Documenting - Route 66 - Blue Whale

The Blue Whale sits along Route 66 in Catoosa, OK, built around 1970 as an anniversary gift the whale and pond soon became a favorite of locals and travelers.

As the location grew in popularity they added a sand beach, picnic areas, and lifeguards to keep swimmers safe.

Later they added more attractions and opened as a roadside stop, attracting travelers along route 66.

The attraction became too much to run in the 80s and was close, soon after falling into disrepair. The first time I found this spot in 2010 it was kinda scary for me, but I stayed and took pictures.

By the time I stopped in 2013 locals had started to restore the once-popular swimming hole. They have repainted the Whale and work to keep the location open for travelers and locals to stop for pictures.

If you stop at the right time the gift shop may be open and you can pick up something to bring home with you. Remember to stop and support the attractions and stores along these old Highways, small family business is the backbone of our country.