Woolaroc and Route 66 - Oklahoma Pt. 2

you had me at nostalgia, history, and adventure

Greetings from Claremore, OK, nestled along the legendary Historic Route 66.

Revving Up Nostalgia

This was my first adventure into Northeastern Oklahoma, and despite August's notorious heat—feeling like over 110 degrees—I found it was perfect timing. With schools back in session and crowds thinning out, I was able to soak in the sights at a more relaxed pace. Coming from just outside Nashville, I appreciated the dry Oklahoma heat, which made the summer’s intensity more bearable.

No trip along Route 66 is complete without a scenic drive to discover its quirky roadside attractions. Heading east and north of Tulsa, I found myself immersed in the nostalgic charm of the Mother Road—each stop offering a glimpse into America's golden age of travel.

Built in 1972 by Hugh S. Davis, this whimsical roadside attraction is a must-see. Its bright blue form rising from the water is a beloved symbol of Route 66—an unexpected splash of fun and color along the highway.

Welcome Partner! Thanks for stopping by.

My journey then took me to Woolaroc, a sprawling wildlife preserve founded in 1925 by oil pioneer Frank Phillips, the man behind Phillips 66. The name itself—combining "woods," "lakes," and "rocks"—captures the essence of this unique 3,700-acre sanctuary teeming with more than 30 wildlife species.

As I entered, my senses were instantly transported. The scent of campfire smoke and the rustic charm of wall tents and teepees evoked memories of my childhood in Montana, where my parents ran a high-country outfitting business. Wooly William, dressed in vintage leather, greeted visitors with stories of frontier life, sharing tales of Frank Phillips and the traditions of the Old West.

A little hatchet throwing… YEP I hit the card on throw one!!

Canvas teepees were only in the west

Western Wilderness and Adventure
I couldn’t resist trying my hand at hatchet throwing—successfully hitting the target on my second try! The outdoor experience included exploring canvas teepees, reminiscent of Western frontier life, and soaking in the rugged beauty of the landscape.

Wall tent interior

Buffalo skull

Water buffalo cooling off in the afternoon

The matriarch of the herd overlooking his domain

Discovering Woolaroc’s Rich History
Woolaroc isn’t just a wildlife haven; it’s a trove of history. Among its fascinating exhibits is the airplane that Frank Phillips sponsored to compete in the 1927 Dole Air Race from Oakland to Honolulu. The lone survivor of that race now hangs proudly in the museum, a testament to daring adventure and early aviation.

The only remaining plane from the Dole Air Race

Museum Filled with Heritage
Speaking of history, Woolaroc’s museum is a treasure trove. It houses the world's largest collection of Colt firearms, alongside Winchester rifles, Native American artifacts, stunning artwork, and historic relics. Highlights include Theodore Roosevelt’s saddle and intricate tile accents adorning the building’s exterior.

Theodore Roosevelt’s saddle

World’s largest collection of Colt Firearms

Tile accents on exterior

Tile accents on exterior

The museum’s impressive galleries could easily fill an entire day. Every corner reveals stories of the Old West, American innovation, and Native cultures—a must-visit for history buffs visiting the Tulsa area. I look forward to returning in the future with my husband to explore more since he holds a undergrad in Native American Studies.

Native American Bronze

Beautiful light arrived with the sunset on the last night of my stay. Driving the backroads outside Bartlesville while chasing the sunset and golden hour was the perfect end to my exploration of Oklahoma.

In Conclusion
From Route 66’s roadside quirks to Woolaroc’s wild landscapes and rich history, this journey was a perfect blend of nostalgia, adventure, and discovery. Oklahoma’s hidden gems offer a nostalgic escape into America’s rugged past—one dirt road and wildlife encounter at a time.

Golden rays fade into the evening’s sigh,

Whispering winds through tall grasses fly,

The prairie kisses night’s gentle sky.

~ Katrinka Kalarchik