Planning a visit to the “world’s largest small town”? Tulsa, Oklahoma, is known for its Art Deco architecture, Native American heritage, and Southern charm. But if you’re new to this fun city, deciding where to stay in Tulsa can be a challenge for travelers.
The second-biggest city in Oklahoma, Tulsa has a great variety of interesting neighborhoods to suit every type of traveler. For tourists, the areas with the best hotels in Tulsa are Downtown Tulsa, Tulsa Arts District, Midtown, Broken Arrow, and Catoosa.
Ready to start your Oklahoma adventure? Find the perfect area and accommodation for your vacation with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Tusla, OK.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our other hotel & accommodations guides and our United States Travel Guide for more tips & recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do on your vacation!
Best places to stay in Tulsa, OK
Tulsa has walkable neighborhoods and a relaxed public transport network, making getting around the city a breeze. In the center, you’ll find Downtown Tulsa, Tulsa Arts District, and Midtown.
Downtown Tulsa is alive with the most popular bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues in the city. Its stunning Deco District has some of the most beautiful architecture in the city.
To inspire your creativity, stay in the Tulsa Arts District. From live music to innovative art, creative energy hangs in the air. Midtown allows you to easily explore the city center but has a better selection of budget accommodation.
Catoosa and Broken Arrow were once suburbs of Tulsa but have now become unique travel destinations in their own right. Broken Arrow is a pretty area, perfect for soaking up Oklahoma charm, while Catoosa is known for its quirky attractions and Route 66 fun.
The best areas to stay in Tulsa, OK, are:
Downtown Tulsa
✓ Best area to stay in Tulsa for nightlife and architecture
Downtown Tulsa is a buzzing area made up of several districts with distinct personalities. It’s in the center of the city and is easy to get around on foot. Downtown also has great transport links to the surrounding areas.
For a gorgeous city aesthetic, spend some time in the Deco District. This compact area is brimming with elaborate Art Deco skyscrapers. Its thriving outdoor bar and dining scene maximizes every opportunity to take in the Deco District scenery.
Deco Lounge is a great destination for a trendy lunch. This casual spot has kitsch features and bright pops of color that capture the atmosphere of the area.
The different parts of Downtown Tulsa offer endless variety and are home to many of the top tourist attractions in Tulsa. Marvel at the grand architecture of the Holy Family Cathedral and Boston Avenue United Methodist Church in the Cathedral District.
Or party in the Blue Dome District. Known for its iconic blue dome, this area is home to some of Tulsa’s best entertainment. Grab a cocktail at Roof Sixty-Six. This glossy space gives you sparkling views of the Tulsa skyline.
Hampton Inn & Suites Tulsa Downtown
This hotel offers an ideal location a third of a mile from the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Spacious and comfortable rooms make these lodgings a great base during your stay in Downtown Tulsa. Keep up your fitness routine in the heated indoor pool and gym and enjoy a free daily a la carte breakfast.
Courtyard by Marriott Tulsa Downtown
Spend the night in the Historic Atlas Life Building. This impressive property has kept features dating back to 1922. Unwind in vibrant Art Deco style with rich red rugs and vivid green furnishings. Enjoy breakfast and drinks in the stylish bistro and grab dinner at the Atlas Grill.
Residence Inn by Marriott Tulsa Downtown
Embrace the privacy of your own studio with fully equipped kitchen. The spacious rooms have a desk with an ergonomic chair so you can catch up on any emails and large flat-screen TVs for cozy nights in. Sit by the fire pit on the rooftop patio and take in the Tulsa skyline or laze away a day by the outdoor pool.
Tulsa Club Hotel Curio Collection By Hilton
An elegant hotel with chic Art Deco details. Every aspect of your stay has been carefully curated to deliver the ultimate style. Head underground for dinner in the exclusive tavern. Regional farm-to-table dishes and funky décor will make it an evening to remember.
The Mayo Hotel
The grand Mayo Hotel has been serving up luxury in Tulsa since 1925. Towering columns, period details, and sparkling fittings combine to create the ultimate art deco experience. Plush rooms with funky décor will make your stay in Tulsa special. Their rooftop bar has cocktails designed by expert mixologists and 360-degree views of Downtown Tulsa.
