Nestled in the heart of Tulsa, Oklahoma, LaFortune Park is a vibrant green oasis surrounded by the city’s bustling Culture District. Opened in 1938, the 80-acre park has become a beloved center for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of recreational activities and community events. For those looking for some respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, LaFortune Park promises a tranquil and picturesque adventure. The park first opened its 350-car parking lot and playground on May 15, 1938. It was soon followed by a hot summer day on July 19 by the grand opening of the rest of the park, including tennis courts, a picnic shelter, and a swimming pool. At the time, the park was regarded as one of Tulsa’s most impressive recreation areas. Over the years, the park has undergone significant renovations, adding a basketball court and volleyball court, an amphitheater, a Frisbee golf course, a playground, a 4-mile multi-use trail, and more. In addition, the pool was later upgraded to an in-ground pool that spans 2 blocks of the park. Learn more here.
Beyond the recreational activities, one of the most fascinating aspects of LaFortune Park is its history. The park sits on Indian land that was first acquired by fortune hunters, which gives the park its name. In 1957, the park was sold by fortune hunters to the Tulsa government, and the property has since been developed into what we know today. Cultural celebrations hosted at the park include the Indian Nations Festival, which is held every year the day after Labor Day and celebrates Native tribes from all over the United States, including Oklahoma’s own Cherokee and Navajo tribes. Learn more about Visit the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium – A Fascinating Look at Aviation History.