Attractions, Experience, and Highlights
Q: Are there activities for teens at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum offers activities suitable for teens. There are guided gallery tours designed for grades 3–12, including exhibitions like OKLA HOMMA, which shares the historical stories of the 39 tribes in Oklahoma, and WINIKO: Life of an Object, which features historic objects and primary sources. For high school students (grades 8–12), self-guided tours are recommended, supported by a gallery activity workbook aligned with academic standards. Additionally, the Native Heroes program, aimed at grades 6–12, celebrates significant First American artists, athletes, and culture bearers. These educational experiences provide engaging opportunities for teens to learn about First American history, culture, and contributions.
Q: Are there art or cultural exhibits at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum features a variety of art and cultural exhibits. These include the OKLA HOMMA exhibit, which shares the stories of all 39 tribes in Oklahoma, and the WINIKO exhibit showcasing exquisite cultural materials from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. The museum also hosts exhibitions such as "Cradleboards Crafted with Love," exploring cultural practices across several tribes, and "All My Relations," featuring recent acquisitions. Additionally, the museum offers immersive experiences through its Tribal Nations Gallery, Smithsonian Gallery, and outdoor cultural park, highlighting the traditions, history, and art of the 39 First American Nations in Oklahoma. The Exhibit C Gallery & Gifts, owned by the Chickasaw Nation, displays and sells handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, and clothing by First American artists. Overall, the museum provides a rich array of cultural and artistic programming, exhibitions, and live events celebrating Native American heritage.
Q: Are there cultural or historical exhibits at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum features a variety of cultural and historical exhibits. It showcases the histories, cultures, and contributions of 39 distinct First American Nations through state-of-the-art exhibitions, including the Tribal Nations Gallery and the OKLA HOMMA exhibit, which shares the stories of all 39 tribes in Oklahoma. The museum also presents the WINIKO exhibit, displaying exquisite cultural materials from the tribes. Additionally, there are ongoing exhibitions such as "Cradleboards Crafted with Love" and "All My Relations," which explore cultural practices and recent acquisitions. The museum offers immersive experiences that highlight Native American history, art, traditions, and perspectives, making it a dynamic cultural destination.
Q: Are there guided tours at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum offers guided tours. Daily guided tours are available each day the museum is open, lasting 45-60 minutes, and are free add-ons for ticketed visitors who sign up when purchasing tickets. The tours include themes such as "WINIKO: Life of an Object," "21st Century Mound Builders," and "OKLA HOMMA," each with a capacity of 30 participants. Additionally, guided gallery tours for school groups (grades 3–12) are provided by skilled museum volunteers and last about 90 minutes. Adult group visits can also arrange guided tours, including docent-led tours of "OKLA HOMMA," with advance booking and fees applicable. Walk-in tours at 1 p.m. are available without reservation for individuals, families, and small groups under ten.
Q: Are there hiking or walking trails at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, visitors can enjoy an interpretive walk up the FAM Mound at the museum. The walk to the top of the mound is symbolic and offers an outdoor experience with views of downtown Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma River, and the Boathouse District. The mound area also includes outdoor Festival Grounds for various cultural activities.
Q: Are there holiday-themed events at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum hosts holiday-themed events, including an annual Winter Solstice Celebration held in December. This free, family-friendly event honors the cultural significance of the solstice across many Native nations and features activities such as an immersive tunnel light show, guided tours, traditional winter games shared by cultural knowledge keepers from the Miami Nation, and a special sunset viewing through the museum’s Mound tunnel. Additionally, the museum offers a Solstice Supper with a prix fixe menu inspired by Indigenous traditions and seasonal flavors, accompanied by live music.
Q: Are there interactive exhibits or installations at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum features several interactive exhibits and installations. The FAMily Discovery Center offers an immersive, family-friendly experience where visitors can explore a giant illustrated pop-up book world, play games, and learn about stewardship and resilience. The OKLA HOMMA exhibition includes interactive media, film, and digital storytelling elements such as a 270-degree Origins Theater, Moving Fire audio pods, and interactive features like a powwow van and traditional games. These installations engage visitors through sight, sound, and touch, providing an immersive way to experience the histories and cultures of Oklahoma's 39 tribes.
