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After closing in September 2025 for renovations, the beloved Blue Whale of Catoosa is ready to welcome travelers back in a big way. Join the celebration on May 30, 2026, as this Route 66 icon reopens during the highway’s 100th anniversary year.
The updates include a new visitor center, new restrooms, expanded parking, improved lighting, refreshed landscaping and walkways, a playground, and a fresh coat of paint for the whale himself. It’s the same roadside favorite—just spruced up for a new generation of road trippers.
The day kicks off with the Rt 66 Blue Whale Run, featuring a 5K and fun run, followed by arts and crafts, food vendors, a grand opening ceremony with ribbon cutting, and live music.
Schedule of Events
8:00 a.m. – Rt 66 Blue Whale Run (5K and fun run)
12:00 p.m. – Kickoff with crafts, art, and food vendors
2:00 p.m. – Remarks and ribbon cutting
4:00 p.m. – Live music
The celebration also coincides with the Route 66 Capital Cruise in Tulsa and the Vinita Route 66 Festival, making it a full weekend of Route 66 fun across northeast Oklahoma.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to revisit this larger-than-life landmark, this is it. The Blue Whale is back and ready for the next chapter of Mother Road memories.
