Spanning over 400 miles, Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66 is packed with history, roadside attractions, and small-town charm that make it one of the most memorable segments of the Mother Road. From the bustling city streets of Tulsa and Oklahoma City to the quiet, nostalgia-filled towns that dot the highway, this five-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of Oklahoma’s Route 66 at a comfortable pace. Whether you’re fascinated by classic diners, quirky roadside landmarks, or the deep-rooted history of America’s most famous highway, this trip has something for every road tripper.
While it’s possible to barrel through the Sooner State’s portion of Route 66 in as fast as a single day, stretching it out over five days allows you to slow down and soak in the details—the neon lights of vintage motels, the taste of an onion burger at a classic drive-in, the echoes of the past in a historic filling station. From iconic stops like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and the Round Barn in Arcadia to lesser-known gems hiding in the shadows of the old highway, this itinerary balances the must-sees with opportunities to venture off the beaten path.
This five-day adventure is designed to give you time to explore without feeling rushed. You’ll start in the northeast corner of the state, where Route 66 rolls in from Kansas, then make your way through cities and countryside, hitting everything from vibrant urban murals to the red dirt plains of western Oklahoma. By the time you reach the Texas border, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and quirky charm that make Oklahoma’s Route 66 an essential part of any cross-country journey.
- Why Take a 5-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip?
- How to Maximize Your Time and Enjoyment on a 5-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip
- Plan Your 5-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip
- Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip: 5 Days at a Glance
- Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip 5-Day Itinerary
- What’s Next? Where to Go After Your Five-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip
Why Take a 5-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip?
A five-day Route 66 road trip through Oklahoma is the perfect way to experience the heart and soul of the Mother Road without rushing through its many roadside wonders. Whether you’re craving a classic road trip packed with nostalgia, a chance to explore Oklahoma’s unique slice of Route 66 history, or just an excuse to take the scenic route, this itinerary offers an ideal balance of adventure, quirky attractions, big-city energy, and small-town charm—all at a relaxed pace.
If you’ve ever spotted a Route 66 sign and wondered what makes this highway so legendary, now’s your chance to find out! Instead of speeding past history, you’ll have time to stop at classic diners, marvel at neon-lit motels, snap photos with giant roadside oddities, and explore the towns that keep Route 66 alive. From the quirky Blue Whale of Catoosa to the stunning Art Deco architecture of Tulsa, Oklahoma’s stretch of the Mother Road is packed with must-see stops, each with its own story to tell.
A five-day road trip is also a great option for travelers who want to experience Route 66 in depth without committing to the full Chicago-to-Santa Monica trek. While the entire highway can take weeks to explore properly, this shorter adventure lets you soak in the nostalgia, history, and Americana of Route 66 while keeping things flexible.
And who knows? This Oklahoma road trip might just spark a lifelong love for the open road. Once you’ve cruised through Arcadia’s Round Barn, explored the heart of Route 66 in Oklahoma City, and stood beneath the towering pop bottle at Pops 66, you might find yourself planning your next stretch of the journey. Whether you’re a history buff, a road trip enthusiast, or just someone looking for an unforgettable getaway, five days on Oklahoma’s Route 66 is the perfect way to hit the road and experience a piece of America’s highway history.
Plan the Mother of all road trips.
Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,400 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your personalized Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!
How to Maximize Your Time and Enjoyment on a 5-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip
Five days might not seem like a lot of time to explore Route 66, but it’s the perfect amount to dive deep into Oklahoma’s stretch of the Mother Road. With a little planning, you’ll hit the must-see landmarks, discover some hidden gems, and still have time to slow down and enjoy the ride by staying multiple nights in some of the best cities on The Mother Road. Whether you’re taking a long-awaited road trip or finally exploring the highway in your own backyard, here’s how to make the most of your five-day Oklahoma Route 66 adventure.