Q: Are there performances or demonstrations at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum hosts a variety of performances and demonstrations. These include Indigenous dance group performances, musical performances by artists such as Terry Tsotigh, storytelling and singing with handdrum, Native Sign Language demonstrations, cultural dance demonstrations by groups like the Riverside Indian School Culture Club, and contests such as the Best Men’s Lulu and Best Women’s War Cry Contests, Ribbon Skirt Contest, and social dances. Additionally, the museum features live demonstrations and video presentations in venues like the Xchange Theater during museum hours.
Q: Are there shows or live events at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum hosts live events and performances. The FAM Theater is a 200-retractable seat venue that accommodates theatrical productions, film and video presentations, dance and live music concerts, as well as lectures and seminars. Additionally, the Xchange Theater serves as a hub for activities during museum hours, including live demonstrations and performances. The museum also offers a variety of community events and celebrations throughout the year.
Q: Is First Americans Museum good for photography?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum is a good place for photography. It features exhibitions that showcase the cultural diversity and artistic contributions of 39 First American Nations, including displays of exquisite cultural materials and art. Additionally, the Paseo Arts & Creativity Center nearby hosts juried photography exhibitions that highlight the talent and diversity of Oklahoma photographers. The museum's architecture, iconic spaces like the Hall of The People, and immersive exhibits also provide visually striking subjects for photography.
Q: Is First Americans Museum open on holidays?
A: The First Americans Museum is closed on Tuesdays but does not list specific holiday closures in the provided information. However, it is noted that the museum is closed on Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Therefore, the museum is not open on these major holidays.
Q: Is First Americans Museum open year-round?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum is open year-round except on Tuesdays when it is closed. Its regular hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Q: Is First Americans Museum suitable for all ages?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum is suitable for all ages. It offers a variety of engaging experiences designed for families, individuals, and visitors of all ages, including an immersive family discovery center with activities for ages three to 103, live programming, exhibitions, art, food, music, and dance. The museum provides educational programs and interactive spaces that cater to young children, school groups, and adults alike.
Q: Is photography allowed inside First Americans Museum?
A: Photography is allowed inside the First Americans Museum in designated areas only and is subject to the museum’s photography policies and image rights terms of use. Photography is permitted for private, non-commercial use only. However, the use of selfie sticks, tripods, monopods, bipods, and professional photography equipment is prohibited. Members of the media or professional photographers must contact the museum prior to their visit.
Q: Is there a gift or souvenir shop at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum has a gift shop called the FAMstore, which features handmade art, jewelry, and exclusive items created by premier First American artists and authors. The store offers a variety of exquisite paintings, pottery, textiles, accessories, books, ornaments, and other unique products produced by First American-owned businesses.
Q: Is there a play area or space for toddlers at First Americans Museum?
A: The First Americans Museum features the FAMily Discovery Center, an immersive and interactive space designed for ages three and up, where families can engage in fun learning experiences together. This area offers games and activities that promote connection, resilience, and stewardship, making it suitable for young children including toddlers around age three.
Q: What are the top things to see at First Americans Museum?
A: Top things to see at the First Americans Museum include: 1. **OKLA HOMMA Exhibit** – Located in the Tribal Nations Gallery, this ongoing exhibit shares the stories of all 39 tribes in Oklahoma today, developed through over a decade of consultation with tribal members, Knowledge Givers, and scholars. 2. **WINIKO: Life of an Object** – A long-term exhibition featuring exquisite cultural materials from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, showcasing the creative diversity of Oklahoma tribes through the present day. 3. **FAMily Discovery Center** – An immersive, interactive space designed for visitors ages three to 103, offering fun-filled learning experiences with games and activities that emphasize connection, resilience, and stewardship of the world. 4. **Outdoor Cultural Park and FAM Mound** – The outdoor area provides an intimate connection with natural elements like earth, fire, wind, and water, interpreting First American perspectives. The iconic earthen mound honors ancient mound-builder civilizations and symbolizes life’s journey and cosmic relationships. 5. **State-of-the-art Exhibitions** – The museum’s 175,000 square feet feature cutting-edge displays on First American history, culture, and art, including live public and educational programs. 6. **39 Restaurant** – A full-service restaurant offering unique Indigenous-inspired cuisine celebrating the rich culinary contributions of First Americans. 7. **Museum Store (FAMstore)** – Featuring authentic, one-of-a-kind handmade items and products by premier First American artists and authors. These highlights provide a comprehensive and engaging experience of the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of the 39 First American Nations in Oklahoma today.
