Blue Whale of Catoosa — Attraction in Catoosa

I recall driving by the Blue Whale while growing up. We never got to stop and check it out because our parents weren't really into stopping at roadside tourist attractions. We had places to get to. No time for that! Lol I've literally waited my entire life to see the Blue Whale (we were both "born" in 1972). And, I finally made it! Apparently, it was really cool back in the day. You could go up a ladder to the top section of the whale, and I guess look out the little porthole windows. I overheard someone who'd clearly been there before say, "Oh, darn, you can't go up to the top anymore." I enjoyed the entire experience! Except for the darn wind. Lol. It felt like we were being sandblasted at times. The little (and I mean LITTLE!🤏🏽) gift shop has all the cute Blue Whale and Rt 66 souvenirs, and they even have a penny press with 4 different scenes to choose from. I felt like a kid again! The only thing I found odd was the ummmmm seat placement in the ladies' restroom. You have to be VERY comfortable with someone else being in there!! I was not, so I latched the gate/door upon entering g. It's a great spot to stop and stretch your legs and get some fresh air. They even sell fish food for 50 cents. And, you can fish, as long as you...

My family used to drive by the Blue Whale every weekend during the 90's on our way to the Claremore Veteran's Center. It was in bad shape back then. I have wanted to visit ever since it was restored and I finally found my chance. I have to say it's a marvel of Rt 66. When I was standing in the middle of the whale, (I know that sounds funny), and thinking about what my dad told me decades ago, about how people would gather and have picinics, swim in the pond, walk through the zoo, just enjoy the company and relaxation from being on the road for so long, it really made me wonder what it would have been like to have lived a generation or two ago. The zoo is long gone but remnants are still in place. The "ark" sits as it has since the early 70's, there are still animal enclosures. The park has plenty of picinic benches, a little beach with toys provided free so kids can build sand castles, photo ops, and the wonderful people who take care of the place. I'm not sure if they are the owners or not but they love Rt 66 and are very knowledgeable. There is what looks like a cafe but I'm not sure if it's open, (we went during the week). The Blue Whale is definitely a great place to stop, especially if you're traveling down the...

Such a classic and iconic stop on Route 66! Must stop and see. Unfortunately you cannot swim here anymore (after looking at the water you wouldn't want to anyways). You can still go on the whale and walk around and climb the stairs. Really neat piece of Americana. Free to do.

While built in the 1970s which some might consider the fading days of Route 66, it seems this spot has become a Mother Road icon. It used to be a real swimming hole, but now the water is just for looking. I researched this before our family travels, and thought the site would be one of those places that gets a lot of attention but doesn't really deserve it. I didn't feel this way at all when I visited. The kids (ages 6 to 10) enjoyed exploring the whale, climbing up the tail, and climbing up the inner level. The gift shop was closed when we were there on a late Friday afternoon in mid-October. There are picnic tables for those who want to stop and eat a cooler-packed meal.

Maybe not something you go out of your way for, but it's a nice fun stop with a chance to stretch your legs. And a chance to see an attraction along the...