Plan Your Overnight Stops in Advance
While spontaneity is part of what makes a road trip exciting, booking your accommodations ahead of time ensures a smoother journey—no scrambling for a room after a long day of exploring. Oklahoma has plenty of unique Route 66 motels and hotels, from the vintage charm of the Campbell Hotel in Tulsa to the historic beauty of the Skirvin in Oklahoma City. Knowing where you’ll rest your head each night means more time for adventure and less time searching for a vacancy sign.
Stick to the Route—But Leave Room for Surprises
Staying as close to the original Route 66 path as possible gives you the full experience, but don’t be afraid to take a detour when something interesting catches your eye. Maybe it’s an old-school drive-in, a roadside museum, or an unexpected oddity like a giant milk bottle on top of a building. The best Route 66 memories often come from those spontaneous stops!
Prioritize Attractions That Capture the Spirit of the Mother Road
With five days to explore, you have time to experience the highlights without rushing. Snap a selfie with the Blue Whale of Catoosa, wander through the Route 66 museums in Clinton and Elk City, and grab a meal at an iconic roadside diner. Stop at Arcadia’s Round Barn, marvel at the art deco beauty of Tulsa’s architecture, and take a break under the towering pop bottle at Pops 66. Each stop tells part of the Route 66 story, blending history, nostalgia, and pure road trip fun.
Enjoy the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Route 66 isn’t about getting from one city to the next as quickly as possible—it’s about experiencing the small towns, neon signs, and local flavors along the way. Roll down the windows, turn up your favorite road trip playlist, and soak in the sights of classic Americana. Five days in Oklahoma gives you the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, so you can appreciate the little details—like a conversation with a diner owner who’s been serving travelers for decades or a slice of homemade pie at a roadside café.
By planning smart, leaving room for spontaneity, and focusing on the best that Oklahoma’s Route 66 has to offer, you’ll come away from this five-day journey with incredible memories—and maybe even a newfound love for the open road. Who knows? This might just be the start of a bigger adventure!
Plan Your 5-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip
Ready to book your road trip? Use these quick links to find hotels, transportation, and activities along your Route 66 route!
Book Hotels: Tulsa Hotels | Oklahoma City Hotels
Book Transportation: Rental Cars | Flights
Book Tours & Activities: Tulsa Activities | Oklahoma City Activities
Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip: 5 Days at a Glance
There are infinite ways to split up an Oklahoma Route 66 road trip into five days. This is our recommended breakdown. Below we will expand this Route 66 Oklahoma road trip 5-day itinerary to show all the highlights you’ll see along the way!
| Day | Starting Point | Destination | Miles | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One | Commerce, Oklahoma | Tulsa, Oklahoma | 100 Miles | 2 Hours |
| Two | Tulsa, Oklahoma | Tulsa, Oklahoma | 0 Miles | 0 Hours |
| Three | Tulsa, Oklahoma | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | 133 Miles | 3 Hours |
| Four | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | 0 Miles | 0 Hours |
| Five | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | Texola, Oklahoma | 150 Miles | 3 Hours |
Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip 5-Day Itinerary
Only have five days to explore Route 66 or just want to experience Oklahoma’s stretch of the Mother Road? You’re in for an unforgettable ride! This 5-day itinerary takes you through some of the most iconic and quirky stops along Oklahoma’s Route 66, from the Kansas border to Texas.
Each day of this itinerary includes starting and ending points, mileage, estimated driving time, and recommendations for must-see attractions, classic diners, and historic places to stay. Whether you’re a first-time Route 66 traveler or a seasoned road-tripper looking for a new adventure, this plan helps you make the most of your time on the highway.
With five days in Oklahoma, you’ll explore a mix of vintage motels, roadside oddities, historic landmarks, and local eateries, all while cruising along some of the best-preserved sections of the original highway. And if you’re tackling the full Route 66 journey, this stretch of road will quickly become a highlight of your trip!
