Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve
Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve
Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve
4.8
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Frank Phillips Ranch was founded in 1925 and the Woolaroc Museum had a humble beginning four years later in 1929. The 3,700-acre wildlife preserve is home to more than 30 varieties of native and exotic animals and birds. It is a working ranch that maintains the animals for the enjoyment of our guests in a natural, protected setting. The Woolaroc Museum presents one of the world's most unique collections of Western art and artifacts; Native American pottery, baskets, beads, blankets and cultural art; historical displays; and one of the most complete collections of Colt firearms. Guests can also tour the Lodge, which was used as a place for Frank Phillips to entertain his friends and maintain business relationships. The Lodge abounds with tales of the parties, business events and wilder goings-on. Hours are Wednesday- Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm. Memorial Day - Labor Day, 10 am - 5 pm. Open Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day. Please check the website for more info on pricing.
Duration: More than 3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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- wildfloweroftheWest214 contributionsThis is more than a hidden gem. It's an amazing experience that lets visitors explore nature, history, art, architecture, and Frank Phillips' fascinating story. I actually enjoyed visiting here more than I do going to the Buffalo Bill Museum in Cody, and I like that museum! Woolaroc's collections are amazing; you stand inches from art, pottery, clothing, and more. The day we visited, it wasn't crowded. They provide seating because you'll need a moment to digest the amazing sights you've just seen before moving on. fThe 3700 acre site sits so beautifully in the Eastern Oklahoma landscape that you need to pause in one of the many reflection areas and give thanks for whoever originally planned this. On that note, I spent ample time observing local wildlife, including collared lizards and humming birds sampling trumpet vine blossoms. I was so excited to discover artifacts from the Kenton Indian Caves. I knew they were collected, but I had no idea where they'd gone. Now I do. The Puebloan Pottery collection is wonderful. Be sure to enjoy the mosaics surrounding the museum doors and the cool designs on the doors.Visited June 2024Traveled with friendsWritten June 29, 2024
- Valerie DSomerset, Kentucky13 contributionsThis museum and grounds was quite the pleasant surprise! Upon entering the grounds you are given a map as well as a QR code that sends you to an informative YouTube video about the history of Woolaroc. While we were driving along, we saw bison, longhorn steer, and even some Japanese sika deer roaming freely on the grounds. We turned and stopped at an outdoor area to learn about the Osage people and had the opportunity to throw a Tomahawk. Upon traveling to the lodge and museum, we were pleasantly surprised to discover an impressive museum full of artwork, historical artifacts, and even a working model train on the lower level. While the snack bar was closed for the day, we did still have time to pet an ostrich among several other animals. We stopped at the lodge and found an outstanding view of the pond below. As a bonus, we saw hundreds of wild horses on the acres of the Prairie National Wild Horse Refuge on the way to Bartlesville!Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 29, 2024
- Traciem10Green Cove Springs, Florida81 contributionsWhile driving the loop through the preserve, we saw countless buffalo and deer along with various species of cows. The museum was absolutely amazing, so much history. The artifacts, paintings, sculptures, gun collections, etc were truly an educational experience. Woolaroc is a must see place to visit.Visited December 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten December 28, 2024
- Kate Illinois1Illinois5,249 contributionsAdmire Mr Phillips creating the foundation to keep his legacy alive. We started our visit to Bartlesville at the Phillips home in town. We feel that tour provided the background history of who Mr Phillip was and this site complements and builds on that. This was a perfect day trip.Visited December 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten December 17, 2024
- laurabkmiecArkansas City, Kansas77 contributionsSo much to learn and discover. Spent a few hours in the museum, make sure you check out the lodge. Playground and petting zoo, wear walking shoes to discover the trails....3 different lengths/levels. Mountain Man is a must!Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 15, 2024
- 4everroyalRaymore, Missouri33 contributionsWe had a delightful visit to the Woolaroc Ranch and museum! The price is reasonable, $15 each for adults. The drive up to the facility is beautiful, filled with all sorts of animals roaming free. We headed to the information building and were greeted by a friendly docent. We discovered that several of the people working there were volunteers. They were knowledgeable about the history of the facility. The museum was filled with rooms of artifacts and the history of Frank Phillips. There was a cafe on sight. We didn’t eat there but it smelled good! We walked on one the trails. I would recommend this to families and couples for a pleasant visit.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 16, 2024
- AliV19 contributionsAn amazing place to visit! First time seeing bison and getting to throw a tomahawk at Mountain Man Camp. Frank Phillips’s eccentric collection also did not disappoint. I do not know where else you would be able to see so many interesting and authentic pieces. Helpful and friendly staff also!Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 22, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.8
663 reviews
Excellent
540
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106
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2
WRHemp
Waukesha, WI48 contributions
Feb 2023 • Family
Make sure to visit this “gem” in Oklahoma. An animal preserve, a museum, and a history of petroleum.
