Oklahoma City, the thriving capital of Oklahoma, is a city that boasts a rich history and culture. It is home to some remarkable museums that offer visitors insight into the state’s heritage, diverse population, and significant events that have shaped its past and present. Whatever your interests – from art to science, aviation to Native American history – Oklahoma City has a museum for you. If you’re planning a trip to the city and don’t know where to start your cultural exploration, this guide has all the info you need. We’ve compiled a list of the top museums in Oklahoma City worth visiting, so let’s dive in and discover the fascinating exhibits each of these museums holds.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
This museum located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the heritage of the American West. It houses thousands of works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that tell the story of cowboys, Native Americans, pioneers, ranchers, and more. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for adults and children alike.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Visitors to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum can experience the emotions of April 19, 1995, through powerful visuals and audio-visual presentations. The museum features interactive exhibits that bring to life the stories of those who perished in the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in American history, the 1995 Murrah Building bombing.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
This museum, located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, houses a collection of numerous works of art from around the world. It features permanent and traveling exhibitions that showcase ancient to contemporary works of American and European artists. The museum also offers educational programs such as lectures, classes, workshops, and guided tours.
American Banjo Museum
This museum is devoted to the history and culture of the banjo, one of America’s most beloved instruments. It features a range of exhibits exploring all aspects of the banjo – from its origins in Africa to its evolution in America – as well as live performances and an extensive collection of rare banjos. Here you can find memorabilia, original recordings, and more.
Science Museum Oklahoma
This Oklahoma City museum, also known as the Omniplex, offers a unique blend of science and history. The exhibits explore topics such as earth sciences, space exploration, natural history, technology, and more. Additionally, the museum has educational programs for all ages and offers an IMAX theater for 3D movies.
Oklahoma Museum of Telephone History
This museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is dedicated to preserving the history of telecommunications in Oklahoma. It features an array of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational programs designed to inform visitors about the evolution of the telephone and its impact on society.
Museum of Osteology
Located in Oklahoma City, this unusual museum is devoted to the study of bones. It houses a collection of over 300 skeletons from all over the world, which are displayed in intricate and unique displays. Visitors can explore the fascinating anatomy and diverse species that make up our natural world.