First Americans Museum image

First Americans Museum

Museum

👍👍 Wonderful museum. Collections are amazing. I love all of the audio and video stories and how the museum is set up for those encounters. We happened to be at the museum during an arts and crafts event and enjoyed talking to those involved. Gift store is also full of memorabilia and souvenirs. Staff w... People often mention museum, American, history, experience, displays, beautiful, Americans, artifacts, time, exhibits,


Address

659 American Indian Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73129

Website

www.famok.org

Contact

(405) 594-2100

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (1.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 11 AM to 5 PM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (44) American (14) history (14) experience (13) displays (12) beautiful (12) Americans (11) artifacts (11) time (10) exhibits (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Lisa F. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful museum. Collections are amazing. I love all of the audio and video stories and how the museum is set up for those encounters. We happened to be at the museum during an arts and crafts event and enjoyed talking to those involved. Gift store is also full of memorabilia and souvenirs. Staff were friendly. First museum I've seen where you can take a chair through the museum for use, if needed. Definitely recommend. We were there several hours and still missed displays.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin J. 2 years ago on Google
    I am from Georgia and I was able to attend (unknowingly) the opening of the museum. It is a reminder, of who’s land we are on and how rich indigenous culture is. The broad majority of historic items were lent from the Smithsonian to the museum which stirs an ironic realization that these items have yet to be repatriated to their respective homes. The displays of contemporary art and culture is also very impressive.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Savage R. 10 months ago on Google
    This place could have been amazing. It was a little too woke for me. As a Cherokee I don’t see myself as a victim. That is what it seems the displays were all about. There were very few displays on top of that. Not all of the displays were available for viewing. It is still beautiful place the architecture is amazing and breathtaking. My favorite was the pictures of athletes and actors that are native! I did not realize how may are. Too cool. “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” ‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anthony A. 2 years ago on Google
    My friend is from the Absentee Shawnee tribe and heard about this museum from a relative who highly recommended it. We both went to check it out and throughly enjoyed the tour. There was lots to see, important information to learn and it has some fun interactive areas. I’m really glad he invited me to go with him, as I got a chance to learn a lot at the first American museum, also got to see some truly beautiful artwork and apparel. I was also amazed by the stunning architecture and interior.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 R A. 2 years ago on Google
    This was a great museum experience with tech influences. I learned so much! $15 general adult admission which includes optional guided tour at 1pm and 3pm. The restaurant, "39", was an incredible dining experience, especially for vegetarians like myself. Try the corn ribs...just do it They also have lots of fun events and demonstrations such as stick ball tournament, making ribbon skirts and showcase traditional dances
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A-yo J. 2 years ago on Google
    There is so much to see here! A wide array of Native American culture and art. The museum itself is expansive. I was there almost 3 hours and only got halfway through the first floor. So much information and a rich cultural learning experience that any lover of Native American history will enjoy.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 peter k. 2 years ago on Google
    I was recently here to play music for the Hall of Fame festivities. Very nice museum! The staff was friendly and helpful. The Smithsonian items were cool to see. The artwork showed a nice variety of styles and artists. Gift shop was decent enough; was hoping for a better size selection on the tees. The hall we played music in was beautiful and featured a high curved glass wall with nice beams. It looked out to the mound. I wasn't able to see the whole place but what I saw was great!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cloud J. 8 months ago on Google
    Went for our first visit and it was fun. Easy to navigate. The walk to the top of the mound was really nice except for the high temperatures that day, but the view from the top of the river and city was worth it. Got to see family members mentioned in the displays so that was nice. My only complaint was access to beverages or vending machines of some sort. You have to go the bar to get a drink of any kind. So for a trip to the museum you have to visit a bar for a drink. I have never heard of a museum having a bar. As a former alcoholic this can be a little uncomfortable so just be prepared for that. I would suggest keeping drinks in a cooler in the car maybe. Besides that we had a great time. I highly recommend everyone visit the museum to learn more about our Native heritage and tribes not only in this state but others as well.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin K. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent museum. Well paced galleries with timeline information on history of First Americans. Videos and memorabilia are very good and understandable. Grounds have ample space to expand and develop educational space for visitors. I would like to see them add more exhibits and historical items, but to start, it has many good possibilities.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harlan V. 4 months ago on Google
