Photos of the Meramec Caverns Barn Sign in Chandler, Oklahoma
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Meramec Caverns Barn Sign in Chandler, Oklahoma, here are some things to know before you go.
Where is the Meramec Caverns barn sign located in Oklahoma?
The barn sign is located on the south side of historic Route 66, approximately 3.5 miles west of Chandler, Oklahoma, near the community of Twin Oaks. It is visible from the road while driving east on the old Route 66 alignment. An approximate address is 339900 OK-66, Chandler, OK 74834.
What is the significance of this barn sign?
This is the last remaining Meramec Caverns barn sign on Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66. Currently only four Meramec Caverns barn signs are known to remain on all of historic Route 66: this one in Chandler, one near Pontiac, Illinois, and two in Missouri (Conway and St. Clair). Fewer than 50 of the original barn signs are known to survive anywhere in the country.
What is the history of the Meramec Caverns barn signs?
Meramec Caverns is a cave network and tourist attraction near Stanton, Missouri, on Route 66. In 1933, entrepreneur Lester Dill purchased the caverns and began offering tours. To promote his attraction, Dill struck an innovative deal with farmers along America’s new network of highways: he would paint their barns for free in exchange for permission to paint a large Meramec Caverns advertisement on the roof. He and his employee Jim Gauer painted close to 400 barns across during the height of the campaign, with signs concentrated along Route 66 and other major travel corridors through Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and Arkansas. Barn rooftop advertising was outlawed in 1968, but the existing Meramec Caverns signs were exempt and could be repainted as long as the barn structure remains standing.
Where can you park to see this roadside attraction?
There is no dedicated parking to see this roadside attraction. Pull over to the side of the road and park. Be careful around other cars and traffic.
Where to Stay Near the Oklahoma Meramec Caverns Barn Sign
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 attraction.
Lincoln Motel
The Lincoln Motel is a retro cottage-style motorcourt that was built in 1939 with a neon sign from the 1950s.
Skyliner Motel
This fully-renovated vintage motor court motel is highlighted by one of the best neon signs on Oklahoma Route 66. The Skyliner Motel features ten quiet guest rooms with contactless entry. It’s also close to a delicious meal at the nearby Rock Cafe and all the neon signs in Stroud.
Historic Route 66 Guesthouse
The Historic Route 66 Guesthouse in Bristow is located halfway between Tulsa and Oklahoma. Inside find two guest rooms and a kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, toaster, drip coffee maker, and French press. Outside find a private back porch with sunset views, hot tub, grill, and fire pit. A light breakfast is available each morning with fruit, pastries, granola, and yogurt.
Attractions Near the Oklahoma Meramec Caverns Barn Sign on Route 66
Route 66 Centennial Monument in Chandler, Oklahoma
66 Bowl Sign in Chandler, Oklahoma
