Learn. Explore. Play.
Not Your Usual Field Trip!
Monday through Friday 9:30 to 2:00 during the school year, the Heritage Center becomes a hands-on, out of school learning center where our education staff share the history, art, and culture of the Chisholm Trail, the American Cowboy, and the American West. These programs are aligned with Oklahoma Academic Standards and TEKS.
To enjoy the museum and keep our collection safe, please note the following:
- Food, beverages, and gum are not allowed inside the museum.
- Use pencils for writing or sketching.
- The museum is open to the public during school programs and or tours and we ask for your cooperation to ensure that all visitors-whether part of student programs or the general public-enjoy their museum experience.
2025/2026 Session Dates & Curricula
K-2nd
Animals on the trail: Science-based program looking into animals that roamed the Chisholm Trail.
Cowboys on the Trail: Cowboys were an important part of the Chisholm Trail. What helps a cowboy do his job?
3rd-5th
Abernathy Boys – Sept. 2 – October 31
Holidays on the Trail – November 3 – Dec. 19
History Heroes – Jan. 2-March 13
Oklahoma Land Giveaways – March 23 – May 22
On the Chisholm Trail: Sept. through May
6th – 12th
Science-based field trip – Animals on the trail
Art-based field trip – Explore the 4 phases of Western Art
All Grades
Birds on the Chisholm Trail – Science-Based Lesson – September – May (Weather Permitting)
Select programming is funded in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and our corporate members.
FAQ
Planning Your Trip
Schedule a tour and/or program:
Please contact Leah Mulkey at (580) 252-6692 or fill out the form by clicking the button below. You will receive an e-mail confirmation regarding your tour and/or program. Field trip guidelines and charges will be sent to you prior to your visit. Please call if you do not receive this information.
How much do tours and/or programs cost?
All school tour programs cost $3 per student, teachers and bus drivers receive FREE admission. Additional adults will pay $5 each and children 5-17 will pay $4. We accept cash, credit cards and checks at the time of arrival. Please make checks payable to CTHC (Chisholm Trail Heritage Center).
Title-1 schools receive free admission for students.
What can I expect my students to learn?
Our Education Session programs involve the best of history, art and music for a total learning experience.
Engaging students to learn and have fun is what our Great Expectation certified educators do best as they teach them about Chisholm Trail and Oklahoma history. Bringing historical characters to life, our educators even dress in period costumes of the people they represent.
Students discover the interesting lives of such notables like Pearl Carter Scott, Kentucky Daisey, Edna Ahrens, Johnnie Abernathy, Lizzie Johnson, or Mrs. Will Rogers, depending upon the current program.
Our educators encourage students in investigating the past through interactive teaching. Great attention to detail and accuracy is provided by our teaching staff, which encourages students to learn more and be enthusiastic when they leave, and wanting to learn more. We have a field trip for all grade levels PreK – college! Our field trips are based on Oklahoma Academic Standards & TEKS Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills. Our aim is to educate all those who want to learn more about the Chisholm Trail and Oklahoma history connections.
Where can we eat lunch?
School groups are invited to enjoy their lunch under the portico or indoors if inclement weather. All lunches and other consumable items may be stored inside the building.
How many chaperones should I bring?
We do not require chaperones. If you would like to invite parents to attend they are welcome.
Is there a gift shop?
Yes. The gift shop is open and available to students during their visit. Students will find reasonably priced souvenirs and gifts. Teachers receive a 10% discount on all purchases. We also have a penny press so make sure you bring $0.51 for a one-of-a-kind pressed penny.
Students with Special Needs
If you teach a class of students (or even have just one student) with learning disabilities or autism, please let us know so that we may make the necessary arrangements, if needed. We want every student’s visit to the center to be fulfilling and enjoyable, so please do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns.
Bus Stipends
Bus stipends are available for mileage (paid at IRS rate) and $35 per driver. Please submit a letter on school letterhead stating round-trip mileage and the number of drivers. Stipends will be mailed to the school following the field trip.