After paying as all fee ( compared to other worthwhile museums) we drove across the”cattle guards” and son came across bison crossing lazily across our roadway. An absolute thrill for my grandson ( and secretly me, even though I spent grad time at the U of Montana). Continuing on our way we’re elk, water buffaloes, zebra, llamas, Shetland cattle, etc.
Then came the well organized museum that had various rooms devoted to the history of the area, honoring Native Americans, western art, firearms collection, the life of Frank Phillips, a focus on petroleum, and the history of the company. Fascinating and engaging. My grandson is nine, and he was engaged and immersed in most of the offering.
With his “ bag of rocks” from the gift shop , and a volume of information, my grandson declared the visit great…and I did too.
After paying as all fee ( compared to other worthwhile museums) we drove across the”cattle guards” and son came across bison crossing lazily across our roadway. An absolute thrill for my grandson ( and secretly me, even though I spent grad time at the U of Montana). Continuing on our way we’re elk, water buffaloes, zebra, llamas, Shetland cattle, etc.
Then came the well organized museum that had various rooms devoted to the history of the area, honoring Native Americans, western art, firearms collection, the life of Frank Phillips, a focus on petroleum, and the history of the company. Fascinating and engaging. My grandson is nine, and he was engaged and immersed in most of the offering.
With his “ bag of rocks” from the gift shop , and a volume of information, my grandson declared the visit great…and I did too.
Written February 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rachel Nikole
Oklahoma31 contributions
Mar 2021 • Friends
It is $14 per person ages 13-64. Children under 12 get in for free; seniors 65 and older is $12 per person. To get to the museum, you drive a long road surrounded by different types of animals. When I went there was a herd of Buffalo and couple of them in the road, which caused a slight delay, but it was fine it gave more time to look at them and the surrounding area. I haven't been to the museum to look around in a long time, the last time I've been to Woolaroc was a couple years ago for Chriatmas lights. The museum has a lot of interesting art and artifacts about Native Americans and western culture. I really enjoyed the Lease House replica they had in the room about the Oil industry. I also enjoyed the room they had about old toys and dolls, and it had an interactive train set in the middle of the room, which was neat. They also have a nice gift shop. You want to take your time, give yourself an hour or two to enjoy all the art and read about it. We also climbed that tower that over looks everything.. which is a must every time we go. The petting zoo was open and we got to see some animals up close. Overall, the views are beautiful, the history of the place itself is interesting, and the animals are fun to see. Would love to book a future event there or something with family or friends... or just have a picnic on the grounds and enjoy the outdoors.
Written March 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Spmmik53
Purley, UK684 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
The museum and wildlife park are located on a huge estate some 20 minutes south of Bartlesville.
If you are lucky you may come across a herd of buffalo which roam the estate freely.
The museum is laid out over two floors - there is lift access for the less able.
You can easily spend a full day here. There are 3 trails, but beware as some can be quite challenging, particularly after rain.
A good size carpark will accommodate some 150 vehicles.
There is a restaurant/cafe on site.
Definitely worth a visit.
If you are lucky you may come across a herd of buffalo which roam the estate freely.
The museum is laid out over two floors - there is lift access for the less able.
You can easily spend a full day here. There are 3 trails, but beware as some can be quite challenging, particularly after rain.
A good size carpark will accommodate some 150 vehicles.
There is a restaurant/cafe on site.
Definitely worth a visit.
Written July 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan E
Bedford, IN319 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Founded in 1929 by oilman Frank Phillips, Woolaroc got its name from the WOOds, LAkes & ROCks that are found on this 3,700 wildlife preserve. It's also home to a world class western art museum plus Phillips' personal collections including the world's largest collection of Colt revolvers. Plan at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the museum's stellar exhibits of all things western. Don't miss seeing the Phillips' lodge & allow time to drive through the grounds to see bison & other wildlife.
