Bartlesville OK​

Bartlesville, Oklahoma – A hidden gem nestled in the heart of Green Country, Bartlesville blends small-town charm with rich history, natural beauty, and a surprising flair for the arts. From its oil-boom legacy and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture to its vibrant downtown and scenic trails, this welcoming city invites you to slow down, explore, and enjoy a deeper connection to community and culture. Whether you’re catching a concert at the Community Center, exploring beautiful parks, or savoring local coffee downtown, Bartlesville offers warmth and discovery at every turn.

• Population: ~37,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; mild springs, warm summers, crisp falls, and cool winters (25–95°F).
• Places To Visit: Price Tower, Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, Johnstone Park, Kiddie Park, Frank Phillips Home.
• Top Activities: Hiking scenic trails, exploring local museums, enjoying downtown festivals, visiting historic homes, wildlife viewing at Woolaroc.
• Famous Food: Fried catfish at Dink’s Pit BBQ, homestyle meals at Murphy’s Original Steak House, and fresh pastries from the Midway Café.

Bartlesville, Oklahoma, known for its rich history in the oil industry and family-friendly community, offers a variety of job opportunities across several key industries. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking new possibilities, Bartlesville is a city with growing potential. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in the area.

Nestled in northeastern Oklahoma, Bartlesville may be a smaller city, but it’s full of hidden gems where students can kick back, recharge, and enjoy themselves. Whether you're in high school, attending local colleges, or just passing through, Bartlesville offers a mix of cozy hangout spots, outdoor escapes, and creative spaces perfect for unwinding after class.

Price Tower Arts Center – Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this unique skyscraper is more than just a cool photo spot. It features art exhibits and a peaceful garden where students can relax and get inspired. The on-site café upstairs is perfect for studying or catching up with friends over coffee.

Johnstone Park & Pathfinder Parkway Trail – Need to stretch your legs or de-stress? Johnstone Park, located near downtown, has green spaces, paved trails, a skate park, and even a bison in the nearby preserves. Take a leisurely walk on the Pathfinder Parkway and enjoy some nature therapy without leaving the city.

Get Real Coffee – This downtown coffeehouse has major chill vibes. It's cozy enough for studying but also has a lively atmosphere for socializing. Stop by for open mic nights, live music, and some of the best lattes in town.

Distractions Park – If you're looking to let off some steam, this entertainment spot offers mini-golf, laser tag, and more. It’s a fun go-to place for group hangouts or a spontaneous weekend adventure.

The Gathering Place (Tulsa – 45 minutes away) – Okay, not exactly Bartlesville, but it's worth the short drive. This massive riverfront park has skate areas, kayaking, food trucks, and cool hangout corners just made for students. Sometimes it's good to explore beyond city limits!

Painted Horse Bar & Grille – For college students looking for a casual dinner out, Painted Horse serves up a relaxed atmosphere with live music nights and comfort food that hits the spot after a long day.

Bartlesville Community Center – Check out student-friendly events like concerts, theater shows, and cultural festivals happening here year-round. It’s a great way to stay connected and entertained.

Osage Hills State Park – Craving some quiet? Grab your hammock and head 15 minutes west to Osage Hills. With hiking trails, campgrounds, and scenic views, it’s the perfect unplugged weekend getaway with your crew.

Bartlesville may be laid-back, but it offers a little bit of everything—from cozy coffee shops and outdoor adventures to cool art and entertainment. Wherever you are in your student journey, this city has a spot waiting for you to chill, laugh, and make some awesome memories.

Bartlesville, Oklahoma, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, strong community spirit, and commitment to quality education. Whether you are looking for public institutions that offer a broad range of programs or private colleges focusing on specialized education, Bartlesville provides solid options for students at different stages of their academic journeys.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Bartlesville

Rogers State University – Bartlesville Campus – Offering bachelor’s and associate degrees in areas like business, nursing, and liberal arts, the Bartlesville campus of Rogers State University provides affordable, accessible education for students from all backgrounds.

Tri County Technology Center – This renowned public institution offers cutting-edge programs in health sciences, applied technology, and business, equipping students with hands-on skills for today’s workforce.

Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (Outreach Programs) – While the main campus is in Miami, OK, NEO's Bartlesville outreach provides flexible continuing education and workforce training for adults and high school graduates.

Pioneer Technology Center (Bartlesville Extension) – Focused on practical training, Pioneer Tech’s Bartlesville extension offers vocational courses and industry certifications that help students quickly launch their careers.

