Things To Do
in Bixby
Nestled just southeast of Tulsa, Bixby is a small, family-friendly city known for its welcoming neighborhoods and quiet charm. The town blends suburban calm with quick access to the cultural amenities of the Tulsa metro. Tree-lined streets, local parks, and community events define daily life here.
Visitors will enjoy a relaxed pace, easy-going hospitality, and convenient access to outdoor trails and casual dining.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can savor fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Bixby's historic center, stopping to admire the unique architecture of the old buildings. Don't miss visiting local boutiques and art galleries that showcase the town's artistic spirit.
After lunch at a quaint diner, head to the Bixby Historical Society Museum to delve into the town's rich history. Engage with interactive exhibits and discover fascinating stories about Bixby's past, including its founding and development. Following your museum visit, enjoy a peaceful walk in the nearby park, soaking in the natural beauty around you.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a dinner at one of Bixby’s beloved family-owned restaurants, known for their homemade dishes. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk, where you can enjoy the serene sounds of the river. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local theater for a live performance or community event.
Start your morning early with a hearty breakfast packed with energy at a nearby café. Equip yourself with comfortable shoes and plenty of water before heading out to explore the picturesque nature trails surrounding Bixby. Enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of chirping birds as you meander through the lush greenery.
After a refreshing hike, settle down for a picnic lunch at one of the scenic overlooks, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Post-lunch, embark on a guided nature walk where a local expert shares insights about the area's flora and fauna. Capture the beauty of the trails with your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
As evening approaches, return to Bixby and wind down with dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring farm-to-table dishes. Check out the local events calendar to see if there are any outdoor movie nights or community gatherings you can join. Spend the rest of your evening relaxing by the fire pit at your accommodation, sharing stories and enjoying the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $800-1000 |
| ☕Cappuccino in city center | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $2.50-3.50 |
| 🌐Internet (monthly) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Tulsa with a quiet, family-friendly environment
- Relaxed, small-town charm with easy driving distance to outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife within Bixby itself; more options require a trip to nearby cities
- Smaller-scale shopping and dining compared to larger metro centers
Places to Visit in Bixby
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic spot along Bird Creek where early morning light and water reflections create ideal composition for landscape and nature photography.
Quiet residential lanes with mature trees and charming sidewalks—great for candid street photography and architectural shots.
Open grassy areas with shelters and trees that provide colorful backdrops for family portraits and casual photography.
A simple, iconic subject that captures the feel of a growing suburb against the prairie sky.
Food in Bixby
Bixby Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A generous, breaded steak fried and served with creamy gravy, typically accompanied by mashed potatoes and corn or green beans.
Must-Try!
Smoked beef brisket with a tangy barbecue sauce, usually paired with sides like beans, slaw, or potato salad.
Crispy catfish fillets dusted in cornmeal batter, served with warm hush puppies and tangy dipping sauces.
Buttery biscuits slathered with creamy country gravy, often served as a comforting breakfast option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, local meats, handmade goods, baked treats, and sometimes food trucks on market days.
Occasional pop-ups and food trucks around the city center offering quick bites like tacos, burgers, and fried snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A casual, friendly hello and eye contact go a long way. Small talk about local events or weather is common and appreciated.
Respect private property and quiet residential areas, especially in the evenings. Ask before taking photos of people or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Bixby
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a standard 15-20% tip is customary. For counter service or quick-serve spots, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated. Tipping for rides and spa services follows the same general guideline.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common in larger venues and some local shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes. Great for outdoor walks and early morning photography; expect quick showers and occasional windy days.
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the 90s F (30s C). Seek shade, hydrate, and plan morning or evening activities. Thunderstorms are possible.
Pleasant, cooler days with colorful foliage. Ideal for strolls, outdoor dining, and sunset photography with golden-hour light.
Cool to chilly with occasional frosts. Winter light can be crisp and clear; expect occasional chilly winds and rare snowfall.
Bixby at Night
Hiking in Bixby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular for rugged trails and scenic overlooks just a short drive from the Tulsa area, offering varied terrain for hikers.
Forest and lake trail system near Sand Springs, suitable for day hikes and natural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Bixby by plane.
Major airport serving the Tulsa area; about 20-25 miles from Bixby, with domestic flights and several carriers.
Smaller regional airport in Claremore offering general aviation services; a longer drive from Bixby but useful for private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family households, good schools, and community-oriented events.
Commuters who work in Tulsa and surrounding areas, seeking a quieter living environment.
Appeal of a peaceful, central Oklahoma location with easy access to amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and community leagues are popular; fall games draw local support.
School and community programs provide local recreational and competitive opportunities.
Youth and adult leagues are common in parks and recreation centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bixby.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many diners offer veggie plates, salads, and pasta dishes. When in doubt, ask for vegetable platters or sides (grilled vegetables, baked potatoes, beans) and request sauces on the side.