Explore the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

Are you looking for things to do in Oklahoma City? Then be sure to explore the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum! Here, you’ll find a fantastic collection of artifacts celebrating the great American West. From rodeo memorabilia to Native American art, this museum has something for everyone. Learn about cowboys, Native Americans, Mexicans, railroads, and exploration. Enjoy interactive exhibits, educational films, and old-time hands-on activities. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, take the chance to walk through the history of America’s Wild West. Take some time to immerse yourself in the incredible culture and heritage of the Southwest. With its friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere, the Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum will surely be an adventure you will remember!

Discover the Legacy of the American West

Welcome to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum – an exciting exploration of the iconic American West. From cowboy culture to Native American heritage, discover what made this vibrant region unique. Visit historic sites, and experience life-like recreations of Western scenes. Marvel at collections of artifacts that reveal the stories of America’s westward expansion and culture. 

Explore vast exhibits covering topics ranging from rodeo to ranching, the Western music experience, and wildlife conservation. See rare six-shooters, saddles, and tools of the frontier. Experience towering bronze sculptures of notable figures like Buffalo Bill Cody. Step outside and enjoy the gardens, a tribute to Western botanical heritage. 

Your time in the museum will leave you inspired by the courage, resilience, and spirit of those who lived in the American West. Visiting the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is about more than just the past. It helps us better understand our present and our future, too. Create your lasting legacy of the American West.

Exhibitions 

Exploring the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is an exciting journey into the past. Тhе museum offers visitors a unique chance to explore the history and culture of the American West. In addition, the museum showcases two galleries highlighting the art and artifacts of the West.

To Walk in Beauty: Classic Western Clothing, 1889-1980

Step into the footsteps of history at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The museum’s newest exhibition, “To Walk in Beauty: Classic Western Clothing, 1889-1980,” delights visitors with a look at real-life cowboys and their clothes. This fantastic collection features classic jeans, shirts, ball caps, chaps, leather boots, and more. 

Visitors will be treated to vintage stories and details on Western fashion over the last century. You’ll also get to explore the First Ladies of the West exhibit. Here you’ll learn about some of the most glamorous women of this time who influenced fashion. From rodeo stars to saloon girls, discover the style that made them famous during the 1800s and early 1900s.

This stunning exhibition provides the perfect opportunity for teachers and school groups to have fun while learning about the history and culture of the Wild West. Kids of all ages can learn about traditional Western wear and its evolution. Be sure to bring your camera and look for other exciting activities too! 

Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill and romance of the Old West through one of its most iconic symbols – traditional cowboy fashion. So come join us at the Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum to “Walk in Beauty” and explore the past like never before!

Cowboys in the Marketplace: Connecting through Material Culture

Learn about how the lives of 19th-century western settlers were intertwined with their everyday objects: spurs, fists, saddles, rangeland tools, china sets, firearms, and more! Each object has a unique story, and the museum offers plenty of hands-on activities to demonstrate how the items were used. In addition, visitors will learn about the fascinating history of trade negotiations and conflicts between settlers and Native Americans in the region.

Take a step back in time to see cowboy-inspired art dating back to the 1800s. From paintings and cartoons to sculpture, regalia, and jewelry, delight in the creative works that bring to life the original spirit of the West. Also, discover more modern interpretations of the cowboy tradition from the mid-20th century.

Visitors can experience the rich culture of the American West at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Take advantage of your chance to explore this vibrant showcase of cowboy history and traditions!

Barry – Ken Sparkes: A Long Strange Trip

Did you know that the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is home to some of the most impressive art and artifacts related to the American West? Join us as we pay homage to one such masterpiece – Barry – Ken Sparkes: A Long Strange Trip.

Barry – Ken Sparkes: A Long Strange Trip is a hand-painted mural by Barry and Ken Sparkes. The mural comprises more than 40 images, telling the story of the American West’s early exploration, discovery, and settlement. Through realistic depictions of Native Americans, pioneers, wildlife, locomotives, settlers, and cowboys, this spectacular piece of art honors the spirit of pioneering. Moreover, it makes manifest the enduring power of the West.

This stunning mural also serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions, struggles, and struggles those who settled in the Wild West faced. From wagon trains rolling across the plains to train depots visible from the surrounding landscape, this mural beautifully captures the courage and ingenuity of America’s first settlers.

By visiting Barry – Ken Sparkes: A Long Strange Trip, you get the chance to marvel at the beauty and craftsmanship of the artwork, but you also gain insight into the culture and history of the American West. So add the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum to your travel list and embark on an exciting journey through the past.

A New American Carriage: The Transformation of Conestoga Wagon

Explore the A New American Carriage: The Transformation of Conestoga Wagon exhibit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum! Step back in time to explore the evolution of a classic form of transportation, once used to traverse North America. 

Look closely at the intricately-crafted Conestoga wagon, an 18th-century structure described as the “great grandfather of modern Greyhound buses.” This self-contained living space was designed to carry everything needed for life on the move, from homes to wardrobes and storerooms to butcher shops! 

