Along the iconic Route 66 in northeastern Oklahoma, the city of Claremore offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history and small-town charm. With its rich Native American heritage, famous hometown heroes and lively festivals, Claremore is a timeless destination that welcomes you with open arms — and with stories to tell.
At the heart of Claremore’s identity is the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, a stunning tribute to Oklahoma’s favorite son. Rogers, a humorist, actor and social commentator, rose to fame in the early 20th century for his sharp wit and heartfelt observations of American life. The museum is the final resting place of Rogers and most of his family, and houses a vast collection of memorabilia, including original manuscripts, photographs and personal belongings.
“We live in a world right now where people like to divide us. Will [Rogers] was a connector, the perfect example of how one person can connect many. When we teach children, we explain that Will was a nice person who used his kindness more than his God-given talents to rope and tell jokes,” says Bart Taylor, the museum’s creative curator and interpreter.
Visitors can watch vintage film clips, explore exhibits on his life and legacy, and participate in activities, such as “Overnight at the Museum” on Oct. 17, or the annual “Trick-or-Treat at the Museum” on Oct. 30.
On Oct. 25-26, Claremore pulses with energy as it hosts the Route 66 Pecan and Music Festival. This family-friendly event transforms the city’s downtown into a bustling hub of activity, with rows of artisan vendors, a car show and, of course, plenty of pecan-inspired treats. Festivalgoers can enjoy live music from regional acts throughout the day and into the evening. The event also includes a carnival, kids’ activities and a petting zoo, making it a perfect fall outing for visitors of all ages.
“It’s the kind of event you can bring the whole family to and nobody’s bored,” says Morgan Williams, manager of The Nut House, a platinum sponsor of the festival. “A festival this big doesn’t happen without neighbors volunteering their time, and local businesses stepping up to help make it all possible. It’s a chance for smaller local vendors to show off what they offer, and for hometown bands to get heard.”
Claremore is also a gateway to Cherokee Nation history. Named after Osage Chief Clermont, the city lies within a region once home to Cherokee settlements following their forced relocation along the Trail of Tears. The Claremore Indian Hospital and nearby tribal landmarks continue to serve as reminders of this important legacy.
For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, Claremore Lake offers walking trails, fishing spots and picnic areas surrounded by the changing colors of autumn. The nearby Rogers State University campus brings a renewed sense of energy and public art to the cityscape, along with the RSU Nature Reserve, perfect for a quiet fall hike.
From the laughter echoing through the Will Rogers Memorial Museum to the festive sounds of October’s pecan-packed celebration, Claremore is a city that knows how to preserve its past while embracing the present. It’s more than a stop on historic Route 66 — it’s a story waiting to be experienced.
Main image cutline: Claremore, hometown of Will Rogers, also offers outdoor recreation via the RSU Nature Reserve. Photo courtesy RSU Nature Reserve
