Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Celebrates New Era of “Puttin’ in the Park” in Elk City
The entrance to Elk City’s revamped miniature golf course at Ackley Park.
Elk City, OK — A large crowd gathered at Ackley Park on June 2nd to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of Puttin’ in the Park, Elk City’s newly reimagined Route 66-themed miniature golf course and commemorative fountain display. The event marked both the continuation of a local tradition and the beginning of a vibrant new chapter in the park’s history.
The project involved the full demolition and reconstruction of the city’s previous mini golf course, which had served the community for more than 50 years. In its place now stands a completely redesigned 18-hole experience that celebrates Route 66 heritage and family fun—all while preserving a beloved piece of Elk City’s past.
At the heart of the project is a vision brought to life by Elk City Leadership Class IX, which spearheaded the revitalization efforts in 2023. Through community engagement and fundraising, the class successfully raised over $60,000 to support the creation of larger-than-life Route 66 icons that now surround the course. These include replicas of the St. Louis Gateway Arch, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Golden Driller of Tulsa, Arcadia’s Pop Bottle, Cadillac Ranch from Amarillo, and two Wigwam Motel teepees inspired by the Arizona landmark. A Route 66 sign at the course entrance serves as the perfect photo opportunity, welcoming visitors and celebrating the spirit of the Mother Road.
Project Overview & Timeline:
Project Origin: With a boost from Leadership Class IV and recognizing the aging condition of the original course, city leaders approved plans to remove and replace the structure to coincide with the upcoming Route 66 centennial celebrations.
Demolition & Reconstruction: WP Construction oversaw the demolition of the 50-year-old facility, with reconstruction beginning in September of 2024. The project included modern course surfacing, decorative theming, new fencing, a central pavilion, and a new clubhouse. Other key contributors to the project include - Hutton, Inc., Harris Miniature Golf, Culver Electric, Cloud’s Lawn & Irrigation, and Mary’s Bloomers.
Completion & Opening: Final touches were completed in May, and the course officially opened to the public Memorial Day weekend.
The event welcomed a number of guests and community supporters, including Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell, the President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, Rhys Martin, City Manager Tom Ivester, Mayor Micah Kilhoffer, City Councilmen Rod Carver and Rocky Andreson, local contractors who played key roles in bringing the course to live, members of Elk City Leadership Class IX, and numerous community stakeholders and donors who contributed to the success of the project. In all, about 50 people cheered as the ribbon was cut.
Puttin’ in the Park is open nightly from 6:00 to 10:00 PM, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission is $3 per person, with children five and under playing free.
