Home to one of Lonely Planet’s “10 historic Black landmarks to visit in the USA” and the first monument on National Geographic’s list of “6 essential American monuments,” Tulsa is one of the nation’s most prominent destinations for Black history and culture. Famously nicknamed Black Wall Street, the district’s unprecedented prosperity in a time when the nation failed to recognize Black people as equals served as a bastion of hope for Black people in America.
The horrific Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 that saw a majority of the district’s blocks razed to the ground and the district’s eventual rise from the ashes against all odds expanded on the area’s complex story of triumph and tragedy. This video by Greenwood Ave., featuring several current Black Wall Street entrepreneurs, explains the history of Black Wall Street. Learn more about Greenwood Ave.
Tower of Reconciliation at John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park. Photo courtesy of Tyler Layne Photography.
302-322 N Elgin Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120
Home to the first monument on National Geographic’s list of “Six essential American monuments,” the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park was built in commemoration of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, one of the worst civic disturbances in American history. Hope Plaza, a 16-foot granite structure with three bronze sculptures, depicts actual pictures from the 1921 massacre. The Tower of Reconciliation at the center of the park is a 25-foot memorial tower that displays the early struggles of the Oklahoma Territory and the lively history of Black Wall Street in Greenwood.
Greenwood Cultural Center exterior. Photo courtesy of Greenwood Cultural Center.
322 N Greenwood Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120
The Greenwood Cultural Center is a jewel within the historic Greenwood district sitting on Greenwood Avenue just north of I-244. The Greenwood Cultural Center, which offers educational and cultural experiences to visitors, including tours of the Mabel B. Little Heritage House–the only house built in the Greenwood District in the 1920's that remains standing.
'Life in Greenwood' Room at Greenwood Rising.
10 N Greenwood Ave Suite 2021, Tulsa, OK 74120
Greenwood Rising, a state-of-the-art history center located at the heart of Tulsa’s Greenwood District, provides an opportunity for visitors to reflect upon and honor the legacy of Black Wall Street before and after the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921.
Vernon AME Church exterior. Photo courtesy of Vernon AME Church.
311 N Greenwood Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120
Vernon’s present site was purchased by congregation members in 1908 where they would begin constructing a new home for their community. According to the church history, the church was heavily damaged during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Following the destruction, the congregation grew and rebuilt. The main church building was completed in 1928 and serves as a remarkable demonstration of the perseverance and fortitude of the Greenwood community.
Mount Zion Baptist Church exterior.
419 N Elgin Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120
One of Lonely Planet's 10 historic Black landmarks to visit in the USA, Mount Zion Baptist Church lies in the heart of Tulsa's Historic Greenwood District. The church was destroyed the same year it was dedicated during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre but was rebuilt in 1952 and stands as a testament to the resilience of Tulsa's Black community. The three-story church features late Gothic Revival architecture and is constructed of buff-colored brick veneer over concrete block. The building’s story is one of strength and tenacity and makes it a must-see Tulsa landmark.
Black Wall Street Liquid Lounge interior.
10 N Greenwood Ave s101, Tulsa, OK 74120
In between the sights, make sure to stop by Black Wall Street Liquid Lounge for coffee and a sip of local culture. Black Wall Street Liquid Lounge is committed to telling the incredible story of Greenwood and reminding people the community is still standing and striving to make Tulsa a better place. Make sure to stop in for a delicious, fresh-brewed coffee drink and to learn more about Tulsa’s amazing history.
Photo courtesy of Wanda J's.
111 N Greenwood Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120
While you’re in Greenwood, Wanda J’s is a must for lunch. Don’t take our word for it, AFAR agrees! This Tulsa staple is the epitome of comfort food and has a long history of celebrating the legacy of local cooking legend, Wanda Jefferson Armstrong. From catfish to cobbler, this Greenwood icon will make you feel right at home, even if you didn’t grow up on authentic Southern fare. Dine in or carry out, Wanda J’s will satisfy your Southern comfort cravings.
Photo courtesy of Cobbler Mom.
10 N Greenwood Ave Suite 105, Tulsa, OK 74120
Mouthwatering, homemade cobblers are the name of the game at Cobbler Mom. Joyce loves making cobblers so much that she decided to share the deliciousness with the rest of Tulsa. Order jars of your favorite cobblers to-go and bake them at home — they'll be just as delicious as in the store. You can even stop by their Greenwood location for fresh-baked cobblers, beans and cornbread or a turkey burger. Whether you love apple, peach or blackberry, you'll enjoy every bite!
Silhouette Sneakers & Art showroom.
Photo courtesy of the Black Wall Street Times.