The Gathering Place

A Riverside Oasis in Tulsa

Nestled along the Arkansas River in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Gathering Place spans 66.5 acres of thoughtfully designed public space. Since opening its gates on September 8, 2018, this park has become a cherished community treasure. Born from a collaboration between the George Kaiser Family Foundation and various corporate and philanthropic partners, it represents something truly special: the largest private gift to a community park in American history, with an investment of $465 million.

The creative vision came from acclaimed landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh, who worked closely with Tulsa residents to ensure the park reflected the community's spirit and needs.

Natural Beauty with Purpose

Walking through the Gathering Place feels like exploring multiple worlds in one visit. The park features over 6,000 trees and 11 distinct ecosystems spread across its rolling topography. Each area transitions naturally into the next, creating different spaces for various activities while maintaining a sense of harmony throughout.

Sustainability isn't just an afterthought here - it's built into the DNA of the park with native plants, restored habitats, and energy-efficient lighting. One of the simpler joys you'll come across is the koi pond, where you can watch colorful fish and turtles glide through the water. Bring some quarters if you'd like to feed them from the coin-operated dispensers nearby.

Play and Adventure for Everyone

At the heart of the park lies the Chapman Adventure Playground, a 5-acre space that sparks imagination in visitors of all ages. Towering structures invite climbing, slides offer thrilling descents, and tunnels create opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Water lovers can rent kayaks and boats from the Boathouse to paddle around the lake. On hot Oklahoma days, the splash pad provides a refreshing escape for families looking to cool off.

Sports enthusiasts haven't been forgotten either - basketball courts, a skate park, and volleyball courts offer plenty of options for active visitors. Throughout the year, the grounds come alive with concerts, food festivals, and outdoor movie nights. Best of all, most attractions are free, making this truly a park for everyone.

Family-Friendly to the Core

Thoughtful design shows up in the age-appropriate play areas, including a charming section for toddlers featuring fairy houses and scaled-down structures great for little explorers. Parents appreciate the practical amenities: clean restrooms, water fountains, and plenty of shaded seating areas around the grounds.

The picnic areas make for perfect family gathering spots, with well-maintained grassy spaces and tables distributed across the park. When you're hungry, options range from the on-site restaurant and café to the variety of food trucks that appear during special events.

Learning and Art in the Outdoors

Education weaves naturally through the park experience. You can check out explorer packs for hands-on learning, join guided tours, or participate in one of the many field trips organized here. Art installations appear within the grounds, adding cultural depth to your visit.

The Wonder Museum offers interactive exhibits that captivate curious minds of any age. Even the waterworks area serves a dual purpose, demonstrating hydroelectric energy principles while providing visual interest.

Planning Your Visit

The Gathering Place welcomes visitors daily from 7AM to 9PM, with no admission fee. Most areas are accessible to those with mobility challenges, with wheelchair-friendly pathways and facilities.

Dog lovers should plan accordingly - furry friends are welcome, but only on Wednesdays and Sundays, and must remain leashed. You might want to consider timing your visit carefully, as the park can get quite busy during weekends and special events.

A Park with Purpose

The Gathering Place has earned significant recognition, including being named the Best City Park in the United States by USA Today readers in both 2021 and 2024.

The park has become an important part of Tulsa community life, bringing together people from all walks of life in a shared space. Regardless of whether you're a Tulsa local or just passing through, the beautiful landscapes, thoughtful design, and variety of activities make this park worth experiencing firsthand.