Home to roughly 400 miles of America’s iconic Mother Road, Oklahoma has more drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state, including roadside attractions, restaurants and neon lights in OKC. Famed for its unique blend of Americana and modern revitalization, Oklahoma’s Route 66 is the ultimate road trip for anyone interested in quirky history, offbeat museums and revolutionary architecture.
Must-Visit Stops Along OKC’s Route 66
The Milk Bottle Grocery building stands out for the odd shape of the tiny wedge-shaped building and the giant bottle of milk on top. The historic site has served as everything from a sandwich shop to a nail salon, with dairy companies using the milk bottle as advertising. It’s a requisite photo op on Route 66.
History soars at The American Pigeon Museum & Library, which highlights pigeons from across the globe, and their roles in human history, from World War II to pigeon racing. There are several permanent exhibits, as well as 12 different breeds of live pigeons. This iconic museum is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays.
Another staple is the Lake Overholser Bridge, built in 1924 and renowned for its steel truss construction. Although the bridge is no longer technically on Route 66, it’s well worth the minor detour to drive it and soak in the views.
In the Uptown 23rd Street District, neon lights and art installations make for fun photos at places like the historic Tower Theater (be sure to check out the eight-foot-tall robot statue across the street), the jazzy Blue Note sign and a flashy new Route 66 sign near Cheever’s Cafe.
Just around the corner, the Gold Dome stands out as a funky architectural landmark. Built in 1958 as a Citizens State Bank, this fifth-ever geodesic dome has long been a timeless Route 66 attraction. Soon, it will be reborn as a live music venue, bringing a new energy to this iconic site.
For a deeper dive into Oklahoma’s rich history, take a tour of the State Capitol Complex. Its stunning Greco-Roman architecture and art-filled rotunda and corridors make it a fascinating stop along the Route 66 journey.
Cool Record Stores Along Route 66
Nothing says vintage Americana like spinning vinyl on Route 66. OKC’s record shops offer plenty to explore, from rare and vintage finds at 39th Street Records and Monkey Feet Music to the eclectic selection and live performances at Guestroom Records. For a hidden gem, head to Alley Records, a speakeasy-style shop tucked away in the Britton District.
Classen Inn & Fordson Hotel: The Perfect Rest Stops
The Classen Inn is a perfect pit stop on Route 66. A renovated 1963 motor hotel and an icon of Googie architecture, the boutique property is decked out in funky colors and retro decor, with art-filled rooms and a Superette.
Down the street, the Fordson Hotel was once a Ford assembly plant. Nowadays, it’s a stylish hotel with lofty rooms, skyline views and a glamorous Italian restaurant, Mary Eddy’s.
Cheever’s Cafe: A Route 66 Restaurant Gem
In Uptown, Cheever’s Cafe is among the most iconic restaurants on Route 66. Specializing in Southern and Southwestern cuisines, the restaurant takes its name from Cheever’s flowers, a shop opened in the 1930s by Oklahoma Belle Cunningham and her husband, Lawrence “L.L.” Cheever.
The restaurant retains the Deco decadence, including terrazzo floors and plate-glass windows. Its original flower case now contains desserts and wine. Come hungry for fan favorites like Cheever’s chicken-fried steak with jalapeño cream gravy.
The Spirit of Route 66 Lives On in OKC
It’s no coincidence that Route 66 winds its way right through the heart of OKC. Past roadside attractions, restaurants, hotels and art installations, America’s Mother Road—and all its quirky charms—are a proud pastime, with so much to see and do along the way.
Start planning your Oklahoma Route 66 adventure today.