Bartlesville Public School District - Adult Education Program – The district’s adult learning center provides GED preparation, ESL classes, and pathways to college credits, fostering lifelong learning in the community.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Bartlesville

Oklahoma Wesleyan University – This highly respected Christian liberal arts university offers undergraduate, graduate, and online degrees in areas like nursing, business, ministry, and education with a strong focus on faith and service.

First Baptist Church School of Ministry – For those seeking theological education or ministry preparation, this private program offers certificate courses and training in biblical studies and pastoral leadership.

St. John Catholic School Extended Education – While mainly a K-8 institution, St. John offers extended education courses and community workshops that contribute to adult and youth enrichment in Bartlesville.

Bartlesville Christian School (Adult Education Seminars) – Known for excellence in faith-based education, this school also provides seminars and lifelong learning opportunities for adults in the Bartlesville area.

Private Tutoring and Enrichment Centers (e.g., Sylvan Learning Bartlesville) – Several private educational centers in Bartlesville, like Sylvan Learning, offer test prep, tutoring, and academic enrichment, supporting students as they prepare for college and careers.

Bartlesville’s blend of public and private educational institutions reflects its dedication to helping students succeed at every level. Whether you are seeking a skill-based program, a faith-oriented degree, or academic enrichment, Bartlesville has the right educational opportunity for you.

If you’re looking for great high schools in Bartlesville, OK, you’ll be happy to know the area offers strong options for both public and private education. These schools focus on preparing students for success in college, careers, and life, offering supportive environments, engaging academics, and extracurricular opportunities. Here are the top public and private high schools in the Bartlesville area you should know about.

Top Public High Schools in Bartlesville, OK

• Bartlesville High School – As the main public high school in the city, Bartlesville High offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, strong STEM and fine arts programs, and many clubs and sports teams. It serves a diverse student body and has a reputation for academic rigor and a welcoming community.
• Caney Valley High School – Located a short drive north in Ramona, this smaller school prides itself on personalized attention. With a lower student-teacher ratio, it offers opportunities for leadership and individual engagement, making it a strong choice for families in surrounding areas.
• Dewey High School – Just northwest of Bartlesville, Dewey High is part of a close-knit school district. It’s recognized for strong athletics, practical career tech programs, and a commitment to student development, both academically and socially.
• Nowata High School – About 25 minutes from Bartlesville, Nowata High School offers strong support in both academics and extracurriculars. The school emphasizes character development and has a hardworking faculty dedicated to student success.
• Oologah High School – Drawing some students from the Bartlesville area, Oologah High offers excellent college and career readiness programs. Known for its focus on innovation and academic growth, it’s consistently ranked among the better rural schools in northeastern Oklahoma.

Top Private High Schools in Bartlesville, OK

• Wesleyan Christian School – A top private Christian school in Bartlesville, WCS provides a faith-based, well-rounded education. With small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a mission to serve both academically and spiritually, it's a favorite among families seeking a values-driven environment.
• St. John Catholic School – While it traditionally serves K-8, the church-affiliated education system prepares students exceptionally well for high school, and some go on to nearby private or public high schools. Its strong academic foundation and parent involvement make it a valued institution in town.
• Cornerstone Academy – A small, private K-12 Christian school, Cornerstone offers individualized learning plans and a focus on character education. Families appreciate the supportive atmosphere and Christian-focused curriculum that helps students grow spiritually and academically.
• Classical Conversations (Homeschool Co-op) – While not a traditional school, this homeschool support group offers high school-level curriculum and Christian-based education. Families looking for flexible, rigorous academics often choose this path and benefit from the small group instruction and community-learning model.
• Victory Christian School (near Tulsa) – For families considering a wider radius, Victory Christian is just under an hour away and offers a robust private high school experience. With advanced coursework, competitive athletics, and Christian-centered values, it's a strong option for those able to commute or relocate.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, Bartlesville offers solid public and private schooling paths. From large schools with lots of opportunities to smaller, faith-based communities, there’s a place for every kind of student to thrive.

Bartlesville, Oklahoma may be a small city, but its deep appreciation for sports can be felt all around town. While it doesn’t host any major professional sports teams of its own, residents proudly support teams across the state and region—and they don’t hold back when it comes to showing their loyalty. The community also enjoys a high level of participation in sports at the high school, college, and amateur levels, making Bartlesville a great place for sports lovers.

