The 99's Museum of Women Pilots in Oklahoma City: the only museum dedicated to female aviation history in the U.S.

The 99's Museum occupies a compact space at Will Rogers World Airport dedicated entirely to the history and achievement of women in aviation. It holds one of the country's most specialized aviation collections: artifacts, photographs, and documents spanning nearly a century of female pilots, mechanics, engineers, and flight attendants. A visit typically runs one to two hours and works best for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone researching women's contributions to aerospace. It is the only institution in Oklahoma City focused on this subject, and one of very few in the nation.

What the 99's Museum actually is

The museum is the physical home of the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of licensed female pilots founded in 1929. Amelia Earhart was a charter member. The collection centers on the women who pushed aviation forward when the field was male-dominated: early ferry pilots, test pilots, astronaut candidates, and military aviators. Exhibits rotate, but typically include original flight suits, aircraft instruments, photographs of pioneering aviators, and personal correspondence. The space is small, occupying roughly 1,400 square feet, so the focus is tight and curatorial rather than sprawling.

Admission and hours

Admission costs $5 per adult; children under 12 are free. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Sunday hours from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays. Hours vary seasonally, so confirm before visiting, particularly during winter months or around holidays. The museum is operated by volunteers, and staffing can affect afternoon availability, though it opens reliably at the posted times.

How it compares to other Oklahoma City museums

The 99's Museum is smaller and more specialized than the Aerospace Museum at Kirkpatrick Family Park, which covers broader aviation and space exploration history with a larger building, more artifacts, and higher admission ($12 adult). The Kirkpatrick also includes a planetarium and flight simulator. The 99's Museum is more focused: it tells a specific historical story about gender and aviation, and its collection depth in that area is unmatched locally. Choose the 99's if you want to understand women's impact on aviation; choose the Aerospace Museum if you want a comprehensive overview of flight history and hands-on activities. The two serve different purposes and appeal to different interests.

Who it suits and who it does not suit

This museum suits aviation historians, women's history researchers, students working on gender studies projects, and pilots interested in professional legacy. It also appeals to families with children old enough to read and engage with historical narrative (roughly ages 8 and up). It does not suit visitors looking for interactive exhibits, flight simulators, or a full day's activity. Young children may lose interest quickly given the artifact-and-text-heavy format. The museum has no cafe or extended amenities.

What the first visit involves

Plan to enter through the museum entrance at the airport terminal building. You will receive a brief orientation from staff or a docent if available. The space is self-guided; most visitors move through at their own pace, reading placards and examining cases. A typical first visit covers Earhart and early record-setters, then moves through eras of military service, the space program, and modern commercial aviation. Staff can answer questions and point out highlights. Allow 60 to 90 minutes for an unhurried experience.

Parking and logistics

The museum is located at Will Rogers World Airport, 7600 Terminal Drive. Parking is free in the airport's general lot; entering the building requires passing through airport security, though the process is simple and standard. The museum itself is accessible and near the main terminal. The location is about 10 minutes from downtown Oklahoma City, making it easy to combine with other attractions. Bring a photo ID to enter the airport grounds.

The 99's Museum is the only place in Oklahoma City where you can study the complete arc of women's participation in aviation, from barnstormers to shuttle astronauts, in one afternoon. Its specificity and volunteer stewardship make it a necessary stop for anyone serious about aviation or women's history.