PHOTO COURTESY OF GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM
PHOTO COURTESY OF GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUMWhether you are looking to explore something new or simply excite your mind in a new way, museums are a fun way for families to spend time together while learning about our world. From art and science to history and more, Oklahoma City offers a wealth of high quality museums, many of which are completely free.
Arts Council Oklahoma City also makes it possible to experience art for free every weekday without even stepping foot in a museum. Art Moves is a free program presented in rotating locations Monday-Friday. Find a complete schedule here.
Sometimes it is savvy to spend money to save money. Whether you are looking for a great deal or a great gift idea, memberships to attractions are a good way to get the most for your money!
Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19 precautions, some of the following venues may have adjusted their hours or programming. Please check with each venue directly to verify.
Here is a list of museums that always offer FREE admission:
45th Infantry Museum (tentatively reopening May 15)
2145 NE 36th St; 424-5313
Open Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m – 4:15 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. & Sunday, 1 – 4:15 p.m.
Braum’s Processing Plant on the Braum’s Family Farm (temporarily closed)
491 C S 2880, Tuttle; 225-4604
Tours available Monday – Friday, 9 or 11 a.m. by reservation only.
Edmond Historical Society & Museum (reopening early June)
431 S Boulevard, Edmond; 340-0078
Open Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. & Saturdays, 1 – 4 p.m.
Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (temporarily closed)
555 Elm Ave, Norman; 325-3272
Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Thursday, until 9 p.m. & Sunday, 1 – 5 p.m.
Moore-Lindsay Historic House (tentatively opening by appointment only May 29)
508 N Peters, Norman 321-0156
Open Tuesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – noon & 1 – 4 p.m.
Oklahoma Contemporary (temporarily closed, tentatively reopening mid-July)
11 NW 11th St; 951-0000
Open Monday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Oklahoma Railway Museum (temporarily closed through May 30)
3400 NE Grand Blvd; 424-8222
Open every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday, 9 – 5 p.m. Trains operate on the first and third Saturday, April – August. Tickets required to ride train.
15th and S. Agnew, Oklahoma City; 405-850-5905
Open daily from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
2300 N Lincoln Blvd; 521-3356
Open Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum (temporarily closed)
2801 NE 50th St; 424-5266
Open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Red Earth Museum **closed for construction of new building. Opening in 2021.
6 Santa Fe Plaza; 427-5228
Open Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Worth the drive:
Canadian County Historical Museum(open by appointment)
300 S. Grand, El Reno
Open Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Here are a few museums that offer FREE or discounted admission on select days throughout the year:
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
1700 NE 63rd St; 478-2250
On the first Saturday each month, the museum offers a program called Kids Take Over the Cowboy, featuring hands-on activities highlighting the exhibits on display and the history of the American west. Participating children and accompanying adults can participate in the activities for free with museum admission. And on Wednesdays, August through November, the museum offers free admission during the program called Wide-Open Wednesdays, courtesy of Oklahoma Ford Dealers.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art (temporarily closed, reopening in June)
415 Couch Dr; 236-3100
On select Sundays throughout the year, the museum hosts FREE Family Days, sponsored by SONIC America’s Drive-in.
Oklahoma Hall of Fame (temporarily closed through May 31)
1400 Classen Dr; 235-4458
Visit the museum each month on the second Saturday for uniquely themed programming geared for the whole family. Each Saturday will include themed experiences and learning opportunities for families to enjoy together including crafts and guided tours.
Sam Noble Museum (temporarily closed through July 31)
2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman; 325-4712
Enjoy complimentary admission for kids 17 years old and under on the first Monday of each month. General admission applies to guests 18 and older.
Want even more ideas for FREE things to do with your family? Check out our guide to FREE fun and our searchable calendar.
Know of any attractions that we missed? If so, please email editor@metrofamilymagazine.
