Jim and Cherry Bost Arboretum
The Jim and Cherry Bost Arboretum will encompass approximately two acres and include a mix of over 100 trees as well as shrubs, pathways, an entry donor plaza and meandering walkways leading to a pavilion with an adjacent water curtain fountain.
The Arboretum will be located in areas between the Garden’s Visitor Center and Children’s Discovery Garden with paths winding across a small stream and up a hillside near their A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces.
Children’s Discovery Garden
The Children’s Discovery Garden encompasses almost two acres in a fantastical “wonderland” garden environment offering experience-based learning opportunities for children and families. Look for the two ornamental blue metal banners which mark its entrance/exit.
A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces
Over 3 acres in size, the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces displays over 8,000 permanent plants including trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, roses and perennials set in terraced beds on a hillside which offers a glimpse of downtown Tulsa from its peak.
Children’s Discovery Garden
The Children's Discovery Garden encompasses almost two acres in a fantastical “wonderland” garden environment offering experience-based learning opportunities for children and families. Look for the two ornamental blue metal banners which mark its entrance/exit.
The focal point of the garden is the Spring Giant, a 20’ rugged stone face entered through a hidden grotto. Inspired by garden follies popular in 18th century European gardens, the Spring Giant is a one-of-a-kind art piece, built and hand-sculpted by artist Dan Jennison and Weber Group. Water which drips from the Spring Giant’s mouth is the source for the Stream Valley. The Stream Valley includes fountains of spitting animals and the nearby Art Wall, a favorite for kids of ALL ages!
Be sure to look for the Bog Bowls near the pond where Venus fly traps and other carnivorous plants catch their next meal.
The Meadow offers exploration of trails through grasses and flowering perennials as well as larger-than-life insect whirligigs hovering above. It's a great place to look for caterpillars, butterflies, hummingbirds, or the occasional lizard sunning on a rock.
A grove of post oaks, at the highest point of the Children’s Garden, is home to the Tree Fort, offering vantage points through windowed portals set among the tree limbs. Local artist Clayton Coss created one-of-a-kind 'Oak Thrones' – oversized, ornate wooden thrones for the Tree Fort. Butterfly and bird wings are available for imaginary play. The Amphitheatre nearby offers shaded seating under umbrellas.
A Sensory Walk invites all to experience plants through touch, smell, sound and sight. Look for, touch and sniff the lamb's ear, wax myrtle, sweetshrub, thyme, rosemary and more growing here. Take the steps up the hill for a short walk in the trees and listen for birds or other small animals.
Check our calendar of events for information on Story Times and other programs that may be scheduled.
Cross Timbers Nature Trail
Just west of the top of the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces, the Persimmon Grove is a gateway into the Garden’s 110 acres of natural beauty. Visitors can explore the native flora and fauna found in the unique Cross Timbers ecoregion – where the tallgrass prairies from the west meet the eastern deciduous forests. The convergence of these two habitats offers an abundance of life and diversity. Each season offers something different: wildflowers, migrating birds, butterflies, changing leaves and majestic grasses.
Lakeside Promenade
The Lakeside Promenade encircles the Garden’s seven-acre lake and is comprised of a succession of planting beds including some of the oldest plantings at the Garden.
The Sarah G. Allison Lake Trail is the main pathway guests use to visit the Tandy Floral Terraces and the Lakeside Promenade. This half-mile loop meanders past an ever-changing palette of color, texture, pattern and fragrance with panoramic views across the lake.
Bumgarner Lotus Pool
The Bumgarner Family Foundation Lotus Pool opened July 21, 2023.
The Bumgarner Family Foundation Lotus Pool provides an exceptional experience in the Garden overlooking the northeastern circular portion of the lake closest to the visitor center.
Stanford Family Liberty Garden
The Stanford Family Liberty Garden opened July 21, 2023.
The Stanford Family Liberty Garden is a ceremonial civic space embedded within an elegant garden setting in the center of Tulsa Botanic Garden. It is a place to celebrate and share the qualities and concepts unifying individuals into the diverse citizenry of the United States through interpreting patriotism as a forward thinking and living concept.