Tulsa Arts District
✓ Recommend neighborhood to stay in Tulsa for creatives
Transport yourself to a time when Tulsa was an oil capital of the world in the Tulsa Arts District. It’s one of the oldest areas in the city, with red brick warehouses converted into thriving businesses. The lively creative & entertainment scene makes this an inspiring place to base yourself for your Tulsa vacation.
Spend an afternoon hanging out at Guthrie Green. This urban garden is a great opportunity to relax or enjoy some live entertainment. Browse market stalls, check out the food trucks, or sit by the stage and catch a concert.
Watch a show at the iconic Cain’s Ballroom. This 1930s building is a gorgeous space for a vintage-style evening. They regularly host top performers, from famous musicians to the best comedians.
Celebrate the life of a musical icon at the Bob Dylan Center. You’ll get to explore handwritten lyrics and unreleased recordings. Or discover innovative exhibitions at Ahha Tulsa. Even if you’re not a museum person, these funky interactive artworks will get you in the mood.
Time your visit to the Tulsa Arts District on the first Friday of the month for the First Friday Art Crawl. You’ll get free or discounted access to some of the best museums and galleries in the area.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Tulsa Downtown Arts District
This airy modern hotel is a relaxing place to stay during your time in the Tulsa Arts District. Its ideal location is just 200m from the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. Amenities include an exercise room and indoor pool for you to unwind after your day’s activities. A free hotel shuttle service makes your stay extra convenient.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Tulsa Downtown – Arts District, an IHG Hotel
This hotel is just two blocks from Guthrie Green. Modern rooms give you views of historic Tulsa on one side and the impressive Driller Stadium on the other. An extensive fitness center and indoor pool will help you keep active on your journey.
Hotel Indigo Tulsa DWTN/Entertainment Area
Embrace the arty vibes at Hotel Indigo. Funky décor is enhanced by local artwork and music. Fun features with a nod to the oil boom are woven throughout. Work out in the fitness room alongside twinkling Tulsa views or savor sunset drinks on the glamorous rooftop bar.
Midtown
✓ Top-rated place to stay in Tulsa for budget travelers
Midtown offers all the benefits of Downtown Tulsa but without the price tag. With easy access to the city center and great shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Midtown is a great place to stay if you want to experience everything the city has to offer on a budget. This area has more of a residential feel, with historical homes, pretty tree-lined streets, and friendly cafes.
To get into the local feeling, attend the weekly farmers market on Cherry Street. As well as fresh seasonal produce, you’ll find unique handmade gifts to take home.
For a unique shopping experience, spend a couple of hours in Utica Square. Quaint wisteria-filled streets are home to unique upscale boutiques.
While in Midtown, take a visit to the Philbrook Museum of Art. The dreamy 1920s villa has wonderful architecture and sprawling green gardens. Inside you’ll find 16,000 objects showcasing the very best in European, Native American, and American artwork.
Comfort Inn Midtown
This cozy hotel is in a quiet location with easy access to top attractions. With a great selection of nearby bars and restaurants, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Start your morning with a dip in the outdoor pool, then fuel up with a delicious free breakfast.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tulsa Midtown, an IHG Hotel
This central hotel is within walking distance of excellent shopping and dining options. Minimal décor, spacious rooms, and free breakfast make this a comfortable place to rest in Midtown. Spend your evenings making use of amenities like the free outdoor pool and fitness center.
Hilton Garden Inn Midtown Tulsa
This traditional hotel is in a prime Midtown location. Break a sweat in the gym or soak up the sun on the outdoor terrace. Feast on a tasty breakfast, or treat yourself to a burger and a beer at the garden grill.
Residence Inn by Marriott Tulsa Midtown
These sleek and modern rooms are designed for extended-stay guests, so you can enjoy Midtown in ultimate comfort. Separate living and sleeping areas and a full kitchen give you the space and privacy to spend time together. Spend your evenings socializing around the outdoor pool and barbeque area.
Broken Arrow
✓ Recommend area around Tulsa for relaxing and Southern culture
The Broken Arrow neighborhood has evolved into an Oklahoma travel destination of its own. Charming streets and interesting historical attractions make Broken Arrow a wonderful place to base yourself during your Tulsa adventure. You can still reach the city center in less than 30 minutes on public transport.
