Oklahoma – A hidden gem
When you find yourself in Oklahoma, Miami and wanted to do the sightseeing tour, look no more, I have exactly what you need. One of the highlights of tourism in Northeast Oklahoma is the historic Coleman Theatre. This opulent structure was opened in 1929 and has never been dark. George L. Coleman, Sr. had a love for vaudeville theatre and spared no expense in building the Coleman Theatre. Today, thousands of visitors from around the world experience what has been named both the “Crown Jewel of Route 66” and “Oklahoma’s Premier Vaudeville Palace.” Theatre tours and special events are scheduled throughout the year. The new Ballroom & Conference Center provides a great location for a small group meeting or special event. Miami is home to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College. As one of the top 2-year colleges in the nation, NEO prides itself on offering a quality education at a very affordable cost. As a graduate of NEO, I encourage anyone interested in a college education to seriously look at the campus. NEO is the heartbeat of Miami and an important factor in our economic growth. Route 66 was designated in 1926. Miami is proud to have the longest Main Street on this historic highway and also claims the oldest stretch of the original 9-foot highway, “Ribbon Road,” just south of Miami.
Head to North Side of Oklahoma:
Head north about five miles to Commerce, to the boyhood home of baseball legend and American Hero, Mickey Mantle. His father and grandfather started training him around the age of five, pitching to him while he stood in front of their barn—you can still see the dents and dings in the old tin building that served as his backstop. Return to Miami to visit the Ribbon Road, the last original section of Route 66. Walk along this historic pavement put in place before Route 66 was even named. Drive south to Grove, on Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees or spend some time on campus at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and take in the new Charles Banks Wilson Art Gallery. Ready to challenge Lady Luck? Miami serves as the hub for casino entertainment in NE Oklahoma with 13 area casinos. Live concerts are regularly scheduled. Area Tribes hold annual Powwows in the summer months, an ideal time to visit Miami for those interested in Native American culture.
Route 66 Roundabout:
The Dobson Museum is home to thousands of historical artifacts, treasures, and Native American belongings that are sacred to Ottawa County. You will also want to tour the Dobson Home, recently added to the National Registry of Historic Places. Just a block away is the Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum, home to a large Evil Knievel collection. The museum is full of vintage motorcycles and memorabilia. This place is truly one of a kind. Allow extra time to browse the store for that special Route 66 souvenir or gift. And while there, step outside and take a picture of the new Gateway Sign. This replica sign was originally erected in the 1900s. It’s a perfect place to “Get Your Kicks” on Route 66. Ladies, be sure to stop by Colleen’s. Located next door to the Coleman Theatre, this quaint, wonderful, little dress shop is chockfull of beautiful fashions, jewelry, and accessories. Visitors will love the hands-on experience at Artworx, a new art studio on Route 66 that offers fun for the entire family. Downtown has antique shopping stores, jewelry stores and much more. Step into Chapters Bookstore for some Starbucks coffee and browse their fabulous inventory of specialty gifts and accessories. The Angel Wings Jewelry store has unique items, be sure to stop in after you finish your tour of the theatre.
