Guthrie Green

Urban Oasis in Downtown

Positioned in the heart of the Tulsa Arts District sits Guthrie Green, an urban park and community hangout in downtown Tulsa. What was previously an industrial site and freight yard has, since 2012, become 2.6 acres of green space in the city.

The park centers around a spacious central lawn excellent for lounging, with walking paths and gardens wrapping around its edges. At one end, you'll discover a covered outdoor stage and pavilion that hosts everything from intimate acoustic sets to full-blown festivals.

Refreshing Water Features

When Oklahoma summer heat hits, the interactive fountains and splash pad become the park's most popular spots. Kids especially love darting through the water jets, but honestly, adults have been known to cool their feet here too on particularly sweltering days.

If you're bringing your four-legged friend along, you'll appreciate the thoughtfully designed drinking fountains with lower bowls just for dogs. Just note that these occasionally need some maintenance - they get a lot of use!

Sustainability Features

Guthrie Green isn't just pretty - it's smart too. The entire park glows with energy-efficient LED lighting when the sun goes down.

Beneath that inviting lawn lies an impressive geothermal system that helps regulate temperatures in neighboring buildings. The pavilion's roof does double duty with solar panels that power park operations.

Even the landscaping works hard, with bioswales carefully designed to manage rainwater runoff - sustainability that's both functional and beautiful.

Pergola walkway lined with climbing vines at Guthrie Green

Photo: Nicolas Henderson (CC BY 2.0)

Community Events

The true heart of Guthrie Green beats strongest during its year-round slate of free community events. You might catch live concerts ranging from jazz to indie rock, join a free yoga or Zumba class on the lawn, or bring a blanket for outdoor movie screenings under the stars.

Hungry? Wednesday means Food Truck Wednesday, when mobile eateries line up with everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese. Even on quiet days with no scheduled events, the park offers an excellent spot to unfurl a picnic blanket or simply watch the world go by.

Amenities and Facilities

Practical comforts haven't been overlooked here. Clean restrooms are available in the pavilion area (though expect a line during bigger events).

For those mixing pleasure with productivity, free WiFi blankets the entire park, making it an ideal outdoor office on nice days. When the sun gets intense, seek relief in the shaded seating areas that border the lawn, or bring your own blanket for sprawling out picnic-style.

Dog owners will be happy to know the park is dog-friendly - just keep your pup leashed and use the conveniently placed waste stations to help maintain the park's cleanliness.

Location and Access

While Guthrie Green is owned and managed by a non-profit organization, it functions as a welcoming space for everyone. Its prime location in the Arts District puts you within easy walking distance of cultural hotspots like the Bob Dylan Center and Woody Guthrie Center, plus plenty of restaurants and bars for before or after your park visit.

You can find street parking throughout the surrounding area, but spots can become scarce during popular events. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 11PM.