Along with the iconic wagon, you will learn about the stories and people who constructed and maintained these transporters throughout history. Examine historical objects such as harnesses, bedding, and tools, along with the stories of the people who rode and cared for them, including Native Americans, military men, pioneers, and cowboys. 

Witness the transformation of this important symbol of mobility and uncover its remarkable impact on the American story. Discover how the wagon took shape and changed over the centuries, becoming integral to 19th-century travel. 

Come check out the past and see the larger narrative of social, economic, and political connections through the Conestoga wagon! It’s an educational experience unlike any other!

Looking West: American Art of the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains

Have you ever wanted to explore the American West? Look no further than the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum! Its newest exhibit, “Looking West: American Art of the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains,” will take your breath away. 

You’ll be amazed at the stunning masterpieces from more than 100 renowned Western artists, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, bronzes, and pottery. Be inspired as you view Frederick Remington’s life-like sculptures and Thomas Moran’s breathtaking landscape paintings. Or marvel at the intricate carvings of Sanford Low and Frederic Remington that bring the American West to life.

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to explore the culture, history, and art of 19th-century America – right here at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Enjoy a truly unique experience as you explore the wonders of the American West and its artists!

How the West Was One: Art of the Northern Plains

Walking through the galleries of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, it is easy to imagine the lives of the Native American people who lived on the Great Plains before settlers arrived. In the “How the West Was One: Art of the Northern Plains” exhibit, you can explore the culture and art of those tribes who called this part of America home for centuries.

Visitors will understand better how these vibrant and ancient cultures used art to pass down knowledge and spiritual beliefs from one generation to the next. From buffalo hide paintings to beaded moccasins, sculptures, and more, visitors will see examples of the unique artwork that defines each tribe.

Not surprisingly, entering this gallery can be like stepping into another world. You’ll be able to observe iconic buffalo skulls painted with geometric designs alongside beautifully crafted beadwork honoring members of the tribe. These pieces tell stories of bravery, beauty, and longing—stories that can’t help but evoke emotion in any viewer. 

The collection highlights the power of art as a channel for expression across different eras and generations. Visiting the “How the West Was One: Art of the Northern Plains” gallery at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is the perfect way to gain insight into the communities, tragedies, and triumphs that have been part of America’s history.

All Aboard: Ages of Cowboys from the Plains

Our exhibit, All Aboard: Ages of Cowboys from the Plains, takes you back in time to explore the life and history of cowboys. You’ll meet figures from all ages of cowboy life—from fighting for independence on wagon trains to dealing with the dangers of open-range riders.

Take a journey through centuries of cowboy culture, with stories highlighting their hardships while traveling and living on the plains. Learn fascinating facts, such as how cowboy lingo is integral to our language today! Encounter artifacts, including saddles, chaps, wagons, and lassos, pay tribute to these iconic figures. Whether you have ridden horses or never touched one, this immersive experience will draw you into the Wild West.

Kids will love getting to interact with the interactive displays set up across the museum. Put yourself face-to-face with Native Americans and role-play as a wrangler or a pioneer expanding the American frontier.

Everyone has their image of a cowboy, but at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, you can see them in their full glory. So saddle up and come explore All Aboard Ages of Cowboys from the Plains!

American Indian Portraits: Native Americans in Art

Explore the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s American Indian Portraits in Art – a stunning collection of works that tell the story of our Native American culture and experience. Featuring paintings, sculptures, and photography, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time as you gaze upon epic scenes of ancestors living on the plains and prairies. The artwork here celebrates a way of life deeply rooted in history yet still strong today.

The museum showcases pieces from renowned Native American artists, including Fritz Scholder, Manitopah, and Tsianina Lomawaima. From intricately carved masks to detailed ledger art, you’ll be dazzled by the talent of these accomplished creators. Be sure to take your time to appreciate their work. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the rich, vibrant culture that shaped the United States. 

Whether you’re fascinated by native artwork or interested in experiencing it first-hand, visiting the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s American Indian Portraits exhibit will be a memorable experience. Join us and take part in this remarkable journey!

Anatomy of the Horse: History & Representation

The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and representation of horses. From handmade saddles and workhorses to riding lessons and archeology, visitors can learn about the anatomy of horses and how the animals have been integral in shaping the West.

In particular, visitors can explore the permanent exhibition, Anatomy of the Horse: History & Representation. This gallery showcases examples of equestrian artifacts from early Native American cultures, showcasing both physical equipment and spiritual imagery of the horse. You’ll also find sculptures, prints, photographs, and more depicting horses in different eras and cultures. 

The exhibit has interactive displays, allowing visitors to experience grooming, bridling, and dressage techniques. Visitors can also browse books detailing horse breeds and sign up for classes designed specifically to teach people about the structure of the horse and the power it held over Western civilization. This makes it an ideal destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich history surrounding these graceful creatures.

Stetson Hats: From Farm to Fashion

Buckle up for an exciting exploration of the iconic Stetson hat! At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, you can journey back to discover how these hats transformed from ordinary farm gear to a fashion staple made famous by cowboys in the Wild West.