So fill up the tank, turn up your favorite road trip tunes, and get ready for a journey packed with neon lights, oversized roadside attractions, and a true taste of the Mother Road. Follow this 5-day Oklahoma Route 66 itinerary and experience the best of the Sooner State’s slice of Route 66!
DAY ONE
Commerce, Oklahoma to Tulsa, Oklahoma
Starting Point
Carthage, Missouri
Distance
100 Miles
Time
2 hours
Ending Point
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Your Oklahoma Route 66 road trip starts in Commerce, near the Kansas border. Depending on your travels, you may have spent the night in Kansas; Carthage, Missouri; or even Springfield, Missouri, but now it’s time to officially hit the road in the Sooner State. Today’s journey will take you from small-town Americana to the bustling city of Tulsa, with plenty of classic Route 66 stops along the way. Here’s what to see on your way to Tulsa:
Dairy King & Allen’s Conoco Fillin’ Station
Start your day at Dairy King in Commerce, where a former gas station has been transformed into a charming snack shop. Inside, you can grab a Route 66-shaped cookie or a soft-serve ice cream while admiring the vintage memorabilia that keeps the Mother Road spirit alive. DOn’t forget to also spot Allen’s Conoco Fillin’ Station across the street.
Route 66 Gateway & Coleman Theatre
Next, drive through the Route 66 Gateway and visit the Coleman Theatre in Miami, a stunning 1929 Spanish Revival-style venue that has been beautifully restored. Even if you don’t catch a show, step inside to admire the ornate decor, grand chandeliers, and vintage Wurlitzer organ.
Hi-Way Cafe
Take a break at Hi-Way Cafe, a classic Route 66 diner where you can enjoy a retro atmosphere, grab a cup of coffee, and snap a photo with their larger-than-life Big Bill Muffler Man, Chef Muffler Man, and other roadside giants. Even if you’re not stopping for a meal, it’s worth pulling over to admire the vintage charm and oversized attractions.
Western Motel
The Western Motel in Vinita, Oklahoma is a vintage Route 66 motor lodge that blends classic charm with modern updates. Originally built in the 1950s, it now offers 20 comfortable rooms. Stay here before exploring the rest of Oklahoma or jus stop by to admire the new neon sign featuring a cowboy on horseback.
Route 66 Pedestrian Underpass Mural
Take a walk under the Mother Road in Chelsea, Oklahoma! This historic Route 66 Pedestrian Underpass features a vibrant mural showcasing the town’s past, a Route 66 shield centerpiece, and even a spot to sign your name.
Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park
Make a roadside stop at Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park, home to the world’s largest concrete totem pole. This folk art wonder is a colorful, towering masterpiece surrounded by several smaller totems and picnic areas. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and soak in some quirky roadside history.
Blue Whale of Catoosa
No Oklahoma Route 66 trip is complete without a visit to the Blue Whale of Catoosa, one of the most famous and beloved roadside attractions on the Mother Road. Originally built as a swimming hole feature in the 1970s, the massive blue structure now welcomes travelers looking for a fun photo op and a moment of nostalgia.
Where to Eat Lunch on Oklahoma Route 66
There are plenty of great options for a mid-day meal along today’s route:
- Waylan’s Ku-Ku Burger in Miami: A throwback to Route 66’s fast-food heyday, this burger joint is one of the last of its kind. The neon-lit, cuckoo clock-themed restaurant serves up tasty burgers, fries, and shakes with a side of vintage charm.
- Hi-Way Cafe in Vinita: If you’re in the mood for diner-style comfort food, this spot offers everything from burgers to hearty breakfasts. Plus, their collection of roadside giants makes for a fun stop.
- Clanton’s Cafe in Vinita: This family-run eatery has been serving travelers since 1927 and is famous for its chicken-fried steak. It’s a must-visit if you want to experience a true Route 66 institution.
