In a landmark achievement, Tulsa has been officially recognized as the Capital of Route 66®, securing its place in the annals of American history. This monumental designation, granted by the U.S. government in April 2024, cements Tulsa’s pivotal role in the story of the Mother Road, a symbol of freedom and adventure that stretches across the United States.

The Tulsa Route 66 Commission, an authoritative body within the City of Tulsa, spearheaded this ambitious initiative, culminating in the copyright approval after more than two years of rigorous research and comprehensive surveys. The designation acknowledges Tulsa’s historical significance and promises to enhance its allure as a premier travel destination.

“Tulsa and Route 66 are deeply connected with the Mother Road running through the heart of our city,” stated Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum. “Route 66 is an integral part of Tulsa’s identity, and we’ve long been known as the Capital of Route 66. To have this official designation is an exciting day for Tulsa, our region, and the state of Oklahoma.”

Tulsa’s 28-mile stretch of Route 66, flanked by iconic Gateway Arches, invites travellers to explore its vibrant past. Neon signs light up the journey, reminiscent of the days when Route 66 was America’s main artery. This historical route was inaugurated on April 30, 1926, by Tulsan Cyrus Stephens Avery, who sent a decisive telegram from Springfield, Missouri, designating the highway as “U.S. Highway 66.”

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure expressed his congratulations, acknowledging the shared heritage between the two cities. “Springfield shares a special bond with Tulsa in that two of our community leaders, John T. Woodruff and Cyrus Avery, were instrumental in making Route 66 a reality. We send our sincere congratulations to Tulsa on its official designation as the ‘Capital of Route 66’ and look forward to partnering in continuing to shine a light on the excitement and opportunity of the Mother Road.”

Route 66, a legendary American symbol, stretches 2,278 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock celebrated Tulsa’s achievement: “Route 66 stands as a legendary American symbol of our collective history through time and place. We here at the ‘End of the Trail’ celebrate with our friends in Tulsa on their designation of this legendary road.”

The official copyright marks a significant milestone for Tulsa, reinforcing its historical prominence in the Route 66 narrative. Josh Stout, Chairman of the Tulsa Route 66 Commission, highlighted the city’s dedication to preserving and revitalizing its Route 66 corridor. “Amazing! Working tirelessly behind the scenes, Tulsa’s Route 66 Commissioners continue the same forward-thinking momentum Cyrus Avery began almost 100 years ago. We are restoring and reinventing the Capital of Route 66 for the next century of dreamers, preserving the history while simultaneously investing in new growth across Tulsa’s corridor.”

Tulsa’s deep connection to Route 66 is further evidenced by the establishment of the city’s first U.S. 66 Highway Association. Oklahoma Route 66 Association President Rhys Martin emphasized, “Route 66 is a key part of Tulsa’s identity. Likewise, Tulsa is a big part of Route 66’s creation and early promotion due to Cyrus Avery’s involvement. Being recognized as the Capital of Route 66 speaks volumes about the city’s intentional investment in the corridor and the local pride in being such an integral part of its history.”

Visitors to Tulsa can immerse themselves in the storied past of Route 66, from the Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza to emerging attractions that capture the essence of the road. Highlights include the Mother Road Market, Decopolis Discovitorium art deco museum, Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios, and the latest addition, Stella Atom Space Cowgirl.

With this official designation, Tulsa is poised to attract even more visitors eager to experience Mother Road’s magic. The city’s commitment to honouring its past while fostering future growth ensures that Tulsa will remain a beacon on Route 66 for generations.

For more information, visit visittulsa.com.

Written by: Jason Smith

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