    If you’re a history head. You’ll love this place. I love the architecture of this building!! My family has been researching our Native American heritage and to be here was much more valuable and necessary! If you haven’t gone, I suggest it!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Yvon F. 1 year ago on Google
    Love this museum it was very nice. Like the way they laid out the timeline. Very easy to follow in events order. I can see where this museum has a lot of room that they can grow. The second floor is artifacts from the Smithsonian. I really wish that it had more artifacts than it had. Or just tribal members that have given more artifacts to the museum. That would have been a lot better for me. I love seeing all of the personal items that go along with the story downstairs. I really just don't think there was very many.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Renee B. 9 months ago on Google
    A structurally stunning and uniquely designed architecture inside and out of the museum. Within you will find personal family history stories of First Americans shared through engaging videos, displays and American Indian artifacts perfectly exibited with partnership from the Smithsonian Institution. I felt a deep appreciation and quiet reverence for the tribes history shared, and outrage for the betrayals they endured. The First American Museum gives a better understanding of the collective histories of 39 distinctive Nations in Oklahoma. I look forward to the future additions to take place within the museum particularly the FamilySearch center, where visitors to the museum can receive help in preserving personal histories, searching for ancestors and building their own family trees.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carol E. 5 months ago on Google
    Highly recommend! If you are on I40 or I35 near Oklahoma City it is worth your while to stop in. Parking is easy (and free). It's a beautiful history lesson come to life.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J T. 5 months ago on Google
    I am really really glad that I was able to visit this wonderful museum. It is beautiful outside and in and contains so much to see and explore! I spent time and money to get a second minor in university to get it in Cultural Anthropology because I am fascinated in people (Psych major English minor) so That is ready I personally really enjoy learning about every single one of us. Always have since a little child!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Penny S. 7 months ago on Google
    This place is amazing! It's huge so plan for plenty of time. There are artifacts, films, text displays and even interactive games. The mound wasn't open when I visited so I will likely return. The architecture and the technology alone are impressive. There's also a snack area and a full service restaurant. A large gift shop is near the entrance. It is fully handicap accessible, with multiple parking spots and ramps.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jordan M. 2 years ago on Google
    A MUST-SEE TRIP! First of all, the architecture is spectacular! Full of light, air, and movement, just lovely to look at! Inside, the layout is well thought out, with traffic and sound dampening all thought out. Then we get to the displays themselves. I found myself rethinking quite a bit of my understandings. An enlightening AND beautiful experience!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David Devaney, J. 2 years ago on Google
    This was a rough experience but I think it's one we all should take. These people did not deserve what happened to them. Fortunately their lived experience helped them get through most of it and come out better. The only disappointment was that the restaurant closed at 3pm. They only opened in September of 2021 so hopefully that will change.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nichole B. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful museum showcasing a great collection of exhibits of the First Americans History. Would highly recommend a visit to this institution. Very informative and loved seeing the artifacts displayed. Very well done with the interactive components and organizing the exhibition. Plan to spend at least an hour or two here.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Derrick G. 8 months ago on Google
    This is one of the most important and powerful museums in our county. It displays in detail, the history of Native Americans being dispelled from their homes, and forced to move to Oklahoma. The museum details the lives and culture of the 39 Native American tribes. This museum is incredible.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ceiba P. 2 years ago on Google
    The museum is truly something that should been seen. The stories wrapped in the history of all involved is amazing and tragic. Take your time going through and listening, seeing and understanding the history of the First Americans.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cassandra W. 1 year ago on Google
    Was there for a private event. The museum us very informative and beautiful. Our group was blessed with the opportunity to see a number of Native American dances performed.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel S. 2 years ago on Google
    This is an eye opening experience for those who do not know anything about the first Americans in this country. This is a must-see Museum. I think it's important for every person lives in United States to make at least one trip and their lives to Oklahoma City or at least the sole purpose visiting the first Americans Museum. It has been far too long that we as Americans have overlooked the plight of this community.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 RLA P. 1 year ago on Google
    I am an Absentee Shawnee tribal member and very proud of this museum! The price to get into the museum is $10 if you have a CDIB card. My sister and parents were here today with me and we were there for 4 hours and ate at the 39 restaurant. Their fry bread was excellent! I enjoyed the narrated stories while exploring the museum. Thank you for making us Oklahoma's proud!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Morgan M. 7 months ago on Google
