitors of all ages. https://www.rhemalights.org/
What Makes Rhema Lights Special?
The entire park is transformed into a sparkling wonderland with over 2 million lights, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or capturing holiday memories. Highlights include:
- The Lighted Bridge: A breathtaking centerpiece fully wrapped in lights, offering an enchanting walk unlike any other.
- Vendors with Treats and Toys: Enjoy freshly popped popcorn, steaming hot chocolate, and festive toys for the kids.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Meander through the park at your own pace, soaking in the lights and holiday spirit.
Plan Your Visit
Here are some tips to make your trip seamless:
- Parking: Ample parking is available across the street or near the park for easy access.
- Timing: The park is open nightly, and the lights truly come to life after sunset.
Why Visit Rhema Lights?
Rhema Christmas Lights is more than just a light display—it’s a cherished holiday experience. From the twinkling displays to the festive treats, it’s a perfect addition to your Sapulpa-Tulsa trip. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, this magical display will leave you in awe.
Pro Tip: Visit both the Route 66 Christmas Chute and Rhema Christmas Lights during your trip for a truly unforgettable holiday adventure in Oklahoma!
Stay – Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills(1902 E 71st St, Tulsa, Oklahoma)
Where We Stayed: Comfortable, Convenient Lodging in Tulsa
After a full evening of lights and holiday cheer in Sapulpa and Broken Arrow, we headed back to Tulsa for a restful night. We chose to stay at JW Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills, and it turned out to be the perfect base for our two-day getaway.
Why We Liked It:
• Family-Friendly Amenities
Our room was spacious, clean, and cozy—plenty of room for our little one to spread out and unwind. While there was no microwave in the room, the included mini-fridge came in handy for storing snacks and drinks.
• Lounge Access
We also had access to the Lounge, which was a great bonus. It offered packet snacks, fresh fruits, bottled water, and a coffee machine with a variety of fancy coffee options available 24/7. The Lounge was open Sunday through Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. It was clean, quiet, and a perfect spot to enjoy the view or catch up on work and emails.
• Complimentary Breakfast
We loved starting our second day with a warm breakfast buffet, which offered a good mix of options like eggs, waffles, fruit, and cereal—something for everyone in the family.
• Convenient Location
Centrally located, the hotel made it easy to reach all our destinations, including Discovery Lab and Gathering Place, in under 15 minutes.
• Friendly Staff and Cleanliness
From the front desk to housekeeping, everyone we interacted with was welcoming and helpful. The hotel also felt exceptionally clean and well-maintained, which gave us peace of mind while traveling with a child.
Pro Tip:
If you’re traveling with kids, ask for a room on a higher floor away from the elevators for a quieter stay. And don’t forget to take a quick dip in the indoor pool before you check out!
Whether you’re looking for comfort, convenience, or a great breakfast to start your day, JW Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills checked all the boxes for a family-friendly stay in Tulsa.
Day 2
Tulsa’s Discovery Lab
Discover Hands-On Fun and Creativity
We began our second day at Discovery Lab, a vibrant and interactive museum where kids of all ages can dive into science, creativity, and fun! From exciting STEM activities to imaginative play areas, Discovery Lab is a great destination for hands-on learning and exploration.
What We Loved:
- Taj Mahal Tape Tunnel: A showstopper! This unique structure had our daughter completely captivated as she climbed, slid, and explored for a full hour. It’s not just a tunnel; it’s an adventure!
- Ballapalooza: A wonderland of motion and mechanics! Kids can experiment with vacuum tubes, sort and pump balls, watch thrilling ball drops, and shoot balls through fun contraptions. It’s STEM-building at its best.
- Science Station: Budding scientists will love this area, where they can run experiments, learn about cause and effect, and experience the joy of discovery firsthand.
- Art Station: Unleash your inner artist! With ample supplies provided, kids and adults alike can channel their creativity into fun and imaginative projects.
- Little Kids’ Area: Tailored for younger children, this cozy section offers age-appropriate activities and safe exploration for the tiniest visitors.
Admission Details:
- General admission is $14 per person.
- Children under 2 and members enjoy free entry.
- Pro Tip: If you have an ASTC Passport Membership, admission is free!
What’s ASTC? – ASTC Passport Program
The Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) offers a Travel Passport Program, which provides free general admission to over 300 science and technology centers worldwide. If you’re an ASTC member, you can use your membership card at participating locations, including the Discovery Lab.
This program is perfect for families who love to explore and learn—it’s an excellent way to save money and gain access to amazing STEM-focused attractions. Be sure to check for participating museums and eligibility before you visit!
