Route 66: Americana at Its Best
Fill up your tank and enjoy this iconic stretch of the Mother Road. Route 66 runs from Chicago to Los Angeles through Oklahoma, beginning in Joplin (just across the Missouri state line) and ending in Erick. The friendly towns, architecture, neon signage and soaring murals, mom-and-pop diners, motels, and roadside attractions all contribute to an unforgettable road trip. Take your time and stop frequently to enjoy the sights and flavors along the way.
Because Oklahoma City is in the center of the state, there are two routes to take. You can either travel northeast to Joplin, stopping at landmarks such as the Rock Café in Stroud and Miami's historic Coleman Theater. Meanwhile, the western leg leads to Clinton's Route 66 Museum and Elk City's National Transportation and Route 66 Museum. If you're looking for roadside attractions, the Blue Whale, Round Barn, Buck Atom's Cosmic Curios, Golden Driller, and Totem Pole Park all make excellent backdrops for selfies to post on social media.
- Getting there: From Oklahoma City, Route 66 runs about 210 miles northwest through Tulsa to the Missouri state line. To the west, it’s 150 miles to the Texas border.
- Travel tip: Hit up POPS—a funky retro gas station just outside of OKC in Arcadia—for diner eats and 600 different kinds of soda.
Google rating: 4.3/5.0
Address: 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Phone: (405) 297-8912
Website: https://www.oklahomaroute66.com/
