Bunker Hill-Tower View

One could imagine that Bunker Hill-Tower View, which borders downtown Tulsa with sweeping views of the Arkansas River to boot, would be constantly buzzing, crowded and overwhelming – but it’s quite the opposite, actually. Despite being home to a nearly 85-acre park, this neighborhood is primarily residential, with a few treasure troves scattered throughout that contribute to the distinct character of this point of convenience. "The area in general is a gem," says Janayshia Grundy, a Realtor with AOG Real Estate. "Everyone knows everyone in the neighborhood, and it's very peaceful and quiet. The majority of the community is retired or going into retirement, but the area is also good for people with children."

Its uniqueness also manifests itself through its housing stock, which, unlike most neighborhoods in the city, heavily offers multifamily homes, mostly 1930s towering duplexes with covered front porches and broad, open yards. Those seeking single-family homes don’t have to necessarily look elsewhere, though, as ranch-style houses on small, flat lots with back porches leading into fenced yards are available as well. Due to its prime location and depending on square footage and overall features, asking prices can range from $130,000 to $300,000.

Every home sits within minutes of the neighborhood’s centerpiece, Newblock Park. Stretched along the river, with tables set so visitors can sit with a picnic spread and take in the scenery, it offers a hunter-green playset with slides, swings and tan accents, as well as a pair of baseball fields. "The park is a huge piece to the area, and it's very relaxing and quiet," Grundy says. "It has friendly ducks and a nice pond." It’s known as the quieter alternative to nearby Owen Park, a 24-acre space in its namesake neighborhood that features historic monuments, an asphalt playset, a seasonal splash pad and a stone footbridge. Newblock is also adjacent to a popular fenced-in dog run, Joe Station, which has areas for both small and big four-legged friends and is lauded for its panic tables, water fountain and ample shade.

All these parks are after-school favorites, too. While Bunker Hill-Tower View doesn’t have any schools of its own, students only have to go less than a mile to Wayman Tisdale Fine Arts Academy in neighboring Charles Page. Prekindergarten through fifth grade students here undergo the A+ Schools Program in which they get daily arts exposure, ensuring it’s incorporated into every facet of learning. From there, they feed just a couple blocks north into Central Middle and High School, Tulsa’s oldest high school, which also has a fine arts emphasis.

Students have a place outside of school to finish their projects. Just south of Newblock, WaterWorks Art Center is the community hub for all things artistic, from glass-fusing classes and open studios available by request to a popular summer day camp. You can also rent out space for birthdays or another special event and let your creative juices flow.

If you work up an appetite while adding the final touches to your masterpiece, continue down Charles Page Boulevard and grab what many locals would call Tulsa’s best burger. Lot-A-Burger sits in an unassuming blue shack, but its classic burgers and generous portions pack a flavorful punch. Try its simple namesake sandwich with your choice of fries or tater tots. Bunker Hill-Tower View only has another hamburger joint, Ted’s, and chains like Daylight Donuts to offer, so most residents head over to downtown when they want more upscale meals. If you’d rather eat at home, stock up on ingredients at Reasor’s 4 miles east or at Walmart Neighborhood Market 5 miles south.

More entertainment opportunities await, of course, just across the way in downtown Tulsa, which is easily accessible via the Cyrus Avery Bridge. This walkway on the National Register of Historic Places is not only an important part of the community but also a key element of Tulsa’s rise to fame through Route 66, which it pays homage to through plaques and more.

Convenience is commonplace when you’re in Bunker Hill-Tower View.

Written By

Bre Offenberger

Video By

Jackson Nacey