Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66, often called the “Heart of the Mother Road,” is packed with nostalgic charm, quirky roadside art, and historical gems. As the nation gears up for the 2026 centennial of Route 66, now is a perfect time to spotlight the Sooner State’s must-see stops.
Here are 10 top attractions along Route 66 in Oklahoma, each offering a unique peek into America’s past, and a reason to pull over and explore.
Probably the most iconic Route 66 roadside attraction in Oklahoma, this gigantic blue concrete whale was built in the 1970s by Hugh Davis as a surprise anniversary gift for his wife.
It became a popular swimming hole and now serves as a photogenic picnic spot and symbol of playful Americana.
Location: 2600 OK-66, Catoosa, OK
Admission: Free
Visiting Hours: The Blue Whale is temporarily closed for renovations until summer of 2026, but you can still drive by!
This folk‑art environment, created by Ed Galloway starting in 1937, features what is billed as the world’s largest concrete totem pole (90 feet tall), a turtle base, and approximately 200 brightly colored Native American portraits, symbols, and animal figures.
The park also includes a studio/gift shop modeled on Galloway’s designs.
Location: 21300 OK-28 A, Chelsea, OK
Admission: Free
Visiting Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sunday 1-5 p.m.
A modern Route 66 classic, POPS is both a diner and a soda shop, anchored by a 66-foot‑tall soda bottle sculpture illuminated by changing LED lights.
Inside, you’ll find hundreds of different sodas, burgers, shakes, and more, all with that Mother Road flair.
Location: 660 OK-66, Arcadia, OK
Visiting Hours: Daily 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
This uniquely shaped barn, built in 1898 and rebuilt by volunteers in the early 1990s, is the only truly round barn on Route 66. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors can tour the interior, browse the gift shop, and take in the rustic architecture.
Location: 107 OK-66, Arcadia, OK
Admission: Free
Visiting Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free public tours are every Saturday at 1 p.m.
A growing collection of oversized figures, known collectively as the Giants of Tulsa, offers some of the most memorable photo stops on Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66.
The lineup includes Buck Atom and Stella Atom at Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios, along with Meadow Gold Mack, Rosie the Riveter, and Cowboy Bob. Each statue pays tribute to the city’s blend of roadside nostalgia and modern Route 66 creativity, making the cluster a must-see for travelers exploring the corridor.
Location: OK-66 between Peoria Ave. and Utica Ave., Tulsa, OK
Visiting Hours: 24/7
Operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society, the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum walks visitors through the evolution of the highway decade by decade.
Exhibits include classic cars, neon signs, and multimedia displays that show how the road shaped American travel culture. A restored diner scene, period music, and extensive memorabilia make it one of the most immersive Route 66 stops in the state.
Location: 2229 W. Gary Blvd, Clinton, OK
Admission: Oklahoma Historical Society members – free | Adults – $10, Seniors (62+) – $8 | Students (6-18) – $5 | Children (5 and under) – Free | Veterans and Active Military (with ID) – Free | Family (up to 6 people) – $30 | Group rate (10+) – $7/person.
Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
A Spanish Colonial Revival-style theater built in 1929, the Coleman Theatre is a marvel with its opulent interior: mahogany staircase, stained glass, crystal chandeliers, and a Mighty Wurlitzer organ.
It hosts live shows, silent films, and community events, preserving a golden age of entertainment.
Location: 103 N. Main St, Miami, OK
Visiting Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | For tours, call 918-540-2425 to schedule.
This open-air museum includes a vintage 1920s Route 66 gas station, a 194-foot oil derrick marking the site of Tulsa’s first oil strike, and a restored steam locomotive and rail cars.
It captures both the transportation and oil heritage of Tulsa, two forces that shaped the Mother Road.
Location: 3770 Southwest Blvd, Tulsa, OK
Admission: Free
Visiting Hours: Open air museum – 24/7 | Visitor center Friday – Sunday noon – 3 p.m. (April – November only)
Part of the Elk City Museum Complex, this museum celebrates the history of Route 66 and its impact on travel and transportation across America.
Exhibits feature classic cars, vintage signage, and interactive displays that take visitors through each decade of the Mother Road.
The complex also includes a restored railroad depot, a historic farmstead, and period buildings, making it a full-immersion stop for anyone exploring Oklahoma’s Route 66 corridor.
Location: 2717 W. 3rd St., Elk City, OK
Admission: Adults $5 | Children (ages 6-16) $4 | Children (under 5) Free | Seniors (AAA and 60+) $4
Visiting Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sunday 1-5 p.m.
Built in 1936 and restored to its original Art Deco charm, the Tower Theatre stands as one of Oklahoma’s most celebrated historic venues along Route 66.
The marquee and neon lighting make it a striking stop for travelers, and the interior hosts concerts, film screenings, and community events throughout the year. Its preservation and continued use highlight Oklahoma City’s commitment to keeping Route 66’s entertainment legacy alive.
Location: 425 NW 23rd St. Oklahoma City, OK
Visiting Hours: Open during events
Looking ahead to the 2026 Centennial
As Route 66 prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, Oklahoma is expected to be a major focus of festivities. Many of these sites, from the Blue Whale to the Round Barn, will likely see increased visitation, events, and preservation projects in honor of the Mother Road’s legacy.