Written October 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charrie S
Ardmore, OK838 contributions
Sep 2021
Wow, had no idea this place even existed or what it entailed. The museum is spectacular with all the many Indian artifacts, paintings, etc. Plus, all the history of Phillips Petroleum with exhibits of airplanes, old trucks, etc. There is certainly something here for everyone. They also had a wonderful gift shop with unique items. The Welcome Center just opened this year with a beautiful sitting/conference room with a huge stained glass window, antlers covering the ceiling in the lobby and a small cafe. We also went into the lodge but the only part open is the living area. Everything else is roped off which was a bit disappointing but the guide was very informative and it was interesting to see all the mounted animal heads covering the walls.
Written September 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeannie C
Springfield, MO74 contributions
Apr 2021
As you drive to the museum you encounter so many animals, beautiful bodies of water with spring houses and/or waterfalls. The displays of Indian clothing and their way of life is quite humbling. So many beautiful rugs/blankets. The last hand made canoe is outstanding as well as the story that goes with it. Impressive paintings hang on most every wall. Stage Coach's to oxen carts and airplanes to TNT pickups.
CAUTION: We were there on Saturday. Parents were hollering at their screaming children to "come here", "don't do that". The outdoor play ground and petting zoo is only a couple hundred feet from the museum, maybe you should remove yourselves from indoors and let the rest of us learn and enjoy the displays and visitors in respectful solitude. There were plenty of us that would have been happy to walk you over there. Shame on you. The indoors is NOT a playground for your children to run amok and yell and play. Woolaroc shouldn't need a docent to stand guard to remind you to be respectful.
CAUTION: We were there on Saturday. Parents were hollering at their screaming children to "come here", "don't do that". The outdoor play ground and petting zoo is only a couple hundred feet from the museum, maybe you should remove yourselves from indoors and let the rest of us learn and enjoy the displays and visitors in respectful solitude. There were plenty of us that would have been happy to walk you over there. Shame on you. The indoors is NOT a playground for your children to run amok and yell and play. Woolaroc shouldn't need a docent to stand guard to remind you to be respectful.
Written April 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Foodange
Manchester, UK4,933 contributions
Jul 2022
Less than an hour out of Tulsa, this was a great half day out with stunning panorama, unusual animals and a great museum.
It was well worth it for just $14 each. Way too hot to walk any of the trails.
We’d seen them in the wild west but we just had to stop for the bison as they crossed the road.
The museum was stunning from start to finish, history of USA through to the charming ‘Uncle Frank’ Phillips. An old film on ‘A Story of Oil’ was fascinating and will never date. The Lodge was boring, we were in and out in 5 minutes. Why not open up more of it.
Unfortunately a lot of the staff hadn’t completed the customer service course; in the café, gift shop and especially the Lodge, where we had to say hello three times to the octogenarian lady who just stared at us and finally grunted hi.
Despite this we had a magical time.
It was well worth it for just $14 each. Way too hot to walk any of the trails.
We’d seen them in the wild west but we just had to stop for the bison as they crossed the road.
The museum was stunning from start to finish, history of USA through to the charming ‘Uncle Frank’ Phillips. An old film on ‘A Story of Oil’ was fascinating and will never date. The Lodge was boring, we were in and out in 5 minutes. Why not open up more of it.
Unfortunately a lot of the staff hadn’t completed the customer service course; in the café, gift shop and especially the Lodge, where we had to say hello three times to the octogenarian lady who just stared at us and finally grunted hi.
Despite this we had a magical time.
Written September 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lorna B.
Bechtelsville, PA884 contributions
Dec 2021
My husband and I recently drove from our home in southeastern PA to OKC to learn about Oklahoma’s history, settlement, and flora & fauna; this was the first site we visited in our quest. We enjoyed the drive through the nice grounds up to the museum building, passing bison, deer, elk, and other wild animals. Exploring the numerous museum galleries was the highlight for us, with exhibits covering Native Americans, cowboys, cattle ranching, oil drilling, and more. Included throughout are many artifacts, textiles, paintings, sculptures, carved wooden dioramas, taxidermy, and historic vehicles. Other displays feature firearms, Frank Phillips’ life, aviation, and minerals. After leaving the main museum, we stopped at the small Bunkhouse Wildlife Gallery and enjoyed the North American waterfowl and Big Game displays. Also nearby was the Lodge, displaying numerous mounted animal heads (which were not hunting trophies).
All in all, we spent just over three hours at this site, including a break for lunch in their café. We were very impressed with the collections here! The only addition I would suggest is an orientation video (shown perhaps in the Welcome Center) about Frank Phillips and his creation here.
Reaching Woolaroc was a long drive out from the interstate for us (we came from Joplin, MO), but it was definitely worth it!
