45th Infantry Division Museum - a room filled with lots of wooden furniture
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45th Infantry Division Museum

4.9
·1k reviews·Oklahoma City, United States

Explore decades of military history with free admission to the 45th Infantry Division Museum's vast indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more volunteer time

CrowdLow
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45th Infantry Division Museum - a room filled with lots of wooden furniture

45th Infantry Division Museum

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more volunteer time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore decades of military history with free admission to the 45th Infantry Division Museum's vast indoor and outdoor exhibits.

4.9
(1k reviews)

"Amazing place, incredibly organized and preserved. Learned a lot and it's a must see!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free! Consider a donation to support this incredible historical resource.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially with the outdoor exhibits.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Adolf Hitler Artifacts

Adolf Hitler Artifacts

Indoor Exhibits

See one of the largest public collections of personal artifacts once belonging to Adolf Hitler.

TikTok
Outdoor Military Vehicle Display

Outdoor Military Vehicle Display

Exterior Grounds

Explore a vast array of tanks, aircraft, and large military vehicles that showcase decades of service.

InstagramReddit
Medal of Honor Recipients Hall

Medal of Honor Recipients Hall

Indoor Exhibits

Honor the bravery of recipients with a dedicated hall showcasing their remarkable achievements.

Reddit
Diverse Firearms Collection

Diverse Firearms Collection

Indoor Exhibits

Witness an impressive variety of firearms, spanning from the 1800s to modern-day weaponry.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Impact

This state-run museum offers free admission, making it an accessible and valuable experience. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore both the extensive indoor exhibits and the impressive outdoor collection of military vehicles and aircraft. Reddit

Plan for a Future Visit

The Oklahoma National Guard Museum, which includes the 45th Infantry Division Museum, is slated for a new location in 2026. While currently open, it's wise to check for any temporary closures or updates regarding the transition. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more volunteer time
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends before 1 PM
Why
Experience the full outdoor display
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The 45th infantry museum- Level 4 Address - 2145 NE 36 in Oklahoma City The 45th infantry museum, located in Oklahoma City, has been open since the mid 1970’s. The original building was used as the headquarters for the 45th infantry, also known as the Thunderbirds. The museum has artifacts from so many places throughout history which, has seemingly left impression energy on those objects. Ou...
@captainwilliamharkness
242 likes • 2.7K views

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free! Consider a donation to support this incredible historical resource. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially with the outdoor exhibits. InstagramReddit

WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE FACT ABOUT THE 45TH INFANTRY DIVISION MUSEUM IN OKLAHOMA CITY? #travel #museum #wwii #worldwar2 @discoveroklahoma
khizeesa
3 likes • 93 views
Learn about Oklahoma’s esteemed military history by visiting the 45th Infantry Division Museum, located in the @okcadventure district. 🪖 #SeeOKC . . . . . #OklahomaCity #OKC #TravelOK #MyOklahoma #MyOKC #405 #My405 #Oklahoma #Okie #OklahomaLife #thingstodoinokc
visitokc
162 likes • 7.6K views

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Plan for 2-3 hours, or even more, to fully appreciate the indoor and outdoor displays. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Volunteers

Knowledgeable volunteers offer fascinating insights and stories. Reddit

Had a great time visiting the 45th Infantry Division Museum in Oklahoma City! The museum is free and provides a fascinating afternoon of diversion. #visitokc #oklahoma #oklahomacity #military #militaryhistory #history #musuems #ww2 #WW2 #koreanwar #theforgottenwar
claire.e.patton
28 likes • 403 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free! Consider a donation to support this incredible historical resource. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially with the outdoor exhibits. InstagramReddit

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Plan for 2-3 hours, or even more, to fully appreciate the indoor and outdoor displays. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Volunteers

Knowledgeable volunteers offer fascinating insights and stories. Reddit

📸 Photography Friendly

Capture the impressive displays; it's a photographer's paradise! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the 45th Infantry Division Museum for its extensive and well-maintained collections, both indoors and outdoors. The free admission is a major highlight, complemented by the knowledgeable and friendly volunteer staff who enhance the learning experience. While the museum is large and requires significant time to explore, most find it a deeply rewarding and educational visit.

"We visited while in the area, very nice collection of Military History. You can start inside and visit through the years of the Military and the different war campaigns. They have arms from the 1800s to the modern day. They have a hall dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients. Very nice layouts with volunteers that will give you more detail information if you desire. Outside is also included which has large military vehicles, tanks, airplanes and helicopters. They are open until 4:15pm everyday and closed on Mondays. They have a nice gift shop. Definitely worth a stop. Very large so allow a couple of hours or more. The museum is free and you can give donations."

R Canatella

"There is so much history to see here! My husband and I took our kids to see the museum, and it is worth the drive to see everything they have! There was no charge to view the museum, no charge for parking, and there is much to see inside and outside of the museum!

The veteran volunteer who met us at the door was so kind, and had much to share with us!

The facility was well taken care of, and clean. I do recommend having between an hour to two hours to be able to tour through the plethora of history they have here, so that it can be enjoyed and not rushed through. You could spend two hours inside alone, not including the large amount of planes, helicopters, tanks, etc that are outside to view. It is well worth it, and my family will be going back again to be able to take our time to appreciate all the history."

Tiffany Alcocer

"Holy smokes, amazing place. It's so incredibly organized and preserved.
Learned a lot and it's a must see !
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and very helpful."

