Come for the hospitality, stay for the history. Stroll through our rich culture and heritage at Five Civilized Tribes and Three Rivers Museum.
The history buffs in your family are going to be in heaven when they uncover the stories our little town holds. We can’t make any promises, but your little ones might appreciate it too.
Slow down and take a stroll through our rich culture and heritage. History comes to life within the walls of Five Civilized Tribes and Three Rivers Museum. Take a day to browse through one-of-a-kind artifacts and rotating exhibits that tell the stories of our culture and vibrant community.
Nestled in Oklahoma’s heartland, Muskogee offers a rich tapestry of American history, where Indigenous heritage, local legends, and cultural milestones converge. This two-day guide is crafted for history buffs eager to explore the city’s fascinating museums, each brimming with stories of resilience, artistry, and tradition. From the legacies of the Five Civilized Tribes and historic homesteads to tributes in music and cinema, Muskogee’s museums offer a window into the past that continues to shape its present.
Pack your good walking shoes, this is the first stop on a big walking day ahead. Journey through history by exploring Native American history and culture at Five Civilized Tribes Museum dedicated to the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole tribes. With artifacts, artwork, and exhibits, it offers a meaningful look into these tribes’ heritage and contributions. Look out for the extensive collection of Native art, including paintings and sculptures by local Native artists.
Dive into Muskogee’s history at Three Rivers Museum with exhibits on the area’s railroads, early settlers, and impact of the Arkansas, Verdigris, and Grand rivers. The museum is housed in an old train depot, adding to its historical charm. Take the time to view the antique railcar exhibit outside and consider a guided tour if available.
Ready to keep walking? The beautifully preserved 1898 Thomas-Foreman Historic Home showcases the life of the Foreman family, who were influential in Muskogee’s early days. This house museum provides insight into life in Oklahoma before statehood. Note: Call ahead, as tours may be limited, but it’s a gem for anyone interested in early Oklahoma life.
You deserve to properly unwind after a day of exploring Muskogee’s rich history. Enjoy an evening river cruise along the Arkansas River (if available seasonally), offering serene views and the perfect backdrop to reflect on the day.
Explore the state’s music legends at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, which highlights artists like Merle Haggard, Reba McEntire, and many others who’ve shaped Oklahoma’s music scene. Check for any live music events that might be scheduled, as the Hall of Fame occasionally hosts performances. You never know who you might catch live in Muskogee!
Located within the Roxy Theater, the Oklahoma Movie Hall of Fame celebrates Oklahoman talent in film and TV. It includes memorabilia and exhibits related to Oklahoma actors, directors, and filmmakers. Tip: Try to catch a showing or event in the historic Roxy Theater while you’re there for the full film experience.
All this history will probably make you hungry. Stop by The Castle of Muskogee’s Café for a unique lunch experience near the museum area (if it’s open seasonally), or grab a bite downtown.
End your Muskogee museum tour with a stop to honor the military at War Memorial Park. The centerpiece is the USS Batfish, a World War II submarine with a history of successful missions. You can tour the submarine and see other military artifacts. Some areas of the park may be outdoors, so check the weather, and consider a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the USS Batfish’s significance.
After a day immersed in Oklahoma’s history, you deserve to kick back with an evening of live tunes. Head to Muskogee Brewing Company on South 2nd Street, where you can enjoy performances from talented local artists or maybe a surprise guest appearance. Relax, grab a drink, and let the sounds of Muskogee’s music scene close out your day.
History buffs will be in heaven here. Muskogee is rich in history, and several landmarks reflect its diverse cultural and historical significance. The Five Civilized Tribes Museum showcases the history and culture of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminole Nations. The Thomas-Foreman Home offers a glimpse into early Oklahoma life, while War Memorial Park features the USS Batfish Memorial, honoring those lost in WWII. Don’t miss the Bass Reeves Statue, which celebrates one of the first African American U.S. Marshals in the Wild West. Three Rivers Museum is a comprehensive site covering the development of the region, from Native American heritage to the railroad era.
Muskogee played a crucial role in Oklahoma’s early development, particularly as a hub for Native American relocation during the Trail of Tears and as a center of commerce and transportation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city was a key location for the Five Civilized Tribes, and today, the Five Civilized Tribes Museum preserves this legacy. Muskogee’s Three Rivers Museum also highlights the city’s importance in the development of the railroads and early statehood, making it a central part of Oklahoma’s historical narrative.
We’re no Hollywood, but Muskogee’s own ties to music and film history can be explored through the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and the Oklahoma Movie Hall of Fame. The Music Hall of Fame honors artists who shaped the music scene in Oklahoma and beyond, including legends like Merle Haggard. The Roxy Theater, a historic venue downtown, celebrates Muskogee’s connection to film, hosting local events and screenings. Both halls of fame offer exhibits that highlight the state’s significant contributions to entertainment.
The USS Batfish, a World War II-era submarine, has a remarkable history. And not just for its contributions during the war, but for its unique journey to land right here...
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