Welcome to the Sam Noble Museum, where you can explore the wonders of Oklahoma’s natural history. This museum is a great place to visit for all ages. You will be amazed by the range of exhibits and collections on display, which cover everything from fossils and dinosaurs to contemporary ecosystems and indigenous cultures. This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the natural history of the state, and it is also a perfect place to spend a few hours with family and friends.
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
History and Overview
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, located in Norman, Oklahoma, was founded in 1899 as the Stovall Museum of Science and History. The museum has since undergone several name changes and expansions, eventually landing on its current name in 1999 in honor of a generous donor. The museum’s mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of Oklahoma’s natural and cultural diversity.
Today, the Sam Noble Museum houses more than 10 million objects, making it the largest university-based natural history museum in the world. The museum is home to more than 300,000 square feet of exhibits and research collections. Visitors to the museum can explore Oklahoma’s rich natural and cultural history through engaging exhibits and events.
Exhibits and Collections
The Sam Noble Museum’s collection spans a diverse range of subjects, from ancient fossils to living plant and animal specimens. Guests of all ages can enjoy permanent exhibits such as the Hall of Natural Wonders, which features life-sized dioramas of the Great Plains and Oklahoma’s diverse wildlife, including bison, black bears, and prairie dogs, and the Ancient Life Gallery, which showcases the museum’s collection of prehistoric fossils dating back millions of years.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts rotating exhibits throughout the year, highlighting topics such as Native American art and culture, dinosaur discoveries, and more. The Sam Noble Museum’s collections are used for research by the museum’s staff, as well as by researchers from across the globe who visit the museum to conduct studies in fields such as paleontology, zoology, and anthropology.
Events and Programs
The Sam Noble Museum offers a variety of events and programs for visitors of all ages. Guided tours are available for both individuals and groups, providing an in-depth look at the museum’s exhibits and collections led by museum experts. Throughout the year, the museum hosts events such as family-friendly art and science workshops, lectures by prominent researchers, and summer camps for kids.
The museum is also home to the “Nature Explorers” program, which offers hands-on activities and educational materials for children ages three to six, and the “Junior Curators” program, which invites teenagers to explore careers in natural history and museum curation. The Sam Noble Museum is committed to providing diverse educational opportunities to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Overall, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Oklahoma’s natural and cultural heritage. With its extensive collections, engaging exhibits, and diverse educational programs, the museum is an essential destination for both tourists and local residents alike.
Visiting the Museum
If you’re planning to visit the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, there are a few things you need to know to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. From hours of operation to accessibility features, this section will provide you with all the essential information you need to know!
Hours and Admission
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission fees are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $5 for children between the ages of 4 and 17. However, admission is free for children under the age of 3 and for all museum members.
Furthermore, the museum offers discounted admission for groups of 15 or more people, as well as free admission for active-duty military personnel and their immediate families. Parking at the museum is free, with handicap-accessible spaces available near the entrance.
Tips for Enjoyable Visit
To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead. First and foremost, wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. You might also want to consider bringing snacks and a reusable water bottle, as there are no food or drink services inside the exhibit galleries. However, there are water fountains and vending machines available in the museum’s lobby.
Also, take advantage of the museum’s free app, which offers interactive maps, exhibit descriptions, and even audio tours. Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask the staff for assistance, as they are knowledgeable and friendly.
Accessibility and Amenities
The museum is committed to providing equal access to all visitors, regardless of their physical needs. It offers wheelchairs and scooters, and mobility-impaired visitors can enter the museum through the south entrance, which is equipped with an automatic door. Additionally, restrooms, water fountains, and elevators are all easily accessible for visitors with disabilities.
The museum also provides assistive listening devices and American Sign Language interpretation upon request. Visitors who are blind or have low vision can take advantage of Braille exhibit labels and audio descriptions.
Other amenities at the museum include a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and educational materials, as well as a 180-seat theater that shows science documentaries and other educational films.
In conclusion, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in natural history and science. By following these tips and taking advantage of the museum’s accessibility features and amenities, you’ll be sure to have a great time!