The iconic Rose District gave Tulsa the nickname “The City of Roses.” The area’s pedestrianized streets are blooming with color. Spend idyllic afternoons strolling the boutiques and cafes and carve out some time to see the weekly farmer’s market.
You’ll find plenty of opportunities to delve into Oklahoma’s history in Broken Arrow. Learn about the history of the area at the Museum Broken Arrow. From Native American history to coal mining, you’ll find the history of Broken Arrow is much more interesting than you thought.
Also, take some time to visit the Military History Museum. There’s a wide selection of artifacts from almost every US war.
Hampton Inn Tulsa/Broken Arrow
This friendly hotel is on the outskirts of Broken Arrow. It’s ideal for enjoying easy access to the surrounding areas of Tulsa. Enjoy bright, comfortable rooms and amenities like a large indoor pool and fitness area. A delicious hot breakfast will fuel you up for a day of exploring.
Stoney Creek Hotel Tulsa – Broken Arrow
Spend your Tulsa break basking in rustic luxury. Original brick and woodwork intertwine with elegant modern touches. Sink into a warm leather chair and curl up by the stone fireplace. Grab a whisky from the bar and live out your fantasy forest retreat. Soak in glorious Oklahoma sunsets from the pool or outdoor patio.
Hilton Garden Inn Tulsa-Broken Arrow, OK
Large and airy rooms offer a calm oasis after a day in Tulsa. Unwind in the large indoor pool area or the well-equipped fitness center. The stylish garden bar & restaurant has a delicious choice of seasonal dishes to keep you satisfied.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tulsa Broken Arrow
Spend your vacation in your own apartment with a full kitchen. Enjoy the privacy of your own space with the social aspect of a hotel. An outdoor pool and garden with barbeque is the perfect place to get some fresh air. Feast on a free daily hot breakfast. The make-your-own Belgian waffles are a must-try.
Catoosa
✓ Recommended place to stay for fun activities
Spend the night on an iconic Route 66 stop. The quirky city of Catoosa is a 20-minute drive west of Tulsa. Unique attractions will add some fun to your city break.
The most famous attraction in Catoosa is the Route 66 Blue Whale. The fun sculpture stretches across a lake. It’s a great photo opportunity, and you can even cross the bridge into its open mouth.
But there’s much more to Catoosa than this marine mammoth. Interesting attractions here include the D.W. Correll Museum, where you can marvel at stones, fossils, and gems, and the Oklahoma Maritime Education Center Port of Catoosa, where you can learn about the intricate workings of river ports.
Besides being one of the most popular day trips from Tulsa, Catoosa has lots of evening eating and drinking options. Grab Tex-Mex, burgers, and barbeque food at the eclectic Market 66 Chowhouse. Or enjoy the rustic charm of Molly’s Landing, a welcoming log cabin that serves the best steak in town.
GLō Best Western Tulsa-Catoosa East Route 66
This modern hotel is close to the center of Catoosa. Colorful rooms with sporty décor are sure to brighten up your day. A tasty hot breakfast and a state-of-the-art fitness center will keep you comfortable during your stay. There’s also a 24/7 shuttle service to the Hard Rock Casino.
Homewood Suites By Hilton Tulsa Catoosa
This colorful and modern hotel has spacious suites and studios, complete with living and dining areas. It’s in a central Catoosa location less than a mile from the Hard Rock Casino. There’s plenty to keep you entertained, including an indoor pool, gym, sun terrace, and mini golf.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tulsa East – Catoosa, an IHG Hotel
If you want to head into Tulsa, the Hard Rock Casino across the street provides a free shuttle to Tulsa Expo Square. An outdoor pool and well-equipped fitness center give you opportunities to blow off some steam. Grab a free breakfast every morning, complete with cinnamon rolls and make-your-own pancakes.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Tulsa Catoosa
This stylish hotel will give you the ultimate comfort in Catoosa. Elegant lounge areas and flawless suites provide contemporary places to relax. While large desks with ergonomic chairs are perfect if you need to catch up on some work. An indoor pool and fitness center are available for guests.
