Oklahoma City to Guthrie: A Historic Drive on Route 77

The 30-mile drive from Oklahoma City to Guthrie along historic U.S. Route 77 (Broadway Extension) is a journey through Oklahoma's territorial past. Guthrie, founded during the 1889 Land Run, served as the state's first capital.

This route, which also parallels Interstate 35, offers a quick escape from the urban bustle. Travel time is approximately 30–40 minutes, but lingering at stops can extend it to half a day.

For tips on finding hidden gems along any route, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route is safe, with good lighting and wide shoulders. Speed limits are 65 mph on the highway, dropping to 35 mph in Guthrie.

For families, Edmond's Mitch Park (exit 36) has playgrounds and splash pads. The park also features the Edmond Historical Society & Museum.

• Restrooms: available at gas stations in Edmond and at Arcadia Lake.
• Pet-friendly stops: Arcadia Lake allows leashed dogs; Guthrie's walking tour is pet-friendly.

Fatigue management: I-35 has wide medians and minimal curves. Take a break at the Love's Travel Stop in Edmond (exit 33).

Hidden off-route spot: The town of Arcadia (home to the Arcadia Round Barn) sits just east of I-35 on Route 66. Visit the barn's unique architecture and the adjacent POPS convenience store with its giant soda bottle sculpture. Worth a 10-minute detour.

Local Commerce & Culture

Guthrie's Trolley Museum offers rides on restored streetcars. The Blue Bell Lounge serves classic Oklahoma cuisine.

Oklahoma City's Plaza District (on 16th Street) has boutique shops and street art. A quick stop there before departure adds local flavor.

The route passes through the Cross Timbers ecoregion, featuring post oak and blackjack trees. North of Edmond, the landscape opens to rolling plains and agricultural fields.

Stop at Arcadia Lake (exit 36 from I-35) for a picnic or hiking. The lake has a beach, fishing piers, and trails.

• Cottonwood Creek: Scenic crossing south of Guthrie.
• Local produce stands near Seward Road offer seasonal peaches and pecans.

Guthrie's downtown is a National Historic Landmark District with Victorian architecture. Antique shops and art galleries line the streets.

Don't miss the Guthrie Scottish Rite Temple, a massive Masonic building open for tours.

The most direct path from downtown Oklahoma City to Guthrie is via US-77 N (Broadway Extension), which merges onto I-35 N near Edmond. The road is well-maintained, mostly four-lane divided highway.

Traffic is light outside of rush hours, when southbound congestion near Edmond can add 10–15 minutes. Guthrie's historic district has limited parking, so arrive early.

• Fuel Stations: Plentiful in Oklahoma City and Edmond, sparse between Edmond and Guthrie. Fill up before leaving the city.
• Average Fuel Cost: ~$3.50/gallon (regular) as of 2025.
• Estimated Fuel Cost (one-way): ~$3 for a sedan.

Starting Point: Oklahoma City

Begin at Bricktown or the Oklahoma City National Memorial. Exit onto Broadway Extension north.

End Point: Guthrie

Arrive at the Guthrie Historic District, centered around Harrison Avenue. Key landmarks include the Oklahoma Territorial Museum.