The Blue Dome District | An Overview

Named after a building that was once a 1920’s gas station, The Blue Dome District has literally transformed a previously declining section of downtown Tulsa into a vibrant and energy filled entertainment area.  The iconic looking Blue Dome Building, a former Gulf Oil Service Station was built in 1924 and served early day Route 66 travelers and locals alike.

Lying from First and Third streets between Elgin and Greenwood, the Blue Dome District is now a well-known hub of Tulsa’s downtown nightlife scene.  With a diverse offering of pubs, restaurants, and watering holes, which host the best in local bands and entertainment, the Blue Dome District presents a laid-back atmosphere favored by many of Tulsa’s creative younger generation.

A couple of young entrepreneurs have been the catalyst for this major downtown transformation with the opening of McNellie’s Public House, El Guapo’s Mexican Cantina and the Dilly Deli Café to name a few.  Other establishments in the Blue Dome District include Jo Momma’s Pizza, Yokozuna, the Blue Dome Diner, Dirty’s Tavern, Arnie’s Irish Pub, the 1974 Pub & Grill, and the Blank Slate.  There is plenty of nearby parking, so it is easy and convenient to get around, and all of the venues are within easy walking distance of each other.

A Hub of Activity

The district is also known for The Blue Dome Arts Festival, which runs at the same time and within walking distance of Tulsa’s annual Mayfest celebration.  In the past, the area has also hosted the Dfest Music Festival when streets are blocked off as tens of thousands of music fans descend on the area for two days of music showcasing just about every genre on over 10 different stages.

Home to many of Tulsa’s most popular festivals, the Blue Dome District annually welcomes the Eat Street Tulsa food truck festival, Tulsa Tough, district-wide St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations, a Mardi Gras parade and more!

Brunch and seasonal festivals also abound in Blue Dome. Visitors can start their mornings off right with an order of sriracha honey chicken and waffles at the Dilly Diner, order or scarf down a plate of migas from Bramble Breakfast & Bar. Explore the district’s bars and restaurants with punch card in hand during the annual Mardi Gras Parade, or tune in to Oklahoma’s Historic Route 66 Audio Tour any time of year. In the spring, you can celebrate the arts and discover new favorite bands at the Blue Dome Arts Festival, or wait for the summer to cheer bikers on during the intense, three-day Tulsa Tough Ride & Race. No matter the season, guests are sure to stumble across lively city streets within the Blue Dome Entertainment District.