Travelers on Route 66 in Tulsa now have a new, short side trip to check out — the Route 66 Interpretive Plaza near 11th Street and Mingo Road.
The sign in a median at that intersection that directs you to the plaza and the two Route 66 alignments in Tulsa was finished months ago.
However, the plaques that explained key elements of Route 66’s history in Tulsa were installed just a few days ago. The plaza sits a short distance south of 11th Street in the J.D. Metcalfe Flood Control and Recreation Area, created about two decades ago after a catastrophic flood in 1984.
As the area’s name implies, it’s a spot for walkers, picnickers, and fishermen in addition to flood retention.
But don’t worry too much if you decide to visit the Route 66 Interpretive Plaza after a rainstorm. It lies near the highest point of the flood-control area.
Each of the plaques is mounted on this concrete monolith emblazoned with the Route 66 shield.
The biggest plaque shows a map of Route 66 in Tulsa County, with the two alignments and points of interest. (You can click each photo of the plaques to enlarge them.)
One of the plaques delves into the Avery Tourist Camp, owned by Tulsa resident Cyrus “The Father of Route 66” Avery.
Another plaque describes the two alignments of Route 66 — Admiral Place in 1926-32, and 11th Street in 1932-1973.
Another tells the history of Route 66 motor courts in Tulsa, citing the Campbell Hotel, Oasis Motel, Desert Hills Motel, and Brookshire Motel as surviving examples.
Finally, the last plaque describes the Whittier Square District, best known for the historic Circle Cinema.
The Interpretive Plaza seems somewhat low-key in its presentation and design. But it provides valuable context for novice Route 66 travelers, at a convenient location.
UPDATE: A few folks were having problems seeing the plaque photos, so I reduced them to thumbnail size. You can still click on the photos to enlarge them.