Q: What days is First Americans Museum closed?
A: The First Americans Museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Q: What is the history of First Americans Museum?
A: The First Americans Museum (FAM) in Oklahoma City was established to honor and share the collective histories, cultures, and contributions of 39 distinct First American Nations residing in Oklahoma today. Many of these nations were not originally indigenous to the area but were removed and relocated from homelands across the contiguous United States to what was then known as Indian Territory. Oklahoma became the 46th state in 1907, and its name derives from the Choctaw words "Okla" and "Homma," meaning "Red People," reflecting the deep roots of Native peoples in the region. The museum serves as a dynamic cultural center where tribal voices celebrate Native American culture and contributions, aiming to educate the broader public about the diversity, history, and resilience of these nations. It was rebranded from the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum to the First Americans Museum, with a mission to provide an immersive visitor experience through exhibitions, live programming, art, food, music, and dance. The institution also acknowledges and honors the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the land before Oklahoma's statehood, including tribes with historic ties to the region such as the Wichita, Caddo, Apache, Comanche, Kiowa, Osage, Quapaw, Tonkawa, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminole. The museum's location at the crossroads of major interstates in Oklahoma City, along the Oklahoma River, positions it as a gateway to exploring First American attractions throughout the state. Its core values emphasize respect, reciprocity, relationships, and responsibility, guiding its role in fostering awareness and truth-telling about First American cultures and histories.
Q: What time does First Americans Museum close?
A: The First Americans Museum closes at 5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday; at 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday; and it is closed on Tuesday.
Budget and Affordability
Q: Are group rates available for First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, group rates are available for the First Americans Museum. Groups of 15 or more can receive discounted admission rates and have options for self-guided or guided tours. To receive the group discount, requests must be submitted at least one week prior to the visit, and docent-led tours require booking one month in advance with a 50% deposit (waived for higher education, tribal, and government groups). Bulk ticket purchases for 15 or more tickets are also available at group rate pricing.
Q: Are there discounts at First Americans Museum for students, seniors, or kids?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum offers discounted admission prices for students, seniors, and youth. Students (ages 13 and up), seniors (62 and older), and military personnel pay a reduced admission fee of $15. Youth ages 4 to 12 are charged $10, and children 3 and under are admitted free. Additionally, members of the museum receive free admission. There is also a current offer of $2 off general admission valid from November 10, 2025, through July 1, 2026.
Q: Are there extra charges for special exhibits or activities at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, there are extra charges for some special activities at the First Americans Museum. For example, the Native Knowledge Game Show in the Xchange costs $50 per presentation and does not include admission. Additionally, school groups can add visits to the FAMily Discovery Center or South Wing Galleries for an extra fee of $4 per student, which is not waived for Title I schools. However, general admission includes access to daily tours and the FAMily Discovery Center experience.
Q: Are there free days or hours at First Americans Museum?
A: There are no specific free days or hours mentioned for general admission at the First Americans Museum. However, museum members and children under 3 years old receive free admission. Additionally, there is a discount offer of $2 off admission valid from November 10, 2025, to July 1, 2026. Admission to the FAMstore and the restaurant does not require a ticket.
Q: How much does it cost to enter First Americans Museum?
A: The general admission prices for the First Americans Museum are $20 for adults (18 and older), $15 for tribal members, seniors (62+), military personnel, students (13+), certified educators, and first responders, and $10 for youth ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are admitted free. Members of the museum also receive free admission.
Q: Is entry to First Americans Museum free or discounted for locals?
A: Entry to the First Americans Museum is not free for locals, but there are discounted admission prices available for certain groups including tribal members, seniors (62+), military personnel, students (13+), certified educators, and first responders, all of whom pay $15. Youth ages 3-12 pay $10, and children 2 and under are admitted free. Members of the museum also receive free admission. Additionally, there is a $2 off general admission coupon valid from November 10, 2025, to July 1, 2026. Group discounts are available with advance registration for groups of 15 or more.
