I know this is going to be a fun stop on Route 66 just outside Arcadia, Oklahoma when I spy a 66-foot pop bottle on the horizon. Getting closer I can see it stands in front of an uber-modern structure with gas pumps in front. I have never seen a gas station like this, but upon closer inspection, I realize the attraction here is inside where more than 600 kinds of soda pop are for sale and a restaurant offering American cuisine is hopping with customers.
This is Pops, the brain child of Aubrey McClendon and designed by architect Rand Elliott. Opening in 2007, it quickly becomes a tourist attraction.
The motto here? Food, Fuel, Fizz! The atmosphere? Fun!
Glass walls lean in over the restaurant and retail area supporting shelving with hundreds of soda bottles arranged by color glistening in the midday sun.
On the store side of Pops is a cooler the length of one wall. Six-pack cartons enable customers to pick and choose from a rainbow of flavors from Guava and Kiwi to Cookies & Cream and Zombie Brain Juice. If it exists, you’re more than likely going to find it here.
There is simply something fun about finding a unique flavor and enjoying it while taking a break at one of the picnic tables out back.
So, if you’re ever cruising down Route 66 in the heart of Oklahoma and spy a pop bottle on the horizon, make time for a look-see at this new American roadside attraction.
If you go:
- POPS is northeast of Oklahoma City, just east of Edmond at 660 W. Highway 66, in Arcadia; www.pops66.com
- Oklahoma City tourism information: www.visitokc.com.
A wonderful piece. I loved my route 66 trip from LA to Alb. I look forward to driving the rest of it soon.
Marilyn, thanks for sharing this. So cool. We have been on Route 66 before, but not on that part. Will definitely have to do that someday. Have you been to to Coca Cola factory in Atlanta? Love it!. Thanks again for sharing this.
Thanks Marilyn! This place looks so cool. I love trying unique soda and will have to get there someday.
Gonna get your kicks on Route 66?
I THINK I know which one and only because my neighbor is from this country and was talking about it recently.
So I’m going to guess…Scotland because of Irn-Bru.
Iron Brew it is. Made in Scotland. From Girders. (So the ad says)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGyKpx12d_E
TravelGirlJenn. Love that quote on your comment. Since I bought a TomTom with US maps on I’ve been seeing a new America. I can now get lost on my annual road trip around the US and the places I’ve found are amazing. I just follow my curiosity. And near the end of the day I ask my English speaking lady to take me home. And she says “Keep right and join the Motorway” Love it !
Cola is the biggest selling drink in every country in the world.
Except one – any ideas ?
Cola outsells beer in every country.
But this country is famous for an alcoholic drink- but not for beer
So we’re looking for a “soft” drink – as we call it. (Non-Alcoholic)
I suspect you’re probably referring to a beer-consuming country, GarryRF, but there are so many…..The Aussies certainly come to mind.
Ah Iron-bru! that nasty bubble flavored stuff that is the favorite drink of Detective Rebus. Only in Scotland!