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Monument · Tulsa, Oklahoma
Blue Whale of Catoosa
Sculpture of a smiling blue whale about 24 meters long over a pond beside Route 66 in Catoosa, near Tulsa, built in the 1970s and a symbol of the highway.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Blue Whale of Catoosa
Catoosa’s blue whale was built in the early 1970s by Hugh Davis along Route 66 as an anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta, who collected whale figures. The concrete-and-iron sculpture, about 24 meters long, stood over the pond where the family and neighbors used to swim.
The site became a roadside stop for highway travelers and, after a period of neglect, was restored by the local community. Today swimming is not allowed in the pond, but visitors can go inside the whale, climb up through its mouth and walk the surrounding boardwalks and picnic areas.
The whale appears in Route 66 guides and photos and is one of the most visited stops in Oklahoma, alongside old gas stations and roadside signage.
A small gift shop operates next door for part of the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes.
Best time
During the day, preferably in the morning, with light on the whale.
How to get there
It’s on the old Route 66 in Catoosa, about 25 km northeast of downtown Tulsa by car.
Tip
There is no admission fee; maintenance is supported by donations. Swimming in the pond is not allowed.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Blue Whale of Catoosa
Where is the Route 66 blue whale?
In Catoosa, about 25 km northeast of Tulsa on the old Route 66.
Does the Catoosa blue whale charge admission?
There is no admission fee. Maintenance is supported by donations.
Can you swim in the blue whale’s pond?
No. The pond is not used for swimming; visitors can enter the whale and walk the boardwalks.