Food, Dining, and Cuisine
Q: Are there restaurants or cafes at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum features a full-service restaurant called 39 Restaurant, which offers unique Native-inspired cuisine. It serves happy hour, lunch, dinner, and brunch at various times throughout the week. Additionally, the museum is located in the Horizons District, which has several dining options nearby, including restaurants at the OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark and upcoming new dining concepts.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to First Americans Museum?
A: No, outside food and drinks are not permitted at the First Americans Museum, except for medically necessary items or for pre-scheduled groups. Visitors should plan to dine at the museum's restaurant or café, which offers Indigenous-inspired cuisine.
Q: Is alcohol served or allowed at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, alcohol is served at the 39 Restaurant located within the First Americans Museum, as indicated by the restaurant's happy hour offerings and dinner service times. However, for events or promotions within the museum or related facilities, any alcoholic beverages used as traffic promoters or served must comply with specific regulations and be purchased through the designated catering department.
Health and Safety
Q: Are dogs or pets allowed at First Americans Museum?
A: Pets are not allowed at the First Americans Museum; however, service animals are welcome.
Q: Are restrooms accessible at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, restrooms at the First Americans Museum are accessible. They are available on each floor and designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Q: Are there age restrictions at First Americans Museum?
A: There are no age restrictions to visit the museum. It offers experiences and activities suitable for a wide range of ages, from young children as young as three years old up to adults. Children aged 3 and under are admitted for free. The museum features family-friendly spaces like the FAMily Discovery Center designed for ages three to 103, as well as educational programs and tours tailored for various school grade levels.
Q: Are there elevators or ramps at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum has elevators on each floor to provide accessibility.
Q: Are there restrooms at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum has restroom facilities that are completely hands-free, including the entrances. Family restrooms are available on each level of the museum.
Q: Can I bring a stroller to First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, you can bring a stroller to the First Americans Museum. The museum is designed to be accessible and family-friendly, offering amenities such as elevators on each floor and spacious galleries, which accommodate visitors of all ages, including young children who may use strollers.
Q: Is a designated smoking area available at First Americans Museum?
A: No, there is no designated smoking area available at the First Americans Museum. The museum is a smoke-free environment indoors, and no smoking areas are mentioned on the premises.
Q: Is First Americans Museum kid-friendly?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum is kid-friendly. It features the FAMily Discovery Center, an immersive and interactive space designed for visitors ages three to 103, offering fun-filled learning experiences with games and activities that emphasize values like community, resilience, and stewardship. The museum also offers guided and self-guided tours tailored for school groups, with educational programs and activity workbooks aligned with academic standards. Additionally, there are family-friendly events, camps for children ages 6-12, and exhibits that engage young visitors in learning about the cultures and histories of First American Nations.
Q: Is First Americans Museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum is wheelchair accessible. It offers accessible parking, restrooms, and elevators on each floor. Free wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and service animals are welcome. The museum also provides free admission for ASL interpreters or other accessibility professionals accompanying clients. Visitors can ask staff for assistance to avoid areas with bright lights and audio if needed.
Q: Is visiting First Americans Museum considered physically strenuous?
A: Visiting the First Americans Museum is generally not considered physically strenuous. The museum offers accessible exhibits and amenities, including a family discovery center and indoor galleries. There is a self-guided walk to the FAM Mound, which is a three-quarters of a mile round trip and takes about 30 minutes, so that part involves some physical activity but is optional. Most of the museum experience involves walking through exhibitions and participating in programs that are suitable for a wide range of ages and physical abilities.
Transportation
Q: Are rideshare apps available to go to First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, rideshare services are available and their use is strongly encouraged for visiting the First Americans Museum, especially during events when onsite parking is limited.
Q: Are there signs directing me to First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, there are signs directing visitors to the First Americans Museum. The museum is located at 659 First Americans Blvd. in Oklahoma City, and as a prominent cultural destination at the crossroads of major interstates, it is well marked to guide visitors to its location along the Oklahoma River across from downtown.
Q: Can I bring an RV or large vehicle to First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, you can bring an RV or large vehicle to the First Americans Museum as motorcoach parking is available on site. Additionally, there are 300 parking spaces, and overflow parking with shuttle service is provided at a nearby location if needed. Parking at the museum is free.