Even though you won't find an NBA, NFL, or MLB team headquartered in Bartlesville, sports fans seamlessly connect to professional teams based in nearby cities like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and even regional favorites from Texas and Missouri. Let’s take a look at some professional teams that Bartlesville sports fans passionately follow.

Basketball – Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA)

• Oklahoma City Thunder – Just under two hours away from Bartlesville, the Thunder are the heartbeat of pro basketball in Oklahoma. Since relocating from Seattle in 2008, the team has made multiple playoff appearances and reached the NBA Finals in 2012. Fans have cheered on superstars like Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and the franchise continues to rebuild with a strong, youthful core.

Baseball – Tulsa Drillers (Double-A Affiliate, MLB)

• Tulsa Drillers – Though not a Major League team, the Drillers are a professional minor league baseball team located just an hour from Bartlesville. They play as a Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Many MLB stars have passed through Tulsa on their way to the big leagues, and fans enjoy the thrill of watching rising talent at affordable prices in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Football – Regional Favorites (NFL)

• Dallas Cowboys – Thanks to their proximity and long-standing popularity, the Cowboys are a top NFL team for many in Bartlesville. With 5 Super Bowl championships under their belt, the Cowboys have a storied legacy. Legends like Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and now Dak Prescott have helped keep them as a fan favorite.
• Kansas City Chiefs – Located a few hours north, the Chiefs are another beloved NFL team in northeastern Oklahoma. With 3 Super Bowl titles—including recent wins in 2019 and 2023—and the dynamic play of Patrick Mahomes, they’ve attracted a massive following in the Bartlesville area.

Hockey – Tulsa Oilers (ECHL)

• Tulsa Oilers – While Oklahoma doesn't have an NHL team, the Tulsa Oilers offer professional hockey action just a short drive away. Competing in the ECHL, they provide fans a taste of tough, fast-paced hockey without leaving the state. The Oilers have a loyal local fan base, and games are always an exciting event.

Soccer – FC Tulsa (USL Championship)

• FC Tulsa – For soccer fans, FC Tulsa is the go-to professional team representing northeastern Oklahoma. Competing in the USL Championship league, the team showcases competitive matches and supports strong community engagement. With growing interest in soccer across the U.S., FC Tulsa continues to gain traction and fan support throughout the Bartlesville area.

While Bartlesville may not have professional teams playing in its own backyard, the passion for sports runs deep here. Whether it's catching a Thunder game, heading to Tulsa for minor league baseball, or rooting on NFL powerhouses from afar, locals are never short on teams to cheer for. In Bartlesville, the sporting spirit is alive, well, and proudly worn on the sleeves of its dedicated fans.

Bartlesville, Oklahoma may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of exciting places, but it's packed with charm, history, and some pretty surprising tidbits! Whether you're a local, a visitor, or just curious about small-town America, here are some fun facts about this unique city in northeastern Oklahoma:

1. Home of Phillips 66 – Bartlesville is where the energy giant Phillips Petroleum Company got its start back in 1917, making the city a crucial player in America’s oil history.
2. A Frank Lloyd Wright Exclusive – Bartlesville is home to Price Tower, the only skyscraper ever designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright that was actually built.
3. OK Mozart Festival – The city hosts one of the largest classical music festivals in the southwestern U.S.—a full week of performances, family events, and world-class musicians.
4. Oil Came First – Long before Tulsa took the spotlight, Bartlesville was actually where Oklahoma’s first commercial oil well was drilled in 1897, starting the state’s oil rush.
5. Woolaroc Wonderland – Just south of town, Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve houses bison, longhorns, and even zebras… and it's all thanks to oil baron Frank Phillips’ love for the wild west.
6. Hidden Speakeasies – During Prohibition, Bartlesville’s basements hid more than laundry. Many buildings downtown had secret speakeasies where people gathered for a “drink.”
7. Science on the Side – The city features a hands-on learning experience at the Discovery Lab Satellite, a fun and educational space for kids and curious minds.
8. Rodeo Proud – Every year, the Bartlesville Round-Up Club Rodeo brings cowboys, cowgirls, and spectators together for a thrilling taste of Oklahoma’s western heritage.
9. Aviation History – The George B. Keeler Airport in Bartlesville supported early aviation and hosted some historic barnstorming shows back in the day.
10. Movie Magic – Parts of the 1983 film The Outsiders and other classic flicks were filmed nearby, giving Bartlesville its own little connection to Hollywood!