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If you’re looking for unique and interesting museums to visit in Oklahoma, you’re in luck. The state is home to a variety of museums that showcase everything from art and history to science and pop culture. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these museums are worth checking out.
One museum that should be on your list is the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. This museum is a dream for art lovers and history buffs alike, with an acclaimed collection of paintings and sculptures by great Western artists. You can also learn about the history of the cowboy and explore exhibits on Native American culture, rodeo, and more.
If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, consider a trip to the Toy and Action Figure Museum in Pauls Valley. This museum is the only one of its kind in the world, devoted solely to the art and collection of action figures. You can see exhibits on everything from Star Wars and GI Joe to Barbie and Transformers, and even create your own action figure in the museum’s workshop.
History of Museums in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is home to a rich and diverse history, and unique and interesting museums have been an important way to preserve and showcase that history. Museums in Oklahoma cover a wide range of topics, from Native American history to the oil industry, and everything in between.
The first museum in Oklahoma was the Oklahoma Historical Society, which was founded in 1893. The society’s mission was to collect and preserve the history of Oklahoma and its people. The Oklahoma Historical Society has grown and now operates several museums and historic sites throughout the state.
Other museums followed, such as the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, which opened in 1955. The museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the art, history, and culture of the American West.
In recent years, Oklahoma has seen a surge in the number of museums dedicated to specific topics. For example, the Museum of Osteology, which opened in 2010, is the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to the study of bones.
Many of the most interesting museums in Oklahoma are also dedicated to preserving the state’s Native American history. The Cherokee Heritage Center, for example, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Cherokee history and culture. The center includes a museum, historic village, and genealogy center.
Museums in Oklahoma play an important role in preserving and showcasing the state’s interesting and rich history. Whether you’re interested in Native American history, the oil industry, or the American West, there’s a museum in Oklahoma that’s sure to pique your interest.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
415 Couch Dr, Oklahoma City, OK
If you’re looking for one of the most interesting museums that contains a stunning collection of art, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a must-visit destination. The museum is located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City and features an impressive collection of American art, European art, and contemporary art.
Permanent Collections
The permanent collection at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art is impressive and includes works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Dale Chihuly, and Edward Hopper. The museum’s American art collection is particularly noteworthy, with works spanning from the colonial period to the present day.
One of the highlights of the museum’s permanent collection is the Dale Chihuly glass sculpture. The sculpture is a stunning work of art that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Additionally, the museum’s collection of European art includes works by artists such as Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh.
Special Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent collection, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase a diverse range of art and are always worth checking out.
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in art. With its impressive permanent collection and exciting special exhibitions, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Gilcrease Museum
1400 N Gilcrease Museum Rd, Tulsa, OK
If you’re interested in American art and Native American artifacts, the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a must-visit. The museum was established in 1949 by Thomas Gilcrease, a citizen of the Muscogee Creek Nation, and has since grown to become one of the top museums in the state.
American Art Collection
The Gilcrease Museum is home to the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of art of the American West. The museum’s American art collection includes over 13,000 paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures from artists such as Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, and Thomas Moran. The collection also includes works from contemporary artists such as Jaune Quick-to-See Smith and Fritz Scholder.
One of the highlights of the American art collection is the Thomas Gilcrease Institute of American History and Art, which houses a comprehensive collection of the art, culture, and history of North America. The institute is open by appointment only, Monday through Friday, from 9:00am – 4:30pm.
Native American Artifacts
In addition to its American art collection, the Gilcrease Museum also has a growing collection of art and artifacts from Central and South America, as well as a significant collection of Native American artifacts. The museum’s Native American artifact collection includes over 10,000 items, including pottery, baskets, textiles, and jewelry.
The museum’s Native American art collection is particularly noteworthy for its extensive collection of Plains Indian art. The collection includes works from artists such as Blackbear Bosin, Allan Houser, and Kevin Red Star, among others.