Q: Do I need a car to visit First Americans Museum or can I get there by public transportation?
A: You do not need a car to visit the First Americans Museum, as it is accessible by public transportation. Oklahoma City Embark offers wheelchair-accessible buses, ferries, and streetcar services that connect various parts of the city, including downtown where the museum is located. The Embark system allows passengers to get on and off at multiple stops, making it a convenient option for visitors. Additionally, the Oklahoma City Streetcar runs loops through downtown and nearby districts, providing easy access to hotels, dining, and attractions. For those traveling by car, accessible parking is available, but public transit options provide a practical alternative to driving.
Q: How do I get to First Americans Museum by public transportation?
A: You can reach the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City using the Embark public transit system, which includes buses, ferries, and streetcar services. All Embark vehicles are wheelchair accessible with lifts and features to accommodate everyone. This system allows you to get on and off at various stops throughout the city, making it a convenient option for traveling to the museum. Wheelchair users can apply in advance for a reduced fare card. The typical single ride fare is around $1.00, offering an affordable alternative to rideshares or taxis.
Q: How do I get to First Americans Museum from downtown?
A: To get to the First Americans Museum from downtown Oklahoma City, you can take a short drive heading toward 659 First Americans Blvd., which is located along the Oklahoma River across from downtown. The museum is situated at the crossroads of Interstates 35, 40, 235, and 44, making it easily accessible by car from the downtown area. Parking is available on-site with 300 free parking spaces, including motorcoach parking.
Q: How do I get to First Americans Museum from the airport?
A: The First Americans Museum is located at 659 First Americans Blvd. in Oklahoma City, positioned along the Oklahoma River across from downtown. It is accessible via the major interstate highways intersecting in the city, including Interstates 35, 40, 235, and 44. From the airport, you can take these interstates to reach the museum, which is just a short drive away. Parking is available on-site with 300 free parking spaces, including motorcoach parking.
Q: How much does it cost to park at First Americans Museum?
A: Parking at the First Americans Museum is free.
Q: Is the entrance to First Americans Museum easy to find?
A: Yes, the entrance to the First Americans Museum is easy to find. Visitors enter through glass doors into the iconic Hall of The People, a prominent 110-foot structure inspired by a Wichita grass lodge, which serves as the central gathering place within the museum. The museum is located at 659 First Americans Blvd. in Oklahoma City, positioned along the Oklahoma River across from downtown, making it accessible and well-marked.
Q: Is there a shuttle or tour bus that goes to First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, during special events such as the Grand Opening Weekend and Indigenous Peoples Day, shuttle services are provided to transport visitors between designated overflow parking areas and the museum. For example, Crooked Oak Public Schools offers parking with shuttle service to and from the museum for a fee, with proceeds supporting local athletic programs. Additionally, free shuttle services operate throughout these event weekends. However, for regular visits, there is no specific mention of a continuous shuttle or tour bus service to the museum. Visitors are encouraged to use rideshare services or park in the available onsite parking with 300 spaces.
Q: Is there free parking at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, parking at First Americans Museum is free.
Q: Is there parking available near First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, there is parking available near the First Americans Museum. The museum offers free onsite parking with 300 parking spaces. Additionally, for special events or overflow situations, shuttle services and overflow parking are available at Crooked Oak Public Schools, with a $10 parking fee supporting local athletic programs. During certain events, onsite parking may be limited or reserved for visitors with disability placards, and shuttle or rideshare services are encouraged.
Q: Is there public transportation to First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, public transportation options are available to reach the First Americans Museum. Oklahoma City’s EMBARK bus system serves much of the metro area with wheelchair-accessible vehicles, including buses, ferries, and streetcars. The streetcar service connects downtown and nearby neighborhoods with multiple stops, making it convenient to access attractions like the museum. Additionally, taxis, rideshares such as Uber and Lyft, and other transit options provide access to the area. For those using public transit, EMBARK offers frequent service on many routes, and reduced fare cards are available for wheelchair users.
Q: What time of day has the least amount of traffic near First Americans Museum?
A: The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so that day would have the least traffic near the First Americans Museum. Among open days, weekday mornings before the museum opens at 11 a.m. likely have the least traffic, as the museum opens later in the day and weekend hours start at 11 a.m. as well.
