Tulsa Historical Society & Museum
Explore Tulsa's rich and complex history, from the Roaring Twenties to the 1921 Massacre, within the elegant Travis Mansion.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Tulsa Historical Society & Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Tulsa's rich and complex history, from the Roaring Twenties to the 1921 Massacre, within the elegant Travis Mansion.
"The nice gentleman at front desk told us the history of Tulsa. He was very knowledgeable and we enjoyed his real life and exact stories."
Ask the Staff! 🙋♂️
Front desk staff and docents are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share real-life stories and insights about Tulsa's history.
Check for New Exhibits 🖼️
The museum features rotating exhibits, so a return visit might reveal new treasures and perspectives on Tulsa's past.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 1921 Tulsa Massacre Exhibits
Various galleries
Gain a profound understanding of one of the most violent episodes of dispossession in U.S. history. Exhibits detail the events and their impact.

Historic Travis Mansion
Main building
Explore the elegance of the Roaring Twenties within this beautifully preserved historic home, now serving as the museum's setting.
Memorabilia and Automobiles
Galleries
Discover fascinating pictures, memorabilia, and even vintage automobiles that bring Tulsa's past to life.

Tribune Research Library
Library section
Delve deeper into Tulsa's history with a wealth of books and resources available for perusal in this extensive research library.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Tulsa's Past
Understand the Name Change
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask the Staff! 🙋♂️
Front desk staff and docents are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share real-life stories and insights about Tulsa's history.
Check for New Exhibits 🖼️
The museum features rotating exhibits, so a return visit might reveal new treasures and perspectives on Tulsa's past.
Explore the Garden 🌸
Don't miss the beautiful adjacent garden, offering a peaceful space for a stroll after exploring the museum's exhibits.
Plan for a Few Hours ⏳
While some visitors find it takes less time than expected, allow ample time to absorb the exhibits and research library.
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask the Staff! 🙋♂️
Front desk staff and docents are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share real-life stories and insights about Tulsa's history.
Check for New Exhibits 🖼️
The museum features rotating exhibits, so a return visit might reveal new treasures and perspectives on Tulsa's past.
Explore the Garden 🌸
Don't miss the beautiful adjacent garden, offering a peaceful space for a stroll after exploring the museum's exhibits.
Plan for a Few Hours ⏳
While some visitors find it takes less time than expected, allow ample time to absorb the exhibits and research library.
Rebranding Clarification 🏷️
It's now officially the Museum of Tulsa History, a name change to emphasize its accessibility as a visitor attraction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum for its knowledgeable and friendly staff, who share engaging real-life stories. The diverse exhibits, including those on the 1921 Tulsa Massacre and vintage items, are highly appreciated, as is the beautiful adjacent garden. Some note that the museum can be explored relatively quickly, but the depth of information and the historic setting make it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts.
"The nice gentleman at front desk told us the history of Tulsa. He was very knowledgeable and we enjoyed his real life and exact stories. Thank you Sir. Most impressive and sad incident of racial massacred. The museum show the history of Tulsa from past to present. Well worth seeing."
Donald Hardenberger
"I love the pictures and memorabilia they have on display here as well as the three automobiles. The Tribune research library has a wealth of information in books that you may look through. The lady at the front desk was very helpful and friendly. It's well worth the price of admission, $5 for seniors!"
Steve Simmons
"Helpful staff, a varied and interesting array of exhibits on Tulsa history, and a beautiful adjacent garden to walk through. A must for anyone who wants to know more about Tulsa's history."
Bradley Lovelace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in a historic home, making it a unique destination. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is common. Parking availability should be considered, especially during peak times.
Parking information is not explicitly detailed in most visitor accounts, but as it's in a historic home setting, street parking or a small lot is likely. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most current parking guidance.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching the museum, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area or prefer not to worry about parking.
Information on direct public transport routes to the museum is limited. It's recommended to check the Tulsa Transit website for routes that may get you close to the area, and then consider a short walk or ride-share.
Using a GPS navigation app with the museum's address is the most reliable method. Look for signage indicating the historic home once you are in the vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally affordable, with specific discounts available for seniors. For example, seniors have paid $5 for admission. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Advance booking is typically not required for general admission, allowing for spontaneous visits. However, for special events or group tours, it's advisable to inquire about reservations.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the museum's official website or social media for the most current operating schedule before your visit.
Yes, discounts are often available, particularly for seniors. Keep an eye out for potential student or group rates as well, though these are not always explicitly advertised.
The museum is a great destination for groups interested in learning about Tulsa's history. Inquire directly with the museum about group tour options and any potential group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a diverse range of exhibits covering Tulsa's local history, from its early days to significant events like the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. You'll find historical photographs, memorabilia, and even vintage automobiles.
While some visitors complete their tour in under an hour, others spend several hours exploring the exhibits and the research library. It's recommended to allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection.
The museum offers educational content that can be engaging for older children and teens interested in history. Younger children might find some exhibits more somber, but the historic home setting can be interesting.
The museum plays a crucial role in preserving and presenting the history of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, offering vital context and understanding of this significant event.
While self-guided tours are common, knowledgeable docents are often on hand to provide insights and answer questions, enhancing the visitor experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. It's always a good idea to check for posted signs or ask staff if you're unsure.
The historic Travis Mansion rooms, vintage automobiles, and the beautiful garden offer excellent photo opportunities. Capturing the details of the memorabilia can also make for compelling shots.
While personal photos are usually fine, commercial photography or extensive filming might require prior permission. Sharing your experiences on social media is encouraged!
A standard digital camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate. Given the indoor setting and potential lighting variations, a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
Yes, you can typically photograph the exhibits for personal memories. However, be mindful of any specific exhibit signage that may prohibit photography of certain items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some exhibits, like those detailing the 1921 Tulsa Massacre, are somber, they offer important learning opportunities about resilience and historical events. Consider focusing on the more visually engaging displays and the beautiful garden for a well-rounded family visit.
📚 History Buffs & Researchers
Beyond the library, the diverse exhibits, including those on the 1921 Tulsa Massacre and the Roaring Twenties, provide rich historical context. The knowledgeable staff and docents are also a great asset for those seeking detailed information.
🏛️ Architecture & Vintage Lovers
In addition to the mansion, the museum showcases vintage automobiles and other period memorabilia, appealing to anyone with an interest in the aesthetics and artifacts of bygone eras.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre
Visitors often describe the experience as both impressive and profoundly sad, highlighting the importance of confronting this difficult chapter in American history. The museum provides context, showing how insurance companies influenced media to downplay the event as a 'riot' to avoid payouts, a detail that underscores the economic motivations behind the violence.
Learning about the massacre at the museum is considered essential for anyone wanting to grasp the full scope of Tulsa's history and its ongoing impact. It serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the community and the ongoing pursuit of justice and reconciliation.
Exploring the Historic Travis Mansion
Inside the mansion, you can find various galleries showcasing local history. The museum has a commitment to refreshing its displays, with large exhibits changing every 18 months and smaller ones every 12 months, ensuring there's always something new to discover.
Beyond the historical exhibits, the mansion itself is a point of interest. Its grandeur provides a unique backdrop for the artifacts and stories, making the learning experience more immersive and memorable. Visitors often comment on the beauty of the setting.
The Tribune Research Library
Visitors have praised the library for its comprehensive collection, noting that the staff is helpful in guiding researchers. It's a perfect spot for students, genealogists, or anyone with a specific interest in Tulsa's history.
Accessing the library allows for a more personalized historical exploration, complementing the curated displays in the museum's galleries. It’s a testament to the museum’s dedication to preserving and making accessible the multifaceted history of Tulsa.
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