Science Museum Oklahoma

Located inside the Science Museum Oklahoma, the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame features an expansive collection of medals, awards, photographs, art, sculptures, a gift shop and a library of information about the 49 inductees.

Many of the world's most accomplished gymnasts are celebrated in this collection of memorabilia and videos of unforgettable moments throughout their careers. Some of the inductees include Mary Lou Retton, Larisa Latynina, Nikolai Andrianov, and Vera Caslavska.

The International Gymnastics Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring those who have had outstanding competitive achievements and contributions to the sport of gymnastics. As one of the oldest sports in the Olympic Games, gymnastic honorarium is a fairly new effort. Established in 1988, the first inductee was Olga Korbut—from the U.S.S.R., Olga won the hearts of millions of viewers around the world when she became gold medalists for beam, floor exercise and team competitions in the 1972 Olympic Games.

The Hall of Fame is governed by a group of volunteers serving as the Board of Directors—it is their responsibility to select the gymnasts to be honored each year. Selections are made based on many factors pertaining to a gymnasts overall competition achievements and personal contributions to the sport. For more information on the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame, visit the website and find them on Facebook.

Much of the exhibit features hands-on areas where children can play and practice their tumbling and balancing skills. Young and aspiring gymnasts can find inspiration and motivation when visiting the Hall of Fame. Since the Hall of Fame exhibit is located within the Science Museum Oklahoma, be sure to explore the rest of the museum where you’ll find many educational exhibits that foster fun and learning. Also, watch a film on the Omni Theater and learn about the night’s sky in the Planetarium.

In Destination Space, learn all about space exploration as you explore the actual Apollo Command Module Mission Simulator. Then, check out the Gadget Trees—a two-story tree house with a huge spiral slide. Children can swing, climb, explore and play all day in this fantastic “backyard” center. Other museum attractions include a kid’s space, where parents can take a break while the little tots explore. Also, be sure to check out the Aviation and Train Collections, Tinkering Garage, Explorazone and more.

HelloOklahomaCity Tip: The Science Museum Oklahoma is located in Oklahoma City’s Adventure District near many other great attractions including the Oklahoma City Zoo, Amateur Softball Association National Softball Hall of Fame Museum and Remington Park.

- 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.