The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton recently reported it had enjoyed its highest-grossing day in its three-decade history — another sign of a boost from the highway’s centennial.
KECO Radio in nearby Elk City reported:
The record-setting day on Tuesday, June 30, generated more than seven times the museum’s typical daily revenue, reflecting sustained growth in visitation and increased engagement from travelers exploring Oklahoma’s stretch of the Mother Road.
The milestone reflects a larger trend for the museum. Through the first six months of 2026, attendance has increased by 300% compared with the same period last year, putting the museum on pace for its strongest year ever.
“This milestone is about much more than one exceptional day,” said Cory Cart, APR, director of the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. “We are seeing unprecedented interest from travelers around the world who want to experience the history, culture and communities that make Route 66 so special. The Centennial has created incredible momentum, but our team has worked intentionally to ensure every visitor leaves with an experience worth sharing.”
Jessica Brogdon, director of communications for the Oklahoma Historical Society that runs the museum, told Route 66 News that the museum recorded 671 paid admissions on June 30, but it did not include people who were only there to browse the gift shop and get their Route 66 passport stamped.
“If we add those numbers in, it is probably more than 750 people for June 30. The average number is 125,” she wrote in an email.
The museum opened on Sept. 23, 1995, and is the oldest dedicated to the Mother Road. It was constructed for about $1.1 million, with about $250,000 raised by Clinton residents.
Oklahoma-based architect Rand Elliott designed the museum. He also designed the popular Pops along Route 66 in Arcadia, Oklahoma.
In 2022, the museum received over $1 million for improvements and new exhibits.
(Image of the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton courtesy of Oklahoma Tourism)