The Oklahoma City area is home to some of the most diverse and engaging museums in the country. With world-class art collections, fascinating historical exhibits, and immersive interactive displays, these museums offer something for everyone. Whether diving into Oklahoma’s rich history, exploring the wonders of science, or stepping back in time to the era of cowboys and railroads, visitors will find no shortage of incredible experiences.
With so many options, choosing the best museums to visit can feel overwhelming. To make the decision easier, here are eight of the best museums in the Oklahoma City area, perfect for history buffs, art enthusiasts, science lovers, and families alike.
Sam Noble Museum of Natural History
Located in Norman, just outside Oklahoma City, the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History houses an impressive collection of over 10 million artifacts showcasing Oklahoma’s cultural and natural heritage. As part of the University of Oklahoma, the museum is dedicated to education, research, and appreciation of the state’s rich history. Visitors can marvel at towering dinosaur skeletons, explore ancient Native American artifacts, and engage with interactive exhibits that bring Oklahoma’s past to life.
Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art
Also located in Norman, the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is home to an extensive collection of American, Asian, and European art, along with an outstanding selection of photography. The museum hosts several traveling exhibitions each year, ensuring that every visit offers something new. Thanks to a partnership with the University of Oklahoma’s athletic department, admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
Situated in the heart of downtown, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) is a premier destination for visual arts. Its extensive permanent collection features American and European masterpieces, contemporary works, and an impressive glass collection, including breathtaking installations by renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The museum also offers film screenings, art classes, and special exhibitions, making it a dynamic cultural hub for the city.
Science Museum Oklahoma
For those who love hands-on exploration, Science Museum Oklahoma (SMO) provides an interactive experience that captivates visitors of all ages. Guests can experiment with physics, explore outer space, and test their skills on a Segway course. The museum’s engaging exhibits encourage curiosity and discovery, making it a perfect stop for families, students, and science enthusiasts.
Museum of Osteology
As the first museum in the United States dedicated solely to bones, the Museum of Osteology offers a fascinating look at the skeletal structures of mammals, reptiles, birds, and more. Visitors can examine over 300 real skeletons and compare anatomical structures to see how different species move and function. The museum also features a fun scavenger hunt, making it an engaging experience for kids and adults alike.
Oklahoma History Center
The Oklahoma History Center provides an in-depth look at the state’s unique past. Exhibits cover everything from Native American culture and pioneer life to oil booms, aviation, and commerce. Visitors can explore interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring Oklahoma’s history to life. As part of the Oklahoma Historical Society, the center also connects guests to a network of smaller museums and monuments throughout the state.
Oklahoma Railway Museum
Train enthusiasts will love the Oklahoma Railway Museum (ORM), where they can explore historic passenger and freight cars, a locomotive, and an extensive collection of train memorabilia. From April through August, visitors can take a real train ride, adding to the immersive experience. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the role railroads played in shaping Oklahoma’s development and transportation history.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum celebrates the legends and legacy of the American West. Exhibits feature authentic cowboy gear, Native American artifacts, Western art, and historical recreations of frontier life. Visitors can also participate in hands-on workshops, learning traditional skills like rawhide braiding and basket weaving. This museum brings to life the rugged spirit and rich heritage of the American cowboy.
Extend Your OKC Museum Adventure with a Unique Stay
We also invite you to come check out our Oklahoma City bed and breakfast, where each room has a unique theme. For the museum and history lovers, we offer a Legends of the Game baseball themed room as well as an OU Alumni room, both with amazing memorabilia to continue the educational high of a great day spent in a museum.