    I absolutely love going to museums and I’ve got to say, of all the museums I’ve gone to around the world, FAM is easily one of the best I’ve visited. The creators of FAM clearly paid careful attention to minor details that really make the experience enjoyable; from timers at the bottoms of videos so you know how long they are/when you started watching, to the numerous videos spread throughout the exhibits to diversify your experience between reading/watching, and to the way they display exhibits (factual based and highlighting some stories/interpretations are from their perspective. Some museums just state everything in the museum is pure fact, but I think everyone knows that depending on the discussion, there are multiple opinions/interpretations/perspectives). I found their exhibits incredibly moving and enlightening. I’ve been to the museum twice now and the museum can be done in 2 hours if you focus on watching videos (which summarize some reading) and reading SOME displays. If you’d like to ensure you can read/watch everything I’d recommend 3-4 hours. Overall, I cannot recommend this museum enough and I hope you enjoy it like I did!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Derek N. 2 years ago on Google
    The history we all need in American about the people who lived here first. A short but comprehensive history of the First Americans from prehistoric times to the modern era. Great exhibits available demonstration the native tribes and their histories and cultures.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Billy M. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful!!! Next time I'll be sure to give myself more time experience all of the videos and exhibits. Well worth it! Mvto to all the nations for making this possible ❤️❤️❤️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cody B. 2 years ago on Google
    Must visit for all First American peoples! I learned a lot about the tribes of America from their origins through their removal from their homelands to today. The Museum has a restaurant and gift shop. We brought our support dogs in their stroller and had no problems. There is an elevator with access to the second floor. The first floor is mainly a historical timeline and modern artifacts. The second floor is authentic artifacts on loan to the museum from tribes and the Smithsonian.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 pamela m. 4 months ago on Google
    This is the region’s exceptional experience for anyone seeking clarity and inspiration from the history of First Americans, providing an engaging chronological account from firsthand perspectives. Beautifully enhanced by Native art, artifacts, and knowledgeable docents. Try the unique menu in the full dining cafe; you won’t regret spending a full day here!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Terrius B. 5 months ago on Google
    This is a great place to experience the historical narratives of First Americans. It was refreshing to hear and see the exhibits. It didn't feel super whitewashed! The one takeaway was the lack of diverse voices from black natives. I understand that the voices and stories were very central to the region, but all the natives were not red or light. There were a whole lot of brown and black people slaughtered and abused at the hands of the white man. That would be the critique that I would offer. Historical representation truly matters, and I time those voices and stories will get represented.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Angela B. 8 months ago on Google
    This place is just spectacular. It’s a beautiful tribute to First American peoples and a great opportunity to learn more about their history and culture. The exhibits are highly engaging and provide lots of information without being overwhelming. The videos are amazing, particularly the oral history interviews. Don’t miss this!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John T. 1 year ago on Google
    What a beautiful, happy and SAD trip through time and tears of the First American peoples in North America. This museum is new and has succeeded in showing what the indigenous peoples had Before the European arrival and unfortunately how as a group of people were devastated by such an experience. Come to learn and marvel at the lessons lost due to greed. Take plenty of time to walk the two levels of the museum as well as some outside spiritual areas. You will wonder what kind of better world we might find ourselves if we listened instead of dominated.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jim K. 11 months ago on Google
    Beautifully done building and exhibition space. Area is still having some construction done. It is a beautiful place with the sad story of the Trail of Tears. Lots of story boards, short films, pictures and artifacts. Buy combo, FAM and the Cowboy Museum for a discount.

  • 3/5 Doug's Bass P. 1 year ago on Google
    Very interesting reading on the life of the American Indian, however I was expecting more artifacts. I'm assuming because it's a fairly new museum, is the reason why there are a lot of modern or reproduction items on display. Hopefully, this beautiful museum will continue to aquire original pieces and make this the premiere Native American museum in the world. Be prepared for a lot of reading. There are very detailed accounts accompanying the multitude of wall displays and it will take some time to get through it all. Kudos to the great staff as well. Everyone I spoke with was very friendly and helpful.

  • 5/5 Thang T. 8 months ago on Google
    Highly recommend the joint ticket with the cowboy museum if you're visiting OKC. The museum exhibits are as extensive of some of the other places but the stuff on display is a lot more meaningful here. There is a recreated mound outside the museum that takes 30 minutes to reach the top, 15 if you're a fast walker.

  • 5/5 Lisa K. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is AMAZING. we have been waiting for years for its completion and it was worth it. Every detail was thoroughly thought out. Everything was beautiful and informative. We were able to enjoy live performances. The fee for military is only $10. General public is $15 and less for children. I would rate 10/10.


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