Spanning from the Midwest to the Pacific Coast, America’s most famous highway, U.S. Route 66, will celebrate its centennial year in 2026. Traveling Route 66 through Oklahoma City offers families a unique opportunity to experience over 400 miles of history, culture and adventure, with some of the most iconic Route 66 sites in Oklahoma City waiting to be explored.
This summer, get a head start on the celebration by discovering quirky roadside attractions, Insta-worthy spots, outdoor adventure and more along the “Mother Road.”
History of the Mother Road
Established in 1926, U.S. Route 66 became part of the first federal highway system launched by the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads. The concept envisioned by Tulsa businessman Cyrus Avery began with the novel idea of cobbling together existing roads and trails to connect rural communities with bigger cities for improved transportation.
Once completed, the highway stretched across eight states for more than 2,400 miles, from the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, through the Missouri Ozarks and across the plains of the West, ultimately landing in Los Angeles, California.
Placement of the route was crucial to make this an “all-weather highway,” so as not to go too far north where snow could impact travel nor too far south where the heat would be unbearable in the summer.
While the highway initially helped farmers transport grain and produce, travel picked up more in the 1930s during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression as people began to emigrate to California in search of work and refuge. This increased traffic helped support merchants along “The Main Street of America” as more fuel, lodging and food businesses were needed to accommodate travelers. Route 66 through Oklahoma City has long been an important stretch of the iconic highway, helping shape the growth and culture of Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas.
By 1938, Route 66 was the first highway to be completely paved in the United States, which facilitated easier transportation when moving military troops and supplies to various bases during World War II. After the war, the Mother Road grew in popularity for vacationing out West, thanks to the boom in manufacturing and car ownership.
But Route 66’s fame ultimately led to its downfall when President Eisenhower approved the development of a new Interstate Highway System, where faster 4-lane highways, like I-44 and I-40, began to replace Route 66. Although the highway was decommissioned in 1985, 85 percent of the original route is still drivable today.
Insta-worthy sights in the metro
After learning about this epic highway, it’s time to “Get your kicks” and visit some of the iconic Route 66 sites in Oklahoma City that bring so much life and diversity to the Mother Road! Route 66 makes its way through six districts in the metro area, each with its own charm and personality.
Family fun & quirky sights
The Adventure District is brimming with family fun and entertainment, including the Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens and the neighboring Science Museum Oklahoma. Visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to see a world-renowned collection of Western art and experience kid-friendly exhibits that bring history to life.
Then, head to the Asian District to see an iconic Route 66 landmark: the Milk Bottle Building. Built in 1930 and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 350-square-foot triangular structure is an iconic piece of OKC’s and Route 66’s history and the perfect spot for a unique photo.
This district’s surrounding vibrant community has incredible Vietnamese eateries, tea shops and even a taste of Latin American cuisine at the beloved Café Kacao. After enjoying a hearty Guatemalan brunch or an artfully crafted espresso drink at the café, snag a selfie in front of their beautiful exterior murals.
Neon nostalgia & timeless tales
Cruise through the Uptown 23rd District to experience a retro vibe with neon signs reminiscent of life in the 50s and 60s. Catch a live music performance at Tower Theater or delight in an elegant meal at the award-winning restaurant Cheever’s Café. Don’t miss a pic in front of the new Route 66 shield sign just outside Cheever’s!
Not far from Uptown 23rd District are two spots to learn more about the historical and social significance of Route 66.
At the Oklahoma History Center, learn about Oklahoma’s economic development thanks to Route 66. With transportation being a common challenge in the early days of the Mother Road, families can see how Route 66 sites in Oklahoma City played a major role in helping businesses succeed. The Research Center at the museum includes a Route 66 repository featuring photos, manuscripts and oral histories about the roadway, many of which can also be accessed online.
The nearby Oklahoma State Capitol is one of only two state capitols along Route 66. Take a free guided or self-guided tour of the architecture and art to learn about state history. Visitors can also learn about the state’s legislative processes and explore the Capitol Museum.
Retail therapy & culinary delights
Make your way to Oklahoma City’s newest developing district, the Britton District, for an afternoon of shopping and exploring new businesses. If you’re looking for some new, unique threads, check out Orange Peel Vintage Clothing to shop curated attire and accessories, while also supporting local businesses all in one store.
Foodies can enjoy bold, delicious New Mexican-inspired dishes at El Coyote, or grab a cup of coffee next door at Zero Tolerance Coffee and Chocolate, where they use locally sourced ingredients to craft tasty chocolate bars and baked treats. The Britton District revival has added Madhopper Brewing to the scene, where patrons can appreciate innovative brews, live music events and trivia nights.
The Western Avenue District comprises over 50 establishments and is the perfect place for some retail therapy. Classen Curve is Oklahoma City’s modern shopping complex with a diverse collection of local and national retailers. Speaking of local, don’t miss a trip to Guestroom Records, a wellspring of new and vintage vinyl, cassettes and CDs for music lovers.
Finally, round out your journey in the vibrant 39th Street District, home to 45 locally owned businesses and restaurants. This prominent LGBTQ+ community also hosts Oklahoma City’s PRIDE on 39th festival and parade in June each year. Be sure to capture a selfie in front of the “Everyone is Fabulous” mural!
Scenic stops beyond the metro
Venture beyond the heart of OKC to uncover more gems along Route 66. From unique landmarks to outdoor escapades, these destinations capture the wide-open spaces along the Mother Road.
Pop & pics
Any Route 66 road trip should include filling up at Pops, a modern gas station, diner and soda ranch in Arcadia. A glowing 66-foot-tall LED pop bottle stands proudly out front, awaiting the perfect selfie. Pops has over 700 sodas to choose from, some locally made and others imported from around the world.
Bubbly drinks of every color line the walls with flavors ranging from classic sodas to the most unusual, like bacon or key lime pie. You can also enjoy a meal in the restaurant, featuring everything from weekend breakfast classics to burgers and hand-dipped shakes.
Just down the road from Pops is the Arcadia Round Barn, a unique marvel built over a century ago, popular for its barn dances, social gatherings and live music.
Outdoor adventures
Continue your road trip down to the shores of Lake Overholser for outdoor adventures. Route 66 Park features walking trails and wetland boardwalks next to one of the largest playgrounds in the city. Climb the Cyrus Avery Observation Tower for expansive views of the park plaza or bring your skateboard to ride through the Route 66 Skate Court.
The Lake Overholser Bridge, a critical link for Route 66 motorists back in the day, can be found on the northeast side of the lake. At nearby RIVERSPORT OKC, rent kayaks and stand-up paddle boards for a fun outing on the water with perfect views of the bridge.
Thanks to the Oklahoma movement to revitalize Route 66 in the 1980s, road warriors can now appreciate the mix of neon signs, antique stores, diners, city parks and museums found along the old highway as it cuts through the heart of our state. Today, the Mother Road stands as a nostalgic symbol of the American spirit and the freedom of the open road, offering families a perfect blend of history and modern-day adventure.
