- Please support our journalism through affiliate links. Affiliate Disclosure
Review & FAQ:
-
What makes Catoosa a great day trip destination?
- Located along the legendary Route 66, just 16 miles from Tulsa, Catoosa is a popular destination for day trippers.
-
What attractions can be found in Catoosa?
- The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Catoosa, which boasts a large casino, an eighteen-hole golf course, and plenty of entertainment and dining.
- The Historical Society Museum and the D W Correll Museum for a deep dive into Catoosa's history.
- The Oklahoma Maritime Education Center, which tells the history of the Port of Catoosa.
- The amazing Route 66 Big Blue Whale for a fun and quirky visit.
-
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Catoosa?
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a pleasant and rugged one-mile hiking trail in the Redbud Valley Nature Preserve.
Catoosa vs. Bartlesville, Oklahoma:
Feature | Catoosa | Bartlesville |
---|---|---|
Distance from Tulsa | ~15 miles (~20 min) | ~50 miles (~1 hr) |
Main Attractions |
- Blue Whale of Catoosa (Route 66 landmark) - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - D.W. Correll Museum (vintage cars, rocks, minerals) |
- Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve - Price Tower (Frank Lloyd Wright-designed skyscraper) - Phillips Petroleum Company Museum - Osage Hills State Park (hiking, nature) |
Best for | Quick roadside attractions, gaming, and a short trip | History, architecture, museums, and nature |
Outdoor Activities | Limited (small parks, Route 66 stops) | Hiking, wildlife viewing, lakes, and parks |
Food Options | Mostly casual and casino dining | More variety, including local and historic restaurants |
Cost | Generally lower (except casino expenses) | Entry fees for museums and parks, but overall reasonable |
Kid-Friendly? | Limited (Blue Whale is fun, but not much else) | Yes, Woolaroc and Osage Hills are great for families |
Unique Factor | Quirky roadside charm and Route 66 nostalgia | Rich history, architecture, and nature experiences |

© Susan Vineyard/stock.adobe.com
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Arcadia
Bartlesville
Beaver’s Bend State Park
Bixby
Blue Hole Park
Catoosa
Claremore
Lake Eufaula
Eureka Springs
Foyil
Grand Lake
Jenks
Little Sahara State Park
Muskogee
Natural Falls State Park
Oklahoma City
Oologah
Pawhuska
Red Fork
Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park
Sequoyah State Park
Talimena Skyline Drive
Tallgrass Prairie
Turner Falls Park
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Plan Your Trip
Get Ready to Go!
- Search flights and stays nearby.
- Book your tour or local activity.
- Book your car rental.
Need some more help?
Go to travel reservations.