Welcome to Clinton, Oklahoma
Tucked away in western Oklahoma, Clinton is a quintessential Route 66 town brimming with history, charm, and the enduring spirit of the Mother Road. Once a bustling hub for travelers making their way west, Clinton continues to welcome visitors with a blend of classic Americana, local flavor, and vibrant community pride. Whether you’re road-tripping Route 66 or seeking small-town hospitality, Clinton offers a journey through time and a taste of true Oklahoma warmth.
History of Clinton
Founded in 1903, Clinton began as a railway town, quickly becoming an important agricultural and trade center in Custer County. Originally called Washita Junction, the city was renamed in honor of Judge Clinton Irwin. By the 1920s, Clinton had grown into a regional commercial center, complete with schools, banks, and thriving businesses. With the arrival of Route 66, Clinton embraced its identity as a service town for travelers, fueling growth and establishing itself as a Mother Road mainstay.
Weather in Clinton
Clinton experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons:
- Summer: Hot and dry, with average highs around 92°F (33°C)
- Fall: Mild and pleasant, with highs in the 70s°F (21–26°C)
- Winter: Cool and dry, with average lows near 25°F (-4°C) and occasional snow
- Spring: Warmer temperatures and frequent thunderstorms
Spring and fall are ideal for travel, offering comfortable weather and beautiful prairie landscapes.
The History of Route 66 in Clinton
Clinton earned its nickname as the “Hub City of Western Oklahoma” due in part to its prominent role on Route 66. As the Mother Road surged westward in the late 1920s, Clinton became a vital pit stop between Oklahoma City and Amarillo, Texas. The city thrived with motels, diners, filling stations, and even an auto court designed to cater to the constant stream of travelers. After the highway was decommissioned, Clinton preserved its Route 66 legacy, becoming home to one of the best Route 66 museums in the country.
A Legendary Highway Meets a Growing Town
When Route 66 was officially commissioned in 1926, Clinton, Oklahoma was already a young but growing town. Founded in 1903 and strategically located at the junction of U.S. Highway 183 and the Rock Island Railroad, Clinton quickly transformed from a farming and trade hub into a service epicenter for travelers headed west.
With Route 66 threading its way through town, Clinton was dubbed the “Hub City of Western Oklahoma.” Its convenient location and forward-thinking citizens allowed it to flourish, becoming one of the most prominent and reliable stops along the Mother Road.
Route 66 Fuels Clinton’s Golden Era
During the 1930s and 1940s, Clinton thrived. Despite the hardships of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, Route 66 ensured a steady stream of travelers and commerce. Motorists stopped in Clinton for fuel, food, lodging, and automotive repairs, and local entrepreneurs seized the opportunity by opening service stations, cafes, motor courts, and trading posts.
Notable historic businesses from this era included:
- The Glancy Motel, a classic motor court that has served travelers since the 1940s
- Pop Hicks Restaurant, a beloved diner and Clinton landmark (sadly destroyed by fire in 1999)
- The Trade Winds Inn, where Elvis Presley is said to have stayed in Room 215
As traffic increased, so did Clinton’s reputation. The city became known for its friendly locals, well-maintained facilities, and welcoming atmosphere—qualities that made it a consistent highlight on travelers’ Route 66 itineraries.
The Decline of the Mother Road
In the late 1950s and 1960s, the construction of Interstate 40 began to reroute travelers away from traditional Route 66 paths. For towns like Clinton, this was a pivotal moment. By the early 1980s, Route 66 was decommissioned as a federal highway, and Clinton’s tourism economy felt the blow.
Yet, instead of letting the past fade, Clinton embraced its heritage. Civic leaders and residents recognized the historical and cultural value of Route 66, leading to efforts to preserve and promote the town’s legacy.
Clinton Becomes a Guardian of Route 66
In 1995, Clinton opened the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, a landmark achievement that cemented its status as a major preservationist city along the Mother Road. Operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society, the museum offers visitors a fully immersive experience, with themed galleries that walk you through the decades of Route 66’s evolution—from the Dust Bowl era to the golden age of the automobile.
The museum revitalized local interest in Route 66 and drew in thousands of travelers annually, reigniting Clinton’s role as a vital stop on modern Route 66 road trips.
Other preservation projects included:
- Restoring vintage neon signs, like those at the Glancy Motel
- Maintaining McLain Rogers Park, a WPA-era park with Art Deco architecture and an iconic Route 66 sign
- Hosting local festivals and events themed around Route 66 culture
Today: A Living Legacy
Today, Clinton’s stretch of Route 66 serves as both a historical landmark and a living tribute to mid-century American road culture. The city combines nostalgia with hospitality, inviting travelers to experience the authentic charm of the Mother Road.
Whether you’re snapping a photo by a classic neon sign, standing in awe of a vintage Cadillac at the museum, or staying in a historic motel, Route 66 is alive and well in Clinton—and its story continues to unfold with each passing traveler.
Route 66 Attractions in Clinton
1. Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
Address: 2229 W Gary Blvd, Clinton, OK
The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum is Clinton’s crown jewel—and one of the premier Route 66 museums in the country. Operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society, this immersive experience takes visitors through the history of Route 66 decade by decade, from its Dust Bowl origins to the golden age of car travel and beyond.