Q: Where is the entrance(s) to First Americans Museum?
A: The entrance to the First Americans Museum is through glass doors that lead visitors into the Hall of The People, a 110-foot structure inspired by a Wichita grass lodge. This central gathering space is located within the museum at the intersection of manmade and earthen architecture. The museum's address is 659 First Americans Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73129.
Travel Planning & Itineraries
Q: Are school field trips allowed at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, school field trips are allowed at the First Americans Museum. Schools and youth-serving organizations can bring students for educational visits, with requests required at least four weeks in advance. The museum offers discounted admission for groups of 15 or more students, including free admission for Title I schools in Oklahoma. Field trips include core experiences such as the FAMily Discovery Center for grades PK–4, guided gallery tours for grades 3–12, and self-guided tours for grades 8–12. Chaperone requirements apply, and additional add-on experiences are available for an extra fee.
Q: Can I book tickets to First Americans Museum online?
A: Yes, tickets to the First Americans Museum can be purchased online exclusively through the museum’s website.
Q: Can I buy tickets to First Americans Museum on-site?
A: Tickets for the First Americans Museum must be purchased in advance through the museum’s website. On-site ticket purchases are not available. However, joint tickets with the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum can be bought in person at either museum.
Q: Can I host a birthday or group event at First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, you can host a birthday or group event at the First Americans Museum. The museum offers a variety of event spaces suitable for different group sizes and types of gatherings. Options include the Xchange Theater for up to 60 guests, the FAM Theater with flexible seating for up to 99 guests, and the FAM Studios that can accommodate up to 90 individuals. For smaller, more intimate events, there are meeting rooms like the Alliance Lounge for up to 13 guests and the Sovereignty Suite for up to 45 guests. The museum provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for a wide range of events, and you can start the booking process by filling out an application, with responses typically within 48 hours.
Q: Can I leave First Americans Museum and return later the same day?
A: No, the museum does not offer re-entry on the same day. Visitors must purchase admission for each entry, and timed entry is required for certain experiences like the FAMily Discovery Center. Therefore, once you leave, you would need to have a new ticket to return later that day.
Q: Can I rent First Americans Museum for a private event?
A: Yes, you can rent the First Americans Museum for a private event. The museum offers a variety of unique and beautiful event spaces suitable for meetings, weddings, conferences, and special occasions. Venues include the Hall of the People, which can accommodate up to 405 guests, the FAM Xchange Theater for up to 60 guests, the FAM Theater with flexible seating for up to 99 guests, FAM Studios for up to 90 individuals, and several smaller meeting rooms like the Alliance Lounge and Sovereignty Suite for more intimate gatherings. The museum is committed to providing an inclusive and non-partisan environment for event rentals. To start the booking process, you need to fill out an application and allow up to 48 hours for a response.
Q: Do I need tickets for First Americans Museum?
A: Yes, tickets are required for admission to the First Americans Museum. Admission fees vary by age and category, with adults generally paying $20, and discounted rates available for tribal members, seniors, military, students, and youth. Children under a certain age are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased online, and for special events like the Grand Opening Weekend, tickets must be bought in advance. Membership grants free admission. Additionally, timed entry and waivers are required for access to the FAMily Discovery Center, which is included with general admission.
Q: Do I need to buy tickets to First Americans Museum in advance?
A: For the general visit to the First Americans Museum, tickets can be purchased online or at the museum, and advance purchase is recommended especially for group visits or to secure spots on daily tours, which require sign-up at ticket purchase or at the desk. For the Grand Opening Weekend event, all tickets must be purchased in advance due to expected large crowds. Additionally, timed entry and waivers are required for the FAMily Discovery Center, and time slots should be selected at checkout or reserved in person. Therefore, while advance ticket purchase is not always mandatory for regular visits, it is strongly advised to buy tickets in advance to ensure entry and participation in tours or special experiences.
Q: Does First Americans Museum have special events?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These include cultural celebrations such as the Indigenous Pop Culture Expo (IndigiPopX) in April, Summer and Winter Solstice celebrations, and the Indigenous Peoples Day festival in October. The museum also features events like the Red Earth Festival's TreeFest, showcasing Native American art and culture. Additionally, the museum offers performances, educational programs, and community gatherings that highlight the histories and traditions of the 39 First American Nations in Oklahoma.
