Bridgeport OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bridgeport, Oklahoma.
1. William H. Murray Bridge (Pony Bridge)
HISTORIC ROUTE 66 CROSSING
The William H. Murray Bridge, commonly known as Pony Bridge, is a landmark structure on Route 66 near Bridgeport and one of the longest bridges on the famous American road. The historic bridge is currently undergoing reconstruction with 38 salvaged trusses being reinstalled to preserve its iconic status. Travelers on Route 66 consider this bridge a must-see attraction that represents an important piece of American highway history.
2. Bridgeport Hill Service Station
ROUTE 66 NOSTALGIC STOP
The Bridgeport Hill Service Station stands as a reminder of Route 66's golden era of roadside services. Visitors can explore this historic gas station that once served travelers making their way along the Mother Road. The location offers photography opportunities and a glimpse into mid-century American road culture.
3. Historic Canadian River Bridge
ENGINEERING MARVEL LANDMARK
The Historic Canadian River Bridge represents an important engineering achievement in Oklahoma's transportation history. The bridge spans the Canadian River and has been a crucial crossing point for travelers for decades. Its distinctive design makes it a favorite spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
4. Little's Cafe and Service Station
VINTAGE ROADSIDE EATERY
Little's Cafe and Service Station was once a popular stopping point for hungry travelers along Route 66. The historic establishment combined dining and automobile services in a classic American roadside format. Though no longer operating in its original capacity, the site remains of interest to Route 66 enthusiasts and history buffs.
5. Hinton Junction
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION HUB
Hinton Junction served as an important intersection point for travelers navigating through western Oklahoma. The junction connected multiple routes and provided services to motorists during the heyday of American road travel. Today, it stands as a historical marker of transportation development in the region.
6. Blue Whale of Catoosa
ICONIC ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is one of the most famous Oklahoma roadside attractions and a beloved icon along Route 66. Built by Hugh Davis for his wife Zelta on their family swimming pond, it was later opened to the public as a swimming hole before closing in the late 1980s. Today, the whimsical blue whale has been preserved as a must-see stop for Route 66 travelers and offers excellent photo opportunities.
7. Arcadia Round Barn
UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL WONDER
The Arcadia Round Barn is the only round barn on Route 66, built in the late 1800s predating the Mother Road itself. After falling into disrepair, this unique structure was saved by locals who raised funds for its restoration due to its significance on Route 66. Now functioning as a museum with a gift shop, it hosts special events and stands as one of the most photographed landmarks along the historic highway.
8. The Cave House
QUIRKY HISTORICAL DWELLING
The Cave House in Tulsa is a distinctive attraction known for its unusual architecture and fascinating history. Originally built in the 1920s, this quirky structure has served various purposes throughout its existence including as a restaurant and speakeasy during Prohibition. Today, visitors can tour this oddity and learn about its colorful past while enjoying its whimsical design.
9. Center of the Universe
ACOUSTIC ANOMALY LANDMARK
The Center of the Universe in Tulsa is a mysterious acoustic phenomenon where standing in a specific spot creates an echo that only the speaker can hear. This unusual attraction is marked by a concrete circle in downtown Tulsa and has become a popular spot for visitors to test the strange acoustic properties. The unexplained nature of this sound anomaly has made it one of Tulsa's most intriguing free attractions.
10. Centennial Land Run Monument
HISTORIC BRONZE SCULPTURE
The Centennial Land Run Monument is an impressive bronze sculpture depicting the Oklahoma Land Run of 1889. The monument features 45 larger-than-life figures of land run participants rushing to claim new territory. Stretching across 365 feet, it's one of the largest bronze sculptures in the world and offers visitors a dramatic visualization of this pivotal moment in Oklahoma history.
11. BOK Center
MODERN ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE
The BOK Center is a striking contemporary arena in downtown Tulsa known for its innovative architectural design. The venue hosts major concerts, sporting events, and conventions throughout the year, making it a cultural hub for the region. Its unique exterior, inspired by Native American imagery and designed by renowned architect César Pelli, has made it an iconic structure in Oklahoma's urban landscape.
12. Lake Hefner Lighthouse
URBAN MARITIME LANDMARK
The Lake Hefner Lighthouse stands as a surprising maritime feature in landlocked Oklahoma City. Located at East Wharf, this functional lighthouse serves as both a navigational aid and a scenic landmark for visitors to enjoy. The area surrounding the lighthouse offers beautiful views of the water, walking paths, and is particularly photogenic at sunset.
13. Talimena Scenic Byway
BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The Talimena Scenic Byway is a stunning 54-mile drive that winds through the Ouachita Mountains between Oklahoma and Arkansas. Famous for its spectacular views, especially during fall foliage season, the road features numerous vista points where travelers can stop and photograph the sweeping landscapes. The byway provides access to hiking trails, camping areas, and other outdoor recreational opportunities throughout the Ouachita National Forest.
14. Bridgeport Hill
HISTORIC ROUTE 66 SEGMENT
Bridgeport Hill represents a notable section of the original Route 66 alignment that challenged early motorists with its steep grade. Drivers of vintage automobiles would often struggle to climb this incline, making it a memorable point in the journey along the Mother Road. Today, Route 66 enthusiasts can drive this historic section to experience a piece of authentic American road history.
15. Lip Curbs
UNIQUE ROUTE 66 FEATURE
The Lip Curbs near Bridgeport are distinctive roadway features that remain from the early days of Route 66 construction. These unusual curbs were designed to help guide vehicles and prevent them from slipping off the roadway during inclement weather. Preservation efforts have maintained these historic engineering elements, making them a point of interest for Route 66 historians and roadway architecture enthusiasts.