Nearby places

Getting the Most Out of Tulsa's Live Music Spots

Tulsa punches well above its weight as a live music city, and most of the places on this list sit within a short walk or drive of each other. Cain's Ballroom, The Vanguard, Tulsa Theater (the venue long known as the Brady Theater, which is why both names appear on this list) and Guthrie Green are all clustered in or near the Tulsa Arts District on the north edge of downtown. That makes it easy to grab dinner, catch an opening act and still have time for a nightcap without moving the car.

Know the room before you go

• Cain's Ballroom is a historic dance hall with deep roots in Western swing. It is now a favourite stop for touring rock, punk and alternative bands. Much of the floor is standing room, so comfortable shoes matter.
• BOK Center is downtown's arena. This is where the big stadium-rock and arena tours land. Expect bag policies and security lines, and arrive early.
• Tulsa Theater is a mid-sized historic hall that suits bands with a strong following who aren't quite arena-sized.
• The Vanguard is an intimate club for up-and-coming and local acts, and the place to say you saw them first.
• Guthrie Green is an outdoor park space that hosts free and community events in warmer months.
• River Spirit Casino Resort is south along the Arkansas River and books larger touring acts in its event spaces. Age restrictions may apply.
• Mother Road Market is a food hall on Route 66, handy for a pre-show bite.

Practical tips

Always buy tickets through the venue's official box office or website to avoid resale markups and fakes. Check age policies, bag rules and door times ahead of the night, because these vary from room to room. Downtown parking fills quickly on big show nights. Rideshare or parking a few blocks out and walking can save time once the encore ends.

For upcoming dates at these rooms and more, keep an eye on our concert calendar. Don't miss our listener contests either, where you might score your way into the next show.