A Route 66 road trip isn’t complete without a cruise through the Mother Road’s capital. With so many things to do on America’s Highway in Tulsa, you could spend a week exploring all the restaurants, shops and roadside attractions. We’ve managed to narrow down some must-see spots for an action-packed weekend on the standout stop of the historic route.
This donut shop on the Mother Road has an old-school feel while meeting modern demands. Find all the classic fixings in regular, vegan and gluten-free varieties when you order at the counter, pull up to the drive through, or order online. For a little extra sugar rush, try out-there flavors like espresso, fruity pebbles, and oreo.
Oklahoma’s premier food hall is the perfect road trip stop. There is something to satisfy every craving here, from Tulsa BBQ at Nicky’s to West African curry at Afrikan Delights. Plus, you could be the first to sample a new food concept in the Kitchen 66 kickstart kitchen.
Decked out in 1950s Americana decor, this old school diner is a blast from the past. Order a classic burger and milkshake, or enjoy something from their all-day breakfast menu. And if you’re up for it, try one of their homemade cinnamon rolls. It’s roughly the size of a dinner plate.
Roll on through the Howdy Burger drive-thru on Route 66 for a classic roadside burger. It’s a simple, but delicious menu of flat-top burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, french fries and onion rings. No fuss, just a good, hearty meal to brighten your road trip.
Tulsa isn’t just the capital of Route 66. It was once the “Oil Capital of the World.” The Route 66 Historical Village marks the site of the first oil strike in Tulsa with the tallest oil derrick in North America at 194 feet. Explore the depot and other exhibits that tell the story of the oil town’s growth.
This plaza welcomes eastbound Route 66 traffic to Tulsa and commemorates the history of the Mother Road. You’ll find a bronze statue of Cyrus Avery, the plaza’s namesake and the “Father of Route 66.” When you visit, stand on the bridge and listen closely. Grooves have been cut into its pavement, so when cars pass at the right speed, you hear the tune of “This Land is Your Land” by Oklahoma folk artist Woody Guthrie.
For iconic roadside pics, snap photos with the twenty-foot-tall characters that oversee the Meadow Gold District: Buck Atom the space cowboy, Stella Atom the space cowgirl, Meadow Gold Mack the lumberjack, Rosie the Riveter and Cowboy Bob. You can even secure an official Land of the Giants passport as you explore the area, available at Buck Atoms Cosmic Curios (more on that storefront below.)
Neon Signs After Dark
After the sun sets, start at Peoria avenue in the Meadow Gold District and head East for a marathon of neon sign sightings. Roll down those windows, maybe put on Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time,” and cruise through what feels like an open air museum of glowing signage, including these classics.
Buck Atoms is a gift shop dedicated to the legacy and magic of Route 66. Its founder, Mary Beth Babbock, is the one responsible for bringing the first “giant,” Buck Atoms, to the area now known as the “Land of the Giants.” Stop in for souvenirs and unique gifts from the Mother Road when you get a photo with the space cowboy outside the store.
Buck's Vintage
If you need a little more retail therapy, check out the neighboring Buck’s Vintage. They keep their storefront stocked with the vintage Western wear of your cowboy dreams. Accessorize with their selection of handcrafted goods from local artists.
Just a quick detour off Route 66 is the Brut Hotel. If you want to recharge before getting back out on the road, check in for a relaxing stay in the boutique hotel and wellness center. Don’t miss dinner or happy hour at Soma, the Brut’s rooftop bar, for stunning sunset views over Tulsa.
Up the road from the Brut Hotel, you’ll find even more ways to unwind at the Gathering Place. The community space is a 66-acre park complete with playgrounds, trails, basketball courts, skate parks and more. It’s the perfect change of pace from your packed itinerary.
The Gathering Place borders the Arkansas River. During your visit, take a walk along the water’s edge or rent a scooter or bike for a quick cruise. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, bring your kayak to the Tulsa Wave Park and paddle it out on white-water rapids.
Tulsa’s Route 66 blends that irresistible vintage charm with the vibrant energy of a city still teeming with life. No matter where you stop, each makes for a perfect postcard from the capital of the Mother Road. And don’t be scared to venture off the path of the historic highway and discover what else Tulsa has to offer.
