The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a symbolic tribute to a devastating event in the city’s history. Memorials, sculptures and museum exhibits tell the story of the terrorist attack that took place in 1995. Wander through a collection of reflective areas and play your part in preserving the memory of those affected by the Oklahoma City bombing.
On April 19, 1995, a truck filled with explosives was detonated outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The explosion impacted the north face of the building and killed 168 people within. View the Oklahoma City National Memorial formed around the bomb site in response to the tragedy, providing an important outlet for grief, hope and resilience in the city.
Stroll through the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial, which is comprised of a series of reflective monuments. Walk through the monumental bronze Gates of Time and wander alongside the Reflecting Pool. This shallow granite pool marks the former Fifth Street location. The site of the Murrah building is marked by the Field of Empty Chairs, which represent the 168 people who lost their lives. See the names of the 600 people who survived the bombings inscribed on the remaining original walls of the Murrah building.
Make your way to a tall American elm tree, which survived the blast and is now known as the Survivor Tree. Nearby, the Rescuers’ Orchard features plantings of redbuds, maples and elms that represent the rescue teams who came to the aid of the survivors.
Enter the Memorial Museum to go on a self-guided tour through the events that took place on and after April 19, 1995. Discover a story of hope and resilience and learn about the efforts that helped the city to rebuild.
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is located in downtown Oklahoma City. The National Memorial Museum and the Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism are located north of the park. There is an admission fee for entry to the museum however, the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial is free to visit any time of the day.
