Afton is located on U.S. Highway 60/69, which is also the historic U.S. Highway 66. Several examples of classic road architecture, historic road surfaces, and a bridge tell the story of different periods in Route 66 history. In addition, Afton offers marinas, an annual boating event, and fishing trips on Grand Lake. When planning your trip, it is worth distinguishing between these topics: the structures and road sections tell the story of the area's history, while the boat show and fishing trips involve specific dates or available tours.
Route 66 History in Afton
The Cities Service Station was built in 1933 in the Mission Revival or Spanish Revival style. It is significant because of its connection to Route 66; the building is not in use. Horse Creek Bridge is located on the northeastern edge of Afton and was built in 1936 as part of Route 66. It is a 140-foot-long steel truss bridge. A continuous reinforced-concrete walkway runs along each side. The different construction dates place the station and bridge in two successive phases of local Route 66 history. The economic background is also part of the story: in the 1920s and 1930s, U.S. Highway 66 brought more industry to Afton.
An even earlier chapter is Ribbon Road. It was built in the early 1920s, before Route 66, and was also part of the original Ozark Trail Highway. The nine-foot width refers to the original Ribbon Road, which is listed as an Oklahoma National Historic Landmark. A 13-mile section of historic road surface runs between Miami and Afton. Its condition may change, so check its current condition before making a detour.
Marinas and Fishing Trips
Afton's marina offerings vary in focus. Sail Grand operates at Shangri-La Marina and offers Sea-Doo rides. Thunder Bay Marina offers boat slips and moorings. Ugly John's Grill & Bar is also located there, serving hamburgers, sandwiches, fish, chicken, and ribs. Marina offerings and menus may change; check the latest information before your visit.
Fishing trips are another way to experience Grand Lake. Shangri-La Guide Service offers bookable fishing trips on Grand Lake. The company specializes in catching largemouth bass, white bass, and crappie. Check availability again before your trip. This makes it easier to choose a specific activity: Sail Grand offers Sea-Doo rides, while the fishing trips on Grand Lake target particular fish species.
Mahogany & Chrome Boat Show
The Mahogany & Chrome Boat Show is held annually at Cherokee Yacht Club & Marina in Afton. It brings together more than 50 historic wooden boats and retro fiberglass boats; the number may vary from year to year. Participants take to the waters of Grand Lake O' The Cherokees. Dates and event details may change. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the specific date before making plans. Unlike the enduring historical context of the Route 66 structures, the show is tied to an annual event date.
Museums and Local History
Afton's museums also have different visiting conditions. The Darryl Starbird National Rod and Custom Hall of Fame Museum was located in Afton but is no longer open. The Crosstar Flag & Tag Museum in Afton was founded by Vietnam War veteran Al Childs. Along with the road structures, the museums' history shows that Afton's cultural story extends beyond Route 66; for trip planning, however, what matters is whether you're interested in historic structures, marina offerings, or an event with a set date.
Discover more destinations: West Siloam Springs, Grove.
View the broader travel guide: Delaware County.
