MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Tulsa

How to Get to Tulsa

Tulsa Oklahoma, USA Travel Guide

Flying to Tulsa

Tulsa International Airport TUL

Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is the main commercial airport for the city. It handles both domestic and a few international (via connections) flights.

Airlines and Destinations

  • Airlines include American, Delta, Southwest, United, Allegiant, Frontier.
  • Direct flights to key AMERICAN.S. Hubs like DFW, ORD, ATL, DEN, IAH, LAS, MCO, PHX.
  • International travelers connect through larger U.S. Gateway airports.

Seasonal Flights and Facilities

Seasonal flight availability and price fluctuations occur. Prices tend to be higher during peak travel seasons, like summer, holidays, and major local events. Book your flights in advance for better rates (Dollar Flight Club, Skyscanner).

Airport Amenities

  • Flights are generally less expensive during late winter and early spring.
  • TUL offers car rental agencies, dining, retail, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations.
  • A USO lounge serves military personnel and their families.

Car Rental

Car rental is available on-site from major companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and others. DiscoverCars.com for bookings.

Ride-Sharing & Taxis

Uber and Lyft operate from TUL. Taxis are available outside baggage claim. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services.

Public Transit

Public transit offers limited bus service (Tulsa Transit Route 203) connecting TUL to downtown, but schedules may be infrequent.

Transfer Options from TUL

Ground Transportation

  • Renting a car is recommended for flexibility in exploring the region.
  • Uber and Lyft apps for ride-sharing.
  • Check with your hotel for shuttle services.
  • Tulsa Transit Route 203 connects to the city center.

Booking Recommendations

  • Book car rental well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Compare prices on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flights.
  • Look into DiscoverCars.com for rental car deals.
  • Public transit schedules can be infrequent.

Air Travel Tips

Check Connections

International travelers will need to connect through a principal U.S..S. Gateway airport before reaching TUL.

Airport Amenities

Utilize free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and various dining options available at Tulsa International Airport.

Traveling by Land to Tulsa

Train and Bus Services

Tulsa does not have a direct Amtrak passenger rail station. The closest Amtrak station is in Oklahoma City (OKC), approximately 100 miles southwest. The Heartland Flyer route serves OKC.

Long-Distance Bus Options

  • Greyhound operates routes to and from Tulsa, connecting to cities across the U.S.
  • Jefferson Lines also serves Tulsa with routes connecting to regional and national destinations.
  • Bus services offer an economical way to travel.

Driving to Tulsa

A valid U.S. Driver'driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid national driver's license for international visitors is needed. Roads are generally well-maintained.

Road Conditions and Safety

  • Interstates I-44, I-244, and US-75 are major routes through and around Tulsa.
  • Severe weather conditions (tornadoes, heavy rain, ice) can affect driving seasonally.
  • Heavy traffic occurs during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).

Driving Laws and Regulations

Speed limits are clearly posted, usually 70-75 mph on interstates and lower during urban areas. Seatbelt use is obligatory for all occupants. Driving under the influence (DUI) laws are strictly enforced.

Driving Rules

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelt use is mandatory for all occupants.
  • DUI laws are strictly enforced.

Navigation and Planning

Before driving, downloading a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze is advisable. This helps avoid traffic and find the best routes.

Tips for Road Travelers

  • Navigation apps assist in traffic avoidance.
  • Be aware of road conditions, especially potholes after winter and construction zones.
  • Ample parking is available downtown (metered) and at attractions (often free).

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

  • Ferry services and cruise ports are not applicable to Tulsa.
  • The city is landlocked on the Arkansas River, not navigable for cruise ships.
  • River transportation is limited to recreational boating; no commercial passenger services.
  • Information on crossing the border for seaports is not applicable to Tulsa.
  • Connections to land transportation from sea or river arrivals are not applicable.
  • Tulsa's location makes it unsuitable for sea or travel by river for tourism. Focus on air or land options.

Departing Tulsa

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for exiting the U.S. Or Tulsa. Airport taxes are typically included in your airfare.

Airport Arrival Times

  • For domestic flights from TUL, arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • For international flights connecting through an U.S. Hub, arrive at TUL at least 2 hours before departure.
  • Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Security and Facilities

At your U.S. Hub, allow plenty of time for customs and international check-in procedures. Security checkpoints may have varying queue times. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services are available for eligible travelers to expedite security screening.

Airport Amenities

  • TUL offers dining options, retail shops, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable waiting areas.
  • Greyhound and Jefferson Lines bus stations provide basic waiting areas for passengers.
  • Reconfirm your flight status and gate information the day before your departure.

Check-in Early

Allow sufficient time for check-in and security, especially for international connections.

Utilize Airport Services

Take advantage of dining, shopping, and free Wi-Fi while waiting for your flight.

Stay Informed

Reconfirm flight status and gate details for a smooth departure.

Arrival and Departure Times

Domestic Flights

For domestic flights from Tulsa International Airport (TUL), reaching least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure is recommended. This provides sufficient time for check-in and security screening.

Domestic Flight Timing

  • Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Consider TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to be faster security.
  • Check-in online ahead of arriving when possible.

International Connections

If you have an international flight connecting through an U.S. Hub, arriving at TUL at least 2 hours before departure is advisable. This allows ample time for check-in, security, and potential transfers at the connecting hub.

International Flight Timing

  • Arrive at TUL 2+ hours before departure.
  • At your U.S. Hub, allow extra time for customs and international check-in.
  • Security checkpoint wait times vary.

Essential Departure Considerations

Flight Reconfirmation

Reconfirm your flight status and gate information the day before your departure. This helps avoid last-minute surprises.

Baggage Allowances

Check with your airline for baggage weight and size restrictions to avoid unexpected fees.

Travel Documents

Ensure your passport, visa (if applicable), and boarding passes are readily accessible for departure processing.

Smooth Departure Advice

Reconfirm your flight status and gate the information day before your departure. This helps avoid last-minute surprises and ensures a smooth journey.