Oklahoma’s Route 66 has stories woven into every mile.
This stretch of highway is packed with larger-than-life sights that’ll make you scratch your head and smile at the same time.
So buckle up and get ready to explore Route 66’s character that comes to life if you’re roadtrippin through Oklahoma.
The Heart of Route 66
Oklahoma’s got over 400 miles of Route 66. First stop: Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza in Tulsa. There’s this sculpture called “East Meets West.” Shows how cars and horse-drawn wagons used to duke it out.
Then, walk the 1917 bridge. You’ll get a nice view of the Arkansas River. And don’t forget the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum in Sapulpa. It’s got the world’s tallest gas pump. Trust me, you won’t miss it.
Quirky Roadside Attractions
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a Route 66 gem. It was built in the ’70s by Hugh Davis as an anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta, who loved whale figurines. At 90 feet long, it started as a private swimming hole but quickly became a local hangout.
Kids can still poke their heads through the whale’s openings, and it’s got picnic tables around.
Iconic Pit Stops
Cruisin’ down Route 66? Stop at POPS in Arcadia. You can’t miss the 66-foot pop bottle outside. Inside? Over 650 sodas to choose from.
Pick your favorite, or mix ‘em up. People here love to get wild with flavors. Don’t be shy, try something crazy. And yeah, grab a burger or hot dog while you’re at it. It’s the kind of place where you’ll end up chatting with strangers.
Unique Art Exhibit
If you’re into weird art, here’s something for you in Foyil. The World’s Largest Totem Pole. It stands 90 feet tall. Ed Galloway built it between 1948 and 1961. It’s a tribute to Native American culture, sitting on a giant turtle, with over 200 images from Indian folklore.
The surrounding park has picnic tables and smaller totem sculptures.
Only Wooden Barn
The Round Barn of Arcadia—built in 1898—is the last wooden round barn left in Oklahoma. Inside, you’ll find tons of Route 66 memorabilia and old photos. It’s a real trip back in time. You’ll get a sense of how people traveled back in the day.
It’s one of those spots where you feel like you’re stepping into history, not just looking at it. Don’t rush, take it all in.
A Historical Village
In Tulsa? Don’t miss the Route 66 Historical Village. It’s like a living museum—old gas stations, a steam locomotive. Walk around, snap a few pics, and take it all in. You’ll see how Route 66 really shaped this town.
Fun fact: some of the buildings are over 100 years old. It’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate how far we’ve come—and how much has stayed the same.
Parks & Recreation
Check out Sequoyah State Park. It sits on the east shore of Fort Gibson Lake, about 8 miles from Wagoner. The lake views are stunning. There’s a 9-hole golf course and several hiking trails, like Fossil and Bluebird Trails. Bring your discs or rent ‘em.
The park’s also has a nature center with rehabbed wildlife and old bridges. You’ll wanna stick around.
A Cool Gas Station
Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station in Hydro? It’s straight outta the past. Been around since the early Route 66 days. Stop for an ice cream or some jerky. And get a little slice of history while you’re at it.
This place hasn’t changed much over the years. It’ll give you that old-school road trip vibe. Perfect for recharging before you hit the road again. Just don’t rush through it.
The Ozark Hike
The Ozark Trail Obelisk near Stroud? Not much buzz, but it’s worth checking out. It’s a 21-foot stone monument marking an old Route 66 intersection from 1926.
Yeah, it’s tucked away a bit. But if you’re into history, it’ll hit the spot. Just be mindful of some graffiti—it’s not exactly pristine. Still, it’s a cool little reminder of how Route 66 once ran through here. A hidden piece of the past.
Food on the Road
Waylan’s Ku-Ku Burger in Miami, Oklahoma, is a Route 66 classic. Opened in 1965, it’s the last of the original Ku-Ku chain, which once had over 200 spots.
The place sports a kooky cuckoo clock design, with a yellow bird out front. Eugene Waylan took over in ’73 and added the first drive-thru in Miami in ’77. The burgers are fresh, the vibe’s friendly, and the history? Unbeatable.
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