Visit The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum Of Natural History (Norman)

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum Of Natural History

The Sam Noble Museum of Natural History is a fascinating and educational destination for those interested in learning about the natural world. It is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and specimens, ranging from ancient fossils to modern-day animal exhibits. 

In this overview, we’ll explore some of the things you’ll see here and what to expect, so you can plan and get excited about your visit!

 

Explore the Exhibits

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History offers an exciting journey for the entire family, with four billion years of history on display in its permanent exhibits:

Orientation Gallery

Explore some of the museum’s collections and research departments in this interactive gallery. Take a look at some of the most impressive objects from our vast collection and discover the ongoing studies being conducted by museum scientists. When you come in, say hello to Sauroposeidon proteles – the world’s tallest dinosaur!

Hall of World Cultures

This exhibit delves into the customs and artifacts of various global cultures, featuring items from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Particular standouts include an array of Chinese ornaments and seals, a Tibetan ceremonial ensemble composed of carved bones, and a full set of Samurai armor from Japan.

Hall of Ancient Life

Uncover the beginnings of life in the Hall of Ancient Life. Through various displays, this exhibit provides insight into the fossils and geology of Oklahoma and its neighboring areas, featuring long-extinct animals such as dinosaurs, mammoths, and saber-toothed cats. Additionally, the museum’s Pentaceratops skull holds the record for being the largest according to Guinness World Records.

Hall of Nature Wonders

Immerse yourself in Oklahoma’s stunning natural landscapes in the Hall of Natural Wonders. There, you can explore a variety of unique habitats showcased through “immersion” style dioramas that make it feel like you are actually walking through these environments.

Conoco Oil Pioneers of Oklahoma Plaza

A section of the museum is dedicated to those who are known as Oklahoma Oil Pioneers and whose efforts built a foundation for the oil and gas business in this developing state. The history of Oklahoma is interwoven with that of the remarkable oil industry.

Hall of the People of Oklahoma

The Hall of the People of Oklahoma offers an in-depth look at the history and culture of the indigenous people who have lived in the state for 30,000 years. This exhibit reveals the stories behind the Chickasaw, Cherokee, and Comanche tribes and takes visitors on a journey through time to understand what it means to be Native American in Oklahoma today.

The Sam Noble Museum regularly presents new and unique temporary exhibitions every few months. To be sure to not miss out, we suggest checking their website listed below or getting in touch with them for the latest details on current and future displays.

See Current Exhibits here

 

See the Collections

The Sam Noble Museum holds a vast array of objects and specimens, ranging from tiny insects to enormous mammals. This extensive collection also includes cultural artifacts from all over the world.

By exhibiting its collections, undertaking research programs, and providing educational outreach opportunities, the museum works to spark curiosity about nature and our place within it.

You can find more information on the 12 collections at the Sam Noble Museum here.

 

Educational Programs & Activities

The Sam Noble Museum offers a wide range of educational programs and activities that are designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Some of the programs and activities offered at the museum include:

• School and Group Tours: The museum offers customizable guided tours for school groups and other organizations.
• Summer Camps: The museum offers a variety of summer camps for children of all ages, to provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to explore the museum’s collections and exhibits.
• Outreach Programs: The museum’s outreach programs bring educational resources and activities to communities throughout Oklahoma.
• Adult Education Programs: The museum offers a variety of educational programs for adults, including lectures, workshops, and classes on topics such as natural history, art, and photography.
• Citizen Science Programs: The museum’s citizen science programs allow visitors to contribute to scientific research by participating in data collection and analysis. 

See the rest of the programs here

Planning Your Visit

How long does it take to go through the Sam Noble Museum? 

The amount of time it takes to go through the Sam Noble Museum can vary depending on a few factors, such as the visitor’s interests and pace, as well as the crowds at the museum.

As a rough estimate, most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the museum’s exhibits, although some visitors may spend more or less time. To get the most out of your visit, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and prioritize the exhibits and collections that interest you the most.

The museum offers interactive maps and audio tours to help visitors navigate the space and learn about the exhibits, and knowledgeable staff members are also available to answer questions and provide additional information.

Cost of Admission:

Adults (Ages 18-64)	$10.00
Seniors (65+)	$8.00
Children (Ages 4-17)	$6.00
Children under 3	FREE

Purchase Tickets (Official Website)

Hours:

Tuesday – Saturday	10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday	1 PM – 5 PM
Monday	CLOSED

Directions & Contact Info.

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman, OK 73072
(405) 325-7977
https://samnoblemuseum.ou.edu/

Concluding Thoughts:

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is an excellent destination for anyone interested in learning about Oklahoma’s natural history and the broader natural world.

With its impressive collection of exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs, the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems that make up Oklahoma’s landscape and the fascinating creatures that inhabit them.

Whether you’re a student, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and informative family outing, be sure to add this fascinating museum to your must-see list!