From here, it’s on to Tulsa, your destination for the night and the entire next day. Spend the evening exploring the city at your own pace and grab a Tex-Mex dinner at El Rancho Grande Mexican Food Restaurant, a Tulsa Route 66 staple known for its delicious enchiladas and vintage neon sign.
Where to Stay in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa offers a variety of great accommodations, whether you’re looking for a retro roadside motel, a restored landmark, or a modern hotel:
- Desert Hills Motel: A classic neon-lit Route 66 motel for a true vintage experience.
- The Campbell Hotel: A beautifully renovated historic hotel with themed rooms and elegant charm.
- Hotel Indigo: A stylish and modern option with Route 66-inspired decor.
Book two nights in Tulsa, as you’ll be spending the next day exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer! Stay tuned for Day Two, where we dive into Tulsa’s Route 66 history, museums, and more.
DAY TWO
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Starting Point
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Distance
0 Miles
Time
0 hours
Ending Point
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa is one of the most exciting cities along Route 66, packed with history, roadside attractions, neon signs, and incredible architecture. With so much to see and do, it’s worth dedicating an entire day to exploring. From classic Mother Road icons to fascinating museums and public art, Tulsa offers the perfect mix of nostalgia and modern charm.
Take your time today—this itinerary lets you dive deep into Tulsa’s Route 66 history while also discovering some of the city’s best sights. Here are some ideas of what to see and do in Tulsa!
Wildflower Cafe
Start your morning with breakfast at Wildflower Cafe, a cozy and welcoming spot serving fresh, homemade dishes. Whether you go for a hearty omelet or a sweet pastry, it’s a great way to fuel up before a full day of sightseeing.
Meadow Gold Sign
Just next door you’ll find the Meadow Gold Sign, one of Tulsa’s most recognizable Route 66 landmarks. This vintage neon sign, originally built in the 1930s for Meadow Gold Dairy, was saved and relocated to a special display structure. While you’re there, check out Meadow Gold Mack, a boutique shop offering locally made gifts and Route 66 memorabilia with its very own muffler man.
Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66
Make your next stop at Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66, a must-visit gift shop with all things Route 66. Outside, you’ll be greeted by Buck Atom, the towering space cowboy muffler man, and Stella Atom, the space cowgirl Uniroyal Gal. These larger-than-life figures make for the perfect photo op before you step inside to browse fun Route 66 souvenirs.
66 Collective & Cowboy Bob Muffler Man
Make a stop at 66 Collective in Tulsa, a lively shopping destination along historic Route 66 where you can browse local favorites like Buck’s Vintage, Bad Penny, and Blair Hollow Candles. As you come in, you’ll be welcomed by Cowboy Bob—a brand-new, 21-foot-tall muffler man decked out in full honky-tonk western gear.
Rosie the Riveter Uniroyal Gal
Make a stop to see the Rosie the Riveter Uniroyal Gal, a 19-foot-tall tribute to the Tulsa women who stepped up during World War II and helped inspire the iconic “We Can Do It!” posters. Dressed in a blue jumpsuit and red bandana, she strikes Rosie’s classic, muscle-flexing pose.
East Meets West & Neon Park
Visit the East Meets West Symbolic Route 66 Midpoint sculpture and Neon Park, where you can see a unique artistic representation of the Mother Road. This installation celebrates Tulsa’s place on Route 66 with interactive elements and glowing neon signs paying tribute to the highway’s history.
Greenwood Cultural Center & Black Wall Street Memorial
Take time to explore the Greenwood Cultural Center and Black Wall Street Memorial, an important site commemorating the history and resilience of Tulsa’s Black community. Once home to one of the most prosperous Black business districts in the U.S., Greenwood was devastated by the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Today, the memorial and museum share powerful stories of perseverance and legacy.
The Golden Driller
No Tulsa visit is complete without standing beneath The Golden Driller, one of the tallest statues in the country. This 75-foot-tall oilman, a nod to Tulsa’s oil industry, has been watching over the city since the 1960s and remains a classic roadside attraction.
