Over 40 museums are located in Oklahoma City, each one completely unique. With art, history and science museums, there is something for everyone! But as cooler weather approaches and you may be searching for a fresh activity to pass the time, perhaps visit one of the quirkier and more obscure museums Oklahoma City has to offer.
The American Pigeon Museum & Library
2300 NE 63rd St. | Open Thursday and Friday 1-5 PM, Saturday 10 AM-4 PM | Free admission
Pigeons may seem like just another bird, but they actually have a fascinating history. Pigeons are extremely intelligent animals and we have been domesticating these feathered friends for over 2,000 years—perhaps as many as 10,000. Pigeons have carried messages in times of war, and there is even a sport dedicated to pigeon racing. Learn more about these fabulous fowl at The American Pigeon Museum & Library—and weather permitting, meet a few of its flock, as the museum is home to 12 different breeds of pigeon. Museum Curator Lorrie Monteiro said, “The museum is quite unique. It not only shows pigeons’ awesome military history, but also how these beautiful creatures are often misunderstood and their abilities underestimated. Plus, we have live pigeons on the days we are open, so visitors can see them.”
American Banjo Museum
9 E. Sheridan Ave. | Open Tuesday-Saturday 11 AM-6 PM, Sunday 12-5 PM | Adult admission is $8 with discounts available
The banjo is a stringed instrument with a complicated past, as it was created by enslaved Africans and their descendants before becoming a staple in classical, jazz and bluegrass music. The American Banjo Museum teaches visitors all there is to know about these instruments and the music they produce. Now through October 2026, be sure to check out the exhibition “Pop! Goes the Banjo,” which highlights the banjo’s colorful journey through American pop culture. The museum also offers several monthly opportunities to listen to live banjo music and even try your own hand at playing. Lucas Ross, director of promotions and outreach for the museum (and also host of Pick a Tune with Lucas, the free regular event which offers banjo lessons) had this to say on why you should plan a visit: “The American Banjo Museum is one of the true treasures of Oklahoma City. You’ll see the instrument’s story from its origins all the way through celebration in pop culture. We even have a spot where you can pick up an instrument and try it out.”
Oklahoma Railway Museum
3400 NE Grand Blvd. | Open Thursday-Saturday 9 AM-5 PM, | January to October | Free admission
Full of interactive exhibits featuring locomotives, passenger cars, cabooses and more, the Oklahoma Railway Museum is an outing for the entire family. Museum Administrator Anne Murray Chilton said, “The Oklahoma Railway Museum isn’t just a museum. It’s a community of passionate railroad fans dedicated to the preservation of America’s transportation history. We provide a fun, educational experience of railroads and how they shaped Oklahoma and the nation, and how the train is woven through America’s history. From the Transcontinental Railroad to the railway barons of the early 20th century to today’s transportation networks, rail is the beating heart of America’s transportation industry.”
You’ll have to wait until 2026 to explore the museum, but for the remainder of this year there’s a magical treat in store: During November and December, the museum is only open for the enchanting steam train ride on The Polar Express, which tells the classic children’s story on a one-hour trip to meet Santa. With caroling, hot chocolate and the gift of a silver sleigh bell, wonderful memories are made for the whole family on The Polar Express. Check out oklahomarailwaymuseum.org for schedules and tickets.