Q: How long should I plan to spend at First Americans Museum?
A: You should plan to spend about one hour to explore the main exhibits and experiences at the museum. Additional time may be needed if you participate in add-on activities such as the Native Knowledge Game Show, which lasts 45–60 minutes, or if you take the self-guided walk up the FAM Mound, which takes about 30 minutes. The family-friendly FAMily Discovery Center also closes at 4 p.m. and requires timed entry, so consider that in your schedule. Overall, allocating a few hours will allow you to fully enjoy the exhibitions, programs, and amenities.
Q: Is First Americans Museum suitable for large groups?
A: Yes, the First Americans Museum is suitable for large groups. It offers several spacious venues that can accommodate large numbers of guests, including the Hall of the People, which can host up to 405 guests with various table layouts, and the FAM Theater, which can seat up to 200 guests in its retractable seating configuration or up to 99 guests with tables. Additionally, the museum provides multiple meeting rooms and studios for smaller to medium-sized groups, making it versatile for different event sizes. The museum also offers guided and self-guided tours designed for school groups and large educational visits.
Q: Is there a combined ticket that includes First Americans Museum and other sites?
A: Yes, there is a joint ticket available that includes admission to both the First Americans Museum and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Tickets for this joint admission can be purchased in person at either museum.
Q: What should I know before visiting First Americans Museum?
A: Before visiting the First Americans Museum, you should know the following: - The museum is located at 659 First Americans Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73129, positioned along the Oklahoma River across from downtown Oklahoma City. - It covers 175,000 square feet and showcases the histories, cultures, and contributions of 39 distinct First American Nations in Oklahoma. - The museum features state-of-the-art exhibitions, a family discovery center with immersive activities for ages 3 to 103, a full-service restaurant offering Indigenous-inspired cuisine, a museum store with authentic handmade art, and a multi-purpose theater. - The FAMily Discovery Center requires timed entry and signed waivers, and it closes daily at 4 p.m. - Admission prices are $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 4 to 12, and free for children 3 and under. Members are admitted free. Discounts are available for military, government, and seniors. There is a current offer of $2 off admission valid through July 1, 2026. - Parking is free with 300 spaces available, including motorcoach parking. - The museum has meeting facilities, including the Hall of The People, which can accommodate up to 405 guests and offers views of the iconic FAM Mound, a tribute to mound-builder cultures. - The museum emphasizes core values of respect, reciprocity, relationships, and responsibility, aiming to educate the public and foster truth-telling about First American Nations. - Visitors can explore exhibits on 12 Native linguistic families and learn about the cultural significance of the earthen mound representing life’s journey and cosmic relationships. - Planning ahead is recommended, especially for group visits, memberships, special events, and participation in programs like FAMcamps for children ages 6-12. - The museum is committed to accessibility and offers various amenities to enhance the visitor experience. Knowing these details will help you have a meaningful and well-prepared visit to the First Americans Museum.
Q: When is the best time of day to visit First Americans Museum?
A: The museum opens at 10 a.m. on most days except Saturday and Sunday when it opens at 11 a.m. Guided walk-in tours are offered daily at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m., providing opportunities to explore exhibitions with added context. The museum closes at 5 p.m. on most days, with Thursday open until 9 p.m. For a more immersive experience, visiting mid-morning to early afternoon allows participation in tours and ample time to explore. Note that the museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Q: When is the best time of year to visit First Americans Museum?
A: The First Americans Museum offers a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including a notable Summer Solstice Celebration on June 21, which is an important event for many tribal nations in Oklahoma. Visiting around this time can provide a unique cultural experience. Additionally, the museum hosts ongoing exhibitions and family-friendly activities year-round. Since the museum is closed on Tuesdays and has specific daily hours, planning a visit on a weekend or during special events can enhance the experience. Overall, late spring to early summer, especially around the summer solstice, is an excellent time to visit.
Q: Where can I find the event calendar for First Americans Museum?
A: You can find the event calendar for the First Americans Museum on their official website at famok.org, specifically on the events calendar page. This section provides details about upcoming events, museum hours, and other visitor information.