With students and many parents off this Thanksgiving week, the “Explore Okaloosa” coalition of museums has a full slate of exhibits and activities to keep visitors and locals busy over the holiday break.
- The area’s 11 museums offer guests the chance to explore history, culture and education across a variety of subjects. From aviation to fishing to local heritage, there is something for all interests. (See all 11)
At the Air Force Armament Museum, visitors can view over 29 different aircraft and the largest collection of armament in the Air Force. The museum is the only one in the world dedicated to Air Force armament history.
The Carver-Hill Museum honors the historic Carver-Hill School and chronicles the local African-American community, with archives of photos, yearbooks and other memorabilia.
Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park contains the Indian Temple Mound Museum, Camp Walton Schoolhouse and Garnier Post Office. Visitors can explore the history of Florida’s first peoples, experience an 1890s classroom and see an early 1900s post office.
The Destin History & Fishing Museum features fish mounts, a mural explaining varied fishing methods and a gallery about the Destin Fishing Rodeo. Interactive exhibits and vintage items depict early Destin.
At the Emerald Coast Science Center, over 45 hands-on exhibits teach about science and nature. With animal presentations, workshops and a state-of-the-art SMALLab exhibit, it’s a place of discovery for all ages.
The Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida includes a hands-on kids room, classes, summer activities and promotes the region’s heritage and culture.
With cooler fall temperatures (and rainy weather like today), it’s an ideal time to explore inside one of Okaloosa’s many museums and make some discoveries over the Thanksgiving holiday.
- Dates/Times of operations may have changed this week. For up-to-date information on admission, please contact the museums.
