Exploring Downtown Tulsa’s Pop-Up Shops
If you’ve been looking for a reason to explore Downtown Tulsa, the city’s pop-up shops are it. Designed to celebrate and support local entrepreneurs, the Downtown Tulsa Pop-Up Program creates a vibrant space for small businesses to test the waters of a brick-and-mortar location. Featuring unique spots like BoxCo Antiques and Vintage, The Painted Moth, the Vintage Barbie Museum, and Calm and Co., these shops offer everything from handmade goods to wellness experiences, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation while adding an undeniable charm to our downtown streets. With the program open through January 31, 2025, now is the perfect time to discover these gems—and maybe help them grow into a permanent part of our community.
This past week, I experienced the vibrant energy of Downtown Tulsa’s pop-up shops firsthand. Offering a unique mix of nostalgic collectibles, handmade art, and wellness experiences, these curated spaces are redefining the downtown shopping scene and creating unforgettable memories for everyone who visits.
Before diving into the shops, we fueled up with a fantastic brunch at Misfit Kitchen in the Arts District. Their creative and delicious dishes were just what we needed to kickstart our Downtown Tulsa adventure. Once we were ready, it was time to explore the pop-up shops and see what treasures awaited us.
A Treasure Hunt at BoxCo Antiques and Vintage
Next, we headed over to BoxCo Antiques and Vintage (522 S Boston Ave, Suite 103), where the owner, David, welcomed us with a fun challenge: find the oldest item in the store for a special discount. Instantly, we were on a treasure hunt, poring over an incredible collection of rusted bell trees, antique glass jewelry boxes, old-timey radios, vintage clothing, and more. While we didn’t guess the oldest item (I won’t spoil it for you!), David’s detailed explanation of its history made the experience unforgettable. I left with a charming glass owl trinket, and my husband snagged a vintage holiday sweater—both for under $30! It’s a spot that’s equal parts museum and shopping destination, and it’s a must-visit.
Creativity at The Painted Moth
Around the corner in the historic Philcade building, we stepped into The Painted Moth (427 S Boston Ave). The scent of candles and sight of fuzzy blankets greeted us, setting a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This shop is a haven for handmade goods and creative inspiration, featuring local artists’ originals, prints, and wearable art. Katy, one of the owners, was on-site and shared her passion for promoting well-being and artistry. We left with a metallic watercolor set, pencil sketches to paint, a succulent in a vintage tea cup, and more—all perfect reminders of our day. Beyond shopping, The Painted Moth hosts workshops, like ceramic ornament painting and sourdough breadmaking, making it a space for the community to come together and create.
A Journey Through Time: The Vintage Barbie Museum
The highlight of our day was the Vintage Barbie Museum Tour (216 N Main St). While the museum is free to the public most days, the $20 guided tour is a must for any Barbie enthusiast. Hosted by J.D., a passionate collector, the tour offers a deeper look into Barbie’s history and cultural impact. From the prototype inspired by Ruth Handler’s Lilly doll to the dazzling Holiday Christmas Barbies currently on display, every detail is meticulously curated.
The tour was delightfully interactive. We sipped champagne, enjoyed snacks, and participated in creative activities, like designing our own dream Barbie and sharing nostalgic Barbie stories. My group came up with ideas for a “Christmas Mom Barbie” and a “Bodybuilder Barbie,” celebrating different facets of strength and individuality. It was inspiring to see how Barbie has evolved over generations and hear stories from fellow visitors. This experience alone made our day unforgettable.
Mindfulness at Calm and Co.
While I visited Calm and Co. (300 S Cincinnati Ave) on a different day, it’s another standout from the Downtown Tulsa Pop-Up Program. I attended a Guided Meditation class on a Thursday night, and it was the perfect opportunity to center myself during a busy holiday season. This wellness-focused shop offers sessions and gifts designed to promote personal growth and mindfulness. From tea ceremonies to yoga classes, Calm and Co. creates a serene space to recharge and reflect. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to invest in their well-being.
About the Downtown Tulsa Pop-Up Program
Downtown Tulsa Partnership’s Pop-Up Downtown program has returned for the 2024-25 holiday season with the support of The Commemoration Fund. This program allows emerging entrepreneurs to test the Downtown market through affordable short-term leases in ground-floor retail spaces. Many of our city’s thriving businesses, like popular coffee shops and boutiques, started as pop-ups. By shopping and supporting these small businesses, you’re helping aspiring entrepreneurs take their first steps toward permanence. Each dollar spent downtown helps create a vibrant community and supports local talent.
With the program running through January 31, 2025, there’s plenty of time to explore these pop-ups—but don’t wait too long. Your support could make the difference in whether these shops stay for good. So grab a friend, plan an outing, and experience the magic of Downtown Tulsa’s pop-up scene for yourself. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, creative inspiration, or just a fun day out, you’ll find it here.