National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Explore the art, history, and culture of the American West, from iconic cowboys to Native American heritage and cinematic legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the art, history, and culture of the American West, from iconic cowboys to Native American heritage and cinematic legends.
"It's history of the Native Americans, the early settlers, the military, and the history of Western movies and the rodeo."
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for 3-4 hours minimum to explore all galleries and outdoor exhibits. :clock1:
🖼️ Don't Miss the Art
The Western art collection is world-class and a major highlight. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Western Art Collection
Breathtaking paintings and sculptures capturing the spirit and history of the American West.
Outdoor Living History
Explore recreated historical dwellings, trading posts, and wagons, offering a glimpse into frontier life.
Cinematic Cowboy Gallery
Discover the evolution of the cowboy in film and television, featuring iconic movie portrayals.
Native American Heritage
Learn about the significant contributions and history of Native Americans in the West.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Embrace the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for 3-4 hours minimum to explore all galleries and outdoor exhibits. :clock1:
🖼️ Don't Miss the Art
The Western art collection is world-class and a major highlight. :art:
🚶 Explore Outdoor Exhibits
The recreated frontier town and dwellings offer a unique, immersive experience. :housewithgarden:
🤠 Learn About Diverse Histories
Discover stories of Native American, African American cowboys, and cowgirls. :brave:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for 3-4 hours minimum to explore all galleries and outdoor exhibits. :clock1:
🖼️ Don't Miss the Art
The Western art collection is world-class and a major highlight. :art:
🚶 Explore Outdoor Exhibits
The recreated frontier town and dwellings offer a unique, immersive experience. :housewithgarden:
🤠 Learn About Diverse Histories
Discover stories of Native American, African American cowboys, and cowgirls. :brave:
🎬 Cinematic Cowboy Insights
Explore the portrayal of cowboys in film and television. :movie_camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for its vast and beautifully displayed collections, particularly its impressive Western art and historical artifacts. Many highlight the immersive outdoor exhibits and the inclusive narratives covering Native American, African American, and cowgirl histories, making it an educational and memorable experience for all. +2
"My husband and I had such a great time visiting the Oklahoma National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum! From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by how beautifully everything was displayed. We really enjoyed seeing all the incredible artwork — the paintings truly captured the spirit and history of the West.
The museum also had a fascinating collection of saddles, guns, clothing, and other historical pieces. Every room told a story, and it was both educational and fun to explore. You can really tell how much thought and care went into curating everything.
It was a great experience overall, and we’re so glad we made time to visit. Highly recommend if you’re in the area and looking for something both cultural and memorable!"
Samuel-Varvara Harrison
"Bigger than you think! It has a great outdoor exhibit and the on sale art pieces were incredible. They also have a permanent indoor town to walk through and history about the Native American cowboys, African American cowboys, cowgirls, cinematic cowboy/western movie portrayals, rodeo history and more."
Rachel
"While in the area we visited the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. We entered and saw a lot of art and Native American items. The outside area was very large and had actual living quarters of different tribes and mock ups of trading post and covered wagons. Back on the inside that had areas dedicated to the entertainers and movies of the cowboy era. Very large museum. They have staff dressed as Cowboys to help and educate you about the different items and regions. They have a Firearm history section which was fantastic. Definitely a must see."
R Canatella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK 73111. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules.
Yes, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is considered a significant stop along the historic Route 66 in Oklahoma City.
The museum offers free parking for visitors, making it convenient for those driving to the attraction.
Absolutely! It's a popular destination for day-trippers exploring Oklahoma City and can easily be incorporated into a larger itinerary. +1
The museum is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available. It's always a good idea to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum typically operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on some days. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current operating hours and any potential closures.
Admission fees vary, but generally, adults can expect to pay around $15-$20, with discounts for seniors, students, and children. Check the official website for exact pricing.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons or special events.
Discounts are often available for seniors, students, military personnel, and children. Special group rates may also apply.
While not a full virtual tour, some online content and previews of exhibits may be available on their website or social media channels.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find extensive Western art, historical artifacts, dioramas, a recreated frontier town, and exhibits on Native American culture, rodeo, and cinematic cowboys. +1
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to fully experience the museum, as it's quite large and packed with information.
The museum often has knowledgeable staff dressed as cowboys who can provide insights into the exhibits, offering an informal guided experience.
Yes, it offers engaging exhibits that can captivate children, especially the outdoor areas and interactive displays.
Highlights include the Western art galleries, the outdoor living history area, and exhibits detailing the lives of Native American cowboys and cowgirls. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or dining area offering snacks and light meals for visitors.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries, but check their policy for designated picnic areas if available.
Oklahoma City offers a variety of restaurants near the museum, ranging from casual diners to more upscale establishments.
Expect typical cafe fare such as sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages.
During special events like festivals or award ceremonies, food vendors or catering might be available. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain galleries to protect the artwork.
The recreated frontier town, iconic artifacts, and impressive art pieces offer numerous picturesque moments. +1
The outdoor living history exhibits, the grand art galleries, and the exterior architecture provide excellent backdrops.
Professional photography or videography may require special permits or advance arrangements. It's best to inquire with the museum directly.
Yes, sharing your experiences and photos on social media is encouraged! Tagging the museum is a great way to spread the word.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+1 The sheer quality and breadth of the artwork provide a deep dive into the artistic interpretations of Western themes. 📚 History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the West
+1 The museum hosts the prestigious Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition and Sale, a major event for Western art collectors and enthusiasts, showcasing contemporary works by leading artists. +1Visitors can expect to see works by renowned artists that depict everything from Native American life and cowboy culture to wildlife and frontier scenes. The sheer scale and quality of the art collection make it a significant draw for art lovers and a crucial element in understanding the romanticized and historical narratives of the West.
Beyond the Cowboy Myth
This commitment to diverse narratives extends to its exploration of cinematic portrayals of the West, examining how Hollywood has shaped and sometimes mythologized cowboy culture.
Immersive Frontier Experience
These immersive environments provide context for the artifacts and art displayed inside, allowing visitors to visualize the daily lives, challenges, and triumphs of those who shaped the West. It’s an engaging way to learn about history, making the experience more memorable and educational for all ages.
Social
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