Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. The section cutting across Oklahoma offers roadtrippers classic Americana, stunning natural beauty, and fascinating glimpses into history.
Of all the sights along the way, the historic monuments stand out as must-see attractions. These structures and landmarks provide windows into pivotal moments and eras that shaped both Oklahoma and the iconic route itself. Here are the top 5 historic monuments along Route 66 in Oklahoma that you won’t want to miss.
The Round Barn in Arcadia
Built in 1898 by pioneering settler William Odor, this cone-roofed round barn still stands along Route 66 in the town of Arcadia. The unusual circular structure was an innovative design for its time. With 3 floors constructed from local wood and iron, it was more durable than typical barns.
After surviving neglect, a tornado, and neglect again, the Round Barn underwent restoration to become a Route 66 icon. Make sure to stop and snap some photos of this unique piece of American agriculture history.
The Gold Dome in Arcadia
Just down the road from Arcadia’s Round Barn sits another Mother Road must-see – the futuristic Gold Dome. Constructed as a bank in 1958, the building resembles a flying saucer with its gold-anodized aluminum dome.
This Googie-style piece of roadside architecture now houses an information center and gift shop. Outside, you can see the vintage neon “Citizens State Bank” sign that has been welcoming Route 66 travelers for decades.
The Totem Pole Park in Foyil
Constructed by folk artist Ed Galloway, the Totem Pole Park in Foyil features the world’s largest concrete totem pole rising 90 feet over Route 66.
The eclectic folk art environment also contains a variety of smaller totem poles, a ‘Fiddle House’ supported by fiddle images, and a spider-shaped bench. Galloway built the park over many years using materials like coal slag, automobile parts, and turtle shells. This quirky and utterly unique roadside site encapsulates Route 66’s spirit of discovery.
The Will Rogers Archway in Claremore
This beloved archway over Route 66 pays tribute to Oklahoma’s most famous son, Will Rogers. Born near Oologah, Rogers became a much-adored humorist, performer, and commentator before tragically dying in a plane crash.
After being built in the 1930s, the limestone archway was the gateway into Claremore, home of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum. Though the Route 66 bypass altered traffic patterns, this monument still reflects the route’s place in Oklahoma history.
The Round Red Barn in Arcadia
Not to be confused with the town’s famous Round Barn, the bright red Round Red Barn was built in the early 1900s by settlers Phoebe and Zenas Reneau. The circular barn incorporates unique design elements like wraparound porches that kept the interior cooler.
Saved from demolition in the 1990s, the rehabilitated structure now houses the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. Here you can learn more about the “Mother Road” while seeing an iconic piece of pioneer architecture.
Bring Along a Sense of Discovery
From curious roadside creations to legacies of pioneers, Route 66 monuments in Oklahoma provide windows into the past. As you cruise the Mother Road, embrace the sense of adventure instilled by generations of travelers.
Pull into wacky attractions like the Blue Whale in Catoosa then continue on to imagine hardy settlers like William Odor breaking the prairie sod. See how American Indian culture inspired Ed Galloway’s fantastical creations and pay your respects at the Will Rogers Archway.
Part of what makes a Route 66 journey special are the feelings of discovery around every turn. The historic monuments and landmarks in Oklahoma lend themselves perfectly to this spirit of revelation along one of America’s most revered highways. For an eye-opening experience, always make time to stop and explore the relics that tell the story of the Mother Road.
Planning Your Route 66 Road Trip in Oklahoma
Now that you know the top sites, here are some tips for planning your Oklahoma Route 66 adventure:
- Travel east to west – Since Route 66 runs west from Chicago, trace it in this direction to follow the historic path.
- Allow 4-5 days minimum – It’s about 450 miles across Oklahoma, so give yourself ample time to see the sights.
- Watch for detours – Parts of old Route 66 are closed or realigned. Have alternate directions handy.
- Book lodging ahead – Reserve vintage motels in towns like Sapulpa, Clinton, and more for an old-school experience.
- Fill up your gas tank often – Some stretches are remote with few services, so keep the tank topped up.
- Snap lots of photos – Capture must-see monuments plus funky signs, motor courts, and more.
- Stop at visitors centers – Pick up Route 66 maps, info, and recommendations from local experts.
Key Takeaways From the Mother Road in Oklahoma
Cruising down Route 66 through the Sooner State gifts you with natural beauty, roadside curiosities, and historical insights. Here’s what to remember from the journey:
- Soak up the vintage vibe – Relish neon signs, mid-century architecture, and old school motor courts.
- Revel in the peculiar – Roadside oddities like the Blue Whale add fun to the drive.
- Appreciate the open plains – Let the big skies and sweeping landscape instill tranquility.
- Gain historical perspective – Trace Oklahoma’s journey from Indian Territory through pioneers and beyond.
- Make new connections – Conversations with locals provide insight into regional culture.
- Savor the adventure – Discover the magic in the unknown around every turn.
As the Nat King Cole song goes, you’ll get “your kicks on Route 66” through Oklahoma. Let the Mother Road transport you to another era on a trip filled with beauty, nostalgia, and fun. From its vast plains to quirky roadside giants, the sights will fill your heart and soul.
So get your sunglasses and camera ready, and set your GPS for Route 66. Adventure awaits out on the open road!
