Osage OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Osage, Oklahoma.
1. Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
HOME OF THE BISON
Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is a must-visit natural attraction in the Osage Nation offering visitors a chance to see hundreds of bison roaming freely. The preserve showcases one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems in the United States. Visitors can experience the vast landscape through scenic drives and hiking trails that highlight the unique natural beauty of the area.
2. Osage Hills State Park
NATURAL OKLAHOMA BEAUTY
Osage Hills State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of recreational opportunities in a picturesque setting. The park features hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas among rolling hills and dense forests. Many visitors consider it to be one of the best state parks in Oklahoma for its natural beauty and well-maintained facilities.
3. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
HISTORIC STAINED GLASS MASTERPIECE
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, located at 1314 Lynn Ave in Pawhuska, features famous stained-glass windows depicting Osage tribal members. These unique windows were individually commissioned by Osage people, making the church a significant cultural landmark. Free tours are available for visitors interested in seeing this remarkable blend of Catholic and Osage heritage.
4. Osage Nation Museum
AMERICA'S OLDEST TRIBAL MUSEUM
The Osage Nation Museum is the oldest tribal museum in the United States, featuring an expansive collection of photos, artifacts, and artworks dating back to its 1938 founding. Visitors can learn about the 'Reign of Terror,' the 1920s murders of wealthy Osage tribal members, and discover how the tribe preserved their culture throughout many relocations. The museum showcases both historical items and contemporary pieces by Osage artists, including paintings, ribbonwork, sculptures, and other traditional art forms.
5. Whitehair Memorial
OSAGE GENEALOGY CENTER
The Whitehair Memorial, located between Hominy and Ralston on County Road 5715, serves as an important genealogical research center for Osage families. Visitors can make appointments to explore records and conduct research about their Osage heritage. The memorial offers a unique opportunity to connect with Osage history and ancestry through its extensive archives.
6. Tall Chief Theater
BALLET LEGACY LANDMARK
The historic Tall Chief Theater in downtown Fairfax was owned by the father of famous ballerinas Maria and Marjorie Tall Chief. Visitors can tour this cultural landmark by appointment to learn about its significance in Osage history and the arts. The theater represents an important connection between the Osage Nation and its contributions to American ballet.
7. Hominy Murals
DOWNTOWN OUTDOOR ART
The Hominy Murals feature 40 beautiful paintings by artist Cha' Tullis adorning downtown buildings. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to appreciate these colorful works that celebrate Osage culture and history. While in the area, travelers can also view the silhouettes of hilltop riding Osages atop Standpipe Hill about 10 miles west of Hominy.
8. Osage Casinos
ENTERTAINMENT AND LODGING
Osage Casinos operate seven locations throughout Osage Nation territory, offering gaming, dining, and entertainment options. Three of the casinos feature hotels where visitors can enjoy discounted rates with an Osage Nation membership card. The Tulsa location stands out with its own brewery and the Skyline Event Center that hosts regular performances and shows.
9. The Pioneer Woman Mercantile
CULINARY DESTINATION HOTSPOT
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile is a popular shopping and dining destination created by Food Network star Ree Drummond. Visitors can enjoy home-style cooking in the restaurant, browse unique kitchen items and home goods in the retail space, and sample pastries from the bakery. The Mercantile has become a major tourism draw to the Osage Nation area, bringing visitors from across the country.
10. Osage County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Osage County Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts related to the development and history of the area. The museum features extensive Boy Scout memorabilia among its diverse historical collections. Visitors can gain insight into the unique cultural heritage and historical events that shaped Osage County.
11. The Swinging Bridge
HISTORIC PEDESTRIAN CROSSING
The Swinging Bridge in Pawhuska is a historic pedestrian bridge that has become a popular local landmark. Though temporarily closed at times for maintenance, the bridge offers a unique experience when crossing its gently swaying structure. The bridge represents an important piece of local infrastructure history and provides excellent photo opportunities for visitors.
12. The Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum
WESTERN HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum celebrates the cowboy culture and western heritage of Osage County. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts related to famous rodeo stars and western film actors. The museum offers interactive elements like a roping machine and photo opportunities with a buffalo statue.
13. Bigheart Museum
COMMUNITY HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Bigheart Museum in Barnsdall preserves local history through its collection of artifacts and documents. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the development of the community and its connection to Osage traditions. Exhibits highlight the influence of both Native American heritage and early settlers on the region's cultural landscape.
14. John D. Free Bronze Sculpture
OUTDOOR PUBLIC ART
The John D. Free Bronze Sculpture in Fairfax stands as a public art installation honoring significant historical figures. The sculpture represents an important aspect of the area's cultural heritage and artistic expression. Visitors can appreciate this outdoor artwork while exploring the small town of Fairfax in Osage County.
15. Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
ECOLOGICAL CONSERVATION AREA
The Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve protects one of the last remaining expanses of tallgrass prairie ecosystem in North America. Visitors can drive through the preserve to observe native wildlife, including the impressive bison herd that roams freely across the landscape. The preserve offers educational opportunities about prairie ecology, conservation efforts, and the historical significance of this unique environment.