2 minute read
Route 66
EXPLORE ROUTE 66
Experience landmarks, photo spots and entertaining destinations along the Mother Road in Edmond. See all that Route 66 features at VisitEdmondOK.com/Route66.
ROUTE 66 ART
Admire iconic works of public art along Route 66. The one-of-a-kind Blue Hippo is a local favorite. Fashioned out of fiberglass in a “kitsch” style, this humorous hippo is the perfect stop for selfies. The Mainstreet Edmond Mural celebrates Edmond’s history as a Route 66 destination.
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA
As the oldest public institution of higher education in Oklahoma and the third largest university in the state, the University of Central Oklahoma is rooted in history.
The Old North Tower was the first higher education building in Oklahoma Territory, opened in 1893. The iconic building underwent restoration in 2011 and now features replicas of original classrooms, a functioning clock and original chalkboards.
FESTIVAL MARKET PLACE/ EDMOND FARMER’S MARKET
Festival Market Place is home to the wonderful Edmond Farmer’s Market, which offers the freshest produce and locally made items. The pavilion houses the perfect photo opportunity, a Route 66 selfie shield.
Leaping into History, Kentucky Daisey tells the story of Edmond settler and newspaper reporter Nanitta R.H. Daisey. Daisey came to Edmond from Purcell. After convincing the train engineer to let her ride the cowcatcher at the front, she leapt to claim land during the 1889 Land Run.
Stop in at Pops for a tasty meal and to choose from more than 700 flavors of soda. The 66-foot tall soda bottle is a unique photo op! The historic Arcadia Round Barn is located 6 miles east of Edmond in the town of Arcadia. It was designed with the notion that being round would help it withstand Oklahoma’s weather. The barn is open for visitors and available for rental for special events. The Edmond 66 Softball Complex offers four fields for softball leagues, inviting teams and individuals to participate. With a concession stand and covered playground, the whole family can have fun during games.
5TH AND LITTLER
The Edmond Historical Society & Museum operates in the Old Edmond Armory building, preserving the city’s history and finding new ways to learn about the past. The armory building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. Stephenson Park was established in 1934 with the northwest rock wall at the entrance. The park features courts for tennis, pickleball, basketball, and a playground. The 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse, the first school built in Oklahoma Territory after the 1889 Land Run, has been restored as a Route 66 must-see site. The schoolhouse is open for tours on Saturdays and by appointment.
1889 Territorial Schoolhouse
Touch the Clouds by Dave McGary
“From the 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse to the bike trails at Arcadia Lake to the famous “Blue Hippo” there’s plenty to experience. Check out the bronze statue of Chief Mahpiya Icahtagya (“Touch the Clouds”). It’s a grand sight worth visiting at the University of Central Oklahoma.”
- Rhys, Oklahoma Route 66 Association