Tulsa, Oklahoma was just named the 3rd best July travel destination in the country by Travel + Leisure Magazine and we couldn't be prouder. Over the last decade, so much has developed in the city and the opening of the Gathering Place really put Tulsa on the map. If you live in the state and have never visited Tulsa, then you'll want to plan a trip to this fabulous city for a great summer mini-vacation.

Tulsa is the second-largest city in the state and is located in northeastern Oklahoma in an area known as "Green Country." Every year people come from all over the country to visit this beautiful city and this year, Travel + Leisure Magazine named it the 3rd best place to visit this July.

One of the main attractions in our city is the Gathering Place - an award-winning park located in the heart of the city. One of the top awards it has garnered recently is "best new attraction in the country by USA TODAY."

Visitors to the park love to explore Chapman's Adventure Playground - a five-acre kingdom where kids and adults can let their imaginations run wild by exploring the playground’s huge towers, slides, climbing features, play gardens, a sandlot, and water areas.

Another great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore is Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. It's across the Arkansas River and located just a few miles away from the Gathering Place. There are a variety of nature trails to explore, ranging from easy to advanced.

Travel + Leisure also highlighted the historic Mayo Hotel in Downtown Tulsa. This art deco style hotel has a rooftop bar offering stunning views of downtown Tulsa.

Don't miss a visit to the Philbrook Museum while in town. If you love art and culture this is a must-visit destination as it features artwork from around the world, along with stunning gardens outside.

The Cave House is another fun attraction to visit. It's one of the oddest looking houses in the state and is said to be haunted. They offer tours by reservation only.

Another odd attraction to drive by is the world's largest praying hands out in front of Oral Roberts University on Lewis Avenue. They stand 60 feet high and weigh 30 tons...it's also the largest bronze sculpture in the world.

But don't leave the city without visiting the Center of the Universe in Downtown. This spot is an acoustic anomaly – when standing in the center of the circle and making noises, only you can hear it echo...and it's very loud.

If you would like to read the Travel + Leisure article in its entirety, please click here.

If you're looking for a great patio spot for dining, click here.