Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles (an easy, scenic loop)
Walking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours (at a relaxed pace)
Starting Location: 410 S. Littler Ave.

Born out of the 1889 Land Run, Edmond quickly evolved from a railroad coaling station into a thriving community. Today, downtown reflects that rapid transformation through preserved architecture and a vibrant collection of public art.

This walking tour guides you through Edmond’s historic core, highlighting stories of pioneers, civic leaders, innovators, and artists who shaped the city.

 

 

Starting Point: The Rodkey House & Stephenson Park

Location: 410 S. Littler Ave.

The Rodkey House (1900) anchors Stephenson Park and tells the story of Isaac Wesley Rodkey, who helped build Edmond’s early economy through the Eagle Flouring Mill. The business remained successful until 1972, and its presence can still be glimpsed west of downtown.

Originally located elsewhere, the home was relocated after being donated to the city. Catherine Rodkey also contributed to early beautification efforts through the Edmond Gardening Club. During the Great Depression, the Rodkeys even packaged flour in patterned fabric so families could reuse the material for clothing.

 

Stephenson Park

Location: Between Fourth and Fifth streets

Once known as “South Park,” this space was reshaped during the New Deal. WPA projects in the 1930s added stonework, landscaping, and bridges that still remain today. The park was renamed in honor of civic leader Fred M. Stephenson.

Nearby stands the American Legion Post 111 building, constructed with local sandstone and dedicated to Edmond’s first World War I casualty.

 

 

Stop 1: Auto Row & The Mother Road (South Broadway)

Walk west to Broadway and step onto historic Route 66. This corridor once bustled with garages and filling stations, many of which still stand today in repurposed form.

Notable examples include:

  • An Art Moderne station with distinct brickwork and canopy design
  • The “Icebox” station with its recognizable boxy shape
  • A former Phillips 66 building featuring original stonework and windows
Mainstreet Edmond Mural

Location: 302 S. Broadway

Painted in 2004, this mural captures the nostalgic energy of Route 66, depicting classic cars cruising through downtown Edmond.

 

 

Stop 2: Route 66 Cuts Through Edmond (Second & Broadway)

Continue north to Edmond’s main intersection.

The Grandeur of Broad Street

Originally designed wide enough for wagons, this area became the commercial heart of early Edmond and remains a hub for shopping and dining today.

Centennial Clock

Location: 7 E. Second St.

Installed in 2006, this four-sided clock replaced a controversial fox statue and now greets traffic from every direction.

Historic “L-Turn” Entrance
  • 123 S. Broadway: Former Pioneer Grocery and longtime home of The Edmond Sun
  • Home Delivery Sculpture: Honors the paper’s legacy and founder Milton Reynolds
  • 124 S. Broadway: A former Conoco station built over an 1889 hotel site
Public Art Highlights
  • A Moment in Time (2025): A mural blending Oklahoma City history and triumph
  • Unlimited Horizon (2012): A tribute to aviation and NASA leader Milton Heflin

 

 

Stop 3: Finance, Folklore & Food (First & Broadway)

Early Banking
  • Citizens’ State Bank (1901): The last surviving territorial-era building
  • Peoples’ Bank (1893): Built with local sandstone and central to Edmond’s growth

Oil discovery in 1943 helped sustain local banks during WWII, contributing to the broader war effort.

Local Art & Family Fun

Bronze sculptures like Puppy Love and Story Time add charm and interactivity for visitors.

 

 

The Edmond Station & Agricultural Roots

Walk west along First Street.

Edmond Station Marker

Marks the railroad stop that gave Edmond its name and sparked its founding during the Land Run.

Farmers Market

Operating since 1988, this location celebrates Oklahoma-grown goods. The nearby “Leaping into History” monument captures the legendary spirit of land run settlers.

Icehouse & Grain Company

Historic structures reflect Edmond’s agricultural past, with the Icehouse now repurposed as a modern gathering space.

 

 

Welcome to Edmond Mural

Location: 23 S. Broadway

This mural incorporates local symbols and community identity into a colorful visual landmark.

 

Stop 4: Downtown Murals & Whimsical Discoveries

As you head north, enjoy Edmond’s outdoor art gallery:

  • Come Unto Me (1999)
  • Ham & Eggs outside a longtime diner
  • Rough Cut Swiss, a playful sculpture of a rat and cheese
  • Above It All, a powerful eagle statue
  • Giant Steps, capturing childhood curiosity
  • Humpty Dumpty and Jester, both fan favorites with unique backstories

 

 

Yellow Ribbon Memorial

Near the post office stands a solemn monument honoring victims of the 1986 Edmond tragedy. Dedicated in 1989, it represents remembrance and resilience.

 

 

Stop 5: Higher Education, Festivals & Civic Heritage

Old North Tower (UCO)

Built in the 1890s, this is Oklahoma’s first higher education building. It remains a symbol of Edmond’s commitment to learning.

Alley Murals

A colorful shortcut leads through wildlife-themed murals celebrating Edmond’s creative culture.

Heard on Hurd

This popular monthly festival transforms downtown into a lively space filled with food, music, and vendors.

Dawn of Hope

Honors local WWII service members and tells the story of Russell Dougherty.

Black Heritage

Edmond’s history includes contributions from Black pioneers and educators who helped shape institutions like Langston University and local schools.

 

 

Stop 6: The City of Champions & Early Religion

Shannon Miller Park

Named for the Olympic gymnast, this park celebrates Edmond’s athletic legacy.

Local legends include BMX innovator Mat Hoffman and professional athletes across multiple sports, reinforcing Edmond’s reputation as a “City of Champions.”

The Reader Sculpture

Located at the library, this piece reflects everyday life and community connection.

Early Religion

The first church in Oklahoma Territory stood here in 1889, shared by multiple congregations. The site continues to reflect Edmond’s early community spirit.

 

 

Stop 7: Pedagogy & Route 66 Centennial

Interurban Legacy

The arrival of electric rail in 1911 connected Edmond to Oklahoma City, fueling growth and accessibility.

Lady Liberty

A Boy Scout-donated Statue of Liberty replica symbolizes patriotism and civic pride.

1889 Schoolhouse

Built shortly after the Land Run, this structure represents Edmond’s early dedication to education.

Nearby murals and sculptures celebrate learning and history.

Littler Avenue Murals

This area features vibrant works celebrating Route 66, local businesses, and Edmond’s past.

 

 

Stop 8: Concluding the Circuit

Return south toward Stephenson Park.

Resources Matter

A mural emphasizing inclusiveness and sustainability.

 

 

Choose Your Ending

Option A: History & The Rocketship

Visit the Edmond History Museum, located in a WPA-era armory. Nearby, a restored 1960s rocket slide stands as a piece of nostalgic public art.

Option B: Jazz & Dining

Head south to enjoy food and live music at the UCO Jazz Lab, where public art celebrates the city’s musical culture.

 

 

This loop offers a rich blend of history, art, and community storytelling—all within a walkable 1.5-mile journey through Edmond’s past and present.