The Gilcrease Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in American art and Native American artifacts. With its impressive collection and commitment to preserving and showcasing the art and history of North America, the museum is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Oklahoma History Center
800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, Oklahoma City, OK
If you are interested in learning about the unique history of Oklahoma, you should visit the Oklahoma History Center. This museum is an eighteen-acre, 215,000-square-foot learning center that explores Oklahoma’s history of Native culture, pioneers, aviation, commerce, and more.
Historical Exhibits
The Oklahoma History Center Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It houses a vast collection of historical exhibits that showcase the rich history of Oklahoma.
- The American Indian Gallery, which features artifacts and exhibits that showcase the Native American culture and history of Oklahoma.
- The Land Run exhibit tells the story of the Oklahoma Land Run of 1889, when thousands of settlers rushed to claim land in the newly opened territory.
- The Oil and Gas exhibit explores the impact of the oil and gas industry on Oklahoma’s economy and culture.
- The Aviation exhibit showcases the contributions of Oklahoma aviators to the history of flight.
Interactive Displays
In addition to the historical exhibits, the Oklahoma History Center also has a variety of interactive displays that make learning about history fun and engaging.
- The Discovery Room, which is a hands-on learning space for children that allows them to explore Oklahoma’s history through play and experimentation.
- The Virtual Reality experience, which transports visitors to different periods in Oklahoma’s history through immersive virtual reality technology.
- The Multimedia Theater, which shows documentaries and films about Oklahoma’s history and culture.
The Oklahoma History Center is a must-visit museum for anyone interested in learning about the unique history of Oklahoma. With its vast collection of historical exhibits and interactive displays, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman, OK
If you are interested in natural history, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is worth a visit. Located on the campus of the University of Oklahoma, this museum has been inspiring minds to understand the world through collection-based research, interpretation, and education since 1899.
Paleontology
The museum’s paleontology collection is one of the largest and most important in the world. It includes over 50,000 cataloged specimens of vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants from Oklahoma and around the world.
The centerpiece of the collection is the world-renowned Hall of Ancient Life, which features life-size models of prehistoric animals and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of ancient ecosystems.
The museum also has an active paleontology research program, with ongoing fieldwork in Oklahoma and other parts of the world.
Ethnology
The museum’s ethnology collection includes over 100,000 objects and specimens representing the cultural diversity of Oklahoma and the surrounding region. The collection includes artifacts from Native American cultures, as well as from African American, Hispanic, and European American communities.
The museum’s ethnology exhibits explore the ways in which people have adapted to their environments and created unique cultural traditions over time. Visitors can also learn about ongoing research projects in ethnology and anthropology, and participate in hands-on activities that explore different aspects of cultural diversity.
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural history, paleontology, or ethnology. With its world-class collections, engaging exhibits, and active research programs, this museum offers a unique and inspiring learning experience for visitors of all ages.
Science Museum Oklahoma
2020 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City, OK
If you are looking for one of the most interesting museums that are both educational and entertaining, Science Museum Oklahoma is the perfect place for you. Located in Oklahoma City, this museum is dedicated to inspiring curiosity and revealing the wonder and relevance of science to the community.
Science Exhibits
Science Museum Oklahoma has a wide range of exhibits that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Some of the most popular exhibits include the following.
- The Tinkering Garage: This exhibit encourages visitors to explore their creativity and problem-solving skills by building and experimenting with various materials and tools.
- The Aviation Exhibit: This exhibit showcases the history and science of flight, featuring interactive displays and actual aircraft.
- The Energy Exhibit: This exhibit explores the various forms of energy and how they are used in our daily lives, including renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
These exhibits are just a few examples of the many hands-on and interactive displays that Science Museum Oklahoma has to offer.
Planetarium
One of the highlights of Science Museum Oklahoma is the Kirkpatrick Planetarium. This state-of-the-art facility features a 50-foot dome and a Digistar 5 projection system, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of the universe in stunning detail.
The planetarium offers a variety of shows and presentations.
- Star Shows: These shows take visitors on a journey through the stars, exploring constellations, galaxies, and other celestial objects.
