Parts of this park are Temporarily Closed for Renovations!
~currently The Blue Whale of Catoosa is OSHA compliant, complete with his own personal hard hat!
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is one of those roadside attractions that’s exactly what it sounds like—a giant blue whale sitting in a pond off Route 66 in Oklahoma. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and it’s completely free to visit. Whether you’re a Route 66 enthusiast or just someone who appreciates oversized aquatic mammals in unexpected places, this quirky landmark is worth the stop.
Built in the early 1970s by Hugh Davis as an anniversary gift for his wife Zelta (who collected whale figurines), the Blue Whale started as a private swimming hole before opening to the public. For years, it was a beloved roadside stop where families could swim, picnic, and climb around on a giant concrete whale. After falling into disrepair in the 1980s and 90s, local preservationists stepped in to restore it, and today it’s maintained as a free public attraction.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa
The whale itself is about 80 feet long and sits partially submerged in a spring-fed pond. You can walk right up to it, climb the ladder on its tail, and peek inside—though swimming is no longer allowed. The bright blue paint job and cheerful red smile make it impossible to miss from the road.
Climbing Inside the Blue Whale of Catoosa
If you’re up for a little adventure, you can climb the ladder on the whale’s tail and explore inside. It’s a tight squeeze, but the view from the top is worth it. Just be careful—the ladder’s a bit wobbly!
Other Quirky Structures on the Property
The Blue Whale isn’t the only oddity here. The property also features several other whimsical concrete structures, including a mushroom sculpture, a lighthouse-style building, and various animal figures. There used to be a large ark structure as well, but it’s currently in storage while preservationists determine if it can be repaired and restored.
Ongoing Restoration Efforts
The Blue Whale has undergone significant restoration in recent years thanks to dedicated volunteers and Route 66 preservation groups. While some structures (like the ark) are still being evaluated for repair, the site continues to evolve. The property is maintained by the community and relies on donations, so consider leaving a few bucks in the donation box when you visit.
Visitor Information
Address: 2600 N Highway 66, Catoosa, OK 74015
Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
Cost: Free (donations appreciated)
Parking: Small gravel parking lot on-site
Pet-Friendly: Yes! Dogs are welcome on leash.
Accessibility: The grounds are accessible, though climbing the whale requires using a ladder.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Blue Whale of Catoosa
Can you swim in the Blue Whale pond?
No, swimming is no longer allowed. The pond was open for swimming in the past, but it’s now closed to protect the structure and maintain water quality.
Is the Blue Whale of Catoosa open year-round?
Yes! The Blue Whale is accessible every day from dawn to dusk, weather permitting.
How long does it take to visit the Blue Whale?
Most people spend 20-30 minutes exploring the property, taking photos, and climbing around. It’s a quick stop but a memorable one.
Is there anything else to do near the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
The Blue Whale is located along historic Route 66, so you’ll find plenty of other roadside attractions, diners, and quirky stops nearby. Catoosa is also close to Tulsa if you want to explore more of the area.
Can you go inside the Blue Whale?
You can climb up the ladder on the tail and peek inside through the mouth, but the interior is small and mostly hollow. It’s more about the experience of climbing up than what’s inside.
Who maintains the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
The Blue Whale is maintained by local volunteers and Route 66 preservation organizations. Donations help keep the site clean and accessible to visitors.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is pure roadside Americana—weird, whimsical, and completely free. If you’re traveling Route 66 or just passing through Oklahoma, it’s an easy detour that delivers exactly what it promises: a giant blue whale in a pond. Don’t overthink it—just go see the whale.
Looking for more Route 66 oddities? Check out our Things To Do in Oklahoma page for more roadside attractions, or browse our Homepage for travel tips and quirky stops across the country.