Stay Gold & Roll On: The Outsiders, Route 66 & Hidden Tulsa

Some stories live in books and movies—but this one, The Outsiders, I got to live it.

Some trips don’t just take you somewhere new—they take you back in time. My visit to Tulsa, Oklahoma, was one of those journeys, rooted in literature, film, and the timeless spirit of Route 66.

Walking in the Footsteps of The Outsiders

Tulsa is forever tied to S. E. Hinton’s classic novel The Outsiders and the beloved 1983 movie adaptation. I had the incredible opportunity to tour the city with none other than Tommy Howell (yes—C. Thomas Howell, who played Ponyboy). We explored The Outsiders House Museum and visited filming locations that fans will instantly recognize.

As if that weren’t enough, we were joined by S. E. Hinton herself, who shared stories, insights, and behind-the-scenes details about her book and its adaptation. Standing in those spots with both the actor and the author made the experience unforgettable.

Exploring Tulsa Along Route 66

Tulsa also sits proudly along Historic Route 66, and we took time to enjoy some of its classic landmarks:

• Ike’s Chili – Serving its famous bowls since 1908, this stop has fed everyone from Will Rogers to Clark Gable. A must for anyone driving the Mother Road.

• Meadow Gold Sign – A restored neon treasure that lights up the heart of Route 66 in Tulsa.

• Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios – A quirky roadside shop complete with a giant space cowboy Muffler Man—exactly the kind of whimsy Route 66 is known for.

• East Gateway Arch – Welcoming travelers to the city with bold retro style.

  
  

Each stop was a reminder that Route 66 isn’t just a road—it’s a living time capsule of Americana.

Local Flavor & Unexpected Finds

Beyond The Outsiders and Route 66, we also discovered Tulsa’s modern side. We spent an evening at a lively festival in the park and enjoyed dinner in the Boxyard, a creative shopping and dining district built entirely from shipping containers. It was the perfect contrast—vintage stories by day, fresh and vibrant flavors by night.

Why Tulsa Belongs on Your Travel List

For anyone who loves classic books, iconic films, or the romance of America’s highways, Tulsa is a destination that delivers. It’s where history, pop culture, and community pride all intersect.