{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"The Mother Road\u2019s Biggest Splash: New Blue Whale of Catoosa Visitor Center","description":"Oklahoma\u2019s most iconic, quirky Route 66 landmark is getting a massive upgrade! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we are diving into the historic grand opening of the brand-new 4,000-square-foot Visitor Center at the Blue Whale of Catoosa. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 30, 2026, because Catoosa is throwing a massive, day-long celebration packed with fitness, food, live music, and fireworks. Whether you\u2019re a Route 66 road-tripper, a history buff, or looking for a perfect Oklahoma weekend day trip, this is a milestone event you won't want to miss as we head toward the Route 66 Centennial. In this episode, we cover:   The Whalesome History: How a retired Tulsa Zoo zoologist named Hugh S. Davis built this 80-foot iron and concrete masterpiece in the 1970s as a surprise anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta.   Then vs. Now: Moving from a bustling local family swimming hole to a global bucket-list photo op.   The New Neon Sign: For the first time in its 50+ year history, see how a brand-new neon sign is lighting up the Catoosa skyline.   The Upgraded Amenities: What travelers can expect inside the new facility, including a massive gift shop, historical photo galleries, local artwork, updated restrooms, concessions, and a community meeting hall.   Grand Opening Schedule (May 30, 2026): Details on the Route 66 Blue Whale Run (1-Mile Fun Run &amp;amp; 5K) at 8:00 AM, the craft vendor market and food trucks at 12:00 PM, the official Ribbon Cutting at 2:00 PM, live music at 4:00 PM, and the grand finale fireworks show.   Traveler &amp;amp; Visitor Information:   Location: 2600\u20132680 N State Hwy 66, Catoosa, OK 74015 (Just east of Tulsa in Rogers County).   Admission: Completely FREE! Open daily during daylight hours.   Bonus Tip: While you're in town, don't forget to check out the nearby D.W. Correll Museum.   Contact: 918-266-2505 or 918-857-0676   Also discussed: &amp;nbsp;Think Ability Inc - OKC Thunder - Modern Berry Co - Bristow Route 66 Toy Museum \u2013 Misfit Pits BBQ \u2013 NYC Pizza South - Dados Pizza OKC Resources Mentioned:   Official Website:  City of Catoosa Blue Whale Page    Check out our website for more Oklahoma hidden gems: Only in OKlahoma Show   Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Only in OK Show wherever you listen to podcasts! ","author_name":"Only in OKlahoma Show","author_url":"https:\/\/www.onlyinok.com\/","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/41399030\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/202240380"}