Eddie&Katja Berberich

What People Like

Free admission
Extensive collections
Knowledgeable volunteers

What People Dislike

Can be time-consuming
Limited food options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Oklahoma City. While specific public transport details can vary, driving is a common method. Parking is free. InstagramReddit

Yes, parking is available and free for visitors. Reddit

The museum is located at the Lincoln Park Armory in northeast OKC. Reddit

Information on public transport routes can be limited. It's recommended to check local OKC transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services. Instagram

It's located in a recognizable area, often associated with the Oklahoma National Guard. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the 45th Infantry Division Museum is completely free! Donations are welcome to support the museum. InstagramReddit

No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can typically walk in. Reddit

The museum is generally open until 4:15 PM daily but is closed on Mondays. It's always a good idea to verify hours before your visit, especially with the upcoming relocation. Reddit

No, the outdoor exhibits of military vehicles and aircraft are included with the free general admission. Reddit

Yes, donations are highly encouraged and appreciated to help maintain the museum's collections and operations. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features extensive indoor exhibits covering military history from various eras, including a significant collection of Adolf Hitler artifacts, Medal of Honor recipients, and diverse firearms. Outdoors, you'll find tanks, aircraft, and other large military vehicles. TikTokInstagramReddit

Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to thoroughly explore both the indoor and outdoor displays. Some spend up to 3.5 hours. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not always be scheduled, the museum has knowledgeable volunteers who are happy to share insights and information. Reddit

Yes, it's a great place for families. Kids often enjoy the large outdoor vehicles and the historical displays. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, making it a great spot for capturing military history. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. Reddit

Being in Oklahoma City, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding areas. Instagram

It's best to check the museum's specific policy, but generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside exhibit areas. Reddit

Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia. Reddit

The gift shop typically offers items related to military history, the 45th Infantry Division, and general museum merchandise. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is permitted and encouraged, making it a fantastic location for history buffs and photographers alike. Instagram

The outdoor display of tanks and aircraft, as well as the detailed indoor exhibits like the Hitler artifacts, offer great photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit

While generally allowed, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas if advised. Instagram

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon arrival to ensure compliance. Instagram

It's known for its impressive military hardware, historical artifacts, and detailed exhibits, making it ideal for historical and documentary photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The 45th Infantry Division Museum is a fantastic, free family outing in Oklahoma City. Kids are often captivated by the large outdoor military vehicles, including tanks and aircraft, which offer great photo opportunities and a sense of scale. InstagramReddit

Inside, the exhibits are well-organized, and the volunteers are friendly and engaging, making history accessible for younger minds. While some exhibits, like the Hitler artifacts, are more somber, the overall experience is educational and exciting. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to allow children to explore without feeling rushed. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a dream for budget-conscious travelers, as admission is completely free! InstagramReddit You can spend hours exploring extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits without spending a dime on entry fees. Parking is also free, further reducing costs. Reddit

While there's a gift shop, the main draw is the wealth of historical information and impressive displays. Pack your own snacks and water to save on additional expenses, making it an ideal destination for an enriching and affordable day out. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 45th Infantry Division's Legacy

The 45th Infantry Division is a storied unit with a rich history, often referred to as the 'Thunderbirds.' Their service spans from World War I through various conflicts, including significant roles in World War II and the Korean War. The museum meticulously chronicles their campaigns, showcasing the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who served. Instagram+1

Visitors can delve into specific battles and operations, gaining a deeper understanding of the division's impact. The exhibits highlight personal stories, uniforms, weaponry, and equipment that paint a vivid picture of wartime experiences. The museum's commitment to preserving this history ensures that the legacy of the 45th Infantry Division continues to be honored. Reddit

One of the most striking aspects of the museum is its collection of artifacts, including those recovered from Adolf Hitler's personal effects. This unique display offers a somber yet important perspective on the historical context of World War II and the division's role in its conclusion. TikTok

Exploring the Outdoor Exhibits

The exterior of the 45th Infantry Division Museum is an open-air testament to military might. Here, visitors can get up close and personal with a remarkable collection of heavy military vehicles, including tanks, armored personnel carriers, and artillery pieces. These imposing machines, weathered by time and history, offer a tangible connection to past conflicts. Reddit

Adding to the aerial dimension, the museum also features a variety of aircraft, from vintage planes to helicopters. Standing beneath these giants of the sky provides a unique perspective on the evolution of military aviation. It’s a fantastic opportunity for photography and for understanding the scale of military operations. InstagramReddit

This outdoor display is particularly engaging for families and those who appreciate the engineering and power of military hardware. It complements the indoor exhibits by providing a visual and physical representation of the tools of war that shaped history. Instagram

The Impact of Volunteer Guides

A recurring theme in visitor feedback is the exceptional quality of the volunteer staff at the 45th Infantry Division Museum. These individuals, often veterans themselves, bring a wealth of personal experience and historical knowledge to the exhibits. They are eager to share stories, answer questions, and provide context that goes beyond what is written on display panels. Reddit

Interacting with these volunteers can transform a visit from a passive viewing experience into an engaging historical dialogue. They offer unique perspectives on the artifacts and the events they represent, making the history come alive. Many visitors express gratitude for their kindness, passion, and willingness to go the extra mile. Reddit

Their presence significantly enhances the educational value of the museum, offering a personal touch that resonates deeply with visitors. It's highly recommended to take advantage of their expertise to gain a richer understanding of the 45th Infantry Division's history. Reddit

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