Route 66 Stops You Shouldn’t Miss in Oklahoma

Everyone loves the open road, but the stops are what make a Route 66 trip so memorable. Oklahoma has more than a few of the most iconic, delicious, and engaging destinations. Here are a few of the best.

Roadside Attractions

Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios

This bright gem celebrates a unique flavor of Americana. While Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios doesn’t charge for entry, it boasts some of the best souvenirs and conversation starters in the state. There’s a neon sign, giant cowboy astronauts, and an upbeat vibe perfect for travelers looking for a taste of yesteryear, cartoon-style.

Blue Whale of Catoosa

Once a friendly welcome to the local swimming hole, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is now the photogenic guardian of a pond. While you can’t take a dip, you can still wander into the big statue and snap a few selfies. As one of the most-recognizable roadside attractions along Route 66, it’s a short, easy, and free must-visit for road trippers.

Rock Creek Bridge

A registered National Historic Place, Bridge #18 at Rock Creek is a remnant of history. Today, the steel-truss bridge is closed to vehicles, but it’s a fantastic place for photos. It also highlights how Route 66’s infrastructure has changed in the last century.

Food

Mother Road Market

This indoor marketplace hosts local food and souvenir vendors, just as it has since the early days of the Route. Find some unique jewelry or postcards, then dig into a classic burger, a sushi roll, tacos, ice cream, Nashville hot chicken, or BBQ. There’s even indoor putt-putt to entertain the kids.

Rock Cafe

Rock Café is the ultimate, old-school diner experience. Named for its stone façade, it’s an old favorite of visitors and locals alike. Enjoy fried green tomatoes, Cowboy Candy, burgers, Jagersnitzel, Dawn’s Great Grandma’s Peach Cobbler, and daily specials, like fried catfish.

The Butcher BBQ

Run by award-winning BBQ masters, this roadside stand draws devotees from around the country. Once you taste their brisket, it will live on in your dreams. They also serve pulled pork, chicken, turkey, ribs, and sausage, not to mention sides like apple pie BBQ beans and roasted corn on the cob.

Pops 66

When you’re feeling in the mood for something different, Pops 66 Soda Ranch has you covered. It’s a gas station, restaurant, and soda pop emporium. If they don’t have a flavor in stock, it probably doesn’t exist, at least on this continent. Challenge yourself to the horror of ranch-flavored soda or find a new way to dress up a fountain drink with twelve unique flavor shots.

Museums

Eastern Trails Museum

Explore history through the locals’ eyes. This free museum offers colorful perspectives ranging from ancient points and pipes to railroad development and homecrafts. There’s a little something for everyone. The Eastern Trails Museum’s hours vary, but it’s open most days from late morning through mid-afternoon.

Elk City Museum Complex

This entry represents five museums in one. Elk City hosts the National Route 66 Museum and the National Transportation Museum. The Old Town, Blacksmith, and Farm and Ranch Museums get you outside, tie physical places and objects to the city’s story, and provide a refreshing blend of experiences.

Route 66 Historical Village

Despite the name, this outdoor museum’s greatest attractions aren’t made of brick. Trains, trolleys, and old pump jacks showcase the region’s history of transportation before and during the heyday of Route 66. There’s plenty to see, and it’s a nice chance to stretch your legs. The visitor center is closed in the winter, but it’s usually open 12-3 p.m. the rest of the year. You can check the Route 66 Historical Village’s official website for more information.

Planning Your best Route 66 Road Trip

Driving Route 66 is an iconic American experience and Oklahoma offers no shortage of unique stops along the way. Before setting out to explore, be sure to prepare for your road trip. Have your vehicle checked for mechanical issues, including tire pressure and breaks. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and speed limits, Oklahoma prohibits texting while driving as well as using the left-lane for anything other than passing another vehicle. Keep an eye on the local weather, construction projects and other possible road hazards or delays. There can be long stretches between attractions, so gas up and pack snacks before you head out to explore this unique American experience.