Visit the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center & Garis Gallery of the American West, in Duncan, OK, where you can experience the history of the trail. Named in 2018 as an Official "Best Heritage Attraction," this Oklahoma Outstanding Attraction, and True West Top Ten Western Museum and designated travel destination has grown in its 20 years to become an international tourist destination.
Put on a cowboy hat, swing a rope, lasso a lost steer, and feel the rumble of the stampede during an Oklahoma thunderstorm in our 4d Experience Theater. Sit in the Campfire Theater and hear the evening conversation between animatronics Jesse Chisholm and cowboy Tex. Pay no mind to the rude chuck wagon. As you explore the Interactive Area, Duncan General Store, art and history exhibits and the Garis Gallery of the American West, you’ll have so much fun, you’ll be surprised you’re learning a thing or two about the Chisholm Trail.
Maybe you want to explore the American West through the eyes of artists. The collection includes Frederic Remingtons, Charles Russell, Albert Bierstadt, George Catlin, and living artists like John Coleman, Mark Martensen, Harold T. Holden and so many more. Considered its signature piece, is the "On the Chisholm Trail," a life-sized bronze sculpture tribute to the cowboy and cattle drives. It was created by Oklahoman Paul Moore and unveiled in 1998. It has been named as one of the top 20 Objects that Shape Oklahoma. While most of the visit is indoors, you are encouraged to walk the Oklahoma Centennial Chisholm Trail path out front and see this monument either upon your arrival or after. It serves as a great photographic opportunity.
Landscaped grounds include a covered portico and picnic tables with recent upgrades. The grounds are great for getting your daily walk and pets are welcome to stretch their legs. Other area amenities include a nearby park, and less than five minute drive to visit two other museums, the 905 Railroad Museum, and the Stephens County Historical Museum, both in Fuqua Park. You can also browse unique shops in the historic Main Street Duncan district. Duncan is the Crapemyrtle Capital of Oklahoma.
Each year the Heritage Center hosts the annual National Day of the Cowboy celebration. It's held on the fourth Saturday every July, with free admission and everything is indoors. Live music, family activities and children's games are part of the day's fun, along with unique exhibits that change every eight to ten weeks. In 2016, the Heritage Center was given the National Day of the Cowboy 'Cowboy Keeper' Award.
Please visit www.onthechisholmtrail.com to learn more.