Why It’s Great:
Discovery Lab is compact yet packed with endless fun, making it easy to navigate while keeping kids thoroughly entertained. The attentive and friendly staff go above and beyond to ensure a clean, safe, and enjoyable experience for everyone. With STEM-focused activities woven into every corner, this super neat spot blends education with excitement seamlessly.
Whether your kids are climbing through the tape tunnel, experimenting with science, or creating masterpieces, Discovery Lab is guaranteed to deliver hours of fun and learning. It’s the perfect place for families to bond while exploring, imagining, and discovering together.
Pro Tip: Plan to spend several hours here—you won’t want to rush through this treasure trove of hands-on activities!
Gathering Place: Tulsa’s Premier Park for Fun, Nature, and Adventure
On the second day of our Tulsa adventure, we visited Gathering Place, a sprawling, award-winning park that brings nature, recreation, and culture together in the heart of the city. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an action-packed day of exploration, Gathering Place has something for everyone—no matter your age.
Hours of Operation:
During Summer the park is open from 7:00am – 9:00pm
During Winter the park is open from 7:00am – 6:00pm
What We Loved:
Adventure Playground: One of the park’s standout features, the Adventure Playground is a dream come true for kids! With towering treehouses, rope bridges, zip lines, and slides, this expansive play area encourages outdoor fun and imagination. Kids can spend hours navigating the structures, and there’s even a water play zone to cool off during hot days.
Boathouse and Riverfront: Tulsa’s Arkansas River offers stunning views, and the Boathouse is the perfect spot to enjoy them. You can rent kayaks and pedal boats for free to explore the riverfront or walk along scenic paths. The natural beauty of the area enhances the entire experience, whether you’re on the water or enjoying the surrounding landscape.
For more details, visit the official website Here.
The Lodge: A perfect mix of rustic charm and modern comfort, The Lodge serves as the park’s central hub. It’s the perfect place to grab a snack, relax, and take in the sights. The large, open windows provide amazing views of the park, so even indoors, you feel connected to the nature around you.
Interactive Play Areas: For younger kids, there are several interactive play areas scattered throughout the park, each designed to spark creativity and engage young minds. From musical instruments to sensory play zones, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained.
Swing Hill: Swing Hill is a fun and interactive feature at Gathering Place, offering a scenic area where visitors can enjoy the thrill of swinging with panoramic views of the park and the Arkansas River. It’s a great spot for kids and adults to let loose and feel the breeze while having a blast on the swings. Whether you’re looking for some adventure or simply want to relax and take in the views, Swing Hill is a must-visit!
Red Bud Café: Located on the bottom floor of the William Lodge, Red Bud Café offers a delicious menu with a variety of options for all tastes. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal in a cozy atmosphere while taking in the park views.
Patio Café: Open on weekends (Saturday-Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM), Patio Café is a beautiful outdoor dining spot where you can enjoy a good meal while kids play in the sand. With a diverse menu catering to various dietary needs, it’s both affordable and enjoyable for families.
For more details, visit Red Bud Café and Patio Café.
Admission Details:
Admission: Free – Yes, you read that right! Gathering Place offers free admission, making it an incredible destination for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.
Parking: Free parking is available at the park’s designated lots, making it easy to come and go.
What’s Nearby:
Gathering Place is located along the Arkansas River, near several other key attractions in Tulsa. You can easily combine your visit with stops at other local landmarks like the Discover Lab, Tulsa Zoo, the Oklahoma Aquarium, or the Philbrook Museum of Art.
Why It’s Great:
Gathering Place is the epitome of what a modern public park should be—diverse, inclusive, and welcoming to all. From its beautifully designed landscapes to its carefully planned activities and attractions, the park delivers an experience that’s fun for the whole family. Whether you want to relax in a garden, engage in exciting outdoor activities, or take in a local event, Gathering Place has it all.
For families, it’s an ideal spot to let kids roam free while parents enjoy stunning views or relax by the river. And because it’s free to enter, you can visit again and again without worrying about the cost—there’s always something new to discover.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the warmer months, don’t forget sunscreen and hats, especially for the outdoor play areas. And bring a picnic—Gathering Place has plenty of spacious areas for a family-friendly meal outdoors!
Whether you’re paddling along the river, exploring the Adventure Playground, or relaxing in one of the park’s peaceful nooks, Gathering Place is the perfect destination to spend a day outdoors and create lasting memories. It’s a place where nature, fun, and community come together in a spectacular way—don’t miss it on your next trip to Tulsa!
