The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City

A western history museum is more than just a place to view art and artifacts; it’s a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of a region that shaped our national culture. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City serves as an international center for the study of the arts and cultures that forged the American West, inspiring visitors through its impressive collections, engaging exhibits, and educational programs.

The museum holds numerous historical galleries, such as the American Cowboy Gallery that provides a look at ranching and cowboy life; the Hall of Great Western Performers, which honors actors, directors, and other creative professionals who brought Western stories to cinema and television; and the Joe Grandee Gallery, which showcases the works of Western artist Joe Grandee. The Museum also houses Prosperity Junction, a fully furnished turn-of-the-century Western prairie town.

This western history museum is one of the most extensive and comprehensive in the country. The Museum’s renowned collection includes artwork, historic objects, and archival documents. Artworks on display include landscapes, portraits, and still lifes from the American West by 19th- and 20th-century painters such as Charles Marion Russell, Frederic Remington, Solon Borglum, and Thurmond Restuettenhall. The museum also has an impressive collection of firearms, with examples by such manufacturers as Colt, Smith & Wesson, and Winchester.

Aside from its historical galleries, the Museum offers an array of educational programs for students of all ages. These programs help to foster a better understanding of the complexities and richness of the Western world, highlighting the challenges that pioneers and settlers faced while also celebrating their resilience, creativity, and spirit.

Regardless of their interests, visitors leave the Museum with a deeper appreciation for the Western culture. They gain a greater understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the people who made the West their home, from Native American tribes to ranchers and rodeo stars, as well as those who have contributed to the Western legacy through their work in film, music, art, and literature.

Visitors to the Museum can enjoy a break from their explorations at The Museum Grill, which serves delicious food and drink in a cozy setting. The restaurant’s menu is influenced by Western flavors, and it is a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. The Museum Grill is open for lunch and dinner. The Museum Grill is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.