Oklahoma History Center

Open since 2005, the Oklahoma History Center is a 210,000-square-foot facility that is home to the museum, research center and the Oklahoma Historical Society.

With a dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich history of Oklahoma, the museum offers exhibits, hands-on activities and educational classes. There are five main indoor galleries to explore in the museum—and seven outdoor collections. The main holdings include the ONEOK gallery—a collection of artifacts, tribal music, photographs and art that represents all of the 39 Native American tribes in Oklahoma. This exhibit explores the past and present traditions, languages, tribes and spiritual beliefs of these native people.

Outdoor collections include a 14-flag display to honor the nations that have played important roles in the statehood of Oklahoma. Then, explore the Red River Botanical Heritage Gardens where you'll find some of the trees, bushes, flowers and grasses that are found along the Red River and in other areas of the state. There are also several sculptures to see around the exterior of the Center.

Indoors there are also a galleries dedicated to celebrating Oklahoman’s growth, development and achievements—here visitors can enjoy a range of topics including; culture, art, sports, education, farming, fashion, government, land runs, weather and more. In the Kerr-McGee Gallery you’ll find the story of oil and gas exploration in Oklahoma—and see an 1830s riverboat that was excavated from the Red River. There are many video and audio stories to enjoy, including a 3-D reconstruction of an oil derrick.

Be sure to visit the exhibits that you can stop your feet, too, starting with Another Hot Oklahoma Night: A Rock & Roll Exhibit. Here you will learn about the history of rock and roll artists, radio stations, rock fashion, hair, fans and more. Learn about how growing up in Oklahoma influenced and inspired innovation in many artists throughout history.

Check out Starmaker: Jim Halsey and the Legends of Country Music. Halsey built a legendary talent agency in Tulsa, Oklahoma and his list of rocker clients is an impressive accomplishment. Many items of memorabilia from Jim’s collections are on display including gold and platinum albums from his works with Roy Clark, Reba McEntire, Clint Black and more. One thing is for certain: the roots of rock and country music run deep in the heart and tradition of the Sooner State's culture.

The Oklahoma History Center offers a variety of educational classes, one is the Heirloom Care class—curators help students to learn how to best care for their personal collections for long-term preservation. Then, the “Okietales” is a special program for small children to explore fascinating stories from Oklahoma history including the land runs and pioneer life. Visit the Oklahoma History Center website for more information on classes and other events.

HelloMetro Tip: Take a guided tour of the Center or explore on your own with the aid of an audio tour guide. But, for even more fun—challenge yourself to a scavenger hunt! The Center offers an indoor and outdoor scavenger hunt guide that is fun for guests of all ages.

- by Jennifer Pruett, Oklahoma City Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Jennifer Pruett

A self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.