Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Tulsa History Tour with Underground Tunnels: An Insider’s Guide to Tulsa’s Hidden Gems
If you’re visiting Tulsa and craving a deeper understanding of the city’s unique character, the Tulsa History Tour with Underground Tunnels offers a compelling blend of architecture, history, and secret passageways. With a friendly guide leading you through historic buildings connected by underground hallways, this 1.5-hour experience promises a mix of storytelling and exploration that truly brings Tulsa’s past to life. Priced at $40 per person and rated highly by previous participants, this tour is becoming a must-do for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Tulsa’s iconic buildings and the stories behind them, rather than just a dry list of dates and facts. Plus, the fact that it includes access to underground tunnels adds an element of adventure that appeals to those who love uncovering hidden corners of a city. One of the things we love most is how the guide’s storytelling makes the history engaging—these aren’t just faceless structures, but characters in Tulsa’s story. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour may skip some buildings depending on logistics, so expect some variation in the itinerary.
This experience is especially suited for those interested in architecture, local history, or underground passageways. If you enjoy stories about oil barons, historic skyscrapers, and Tulsa’s early 20th-century boom, you’ll find this tour both informative and entertaining. It also works well for travelers who want an authentic, guided perspective rather than exploring alone.
Key Points
- History and Architecture: Learn about Tulsa’s first skyscraper, the Mid-Continent Tower, and its colorful oil baron history.
- Underground Tunnels: Access to tunnels that connect historic buildings—an exclusive peek into Tulsa’s secret passageways.
- Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides, like Dennis, bring stories to life with humor and detail.
- Flexibility & Value: For $40, the tour offers a compact but in-depth look at Tulsa’s heritage, with some stops including free access to museums.
- Authentic Experience: The tour offers a genuine insight into Tulsa’s early oil prosperity, with stories that delight history enthusiasts.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure personalized attention and engaging conversation.
A Deep Dive Into the Tulsa Underground Tunnel Tour
Looking for more options in Tulsa? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point & First Impressions
The tour begins at the Hyatt Regency Tulsa Downtown, a central and convenient meeting spot. With a start time of 2:45 pm, it’s perfectly timed for an afternoon activity, giving you a glance at Tulsa’s vibrant downtown before the exploration begins. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, creating a more intimate experience.
Exploring the 320 South Boston Building
Your first stop is the 320 South Boston Building, a bank built in multiple stages during Tulsa’s oil boom days. Here, you’ll wander the outside and peek inside (though photos aren’t allowed inside), observing how the bank’s vaults expanded as oil fortunes surged in the 1920s. This building encapsulates Tulsa’s early financial boom, and our guide will explain how these expansions mirror the city’s rapid growth. One reviewer noted that this stop is free of charge, giving you an easy start to the tour.
Regus – Tulsa – Kennedy Building
Next, the group moves to the Regus – Tulsa – Kennedy Building, famous for its marbled lobby and a quirky, lifelike statue of a businessman. This building may sometimes be bypassed depending on the tour’s flow, but when included, it offers a glimpse into Tulsa’s office culture of the early 20th century. The detailed architecture provides a visual feast, and your guide will likely share stories about Tulsa’s business scene during its oil boom.
Mid-Continent Tower
The Mid-Continent Tower is a highlight—Tulsa’s first skyscraper, built by a colorful oil baron whose story is seldom remembered today. This structure stands as a testament to Tulsa’s ambitions during the early 1900s. Our guide will recount tales of Tulsa’s rapid development, highlighting the building’s role in shaping the city’s skyline. With only 10 minutes here, it’s a quick but impactful stop.
You might also want to explore these Tulsa activities
Atlas Life Building
The next stop is the Atlas Life Building, home to Tulsa’s first life insurance company. Sitting down to chat, the guide might share how insurance companies helped Tulsa’s oil elites secure their futures—adding a layer of financial history to the tour’s narrative. This short, 5-minute stop offers a behind-the-scenes look at Tulsa’s economic evolution.
The Iconic Philtower and Tunnel
The Philtower is a true showstopper. Not only does it feature a Neo-Gothic lobby, but it also contains Waite Phillips’ private oil tunnel—an underground link that hints at Tulsa’s secretive past. The guide will tell stories about Waite Phillips, an oil millionaire whose influence shaped Tulsa’s development. This stop, lasting 15 minutes, balances history and architecture and provides insight into Tulsa’s oil wealth.
Wrapping Up at Philcade
The tour concludes inside the Philcade Building, home to an Art Deco lobby and the Oil Capital Pop-Up Museum, curated by Tulsa Tours’ founder. This museum showcases Tulsa’s oil history through engaging displays, making it a fitting end to the journey. The 10-minute visit offers a chance to reflect on everything learned and appreciate Tulsa’s distinctive architectural style.
What About the Tunnels?
What sets this tour apart is the access to underground tunnels—a feature that thrills many and adds an extra layer of intrigue. These tunnels, paid for by property owners, connect some of Tulsa’s historic buildings, offering a glimpse into how business and power were managed discreetly in the early 20th century. Reviewers like Tye_S have expressed fascination about the stories behind these tunnels, emphasizing their importance in Tulsa’s history.
Guides and Personal Touch
Our reviews highlight guides like Dennis, who excel at storytelling and keeping the group engaged. Their knowledge of Tulsa’s architecture and history is evident, and their humor and storytelling skills make the experience both educational and fun. The small group size ensures you can ask plenty of questions and get personalized insights.
Value for Money
At $40, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and depth. Most stops are free of charge, and the guide’s storytelling and tunnel access add considerable value. Since it’s booked on average 11 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those planning ahead. It’s also flexible enough for casual visitors who want to see the city’s hidden side without committing to a full-day tour.
Weather & Cancellation
Since the tour relies on walking and outdoor stops, good weather enhances the experience. If canceled due to weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund, making it low risk. The option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan confidently.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, especially those intrigued by the economic boom of Tulsa’s oil days. It’s also great if you enjoy stories about secret passageways and underground tunnels. Perfect for travelers who prefer small, guided groups, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience. If you’re looking for a lively, storytelling-led exploration of Tulsa’s past, this tour will fit the bill.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For just $40, the Tulsa History Tour with Underground Tunnels offers a lively, detailed look into a city shaped by oil wealth and ambitious architecture. The inclusion of underground tunnels makes it a unique experience that many won’t find elsewhere. The knowledgeable guides, such as Dennis, add depth and humor, making the history accessible and memorable. It’s an especially good choice for those who want more than just surface-level sightseeing—here, you’ll get tales of oil barons, skyscrapers, and hidden passageways that reveal Tulsa’s secretive side.
While some stops may vary depending on the day, the overall experience remains authentic and engaging. If you’re looking for an affordable way to explore Tulsa’s backstory—without spending hours or breaking the bank—this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for curious explorers, architecture fans, and anyone eager to see Tulsa’s historic buildings from a new perspective.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering multiple historic buildings and underground tunnels.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Hyatt Regency Tulsa Downtown, located at 100 E 2nd St S.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s duration and content make it accessible for a broad audience, though very young children might find some stop details less engaging.
What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers access to tunnels paid to property owners and the guide’s storytelling. Museum access is included in some stops, but tips are not included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.
How can I book the tour?
Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, and it’s recommended to secure your spot early due to popularity.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and a curious mind are all you need—the tour provides plenty of fascinating stories and access to special sites.
If you’re after a taste of Tulsa’s secret history, the underground tunnel tour offers a compelling mix of storytelling, architecture, and hidden passageways. Whether you’re a history lover or just looking for a different way to explore Tulsa, this experience delivers a memorable insight into the city’s past—and its tunnels.
