Road Trip on Oklahoma Route 66 to Claremore
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As Route 66 left Joplin, Missouri westbound, it was only a short distance to Kansas, and then to the Oklahoma border.
It quickly entered Commerce, and headed southwest through Miami, Afton, Chelsea, and into Claremore.
The nation's longest drivable stretch of Route 66 crosses Oklahoma, making its way past charming towns, roadside diners and quirky attractions.
One of our favorite cities to visit on Route 66 is Claremore ... highly recommended!
Map of Historic Route 66 showing the location of Claremore between Chelsea and Catoosa |
ClaremoreClaremore is located on Route 66 between Chelsea and Catoosa, and is home to about 20,000 residents. The city is located in the heart of the Cherokee Nation and home to many Cherokee citizens, but its origins are closely connected to the Osage tribe—particularly to an Osage leader named Chief Clermont. With a rich history steeped in Native American culture, famous cowboys, singers, playwrights, and a romantic connection to Route 66, Claremore continues to provide interesting experiences for residents and visitors alike. Among the attractions are the Will Rogers Memorial Museum (photo below), the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum, the Belvidere Mansion, and Lake Claremore. Visitors can experience the world’s largest, privately owned gun collection at the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum, which also features a wonderful exhibit from the Cherokee Nation and a one-of-a kind collection of World War I posters. Claremore is the birthplace of Oklahoma’s favorite son, Will Rogers, and home to the museum that celebrates his incredible life and legacy. The Will Rogers Memorial Museum features more than 12 galleries with exhibits, artifacts and films about this legendary actor, comedian, aviator and writer. Downtown is the heart of this great American city. Route 66 travelers can stroll through many unique shops, eateries, watering holes and historic sites. For more information, link to the VisitClaremore.org website Will Rogers Memorial Museum
Sign and map in Historic Downtown Claremore "Travelers of Both Time and Space" Route 66 mural in Claremore
Route 66 Centennial monument at the J.M. Davis Museum in Claremore Belvidere Mansion in Claremore |
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Lodging Options in and near Claremore
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Andy Payne Route 66 Race
The Claremore Museum of History and the Cherokee Nation are proud to present the inaugural Andy Payne Route 66 Race on April 12, 2025. This exciting event kicks off Oklahoma’s Route 66 centennial celebrations and offers something for everyone — a 5K race for local runners, a family-friendly fun run for participants of all ages and a virtual 5K for those who cannot attend in person. The race honors Oklahoma legend and Cherokee Nation citizen Andy Payne and is a nod to his victory in the 1928 Trans-Continental Footrace, which took place along the now-famous U.S. Route 66. Claremore, Oklahoma, a key stop in the International Trans-Continental Footrace, drew large crowds to cheer on the Cherokee runner. Over 84 race days, he ran 3,423 miles from Los Angeles to New York City, wearing out five pairs of shoes and finishing 16 hours ahead of his nearest competitor to win the race. Proceeds for the Andy Payne Route 66 Race benefit the Claremore Museum of History, T-shirts are provided to runners who register by March 27. Join us for a memorable day honoring history, community, and the spirit of Route 66! More Info: Facebook Date: April 12, 2025 |
Interactive Map of Claremore, Oklahoma
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Vintage Views of Route 66 in Claremore
What was Route 66 in Claremore like in its prime? What did all the service stations, motels and diners look like when they were new?
What did the traveling public experience on the Mother Road? We wonder such things when we travel Route 66 today through Claremore.
Those earlier times in the 1930s, 40s and 50s were not always captured on film. But the use of colorful postcards was common in those decades.
We have included below a sampling of our collection of vintage travel postcards showing scenes on Route 66in Claremore. These portray the historic road in its prime and help us to visualize "yesterday" as we drive Route 66 today.
El Sueno Court - Claremore |
Will Rogers Hotel - Claremore |
Starline Motel - Claremore |
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More About Travel in Oklahoma
More Things to Do on Route 66 - at the Oklahoma Tourism Department
