Catoosa, city in Oklahoma, United States
Catoosa is a small city in Oklahoma located between two hills, from which it takes its name. The city today grows around a port, several parks, museums, casinos, and the famous Blue Whale sculpture along Route 66.
The area was controlled by the Cherokee Nation in the 19th century, and the city grew after the railroad arrived in the 1880s. Major growth came in the 1970s when the Port of Catoosa opened and connected the city to the Gulf of Mexico.
The name Catoosa comes from a nearby hill and reflects the area's geography. The town shows today a mix of its past as a railroad and cattle shipping center and its modern role as a stop along historic Route 66.
The city sits just outside Tulsa and is easily reached by car. Visitors can park and explore the Blue Whale, parks, and museums on foot, with local visitor centers providing maps and guides.
The Blue Whale was built in the early 1970s as a surprise gift for Hugh Davis's wife and was originally a swimming park for children. Though the swimming area closed, the 20 foot tall statue made of iron and cement remains a beloved stop for Route 66 travelers today.
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