Tulsa: Where Route 66 History Comes Alive – Big Mike’s Road Trip Report

Hey road trippers, Big Mike here, back with another dispatch from my Route 66 adventure! This time, I’m singin’ the praises of Tulsa Oklahoma, a city that truly deserves the title of “Capital of Route 66.” Trust me, if you’re lookin’ to get your kicks on the Mother Road, Tulsa is a must-stop destination.

Welcome to Tulsa Oklahoma

This city isn’t just on Route 66; it lives and breathes it. With 28 miles of the historic highway within its limits, Tulsa offers a deep dive into the heart and soul of this iconic American roadway. One of my first stops was the out-of-this-world Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66. Now if you don’t know, Buck Atom’s is a Tulsa Oklahoma landmark, a former gas station converted into a quirky gift shop and Route 66 icon, presided over by the space cowboy Buck Atom, who is a 21-foot-tall Muffler Man statue! This place embodies the fun, eccentric spirit of the Mother Road. You can’t miss him, standing tall and proud, welcoming travelers with his retro-futuristic charm. It is a must-stop. You can get your picture taken with him, and explore the amazing collection of Route 66 memorabilia inside the shop. This place is a must-see for any Route 66 enthusiast.

But the history lesson doesn’t stop there. I also made my way to the Route 66 Historical Village. This place is like steppin’ back in time! You’ll find vintage automobiles, a towering oil derrick, and even an old Frisco 4500 Meteor steam engine. There is even a restored railroad depot. It’s a great spot to really soak in the atmosphere of Route 66’s heyday, and perfect for anyone who loves a little bit of history like I do.

Now, you can’t talk about Tulsa’s Route 66 without mentionin’ the neon glow. And the Meadow Gold Sign is one of the brightest stars in the city. This beautifully restored sign is a true Tulsa landmark, and seeing it lit up at night is like a beacon calling all road-weary travelers. But make sure you also check out the other neon signs around town. New ones are being added to the Route 66 corridor all the time, it is an ongoing project to restore the Route to its former glory.

Of course, no visit to Tulsa’s Route 66 would be complete without a cruise down 11th Street. This is the Mother Road’s original path through the city, and it’s lined with classic diners, vintage motels, and unique shops. It is a great stretch of road to enjoy a meal and take some pictures. You can almost hear the rumble of classic cars and the jukebox tunes drifting out of the doorways. If you are looking for an authentic experience this is where you will find it.

Beyond the historic landmarks, Tulsa Oklahoma has a vibrant energy that makes it a fantastic stop on any Route 66 journey. There are new businesses opening all the time along the Route, so there is always something new to discover. There is no shortage of good food in Tulsa, so come with an appetite.

Tulsa truly understands and celebrates its Route 66 heritage. It’s a city where the past is not just remembered, but embraced and woven into the fabric of everyday life. So, if you’re planning a Route 66 adventure, make sure Tulsa Oklshoms is high on your list. You won’t regret it! I certainly did not.

Keep the rubber side down, folks, and I’ll see ya further down the road!

Route 66 Attractions in Tulsa Oklahoma

1. Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66 is a gift shop celebrating the magic of Route 66 & the Mother Road. Check out Buck Atoms a cool Space age Cowboy Muffler man. It is Located at the former site of a 1950s PEMCO gas station
2. Circle Cinema Get your Flicks on Route 66 since 1928. Originally named The Circle Theatre it opened on July 15, 1928 with the movie “Across the Atlantic” starring Monte Blue
3. Cyrus Avery Route 66 Memorial Bridge: Named after Cyrus Avery, a key figure in the establishment of Route 66, this bridge is a historic landmark and offers great photo opportunities.
4. Marie’s Trading Post The mural on the side of the store makes for a great photo. 
5. Blue Dome District: Located in downtown Tulsa, this district is known for its distinctive blue dome building and features restaurants, bars, and shops that capture the spirit of Route 66.
6. Admiral Twin Drive In 7355 E Easton St
   Tulsa, OK 74115
7. Cyrus Avery Plaza Southwest & Route 66 Historical Village: This attraction in southwest Tulsa offers a glimpse into the history of Route 66 with vintage signs, a replica gas station, and a museum dedicated to the Mother Road. 3770 Southwest Blvd Tulsa, OK 74107
8. The Meadow Gold Sign: An iconic neon sign that has been a landmark on Route 66 in Tulsa for decades, it’s a popular spot for photos. 11th St & Quaker Ave
   Tulsa, OK 74120
9. The Golden Driller is a 75-foot-tall, 43,500-pound statue in Tulsa, Oklahoma, depicting an oil worker it was installed in Tulsa in 1966. Expo Square
   Tulsa, OK 74114
10. Cain’s Ballroom: Known as the “Home of Bob Wills,” this historic music venue has hosted many famous artists and is a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
11.  El Rancho Grande Mexican Food a Tex-Mex joint serving up cheesy enchiladas since 1950.
12. Tulsa Auto Museum: While not exclusively dedicated to Route 66, this museum houses a collection of classic cars and automobile memorabilia, reflecting the era of the Mother Road.
13. Desert Hills Motel opened 1953 and is a great photo stop.
14. The Route 66 Neon Sign Park: Located in southwest Tulsa, this park features restored neon signs from the heyday of Route 66 and offers a unique look into the road’s history.
15. Tally’s Cafe: A classic diner that has been serving Route 66 travelers for decades, Tally’s offers a taste of nostalgia with its retro decor and delicious comfort food.
16. Historic 11th Street: Also known as Cherry Street, this district features shops, restaurants, and boutiques that harken back to the Route 66 era.
17. Red Fork Main Street: A historic district in Tulsa, Red Fork Main Street offers a glimpse into the past with its vintage storefronts and a strong connection to Route 66.
18. Tulsa Fire Station 66 14333 E 11th St Tulsa, OK 74108