Route 66 Historical Village
Stop by the Route 66 Historical Village, an open-air museum that brings Tulsa’s transportation and oil history to life. With vintage railcars, an old filling station, and a towering oil derrick, this spot offers a glimpse into Oklahoma’s role in shaping Route 66 and beyond.
The Outsiders House Museum
Step into movie history at The Outsiders House Museum, where fans of the 1983 film can see the fully restored house used in the movie. Inside, you’ll find memorabilia, props, and behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this beloved classic.
Woody Guthrie Center & Bob Dylan Center
Music lovers will want to check out either the Woody Guthrie Center or the Bob Dylan Center, both of which celebrate legendary musicians with Oklahoma ties. The Woody Guthrie Center highlights the folk singer’s life and legacy, while the Bob Dylan Center delves into the archives of one of America’s greatest songwriters.
The Gathering Place
Take a break from city sights and enjoy nature at The Gathering Place, a massive, beautifully designed park along the Arkansas River. With scenic trails, playgrounds, gardens, and riverfront views, it’s the perfect place to unwind for a bit.
Cain’s Ballroom
In the evening, admire the neon glow of Cain’s Ballroom, one of the most famous music venues in the country. Whether you catch a live show or just stop by to see the vintage neon sign, it’s a piece of Tulsa history worth visiting.
Tee-Pee Drive-In
End your day with a classic Route 66 experience by catching a movie at the Tee-Pee Drive-In in nearby Sapulpa. This revived drive-in theater lets you watch a film under the stars, the perfect way to wrap up a full day in Tulsa.
Where to Eat Lunch and Dinner in Tulsa
Tulsa has plenty of great dining options, whether you’re in the mood for classic diner fare or something more modern.
- Tally’s Good Food Café: A Tulsa Route 66 staple, this retro diner is known for its huge portions of comfort food, including its famous chicken-fried steak and cinnamon rolls.
- Mother Road Market: This modern food hall has something for everyone, with a variety of vendors offering everything from burgers and barbecue to sushi and tacos.
With a full day of Tulsa exploration behind you, get some rest—your Route 66 adventure continues tomorrow!
DAY THREE
Tulsa, Oklahoma to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Starting Point
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Distance
133 Miles
Time
3 Hours
Ending Point
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Today’s drive from Tulsa to Oklahoma City is packed with must-see Route 66 attractions. From quirky roadside stops to historic landmarks, this stretch of the Mother Road is one of the most exciting in Oklahoma. With so many unique places to visit, take your time and enjoy the journey—there’s no shortage of photo ops, classic diners, and fascinating pieces of Route 66 history along the way. Here’s what to see along Route 66 between Tulsa and Oklahoma:
Crossroads of America Sign
Kick off your road trip with a photo at the Crossroads of America Sign, a fun Route 66 landmark that marks an important meeting point of historic highways.
World’s Tallest Gas Pump & Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum
Next, stop by the World’s Tallest Gas Pump at the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum in Sapulpa. This towering 66-foot-tall structure is a perfect roadside photo spot, and the museum itself offers a great collection of vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia.
Bristow Train Depot and Museum
Make your way to Bristow and visit the Bristow Train Depot and Museum, a beautifully restored 1923 depot filled with local railroad history and artifacts.
Rock Cafe
By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite, so make a lunch stop at Rock Cafe in Stroud. This classic Route 66 eatery has been serving travelers since 1939 and was a major inspiration for Sally Carrera in Cars. Order a buffalo burger or some fried okra and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere.
Brick Paved Broadway Street
Continue your journey by taking a detour onto Brick Paved Broadway Street in Davenport, one of the last remaining original brick stretches of Route 66. Driving down these historic red bricks feels like stepping back in time.
Route 66 Interpretive Center
In Chandler, stop at the Route 66 Interpretive Center, an immersive museum where you can lounge in vintage car seats while watching videos about the history of the Mother Road.
