This Oklahoma Scenic Byway Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime
When people imagine the classic American road trip, U.S. Route 66 almost always comes to mind. Nicknamed "The Mother Road," Route 66 once ran from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, carrying travelers through the heart of the country. Today, much of the route has been replaced by modern highways, but stretches are still preserved, honored, and treasured.
According to the National Scenic Byway Foundation, Oklahoma is home to one of the longest intact sections of Route 66, spanning nearly 400 miles across the state. This scenic byway takes you through small towns, lively cities, and open prairies, blending nostalgia with authentic Americana, with everything from quirky roadside attractions to historic museums and sprawling parks. For those ready to experience it, a three-day road trip provides the perfect way to explore the best of Oklahoma’s Route 66.
Day 1: Quapaw To Tulsa
Begin your adventure along the Kansas-Oklahoma border, near the small town of Quapaw. This unassuming stretch marks the point where the Mother Road officially enters Oklahoma, setting the tone for the miles of history that lie ahead. While there, step inside the Quapaw Tribal Museum, which offers free admission, to experience the heritage of the Quapaw people through displays of ancient pottery, traditional art, and historic artifacts. Then make your way to Lover's Leap, a scenic landmark with a rich history that sits just above the Spring River. Afterward, grab a quick bite at Dallas' Dairyette.
A short drive south brings you to Vinita, a city full of antique shops, cafés, and plenty of opportunities to pick up Route 66 souvenirs. From there, head toward Chelsea, where you’ll find Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park. Built in the 1940s by folk artist Ed Galloway, this roadside attraction features the world’s largest concrete totem pole and several other hand-crafted sculptures.
Continue to Claremore, the hometown of Will Rogers, often called America’s “Cowboy Philosopher” by the Oklahoma Historical Society. A visit to the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, which has a small admission fee, offers a closer look at his life and legacy through exhibits and memorabilia.
In the evening, you'll reach Tulsa, one of Oklahoma’s largest cities. Before checking into your hotel, stop by Route 66 Rising, a striking art installation built in 2019 that commemorates the highway’s role in Tulsa’s history. Tulsa is full of retro neon signs, classic diners, and live music venues, making it the perfect place to end your first day on the road.
Day 2: Tulsa To Clinton
Day two begins with a drive southwest to Sapulpa, home to the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum, which celebrates vintage automobiles and the golden age of road travel. The museum is open six days a week, offering plenty of opportunities to explore. Its daily star attraction is a 66-foot-tall gas pump, one of the tallest in the world.
From there, make your way to Chandler, home to the playful Route 66 Bowl. This retro landmark, originally part of a 1950s gas station, now doubles as a nostalgic backdrop for photos and features bowling lanes, arcade games, and a restaurant inside. Chandler also offers opportunities to explore local murals and roadside cafes.
After leaving Chandler, continue along the route until you reach Oklahoma City, the state capital. Plan to spend several hours there, as the city blends Route 66 nostalgia with modern attractions. A stop at Route 66 Park is a must. Located on the west side of Lake Overholser, just a short distance from the original highway, the park features a scenic watchtower, an amphitheater, a picnic shelter, fishing wetlands, and even a skate court. One of its highlights is a walkable replica of the historic Route 66 itself. The park is open daily, and admission is free. While in Oklahoma City, you'll also want to explore the Oklahoma State Capitol, the Bricktown Entertainment District, and plenty of local eateries, from Iron Star Urban Barbecue to Bricktown BBQ, for classic Oklahoma barbecue.
By late afternoon, your journey continues in Clinton, where you can wind down with an overnight stay. The city is home to the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, one of the most comprehensive museums dedicated to the famous highway. Inside, its galleries cover each decade of Route 66’s history, showcasing vintage cars, neon signs, and cultural exhibits that bring the story of the road to life. Admission comes with a fee, but the experience is well worth it. Be sure to check the museum’s website for current hours and any closures so you can plan your visit.
Day 3: Clinton To Erick
The final leg of your Oklahoma journey along Route 66 continues further west. Begin the morning with another visit to Clinton’s Oklahoma Route 66 Museum if you didn’t get enough the day before, then head toward Elk City.
In Elk City, the National Route 66 Museum offers an immersive experience with exhibits that cover not only the history of Route 66 but also America’s broader transportation history. You’ll find recreated Main Street storefronts, classic cars, and interactive displays.
From Elk City, the route winds through rural landscapes to Erick, where Route 66 leaves Oklahoma; the city, hometown of singer-songwriter Roger Miller, features a small museum celebrating his life and music.
Why Route 66 Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime
Traveling Route 66 across Oklahoma is more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s a chance to experience a slice of Americana. Each town and city along the way tells its own story, roadside attractions spark nostalgia, and every mile reflects the history of the Mother Road. Oklahoma’s 400-mile stretch is full of unique stops, from quirky museums to scenic parks and welcoming communities. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the sights, or the open road itself, this route offers moments that stay with you long after you leave.
