Curious about art, history, or science? Tulsa’s museums are perfect for a day of discovery and learning. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun outing, a student researching a project, or just someone who loves culture, these spots have something for everyone. Let’s explore the 12 must-visit museums in Tulsa, where every visit is a chance to learn something new. Ready to dive into history and creativity? Let’s go!
1. The Philbrook Museum of Art
The Philbrook Museum of Art is one of the premier art museums in the region, featuring a wide range of collections from around the world. The museum is housed in a beautiful building with stunning gardens that make for a great visit. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from a range of periods, including European, American, Native American, and Asian.
2. The Gilcrease Museum
The Gilcrease Museum is another must-visit museum in Tulsa, particularly for those interested in Native American art and culture. The museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Native American tribes across North America, as well as works by European and American artists. The museum is also home to a beautiful garden that features plants native to the region.
3. The Woody Guthrie Center
The Woody Guthrie Center is a fascinating museum that pays homage to the life and work of folk singer and songwriter Woody Guthrie. The museum features interactive exhibits that take visitors through Guthrie’s life, his music, and his political activism. The museum is also home to a research center that is open to the public.
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4. The Vintage Sewing Center and Museum
The Vintage Sewing Center and Museum is a unique museum that caters to sewing enthusiasts. The museum features a collection of antique sewing machines, as well as exhibits on the history of sewing and fashion. Visitors can also take classes on sewing and quilting.
5. The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium
The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium is a great museum for anyone interested in aviation or space exploration. The museum features exhibits on the history of aviation, including planes and spacecraft from different periods. The museum also has a planetarium that offers shows on astronomy and space science.
6. The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art
The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art is a unique museum that features a collection of Jewish art and artifacts from around the world. The museum features exhibits on Jewish history, culture, and religion, and is home to a research center that is open to the public.
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7. Greenwood Rising
Greenwood Rising is a museum dedicated to the history of the Greenwood District, a thriving African American community that was destroyed during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The museum features interactive exhibits that take visitors through the history of the district, as well as its destruction and rebirth.
8. The Tulsa Historical Society & Museum
The Tulsa Historical Society & Museum is a great museum for anyone interested in the history of Tulsa and the surrounding area. The museum features exhibits on the city’s history, including its growth and development, its role in the oil industry, and its diverse population.
9. The Bob Dylan Center
The Bob Dylan Center is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the legendary singer-songwriter. The museum features exhibits on Dylan’s music and career, as well as interactive displays that take visitors through his creative process. The museum also houses a research center that is open to the public.
10. The Tulsa Art Deco Museum
The Tulsa Art Deco Museum is a museum dedicated to the Art Deco style of architecture that is prevalent in the city. The museum features exhibits on the history of Art Deco in Tulsa, as well as the architects and designers who helped to shape the city’s skyline.
11. The Tulsa Geoscience Center
The Tulsa Geoscience Center, also known as the Tulsa Geological Society, is a museum dedicated to the history of geology and petroleum exploration in the Tulsa area. This museum features exhibits on the geology of Oklahoma, oil and gas exploration, and the history of the oil industry. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of educational programs, such as field trips, seminars, and workshops.
12. Tulsa Children’s Museum Discovery Lab
The Discovery Lab is divided into several different zones, each with a unique focus. For example, the Tinker Lab encourages children to experiment with design and engineering, while the Art Studio provides a space for creative expression. Other zones include the Doodlebug Studio, where children can explore different art mediums, and the Raceways exhibit, which teaches children about physics and engineering through hands-on activities.
For history buffs, the Greenwood Rising and Tulsa Historical Society & Museum are excellent options. The Bob Dylan Center offers an immersive experience into the life and music of the iconic singer-songwriter, while the Tulsa Art Deco Museum is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
