Wonderful little museum in the heart of Western Oklahoma. Came to visit while staying with family…read morein the area and I have to say for a town of less than 15k people this is a pretty nice establishment! The museum is set into a pretty interesting building as well. I can't truly pin-point the architectural style of it, but I'd say it's mainly mid century modern with a dusting of art deco thrown in, just for good measure. The cupola as you first enter is quite impressive. It is lined with murals depicting life in western oklahoma thru the centuries. Vibrant colors and simple scenes make for a stunning entry. The installation begin with native Americans infographics and artifacts, moving into the Temple Houston's room, then by the depression era/dust bowl room, to showcase some old area relics (bank, post office, photography studio, sheriff) ending right at the gift shop. From here you can visit the outdoor annex buildings, via a beautiful courtyard, where agricultural implements as well as a reconstruction sod-dwelling are on display. A gem for anyone who is interested in the historical features of this region. Also FREE of charge, not sure how you could ever go wrong with free education! ^__^

I've been coming here for quite a few years, as I travel to Woodward to visit family on holidays…read moreevery year. I've seen the museum grow and change over the years, and its developed into quite a resource for local history that I think would interest people from outside the area. While most of the exhibits are the same year after year, whoever has done the curating recently has really given them new life, making me actually see them in a new light, and appreciate the rich history of Woodward and the surrounding area. The only real critique I would have is that the Plains Indians exhibit isn't as large as it could be, but that may be due to available space. There is certainly a lot of Native American history to explore, and it seems there is an abrupt transition between the Plains Indians exhibit and the Pioneers exhibit. Granted, that transition was pretty abrupt historically, but I doubt that was taken into consideration. Because of their connection to each other in local history, I would have placed the Ft. Supply exhibit closer to the Plains Indians exhibit instead of across the museum, as the timeline jumps from room to room, and it would have put each exhibit into context if they had been physically closer. Even a slight adjustment to current exhibit layout and a creative use of floor space would provide the room necessary to join the two together. That's just a minor quibble that doesn't detract from what the museum is attempting to do, which is to show the rich and diverse history of the region. The other bigger issue I have is the use of one wing of the museum as an art gallery for an artist (is he even local?) to sell his paintings and wood carvings. I wouldn't even mention it if the art were Woodward or Oklahoma sourced or related, but as best as I can tell, there's no explanation made, no connection given (some of the photos are even captioned with out-of-state locations like Colorado) -- you just find yourself in a room with woodcraft and photos from some guy, with a price tag. Sure, support your local artist, but surely there are more local artists who could have used some of that space as well? A showcase of local artists instead of one huge room dedicated to one? I wouldn't mind it so much if I remembered a good chunk of the museum is out in the annex, which isn't marked well -- I always forget to check out the whole other half of the museum because it's in a whole other building, so I keep missing out. Better signage would at least insure people check out the other exhibits. Or, turn the annex into the art gallery and keep all the museum exhibits under one roof. I think this issue drops it from 5 to 4 stars for me. Otherwise, I think the current curator has done quite a good job with the exhibits, to the point I was really impressed during my recent visit there, despite my feelings about the artist gallery. I've visited a fair number of museums, and this still ranks as one of the best small town museums (I'd almost venture to say "hidden treasure") I've visited.

Second time there. First time was several years ago. I like the mixture of historic artifacts…read more The Greek and Roman sections were my favorites. I spent a lot of time reading the information posted. I spent over two hours there. There is a children's play area on the third floor if you want to bring your youngsters.

I am a sucker for old school encyclopedic museums, and this one is pretty iconic in this arena…read more It's eclectic, filled with oddities, and super fun for the whole family. Where else are you going to see dinosaurs, mummys, and a handwritten letter by Elizabeth I? I really enjoyed walking around, exploring, and I know my kiddo did as well. It's in an old building downtown and has loads of charm everywhere you look. 4/5 stars because I thought the kids play area was a bit of a letdown - it felt a bit dirty and neglected. There also isn't a cafe, which I think would be a fun addition if they ever plan on expanding or remodeling. The exhibits were wonderful though, and I thought for the price it was a great deal. Overall I'd for sure go back and if you're the kind of person that enjoys something off the beaten path, or has a love for old stories and a solid diorama, this is the place for you.

History, records, newspapers, exhibits, collections, art, family heritage. A genealogist's treasure…read moretrove. Open 10-4 on weekdays. Phone # 806-852-2123.

As a retired Air Force NCO and a fan of aviation history, the General Thomas P. Stafford Air &…read moreSpace Museum was one of the highlights of my Route 66 adventure through Weatherford. Before you even step inside, you're greeted by an impressive collection of aircraft, including an F-4 Phantom II, A-10 Warthog, F-15EX Eagle II, and the iconic F-104 Starfighter mounted in a dramatic vertical climb. I probably spent as much time outside taking photos as I did inside! The museum itself is clean, well organized, and filled with exhibits covering aviation, space exploration, and the remarkable career of Oklahoma native General Thomas P. Stafford. Whether you're a military veteran, aviation enthusiast, or simply curious about America's achievements in flight and space, there's something here to enjoy. Even if you're just traveling Historic Route 66, this is a stop that's absolutely worth making. Plan on spending at least two hours--more if you enjoy reading the exhibits and taking plenty of photos like I did. A first-class museum and one of Oklahoma's hidden gems. Highly recommended!