Start your tour at the “Cowboy Gear Room” and explore the different types of headgear that working cowboys have worn over the years, including the iconic Stetson hat. An expert guide will share stories of struggles and successes on the range and explain the practical considerations for why these hats were so important. 

Learn about the cowboy hat’s exciting history as well. From the early days of its mass production through the unique western styling we all know and love today, the Stetson has become the symbol of the American cowboy. Find out how it earned the nickname “The Boss of the Plains” and learn all about the symbolism and pride associated with the hat.

Finish your trip with a stroll through the museum sections showcasing stunning photographs, artwork, and displays of the classic hat. Then, if you’re feeling inspired, pick up a souvenir or two for yourself or friends in the gift shop. So head over to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and take a peek into Stetson’s past- it will surely be a wild ride!

Events 

The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum offers a variety of exciting events to explore! From interactive sessions to educational experiences, visitors have plenty of fun activities. For example, kids can learn how to ride horseback and try their hand at roping and lassoing. In addition, they can have the chance to pan for gold or pick up an authentic cowboy hat and take it with them as a reminder of their visit! 

For those who want to deepen their knowledge, interactive tours highlight the history of the American frontier. These guided tours provide the perfect introduction to life on the range through engaging stories and multimedia presentations. Visitors get a chance to discover iconic cowboys and experience the culture of the West. 

Of course, a trip to the museum would only be complete with a visit to the music hall, where talented local musicians perform country tunes. You can grab a bite to eat in the cafe and follow up with a show in the theater or even a rodeo show on Saturdays. 

Whether traveling solo or with your family, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum will surely entertain. So why not stop by and explore?

Learn About the People Who Settled the West

At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, you can journey into the past and explore the history of those who settled in the West. You will experience their stories first-hand through fascinating exhibits featuring artifacts and art. Learn about their challenges, lifestyles, and contributions to developing the country’s vast western reaches. Then, see how they shaped the fabric of the American frontier with their ingenuity and courage. 

Discover the remarkable artistry of artists who captured the beauty and majesty of the land, culture, and lifestyle of the West. Check out life-sized sculptures, paintings, illustrations, and more, all of which bring the past to life. From decorative saddles and firearms to intricate Native American beadwork, there’s something for everyone to appreciate. 

Lastly, explore the interactive, hands-on displays and activities that will help bring history to life. Participate in exciting activities, such as making your leather wallet or designing your stagecoach. The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum offers a marvelous opportunity for kids to gain knowledge while having fun. 

At the museum, it’s easy to forget the present and relive the days gone by. So come back to learn about the people who settled the West and ensure that today’s generations can enjoy these incredible stories.

Experience the Lifestyle of the Pioneers

If you’re looking for a unique and awe-inspiring adventure, visiting the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is an absolute must. Located in Oklahoma City, it’s been proudly preserving America’s Western culture and lifestyle since 1955. Here, you’ll have an incredible opportunity to truly experience what life was like for American pioneers of the late 19th century.

Picture yourself on horseback, riding across the wild plains with the wind in your hair – It’ll feel like you’ve returned in time! Inside the museum, you’ll discover one of the most extensive collections of early rodeo artifacts in the world, plus fascinating exhibits that cover every aspect of the American West, from cowboys and Indians to settlers and cardsharps. 

You can explore traditional Native American artwork, animations, sculptures, weaponry, and clothing. Best of all, attending educational events like Cowboy Fair helps you discover even more! Enjoy the music and authentic living village recreations at this annual celebration, or learn how to pan gold in the mine shaft. 

The Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum honors a way of life that is long gone in the most exciting and memorable ways. Whether you’re a history buff, a family traveler, or just someone who loves to learn, you’re sure to have a fantastic adventure here. So join us for an unforgettable journey through America’s past – and present.

Good to Know Before Visiting National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

Visiting the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is a great way to learn more about American culture and history. The museum is located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on Wednesdays until 8 pm. Admission prices vary by age group, but the cost is generally affordable for everyone. 

The museum is the perfect place for families and children, as it offers interactive exhibits and educational programs. There are lots of opportunities to explore and discover, learn about the people, cultures, and art of the American West, and continue the adventures afterward in the museum gardens. And if you’re traveling with kids, remember to visit Bison Corral Children’s Exploration Zone!

If you’re visiting the museum, plenty of parking is nearby, so be sure to factor that into your travel plans. And when in the museum, take advantage of the Hall of Great Westerners or the Western Performers Gallery. They’re worth seeing.

For an enjoyable and worthwhile experience, keep some tips in mind, like arriving early to avoid crowds and wearing comfortable shoes since you will be doing a lot of walking around. Plan your itinerary ahead of time to make the most of your visit and, most importantly, enjoy the adventure!

Conclusion

Visiting the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is an experience like no other. Featuring fascinating exhibits, enlightening stories, and awe-inspiring art, this museum will surely captivate children and adults alike. With a balanced study of cowboys, Native Americans, and the culture of the American West, this museum provides the perfect opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history. So whether you’re looking for fun family activities or want to spend a day learning about the region’s past, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is worth considering for your list of things to do in Oklahoma City.