Want to explore a classic Route 66 town with vintage charm? Head to Afton, Oklahoma! Tucked in northeast Oklahoma, Afton is a nostalgic stop packed with history, iconic roadside attractions, and friendly small-town vibes. Whether you're following the Mother Road or enjoying nearby lakes, Afton offers a laid-back slice of Americana.
Afton, OK Highlights:
- Stop by the Afton Station Packard Museum: See beautifully restored vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia in a retro service station.
- Take photos with Route 66 roadside relics: Find classic signage, murals, and photo ops that celebrate the Mother Road’s legacy.
- Visit Buffalo Ranch Trading Post: Formerly a bustling Route 66 stop, it’s now a quirky roadside park and picnic area.
- Fish or boat at Grand Lake o' the Cherokees: Just a short drive away, this massive lake offers top-tier outdoor recreation.
- Explore historic downtown Afton: Though quiet, the town center hints at its once-busy Route 66 heyday.
When I like to visit Afton, OK
The best time to visit Afton is from late spring through early fall (April to October). These months offer warm weather for road trips, lake outings, and enjoying scenic drives along historic Route 66.
Tips for getting to Afton, OK
- If you are traveling by car: Afton is right off historic Route 66 and U.S. Highway 69, about 1 hour from Tulsa and 2.5 hours from Oklahoma City.
- By Air: Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is the nearest major airport, located approximately 70 miles southwest of Afton.
- By Bus: There are limited bus services directly to Afton, so driving is the most convenient option for travelers.
Where I like to stay in Afton, OK
- WorldMark Grand Lake – Resort-style lodging on Monkey Island, perfect for families or couples seeking lake access and comfort.
- The Lodge at Grand Lake – A cozy lakeside hotel just minutes away in nearby Grove with outdoor activities and rustic charm.
- Local RV Parks and Campgrounds – Ideal for road-trippers and campers traveling along Route 66 or exploring Grand Lake.
Best Things to Do in Afton, OK
1. Shangri-La Resort
Shangri-La Golf Club, Resort & Marina is an upscale golf resort located at the tip of Monkey Island in the Oklahoma’s magnificent Grand Lake O’ the Cherokee. The resort provides the first class golf, boating, parasailing, yacht charters and luxury lodging. Luxury resort hotel has 119 rooms with patios and fireplaces and state-of-the-art amenities, such as roof-top cocktails; swimming, sunbathing, casual dining and waterfront entertainment. The prestigious golf course includes an elite clubhouse with the Golf Shop, the Buffalo Bar, the Summit Restaurant and a state-of-the-art gym. Shangri-La Golf Club has three courses with 27 holes of Championship Golf. The resort also includes a full-service marina with shuttles to golf and restaurants.
57301 E, OK-125, Afton, OK 74331, Phone: 918-257-4204
2. Miller Pecan Company
Miller Pecan Company is one of the few pecan producers in the country that handle pecans from planting, grafting, growing, harvesting, cleaning, shelling and marketing, It is a family owned and run operation established in the 1980 located in Afton, Oklahoma ,where pecans grow at the river bottoms and creek beds of Northeast Oklahoma. Recognized as 2017 Pecan Grower of the Year by the Oklahoma Pecan Grower’s Association, Miller Pecan Company provides environmentally responsible, delicious fruits for cake-makers, five-star-restaurants, families and bakeries. Check their website for great recipes for all things you can make with their pecans.
21853 US-69, Afton, OK 74331, Phone: 918-257-6887
Where I Like to Eat in Afton, OK
- El Vallarta Mexican Restaurant – A local favorite for generous portions of flavorful Tex-Mex fare in a casual setting.
- Hi-Way Café – Classic Route 66 diner with all-day breakfast, burgers, and that nostalgic roadside vibe.
- The Parrot Steakhouse & Grill (in Grove) – Great option for hearty American meals just a short drive away.
My favorite local events:
- Grand Lake Boat and Sport Show (March) – Held in nearby Grove, it’s a hit with boating enthusiasts and families.
- Route 66 Festival (Summer, nearby Vinita or Miami, OK) – Celebrate classic cars, music, and the Mother Road spirit.
- Pelican Festival (October, in Grove) – Family fun with vendors, crafts, and pelican-watching on Grand Lake.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Afton, Oklahoma:
- Grove, OK (20–25 min) – Visit Har-Ber Village Museum, shop boutiques, or enjoy lakeside dining.
- Vinita, OK (15–20 min) – Tour historic Route 66 sites and dine at Clanton’s Café, one of Oklahoma’s oldest restaurants.
- Miami, OK (25–30 min) – Explore the Coleman Theatre and check out more Route 66 attractions.
- Monkey Island (25–30 min) – Golf, spa, or dine in this upscale lakeside area on Grand Lake.
- Bernice Area at Grand Lake State Park (20 min) – Fish, camp, or spot wildlife along nature trails and the lake shore.
- Bluejacket, OK (15–20 min) – Visit rustic countryside or explore backroads rich with Route 66 charm.
Plan Your Trip