Gold Dome
An iconic mid-century geodesic dome on Route 66, once a bank, now set to become a music venue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for photos and Route 66 vibes
Gold Dome
Best Time
Best for photos and Route 66 vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic mid-century geodesic dome on Route 66, once a bank, now set to become a music venue.
"A unique roadside attraction on Route 66, perfect for a quick photo stop!"
📸 Drive-by Photo Op
The Gold Dome is fenced off, so the best way to see it is from across the street. Perfect for a quick photo stop!
🚗 Route 66 Essential
A classic Route 66 landmark, it's a must-see for any road trip through Oklahoma City.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Geodesic Dome Exterior
Classen Boulevard, Oklahoma City
Marvel at the unique, futuristic geodesic dome structure, a mid-century architectural gem on historic Route 66.
Route 66 Landmark
Classen Boulevard, Oklahoma City
A distinctive stop along the legendary Route 66, offering a unique photo opportunity for road trip enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse of History on Route 66
Future of the Gold Dome
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Drive-by Photo Op
The Gold Dome is fenced off, so the best way to see it is from across the street. Perfect for a quick photo stop!
🚗 Route 66 Essential
A classic Route 66 landmark, it's a must-see for any road trip through Oklahoma City.
🏗️ Renovation Watch
The building is undergoing renovations to become a music venue. Check for updates on its progress! +1
☕ Coffee Break Nearby
Grab a coffee at a nearby spot and admire the unique architecture from a distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Drive-by Photo Op
The Gold Dome is fenced off, so the best way to see it is from across the street. Perfect for a quick photo stop!
🚗 Route 66 Essential
A classic Route 66 landmark, it's a must-see for any road trip through Oklahoma City.
🏗️ Renovation Watch
The building is undergoing renovations to become a music venue. Check for updates on its progress! +1
☕ Coffee Break Nearby
Grab a coffee at a nearby spot and admire the unique architecture from a distance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often see the Gold Dome as a unique roadside attraction on Route 66, appreciating its distinctive architecture. However, many note that it's currently fenced off and not accessible for interior visits, making it primarily a drive-by photo opportunity. Its future as a music venue is a point of interest for many.
"Just a site to drive by on Rt 66. It is all fenced off, so you can’t go near it."
Irene Estlund
"Anytime one can see a Route 66 landmark, just do it!"
Robert Harkrider
"This is either a front for the command bunker that will generate Elon Musk's bid for the '28 Presidency or, for those far less imaginative, an abandoned, gold dome.
Either way, listing it as tourist attraction seems a stretch.
If the Thunder beat the Pacers, I'm skipping this and hitting that parade."
M Premo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gold Dome is located on Classen Boulevard in Oklahoma City, a prominent stretch of historic Route 66. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is typically available on the street nearby, though direct access to the building is restricted. +1
Yes, the Gold Dome is a recognized landmark along the historic Route 66, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Mother Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, the Gold Dome is fenced off and not accessible to the public for interior visits. It is undergoing renovations for a future transformation into a music venue.
There is no admission fee to view the Gold Dome from the exterior, as it is a roadside attraction. However, interior access is not currently available.
As the Gold Dome is primarily an exterior viewing attraction and is currently fenced off, there are no set operating hours. It can be viewed at any time from the surrounding public areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from across the street on Classen Boulevard, offering a clear view of the entire structure. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the golden hue of the dome.
There are no specific restrictions on photography from public areas around the Gold Dome. However, due to the fencing, you won't be able to get close-up shots of the building's details.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Built in 1958, the Gold Dome was originally the Citizens State Bank and was one of the world's first geodesic domes used as a bank. It's a significant piece of mid-century modern architecture. +2
The Gold Dome was designed by architect Buckminster Fuller, known for his innovative geodesic dome structures. +1
The Gold Dome is a prime example of mid-century modern architecture, specifically notable for its pioneering use of a geodesic dome for a commercial building.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Route 66 Road Trippers
Even with limited access, its presence on Classen Boulevard makes it a memorable landmark. Consider grabbing a coffee from a nearby spot to enjoy the view from across the street. It’s a classic piece of Americana that adds character to any Oklahoma City road trip itinerary.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Appreciate its futuristic form from the surrounding public spaces. The building's history as one of the first geodesic domes used as a bank adds to its architectural intrigue. It's a prime example of innovative design that continues to inspire.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Significance of the Gold Dome
The dome's design was not just about looks; it was also a symbol of progress and modernity. Its construction represented a bold step forward in architectural engineering, showcasing the potential of geodesic domes beyond military or exhibition purposes. The choice of gold for its exterior further amplified its striking presence, making it a beacon along the highway. Despite facing potential demolition threats in the past, community efforts helped preserve this unique piece of Oklahoma's architectural heritage.
Today, the Gold Dome is undergoing a significant transformation. Plans are in motion to renovate the historic structure into a music venue, promising a new chapter for this iconic building. This redevelopment aims to breathe new life into the landmark while preserving its architectural integrity. While interior access is currently limited due to these ongoing developments, the exterior continues to draw attention from architecture enthusiasts and travelers alike, eager to witness its unique form and historical significance.
Gold Dome's Place on Route 66
For many travelers, the Gold Dome represents a nostalgic stop, a visual anchor that connects them to the rich history of cross-country travel. Even though it's currently fenced off and undergoing renovations, its exterior remains a powerful symbol of the road. Visitors often make a point to drive by, capture a few photos, and appreciate its unique design as part of their Route 66 journey. The building's history as a bank and its future as a music venue add layers to its story, making it more than just a roadside attraction but a piece of evolving local history.
While you can't currently explore the interior, the exterior view alone is worth the detour for any Route 66 enthusiast. It serves as a reminder of the diverse and often quirky attractions that line this famous highway, encouraging travelers to look beyond the obvious and appreciate the architectural gems that dot the American landscape. The Gold Dome is a perfect example of how a single, striking building can become an integral part of a legendary road trip experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit