An interactive video at the Chandler Route 66 Interpretive Center takes visitors on a journey through time to explore the history of Route 66. Lincoln County also offers other perspectives on its past: from family stories dating back to before the 1891 Land Run to Czech pioneers and memorabilia from different decades. Lakes, trails and annual festivals add nature and local events to these discoveries.
Route 66: Memorabilia, Buildings and Street Art
The Chandler Route 66 Interpretive Center displays Route 66 memorabilia spanning the 1930s to the present. Alongside the collection is an interactive video experience that takes visitors on a journey through time to explore the road’s history. The building has a story of its own: the center is housed in the historic Chandler Armory, built in 1937 as part of the New Deal. Here, the history of Route 66 and the era in which the building was constructed meet in one place.
Lincoln County has attractions along Route 66. The Route 66 Push Pin features colorful stained-glass-style panels with designs inspired by aviation, bison, musical heritage and well-known Oklahoma landmarks. In Stroud, the Lincoln County Express is a quirky roadside attraction along Route 66. The City of Stroud purchased and restored it, then set it up next to the Rock Cafe. The Route 66 Spirit of America Museum is also located along Route 66 in Stroud. Street parking is available; accessible entry is through the rear entrance.
Pioneer History and Family Memories
The Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History explores Oklahoma’s history through artifacts, archival materials, creative exhibits and genealogical research. Its collection includes photographs from across the county, as well as artifacts from families whose histories go back to before the 1891 Land Run. This offers a view that ranges from the history of the state to the stories passed down by individual families. Admission to the exhibits is free.
Prague: Czech Roots and Annual Festivals
The Prague Historical Museum tells the story of the Czech pioneers who founded Prague in 1902. The museum also displays memorabilia from Olympic athlete Jim Thorpe, who was born in Prague. An outbuilding houses an antique fire engine and an antique buggy, as well as an antique loom from the early 19th century. These exhibits offer several points of connection: the town’s founding, its ties to Jim Thorpe and historic everyday objects.
Held annually, the Prague Kolache Festival celebrates Czech tradition in Prague. The program includes polka music, dancing, food and a parade; a contest determines the best kolaches. The Chandler Ice Cream Festival is also held annually. It features free ice cream, carousel rides, live music by local artists and numerous food stands, as well as a homemade ice cream contest. The Meeker Round Up Club Rodeo adds bull riding, barrel racing, team roping and children’s events to the annual lineup. If you’d like to plan your trip around one of these festivals, check the event dates.
Lakes, Trails and Outdoor Activities
Meeker Lake covers 250 acres of water and has a five-mile shoreline. The lake has a nature trail and equestrian trails, as well as boat ramps and docks. The water-surface area and shoreline figures describe different measurements; the trails and boating facilities offer other ways to experience the lake.
The Bell Cow Lake Trail System runs along the shore of Bell Cow Lake near Chandler. It accommodates horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. The Flat Rock Trail at Bell Cow Lake is 12.4 miles long round trip.
Places to Stay and Local Stories
Sparks America Campground offers tent and RV sites across 200 acres, as well as an outdoor, biker-friendly event center. If you’re planning to travel with a tent or RV, this is a specific camping option in the county. The Butcher BBQ Stand tells another Route 66 story: located right along Route 66, it was founded by a father-and-son team after they had spent eight years gaining experience in competitive barbecue.
Discover more destinations: Harrah, Wellston, Custer, Okfuskee County, Pottawatomie County, Okmulgee County, Comanche County, Love
For the broader travel overview: Oklahoma.
