Minshall Park - Tulsa, OK

The population of Tulsa began to migrate south across Tulsa County during the 1960's and 1970's. The construction of St. Francis Hospital at 71st Street and Yale Avenue helped spur Minshall Park's growth. At first, the neighborhood was considered remote from Downtown Tulsa, but incorporation and additional road development helped encourage further development.

No museums exist in this mainly residential neighborhood, but the galleries and museums located in the Brady Arts and Pearl Districts can be reached by car in less than half an hour. Even closer to home, just a couple miles west of the community, the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art celebrates Jewish art, history and culture. Local events take place throughout the year, sponsored by neighborhood groups such as the Minshall Park Homeowner's Association.

Restaurants in Minshall Park line the edges of the neighborhood. Perched on the corner of 81st Street and Sheridan Road is a carnivore's dreams: Siegi's Sausage Factory & Deli. Siegi's, a Tulsa institution for more than 30 years, combines all of the amenities of a full-service restaurant with an attached market and a sausage factory. If you're looking for authentic German and Viennese cuisine made from scratch, Siegi's has you covered. Start with the Hungarian goulash and then move on to the Jagerschnitzel, lightly breaded cutlets covered in creamy, flavorful gravy served alongside hot German potato salad. After you finish your meal, head to the store side of the building to get some fresh sausage and meats to take home.

Another Minshall Park favorite, The White Lion treats Tulsans to authentic British pub fare. The fish and chips come perfectly fried and served with mushy peas (which taste much better than they sound). Reminiscent of the taverns of northern England, including furniture from actual pubs in Great Britain, The White Lion provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a pasty, sausage rolls or cottage pie.

If you enjoy stopping at a friendly bar after a hard day of work, you'll love Sutures. The cordial atmosphere, bartenders who call you by name and quick service make this neighborhood establishment a popular destination. For a more laid back evening out, try Naples Flatbread & Wine Bar. Naples combines a fresh takes on appetizers with over 30 wines served by the glass or bottle. Make sure to try some of the delicious flatbreads such as the bang bang shrimp and tikka.

Motor vehicles provide the primary mode of transportation for Minshall Park residents. Tulsa Transit buses travel through the business area, a short walk from the residential neighborhoods and apartment complexes. Hailing a cab may be difficult, but with the Yellow Cab app you can create your own virtual taxi stand. Uber has also made its ride sharing service available in Tulsa.

Free public parking is available throughout the neighborhood. The spacious shopping center parking lots cater to even large vehicles. While no highways run through Minshall Park, drive a few miles in literally any direction and you will cross as interstates, expressway or toll road that connects the neighborhood to all points in Tulsa.

The lack of sidewalks in the area makes walking and bicycling difficult. Use great care when attempting either, as many of the bordering streets are multi-lane.

Centrally located Minshall Park provides a beautiful setting and an urban fishing pond. Favorite family activities at the park include picnics, frisbee and catch. The fishing pond, stocked with a number of species, invites visitors to catch their dinner.

To the east of the neighborhood lies Leake Park. Tree-shaded picnic tables, a playground area, sand volleyball and a duck pond occupy this 23-acre facility. Sports enthusiasts enjoy the walking path around the pond as well as the tennis courts. Neighborhood teams play baseball on the park's four diamonds.

Visitors to Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness, located less than five miles west of Minshall Park, can hike over 45 miles of trails. Eagles nest in Turkey Mountain and streams follow their natural paths carved from the land, creating an exquisite outdoor experience. Each year, BASECAMP Camping and Music Event provides a rare opportunity to camp in the park and listen to live music.

The south edge of River Parks crosses 71st Street at Riverside Drive, a mere three miles away from Minshall Park. River Parks offers a premier collection of park activities for all ages. Row, kayak or boat on the waterways, or take advantage of either the 9-hole or 18-hole disc golf course for an afternoon of fun in the sun.

Minshall Park's cost of living falls well below the Tulsa average, with a one-bedroom residences available for a median rent of $468. A 30-minute bus ride will take you to Downtown Tulsa, and a Tulsa Transit EZ Ride Pass for single day of unlimited rides can be purchased for less than $5.

Fuel prices in Minshall Park compare favorably to the national average. Gas can regularly be found 20-25% below prices around the country. An after work libation won't break the bank either. Area restaurants and bars sell beer on tap or in the bottle for less than $5.

While primarily residential, the neighborhood of Minshall Park has small shopping centers at major intersections. Reasor's, a locally owned grocery store chain, anchors the Plaza Village Shopping Center at 71st Street and Sheridan Road. Off-price retailer Tuesday Morning provides name-brand clothing, home decor, and accessories for bargain prices. Lighthouse Shopping Center at 71st Street and Yale Avenue caters to specialty shoppers with Tulsa Bridal Palace. Square 1 Shopping Center at 81st Street and Sheridan Road has handmade furniture at Amish Crafted Furniture and ladies' fashions at the Amaranth Collection, as well as Saffa Compounding Pharmacy for your medication needs.

Kitty-corner from Siegi's on 81st and Sheridan, Perry's Food Store & Meat Market sells everything you need for your next barbecue. An old-fashioned butcher shop, Perry's cuts steaks, chops, briskets, and even pork belly to order. Be prepared to take a number, but your wait will be rewarded with personal attention and meat hand-trimmed to your specifications.

Craving fresh baked goods? Try Farrell Family Organic Bread or OK Country Donuts, where you can order custom donuts in a variety of shapes and colors. Be sure to stop by the Fresh Market, which combines the old-fashioned appeal of a corner grocer with locally sourced natural and organic goods.