Blue Whale of Catoosa, Roadside attraction in Catoosa, Oklahoma

The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a painted iron and concrete structure shaped like a whale, built beside a spring-fed pond east of Catoosa, Oklahoma. Its head faces left with an open mouth edged in black and white teeth, a red and white eye, and six circular openings along the top. A striped ramp extends from a socket on its side, and white slides run from the mouth and upper back.

Hugh Davis created this concrete structure in 1972 as an anniversary gift for his wife Zelta, who collected whale figurines. The work came about during the height of roadside attractions along Route 66.

This structure represents a key moment in American roadside culture during the 1970s, drawing travelers interested in Route 66 history. Photographers and curious visitors appreciate the site as an authentic place to experience that era's aesthetic firsthand.

The whale stands beside a spring-fed pond just east of Catoosa on old Route 66, with a restored picnic area next to it. Swimming in the pond is no longer allowed, so visitors view the structure and slides from the bank. A visitor center opened on May 30, 2026, after ground was broken in June 2025.

The whale's open mouth holds a white slide that runs down to the ground, and a second curved slide sits on its upper back. Six circular openings line the top of the head, and a striped ramp extends from a socket-like opening on its side.