Scott Shinn - Founder & CEO

Blacktop Candy’s
American Classic
Auto Tours

322 Village Loop Dr
Apex, NC 27502

866.437.4077 Toll Free
919.439.8733 x301
866.370.2189 Fax

8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST

As you travel historic Route 66 west-bound through Oklahoma, just a few miles north-east of Tulsa lives the Blue Whale – one of the most photographed landmarks on Route 66 and once a favorite swimming whole to both locals and Route 66 travelers as well.

Built in 1972 by Hugh S. Davis - Boy Scout, photographer, zoologist, lecturer, father, grandfather and great-grandfather – the Blue Whale was a surprise anniversary gift to his wife Zelta, who collected whale figurines. Situated in eye-shot from historic Route 66, the Blue Whale immediately began attracting both locals and travelers seeking solace from the summer heat.

The pond surrounding the Blue Whale was originally intended solely for the pleasure of the Davis family, but as popularity grew, Hugh brought in tons of sand, picnic benches and life-guards to create a public oasis along Route 66.

Beside the Blue Whale stand the remains of the Animal Reptile Kingdom, also built and operated by Hugh Davis, which featured Hugh’s brother-in-law, Indian Chief Wolf-Robe Hunt, a full blooded Acoma Indian. Chief Wolf-Robe Hunt, a renowned painter and silversmith, also ran the Arrowood Trading Post just across Route 66 from the Blue Whale.

Due to Hugh’s failing health, the Blue Whale closed in 1988, but is still owned by his daughter Dee Dee. Today the Blue Whale is closed to swimmers, but remains open to the public as a picnic spot and an ideal photo opportunity. For more information visit the Official Blue Whale website.