All in all, we spent just over three hours at this site, including a break for lunch in their café. We were very impressed with the collections here! The only addition I would suggest is an orientation video (shown perhaps in the Welcome Center) about Frank Phillips and his creation here.
Reaching Woolaroc was a long drive out from the interstate for us (we came from Joplin, MO), but it was definitely worth it!
Written January 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hrobinson1114
Nashville, TN5,765 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
This isn’t a destination, but if you’re nearby, worth spending a couple hours. Woolaroc is the ranch of former Phillips 66 patriarch, Frank Phillips. The museum has an impressive collection of western art, cowboy artifacts, and oil paintings/sculptures.
Also has an impressive number of Native American artifacts. On this point I’m torn, because it is a nice collection, but belonged to a rich man who made his fortune in oil and just had so much money he could purchase a museum’s worth of stuff. Of course the venue did not address how the oil man’s wealth compared to those of the indigenous people left to suffer on ill-equipped reservations.
The part I particularly enjoyed was the architecture of the outside of the museum, as well as the surrounding prairie. Lots of longhorn cattle, bison, elk, deer. There were zebra, ostrich, llama. It was a pretty prairie landscape. There are lakes and teepees and various activities to do, such as throw tomahawks at the “mountain man camp.”
Someone else mentioned this is the type of place locals take out of towners or people take their kids who love animals. I agree with that statement. Entry is 14 dollars. Small cafe and a couple hiking trails also on site. Plenty of parking.
Also has an impressive number of Native American artifacts. On this point I’m torn, because it is a nice collection, but belonged to a rich man who made his fortune in oil and just had so much money he could purchase a museum’s worth of stuff. Of course the venue did not address how the oil man’s wealth compared to those of the indigenous people left to suffer on ill-equipped reservations.
The part I particularly enjoyed was the architecture of the outside of the museum, as well as the surrounding prairie. Lots of longhorn cattle, bison, elk, deer. There were zebra, ostrich, llama. It was a pretty prairie landscape. There are lakes and teepees and various activities to do, such as throw tomahawks at the “mountain man camp.”
Someone else mentioned this is the type of place locals take out of towners or people take their kids who love animals. I agree with that statement. Entry is 14 dollars. Small cafe and a couple hiking trails also on site. Plenty of parking.
Written August 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca F
4 contributions
Oct 2022
We had visited before but quite a number of years ago. We were pleased at all the positive changes and loved the extensive collection of American Indian artifacts and Western art. It was an enjoyable way to spend a day on our weekend getaway!
Written October 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yes, there are still shrunken heads at the Woolaroc museum. I remember seeing them as a small child. They are still there. One thing that I didn't see this time though, were the bones of some indians that were removed from an ancient burial site. They were reburied with dignity I was told.
Written November 9, 2018
alecksemail
Talala, Oklahoma
Can I visit the wildlife preserve without having to pay anything as I just want to see different kinds of wildlife while I’m visiting the Oklahoma area & have limited funds
Written September 16, 2018
Kids 10 and under are free. Adults 12 dollars each.
Written September 17, 2018
Sorry, not that we noticed. I would call ahead. Definitely wheelchair accessible.
Written May 27, 2018
Would a stroller be appropriate? I have a 4 month old baby and would like to view the grounds.
Written October 13, 2017
I think it would be appropriate. We saw a family with a stroller and they seemed to be enjoying their visit. There are elevators where needed so we see no impediment to families with strollers.
Written October 15, 2017
If you just drive through to look at wildlife it would be around an hour. To see the museum I would allot at least 2 hours. You will spend about 15 minutes at the lodge with information from a docent. With kids, you can keep them entertained as long as you want with the petting barns and playground area. The play area has kid size western town buildings. On a beautiful day you could easily spend at least 4 hours if you enjoy walking. The mountain man camp is open certain months and that is a definite area to visit. That can take 15-30 minutes. There is a snack bar available which serves BBQ buffalo sandwiches and tables to eat outside. I prefer to take my own picnic. I hope this helps.
Written January 28, 2017
What is the history of Woolaroc in the last 15+ yiears? It is not the same ownership?
Written August 25, 2015
Jenna R
Bartlesville, Oklahoma
Woolaroc is still owned and operated by the Frank Phillips Foundation, established in 1937 by Frank Phillips! It is a non profit 501(c)3 and while a lot of improvements have been made, it's still the same wonderful attraction!
Written May 18, 2022
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