With Route 66’s centennial celebration underway, there’s no better time to hit the road with your four-legged co-pilot. The stretch between Tulsa and Oklahoma City — known as the “100 Greatest Miles” — is packed with quirky landmarks, neon nostalgia and roadside icons perfect for a quick photo stop. Here are 10 can’t-miss backdrops for a snapshot with your furry travel buddy.
1. Blue Whale — Catoosa
This beloved roadside landmark rises from a pond in Catoosa. Its bright blue color and quirky design make it a fun, instantly recognizable backdrop.
2. Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza — Tulsa
Bronze sculptures of a Model T meeting a horse-drawn wagon capture the spirit of Route 66 history. The plaza and Arkansas River bridge create a dramatic setting for a quick photo.
3. Route 66 Historical Village — Tulsa
Tulsa’s oil history comes to life with colorful signage and a giant oil can. The vintage vibe is perfect for playful snapshots.
4. Rock Café — Stroud
Built from local sandstone in 1939, the Rock Café’s rustic exterior and retro sign make every photo feel like a scene from classic Route 66. Fun fact: John Lasseter and a Pixar research team visited in 2001, and owner Dawn Welch helped inspire the character Sally Carrera for the “Cars” movie franchise.
5. Arcadia Round Barn
This perfectly circular barn from 1898 is one of Oklahoma’s most photographed Route 66 landmarks, with a timeless red facade that pops in photos.
6. Pops 66 Soda Ranch — Arcadia
The 66-foot soda bottle outside glows with changing LED lights, making it one of the most eye-catching stops along the corridor.
7. Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum — Warwick
Housed in a restored 1920s filling station, this stop offers antique pumps, classic motorcycles and murals that give every photo vintage flair.
8. Route 66 Interpretive Center — Chandler
Bold Route 66 signage and colorful murals celebrate the Mother Road, making it an easy and photogenic stop.
9. Milk Bottle Grocery — OKC
This tiny wedge-shaped building topped with a giant milk bottle is a quirky, instantly recognizable OKC landmark.
10. Tower Theatre — OKC
The 1930s Art Deco marquee glows with neon charm, perfect for evening shots or retro-style photos with your pet.