Highlights:
- Vintage cars, jukeboxes, and diner exhibits
- A 1950s-style diner room complete with music and neon
- A gift shop filled with Route 66 memorabilia
Tip: Don’t rush—take time to absorb each themed room and snap photos outside by the iconic Route 66 sign.
2. Glancy Motel
Address: 217 W Gary Blvd, Clinton, OK
The Glancy Motel was a vintage motor court with unmistakable 1950s character. Its bold retro neon sign is one of the most photographed in Clinton, and the motel’s architecture harks back to the golden age of highway travel.
While some Route 66 organizations were considering trying to preserve the Clancy Motel for its Route 66 history, it was ultimately closed for lack of business. The city of Clinton voted to demolish the property along with the Pop Hicks Restaurant site next door and donate it to the Oklahoma State Police for a new facility.
Why Visit:
- The original neon sign still lights up the night
- A perfect backdrop for nostalgic road trip photos
- A reminder of the heyday of Route 66 motor lodges
3. Trade Winds Inn
Address: 2128 W Gary Blvd, Clinton, OK
More than just a place to stay, the Trade Winds Inn is a Route 66 landmark with a claim to fame—Elvis Presley once stayed here, and the motel proudly preserves Room 215 in his honor with memorabilia and photos.
Attraction Features:
- Elvis memorabilia and photos
- Vintage motel charm
- Easy access to other Route 66 spots in Clinton
Why Visit:
A reminder of the heyday of Route 66 motor lodges
The original neon sign still lights up the night
A perfect backdrop for nostalgic road trip photos
4. McLain Rogers Park
Address: 915 W 10th St, Clinton, OK
Built in the 1930s as a WPA project, McLain Rogers Park is a beautifully preserved slice of Art Deco Americana. It features original stonework, a historic band shell, and one of the largest neon Route 66 signs in the state. It’s a picturesque spot for a break from the road.
Things to See:
- WPA-era architecture and stone bridges
- Vintage amusement rides (seasonal)
- Iconic Route 66 neon arch sign over the park entrance
Local Tip: Visit around sunset to catch the neon sign glowing against the evening sky.
5. Route 66 Arch Sign
Location: Entrance to McLain Rogers Park
Though technically part of McLain Rogers Park, the Route 66 Arch Sign deserves its own recognition. It spans the entrance to the park and stands as a beacon for Route 66 travelers.
Photo Opportunity: This massive neon-lit sign is a must-stop for selfies, family portraits, or social media posts with classic Route 66 flair.
6. Clinton Veterans Memorial at Acme Park
Address: Off Jaycee Lane in Acme Park
A quieter, more reflective site, the Clinton Veterans Memorial honors those who served in America’s armed forces. Located in a shaded park area not far from the Route 66 corridor, it offers a peaceful moment for contemplation amid the road trip excitement.
Why Stop Here:
- Learn about local heroes
- Peaceful setting with walking paths
- A connection between patriotic history and Route 66’s cultural roots
7. Antique & Vintage Shops Downtown
Location: Historic Downtown Clinton (off Main St)
While not a single destination, Clinton’s historic downtown is dotted with antique stores, thrift shops, and local boutiques that are perfect for Route 66 explorers seeking unique souvenirs or glimpses into the past.
Must-See Spots:
- Route 66-themed antiques
- Old storefronts with mid-century charm
- Murals and window displays capturing Clinton’s roadside legacy
Lodging in Clinton
Whether you’re looking for retro charm or modern convenience, Clinton offers several lodging options:
- Glancy Motel – Route 66 nostalgia with vintage flair.
- Trade Winds Inn – Historic, with a connection to Elvis.
- Hampton Inn Clinton – Reliable comfort with indoor pool and free breakfast.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites – Family-friendly and pet-welcoming.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Clinton – A budget option with updated amenities.
Places to Eat on Route 66 in Clinton
White Dog Hill Restaurant
A restored 1920s country club perched on a hill east of Clinton. Offers fine dining, steak, seafood, and sweeping views of the prairie.
Jiggs Smoke House
A legendary BBQ joint just outside of Clinton in nearby Burns Flat—worth the short drive for massive sandwiches and a rustic vibe.
Gayla’s Café
A friendly, down-home diner serving breakfast and lunch with fresh pies and Route 66 hospitality.
McLain Rogers Park Snack Bar
Open seasonally, this nostalgic stand adds extra charm to your visit.
Tips for Visiting Clinton
- Visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum early to beat the crowds and get great photos.
- Travel in spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.
- Take time to explore downtown Clinton, where you’ll find antique stores and local shops.
- Follow the neon—many of Clinton’s historic signs light up at night and are perfect for Route 66 night photography.
- Check the calendar for local events, such as the Route 66 Festival or Clinton Rodeo Days.
Final Thoughts on Clinton
Clinton, Oklahoma, stands as a proud guardian of Route 66 heritage. With its engaging museum, historic motels, and heartfelt hospitality, the town offers a deep dive into the golden age of road travel. Whether you’re chasing neon signs, classic eats, or stories from the open road, Clinton invites you to park the car, stay awhile, and rediscover the joy of America’s Main Street.