Rt 66 Bowl
Make a quick stop at Rt 66 Bowl in Chandler—not just for bowling, but to admire its fantastic vintage neon sign that’s worth a snapshot even if you don’t go inside.
Historic Threatt Filling Station
Further down the road, visit the Historic Threatt Filling Station, an important landmark that was one of the few Black-owned service stations during segregation. Efforts to restore it are underway, making it a meaningful stop to reflect on Oklahoma’s history.
OK County 66
For something truly unique, stop at OK County 66, a whimsical roadside attraction featuring miniature replicas of famous U.S. landmarks, all created with a Route 66 twist.
Arcadia Round Barn
In Arcadia, don’t miss the classic Arcadia Round Barn, a his beautifully restored 1898 barn that is an architectural marvel and a great place to learn about Oklahoma’s farming history.
Pops 66 Soda Ranch
Home to the World’s Largest Soda Bottle, Pops 66 Soda Ranch is a modern Route 66 icon offers a massive selection of craft sodas. Grab a quirky flavor to try, and don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant neon-lit bottle out front.
Blue Hippo
Before rolling into Oklahoma City, make a final fun stop in Edmond to take a picture with the Blue Hippo, a quirky and beloved roadside statue.
You’ve made it to Oklahoma City! After a full day of road-tripping along Route 66, it’s time to settle in and experience the city at night. Grab a delicious dinner, soak in the local atmosphere, and get some rest—tomorrow is all about exploring everything Oklahoma City has to offer.
Where to Eat in Oklahoma City
After a full day of sightseeing, settle into Oklahoma City and enjoy dinner at one of these local favorites:
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse: An OKC institution serving legendary steaks in the historic Stockyards district.
Cheever’s Cafe: A stylish spot offering upscale comfort food and delicious Southwestern flavors.
Leo’s BBQ: A no-frills barbecue joint known for its incredible ribs, brisket, and famous strawberry-banana cake.
Where to Stay in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City has a variety of great hotels, but if you’re looking for a mix of historic charm and modern luxury, consider staying at:
- The Classen Inn: If you want a retro Route 66 experience, this renovated 1963 Googie-style motel is the perfect place to stay. It features bold artwork, a funky vibe, and a prime location for exploring OKC.
- The Skirvin Hilton: This beautifully restored 1911 hotel is one of the most elegant places to stay in OKC, with stunning architecture and a storied past.
- Colcord Hotel: A boutique hotel housed in Oklahoma’s first skyscraper, offering a mix of vintage charm and upscale amenities.
With another incredible day on Route 66 complete, rest up—tomorrow is all about exploring Oklahoma City!
DAY FOUR
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Starting Point
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Distance
0 Miles
Time
0 Hours
Ending Point
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City is packed with history, culture, and plenty of Route 66 charm. With a full day to explore, you’ll have time to visit classic Mother Road landmarks, dive into the city’s Western heritage, and enjoy some fantastic food. Whether you’re a history buff, a roadside attraction enthusiast, or just looking to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some things to add to your Oklahoma City itinerary:
Milk Bottle Grocery
Start your day by tracking down one of Oklahoma City’s quirkiest landmarks—the Milk Bottle Grocery. This tiny triangular building is topped with a giant milk bottle and has been a Route 66 icon for decades.
Gold Dome Building
Nearby, the Gold Dome Building is a striking example of mid-century architecture. This former bank, designed with a futuristic geodesic dome, gleams with its signature golden panels.
Oklahoma State Capitol
The Oklahoma State Capitol is worth a visit, as it’s the only state capitol in the country with an active oil well on its grounds. The grand domed structure is an impressive sight, blending politics and petroleum in true Oklahoma fashion.
Tower Theatre
For a touch of nostalgia, swing by the Tower Theatre. This historic venue, with its glowing neon marquee, is a great place to catch a show or snap a photo of its retro charm.
