Photos of the Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed in Arcadia, Oklahoma
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed in Arcadia, Oklahoma, here are some things to know before you go.
Where is the Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed located?
The roadbed is located approximately one mile east of Arcadia, Oklahoma, on Old Highway 66. To access it, find the intersection of Oklahoma State Highway 66 and Hiwassee Road, then travel in a southeasterly direction. The road is an S-shaped segment about nine-tenths of a mile long that winds along a wooded hillside before reconnecting with the current State Highway 66.
One historical marker is located at approximately 13022 E Old Hwy 66, and the other at approximately 14998 E Old Hwy 66.
What is significant about this stretch of road?
The Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed is one of the earliest surviving sections of original Route 66 pavement in Oklahoma and one of the most historically significant stretches of original Route 66 anywhere on the Mother Road. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on November 30, 1999, as part of the Route 66 and Associated Historic Resources in Oklahoma submission. The nomination was prepared by Route 66 historian Jim Ross, who has lived on the road for more than two decades.
This is the only surviving stretch of Route 66 that features the meeting point of two different, original, unaltered road surface designs from two separate federal construction projects. The eastern section, completed in 1928 as Federal Aid Project 137-G, used pure Portland Concrete (the simpler and cheaper option). The western section, completed in 1929 as Federal Aid Project 137-F, used a Modified Bates Type design consisting of a two-inch asphalt surface over a five-inch concrete base with nine-inch concrete edgings. You can see the transition point where the two surfaces meet approximately midway along the road.
Can you drive on this original roadbed?
Yes, but proceed carefully. The pavement is nearly 100 years old and shows its age. It is best suited to slow, careful driving or walking. The roadbed is also a residential street with a 25-hour-per-mile speed limit. Drive carefully and watch for cars and pedestrians.
Where can you park to see the historical markers?
The Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed historical markers are located on a residential street with no dedicated parking. Pull over to the side of the road and be mindful or cars, pedestrians, and animals.
Where to Stay Near the Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed
Exhausted after a full day of exploring? Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest at one of these Oklahoma hotels near this Route 66 restaurant.
The Skirvin Hilton
This 1911 hotel was known as being the “newest, finest hotel in the Southwest.” Notable figures such as Harry Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Bob Hope have all spent the night in this historic Oklahoma City hotel. The Skirvin Hotel is now fully restored and updated, you can experience the rich history of the building alongside luxurious amenities, comfortable furnishings, and beautiful décor.
Angels Way Ranch
Spend the night in an authentic log cabin on Route 66 at Angels Way Ranch Bed and Breakfast. Enjoy cozy Western-inspired rooms, a grill, hot tub, cable TV, free Wifi, and a gourmet breakfast of country favorites like quiche, Santa Fe sausage, and deviled bacon.
Classen Inn Motel
If you’re looking for a unique hotel in Oklahoma City that combines vintage charge, modern amenities, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, you’ve got to spend the night at The Classen Inn. The renovated 1963 motel compliments its original Googie architecture and neon sign with modern amenities and hip artwork and murals.
Attractions Near the Arcadia Route 66 Roadbed on Route 66
Paul McCartney Stopped Here Sign in Arcadia, Oklahoma
Arcadia Round Barn in Arcadia, Oklahoma
Historic Richardson Building in Arcadia, Oklahoma