This is a great aeronautical museum. We enjoyed several hours of interesting displays and different…read moretypes of information. It looks like a fabulous play area for kids, some of which is still under construction.

A nice nostalgic walk down memory lane! They also have a…read morevery nice assortment of mementos. I bought a Route 66 road sign that looks like an old neon sign, but is lit by LEDs. Staff was very helpful in selecting which of the 4 different versions of the sign I would buy. After walking and reading the headlines from the late 1920s thru the development of the Interstate Highways, I was struck by all the problems that we, the people of this fine country, have endured over all those decades; the Great Depression, WW1, WW2, Vietnam, and on and on to today. I wondered if we could all just take a breath and perhaps lower the volume of our arguing about our differences and every now and then, really try to consider listening to what the other side is saying, I think somehow we will endure and eventually overcome our current dismal condition of hate and distrust that permeates all of our lives.

What a great spot! It was about an hour and 15 minute drive from Oklahoma City. I had googled…read morethings to see in Oklahoma while driving through for a quick road trip. Admission was $7, and it was worth the drive. I grew up in St. Louis along route 66 so I could relate to a lot of this history. This museum brings up so many good memories and makes you feel very nostalgic. It was so interesting. They break up the history of Route 66 by the decade starting in the 1920s. This museum focuses mostly on Oklahoma's history of Route 66, but they do bring up things from all of the other states involved along the way. After seeing so many of the Route 66 sites in Oklahoma, it makes me so badly want to drive from Chicago to Santa Monica! Maybe I will one day.

What a wonderful treat. A childhood movie, brought back every memory of watching it the first…read moretime. Seeing the local museum that had western, Indian, prehistoric artifacts was a plus... Then we took the tour of Land of Oz and Dorothy's house. The young lady that was Dorothy, played her part extremely well and narrated the entire story as we all made our way down the Yellow Brick Road and through Oz to see the wizard! Highly recommended - visit Liberal Kansas! Go share the excellent experience! ~ Lisa and David B.

KS 01-2024 Liberal Kansas The Home of OZ Dorothy's house is here just off Yellow Brick Road…read more There is a nice museum there also along with some interactive sites for kids and a playground and don't forget the gift shop It was very easy to locate with our GPS off Rt 54. #bucketlisttriplisatony2024

Really big. Great staff, gift shop manager very knowledgeable. Lots of parking. Hank cowboy statue…read moreand lots of books for sale.

A lot of local history and memorabilia. Well displayed and growing. Was better than I expected from…read morea small town museum. I highly recommend it.

We were traveling through OKC and along Route 66. We decided to visit this museum. My husband ran…read morein to check it out. He was told that today was a free day but they just closed. Before he could leave, the volunteers said they were willing to stick around for a little while so we could walk through. The museum had many full size dioramas depicting life in American history. Each area was very interesting with unique artificats, many I have never seen before. This museum​ is not huge, but there is plenty to see and the opportunities for many conversations to be started. The volunteers were amazing! They answered our questions, chatted with us and very helpful. I recommend you stop in and say hello. You won't regret it!

Holy sh*t are these people rude. We're a mixed race couple and they were so nasty to us, we walked…read moreout. I wouldn't go back here for all the tea in China

After a night in nearby Liberal that left me robbed, assaulted (not seveley), and with my identity…read morestolen, Meade was Kansas' saving grace. Driving up a slight hill toward the museum, I suddenly felt like I was back in that retro, picturesque bit of America summer movies are made of. The sun was shining through the leaves of the numerous trees lining the streets, birds were chirping, and adorable houses sat with proud American flags out front. The museum is rustic, with a stage and sets of western themed buildings out back. I'm guessing they're technically for field trips, but they were still a lot of fun to run around as an adult. The jail cell makes for great photo ops. Inside, the gift shop is filled with awesome knick knacks. I purchased some "rabbit poop" (chocolate covered raisins). The curator is a funny guy, dressed in period clothes. I told him about our story from the night before and that led to a long conversation about the second amendment's merits for situations like that. I love middle America. He explained to us the really interesting story of the Dalton gang and the hideouts history then let us go through the restored tunnel up into the main house. It's filled with pieces from that era, some of which I think was from the Dalton's family members. Upstairs is an attic, and what attic isn't complete without texidermy? Coyotes, turkeys, and even a two headed calf stare back at you when you enter. Saddles and old rifles are sandwiched in between. Of all the places I went to in Kansas, Meade had to be the cutest. It was quiet and peaceful and filled with quirky (yet nice) people. All in all, Meade and its Dalton Gang Hideout are a great little excursion.

We did not have high expectations since we knew what we were going to see. We did need to get out…read moreof the car after traveling for awhile to stretch our legs. It was dusty in the museum but it was nice to see the old relics displayed. The underground walk way was rebuilt in the 40's so we were told. And yes there is no proof of the Daltons actually being there but it was up to your imagination to think about it. There were many posters to read about the gang which took much of our time since the rest is easy and quick to see. The house is super small inside as you notice from the outside but nice to see the dated furniture. I looked at the $5 admission fee per person as a donation for the historic society. And the best part they had those candy cigarettes that I remembered when I was a kid. Best thing ever.