Wheeler Ferris Wheel & OKC Sign
Take a ride on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel, which once stood on the Santa Monica Pier. From the top, you’ll get a fantastic view of downtown Oklahoma City. While you’re there, snap a picture with the giant OKC sign, a perfect spot to mark your visit.
Bricktown
Head to Bricktown, Oklahoma City’s lively entertainment district, for a mix of dining, shopping, and street art. The area is packed with restaurants, murals, and plenty of spots to sit and soak in the atmosphere.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
For a deep dive into cowboy culture, visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. This museum celebrates the legends of the American West, featuring exhibits on Native American history, rodeos, and classic Western films.
American Banjo Museum
If you love quirky museums, check out the American Banjo Museum, which tells the story of this beloved string instrument. With a collection of over 400 banjos, it’s a must-visit for music lovers.
Oklahoma Museum of Telephone History
The Oklahoma Museum of Telephone History offers a fascinating look at the evolution of communication. Explore vintage telephones, switchboards, and the technology that kept people connected long before cell phones.
First Americans Museum
The First Americans Museum is a beautifully designed space that shares the histories and traditions of Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations. Interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling bring Indigenous cultures to life.
Route 66 Centennial Sign and Robots on 66 (RT-19)
If you’re looking for modern Route 66 landmarks, visit the Route 66 Centennial Sign or check out Robots on 66 (RT-19), a quirky roadside installation featuring colorful, futuristic robots.
Mickey Mantle Statue
Baseball fans can stop by the Mickey Mantle Statue, located near the stadium. This tribute honors the legendary player who grew up in Oklahoma.
Miss America Statues
For another fun roadside stop, find the Miss America Statues, a series of life-sized sculptures celebrating past Miss America winners from Oklahoma.
Factory Obscura
Step into the surreal world of Factory Obscura, an immersive art experience filled with interactive, otherworldly installations. This hands-on attraction is unlike anything else in the city.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
No visit to Oklahoma City is complete without a stop at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. This powerful site honors the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, with a beautiful reflecting pool and symbolic Gates of Time.
With a full day of exploration behind you, take the evening to enjoy dinner and soak in the city’s atmosphere. Tomorrow, it’s time to hit the road again as you complete the final stretch of your Oklahoma Route 66 adventure!
DAY FIVE
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Shamrock, Texas
Starting Point
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Distance
150 Miles
Time
3 hours
Ending Point
Texola, Oklahoma
Start the final day of your Oklahoma Route 66 adventure with a hearty breakfast at HunnyBunny Biscuit Co. or Sunnyside Diner. You’ll need the fuel because this is a full day of exploring, and by the time the sun sets, you’ll have crossed the border into Texas (or started on your journey home)! But before you say goodbye to Oklahoma, there are still plenty of roadside attractions, historic landmarks, and small-town treasures to discover.
El Reno Mother Road Monument
Kick off the morning by stopping at the El Reno Mother Road Monument, a big and bold tribute to Route 66. Snap a few photos with the massive sign that proudly marks this stretch of the Mother Road, and take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come on your journey through Oklahoma.
Muffler Men Cutouts
Next, check out the Muffler Men Cutouts Mural, where classic Route 66 fiberglass giants get a unique twist. This mural brings a fun, artistic take on the iconic roadside figures, with painted versions of the towering legends you’ve seen (or will see) along the route and beyond.
Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station
In Hydro, visit Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station, once run by Lucille Hamons, also known as the “Mother of the Mother Road.” She and her family operated this station for decades, helping stranded travelers and keeping the spirit of Route 66 alive even when traffic dwindled. The original building still stands as a testament to Route 66’s heyday, and just down the road, you can grab a bite at Lucille’s Roadhouse, which was built in her honor.
Weatherford Rt. 66 Spaceman
Pull over in Weatherford to admire the Rt. 66 Spaceman: a towering silver astronaut that welcomes travelers to Centennial Park and “Space City.” This larger-than-life figure salutes hometown astronaut Thomas Stafford with a gleaming suit, NASA patch, and Route 66 shield. Standing tall on the Mother Road, he invites visitors to “Discover our space; land yourself here.”
Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
Make your way to Clinton and dive into Route 66 history at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. This interactive museum takes you through the decades of the highway, from its early beginnings to the golden age of road trips and beyond.
National Route 66
Continue west to Elk City, where you’ll find the National Route 66 Museum. This museum goes beyond just the Mother Road, offering a look at all forms of transportation that helped shape America.
Sandhills Curiosity Shop
For something a little different, swing by the Sandhills Curiosity Shop in Erick. This funky little spot is filled with Route 66 memorabilia, vintage oddities, and the unpredictable antics of Harley Russell, the self-proclaimed “Redneck King of Route 66.” If he’s around, you might even get an impromptu performance!
Texola, Oklahoma
Before you reach the Texas state line, take a detour into Texola, an almost-forgotten ghost town that once thrived along Route 66. Walk past crumbling buildings and faded signs and relics of a town that nearly disappeared when the highway moved on.
Where to Eat on the Road
If you’re hungry earlier in the day, make a stop in El Reno for a local favorite—the fried onion burger. This Oklahoma specialty features thinly sliced onions smashed into a juicy beef patty, creating a crispy, caramelized crust that’s full of flavor. You can grab one at Johnnie’s Hamburgers & Coneys, Sid’s Diner, or Robert’s Grill.
If you need to hold out a little longer, head to Lucille’s Roadhouse in Weatherford. This retro-style diner is inspired by Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station and serves up classic American fare with a side of vintage charm.
You Made It! After five days of road-tripping through Oklahoma, you’ve officially conquered this stretch of Route 66! From the big-city highlights of Tulsa and Oklahoma City to the small-town treasures and roadside oddities along the way, you’ve experienced the best of what the Sooner State’s Mother Road has to offer.
Now, it’s time to decide what’s next. You can keep heading west into Texas and stay the night in Shamrock, home of the iconic Conoco Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café, or you can turn back and spend the night in a classic roadside motel in Oklahoma. Consider resting up at the Western Motel in Sayre, the Flamingo Inn or Bluebird Inn in Elk City, or the Travel Inn or Lucille’s Hotel in Weatherford—each offering a nostalgic slice of Route 66 charm.
Whichever path you choose, take a moment to reflect on the adventure you’ve had. You’ve explored history, snapped countless photos, eaten delicious roadside meals, and made memories on one of the most famous highways in the world. And while your time in Oklahoma has come to an end, Route 66 is far from over—so keep those wheels rolling and see where the road takes you next!
What’s Next? Where to Go After Your Five-Day Oklahoma Route 66 Road Trip
After five days of exploring Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66, you’ve seen historic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, and plenty of small-town charm. But the adventure doesn’t have to end here!
Turn Around and Soak It All In Again
If you’re not ready to say goodbye, retrace your route back through Oklahoma and revisit your favorite spots—or check out a few you might have missed the first time around. With so much to see, there’s always something new to discover along the Mother Road.
Head Home a Different Way
Rather than driving the same route back, take a detour on another scenic highway. Explore backroads, visit new towns, or stop at places just off the beaten path to make the most of your return trip.
Cross the Border into Texas
If you’re continuing west, cross into Texas and get ready for more Route 66 fun. Stop in Shamrock to see the famous Conoco Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café, explore the roadside wonders of McLean and Groom, and make your way toward Amarillo, home of the Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan Steak Ranch.
Keep Going All the Way to California!
On an epic coast-to-coast journey? Keep following Route 66 through the wide-open landscapes of Texas, the desert beauty of New Mexico and Arizona, and all the way to the Santa Monica Pier in California, where the highway meets the Pacific Ocean.
No matter where the road takes you next, one thing is for sure—Route 66 is full of adventure, and there’s always another roadside attraction just waiting to be found.