- Full-Dome Films: These films cover a wide range of topics, from the history of space exploration to the latest discoveries in astronomy.
- Live Presentations: These presentations are led by experienced astronomers, who guide visitors through the night sky and answer questions about astronomy and space science.
Whether you are a space enthusiast or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Kirkpatrick Planetarium is not to be missed.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Western history, art, and culture. Founded in 1955, the museum is home to an internationally renowned collection of Western art and artifacts, including more than 28,000 works and objects.
Western Art
The Western Art collection is one of the museum’s most popular exhibits. It features a superb collection of classic and contemporary Western art, including works by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, as well as sculptor James Earle Fraser’s magnificent work, The End of the Trail. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other works that capture the spirit of the American West.
Rodeo Heritage
The museum’s Rodeo Heritage exhibit is another highlight. It features the world’s most extensive collection of American rodeo photographs, barbed wire, saddlery, and early rodeo trophies. Visitors can learn about the history of rodeo and its importance to Western culture through interactive exhibits, videos, and displays.
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in Western history, art, and culture. With its impressive collection of Western art and artifacts, as well as its engaging exhibits and educational programs, the museum offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Final Thoughts on Interesting Museums in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a rich cultural heritage, and its museums offer a unique perspective on the state’s history, art, and natural wonders. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the world around you, there is a museum in Oklahoma that is perfect for you.
From the Sam Noble Museum in Norman, which showcases the geological past of Oklahoma, to the Mabee-Gerrer Museum in Shawnee, which houses a vast collection of art from around the world, Oklahoma’s museums are sure to captivate and educate visitors of all ages.
If you are interested in the history of Oklahoma, be sure to visit the Oklahoma Historical Society’s museums and historic sites, which offer a glimpse into the state’s past from prehistoric times to the present day. The Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center in Spiro, for example, features a prehistoric mound complex that was once the center of a thriving Native American culture.
If you are more interested in science and technology, check out the Science Museum Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, which features interactive exhibits on everything from space exploration to the human body. And if you are looking for a unique experience, don’t miss the American Banjo Museum in Oklahoma City, which celebrates the history and culture of the banjo.
No matter what your interests are, Oklahoma’s museums are sure to offer something fascinating and educational. So why not plan a visit to one of these amazing museums today?
Frequently Asked Questions about interesting museums in Oklahoma
What are some history museums to visit in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is home to many interesting history museums that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. Some of the most notable ones include the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City, which features exhibits on the history of the state from prehistoric times to the present day, and the Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, which highlights the history and culture of the Cherokee Nation.
What are the top science museums in Oklahoma?
If you’re interested in science, Oklahoma has several museums that are worth a visit. The Science Museum Oklahoma in Oklahoma City is one of the largest science museums in the country and features hands-on exhibits on topics ranging from space exploration to health and wellness. The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium in Tulsa is another great option, with exhibits on aviation and space exploration.
What are some must-see art museums in Oklahoma City?
Oklahoma City is home to several art museums that are worth a visit. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh and Georgia O’Keeffe. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is another interesting option, with exhibits on the history and culture of the American West.
Are there any free museums to visit in OKC?
Yes, there are several free museums to visit in Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is free on Thursdays and the first Saturday of every month. The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at the University of Oklahoma is also free to the public, as is the 45th Infantry Division Museum.
What can I see at the dinosaur museum in OKC?
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in Norman is home to one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaur fossils. Visitors can see a variety of dinosaur skeletons, including a 40-foot-long Acrocanthosaurus and a 35-foot-long Pentaceratops. The museum also features exhibits on Oklahoma’s natural history and Native American culture.
What exhibits can I expect to see at the Oklahoma Museum of History?
The Oklahoma Museum of History in Oklahoma City features exhibits on the history of the state, from its early Native American inhabitants to the present day. Visitors can see artifacts from the Dust Bowl era, learn about the state’s role in the Civil War, and explore the history of the oil industry in Oklahoma. The museum also features exhibits on famous Oklahomans, including Will Rogers and Woody Guthrie.
