Claremore, OK
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Athletic Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Claremore, Oklahoma, is a historic city in the foothills of the Ozarks and the county seat of Rogers County. Known as the hometown of humorist Will Rogers, it offers rich Native American heritage, notable museums, and a charming downtown along the historic Route 66.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Claremore, Oklahoma.
- Administrative Role: Claremore is the county seat of Rogers County . It is a principal city in the northeastern part of the state.
- Regional Context: The city is located in the state of Oklahoma, within the Tulsa Metropolitan Area . It lies in the "Green Country" region of Oklahoma, a nickname derived from its lush hills and lakes compared to the western parts of the state . Its motto is "New Vision. Clear Opportunities" .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Origin of the Name: The city's name evolved from "Clermont," the name of a prominent Osage chief, also known as Chief Clermont . A clerical error when establishing the post office in 1882 changed the spelling to "Claremore," which was then adopted .
- The Birthplace of Will Rogers: Claremore is most famously known as the hometown of the legendary cowboy humorist and actor Will Rogers, who was born on a ranch nearby .
- Radium Town: In the early 20th century, the area was briefly promoted as "Radium Town" after the discovery of sulfur springs, whose water was marketed for its (mistaken) medicinal properties .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding and Incorporation: The area was first settled by Osage Indians around 1802 . A post office was established in 1874, and the town was formally incorporated under Cherokee law in 1883 .
- Age: As of 2026, Claremore is 143 years old (since its 1883 incorporation).
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 36°18′55″N 95°36′32″W .
- Positioning: Claremore is located in northeastern Oklahoma, approximately 25-30 miles northeast of Tulsa . It is situated in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains near the Verdigris River . The terrain is undulating, producing hills and valleys .
- Elevation: The city center sits at an elevation of approximately 610 feet (190 meters) above sea level .
- Area: The city covers a total area of about 15.3 square miles (39.5 km²), with a small portion covered by water .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Administrative and Education Hub: Claremore functions as the county seat and is home to Rogers State University .
- Manufacturing and Industry: The city has a diversified economy with major manufacturing, including a large Whirlpool Corporation appliance plant . Other key sectors are healthcare, education, and retail trade .
- Tourism and Heritage: Tourism plays a significant role, centered on the legacy of Will Rogers, Native American history, and its location on historic Route 66 . The Cherokee Casino & Resort at Will Rogers Downs is also a major attraction and employer .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of 2025, the population of Claremore is estimated to be 20,844 . Other sources for 2024 place it at 20,602, showing steady growth .
- City Class: Claremore is a small-to-medium-sized city and the largest in Rogers County .
- Demographic Note: The city has a significant Native American population (over 17%), reflecting its deep Cherokee and Osage heritage .
City's "Business Card" (Brief)
- Claremore is the heartfelt hometown of Will Rogers, where small-town charm meets the enduring spirit of the Cherokee Nation and the open road of historic Route 66 .
Geography
Mountains and Hills
- Ozark Foothills: Claremore is located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains . While not mountainous itself, the city's landscape is characterized by the undulating terrain, hills, and valleys that mark this region .
Water Bodies (Rivers and Lakes)
- Verdigris River: The city is situated near the Verdigris River, which flows through the region .
- Claremore Lake: This lake was formed in 1929-1930 by damming Dog Creek to serve as the city's water supply . It is now a recreational area with a boat ramp, fishing docks, picnic areas, and a disc golf course .
- Oologah Lake: Located nearby, Oologah Lake is another major water source for the city and offers additional opportunities for boating and fishing .
National and Natural Parks
- Claremore Lake Park: The area surrounding Claremore Lake functions as a city park, providing green space for recreation, including playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and walking trails .
- Claremore City Park: This park features a playground, a splash pad, and walking trails for residents and visitors .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
- Claremore experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by cold winters and hot, sometimes humid, summers .
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
- Hottest Month: August is typically the warmest, with an average high temperature of 92.0°F (33.3°C) . Other sources also note July and August as very hot, with August averaging a high of 92°F .
- Coldest Month: January is the coldest month, with an average low temperature of 21.2°F (-6.0°C) .
| Month | Avg. High (°F/°C) | Avg. Low (°F/°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 44.8 / 7.1 | 21.2 / -6.0 |
| February | 50.3 / 10.2 | 26.1 / -3.3 |
| March | 60.2 / 15.7 | 35.7 / 2.1 |
| April | 71.2 / 21.8 | 46.8 / 8.2 |
| May | 78.3 / 25.7 | 55.7 / 13.2 |
| June | 86.3 / 30.2 | 64.9 / 18.3 |
| July | 92.8 / 33.8 | 69.5 / 20.8 |
| August | 92.0 / 33.3 | 67.3 / 19.6 |
| September | 83.6 / 28.7 | 60.4 / 15.8 |
| October | 73.6 / 23.1 | 47.2 / 8.4 |
| November | 60.5 / 15.8 | 36.5 / 2.5 |
| December | 48.8 / 9.3 | 26.0 / -3.3 |
| *Source: * |
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Yearly Precipitation: Claremore receives an average of about 39.4 inches (1,000 mm) of precipitation per year, including both rain and snow . Another source notes 45 inches of rain and 9 inches of snow .
- Wettest Months: May and June are typically the wettest months, each averaging 4.6 inches of rain .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant times to visit Claremore are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) . During these months, temperatures are mild and comfortable for exploring outdoor attractions.
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot, with July and August being the least favorable months for outdoor activities due to high temperatures .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, with January being the coldest month. Snowfall is possible, averaging around 9 inches per year .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Tornado Risk: Claremore is located in "Tornado Alley" and faces a risk of tornadoes, particularly during the spring and early summer months .
Landmarks
Will Rogers Memorial Museum
- This is the city's most iconic landmark, dedicated to its favorite son, Will Rogers . The 19,052-square-foot museum sits on a 20-acre site and houses nine galleries, three theaters, and a vast collection of Rogers' memorabilia, manuscripts, and personal mementos . Will Rogers and his wife are buried on the grounds, overlooking the city . It is owned and operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society . Located at 1720 West Will Rogers Blvd .
J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum
- Located on historic Route 66, this museum houses an enormous private collection of firearms, with over 20,000 exhibits, alongside Native American artifacts, Old West memorabilia, antique music boxes, and more than 1,200 beer steins . It started as a display in the lobby of the old Mason Hotel and is now a renowned historical attraction . Address: 330 N. JM Davis Blvd .
Belvidere Mansion
- This popular historical home was built in 1907, the same year Oklahoma became a state . It is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture and serves as the office for the Rogers County Historical Society. The mansion offers tours and hosts annual events like "Christmas in Belvidere," and the Pink House restaurant is located on the first floor .
Claremore Museum of History
- Dedicated to preserving and presenting the city's rich past, this museum brings to life the stories of notable Claremore figures and displays historical artifacts and paintings . It is operated by a group of committed volunteers .
Claremore Lake Park
- While a natural feature, the park surrounding Claremore Lake is a key recreational landmark. It offers facilities for fishing, boating, picnicking, and disc golf, serving as a central spot for community relaxation and outdoor activity .
Historic Downtown and Route 66
- The downtown area, with its historic buildings, has been revitalized and is a landmark in itself . The city is proud of its location on State Highway 66, the alignment of the historic U.S. Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road" . Driving through Claremore offers a classic slice of Americana.
Transport
Main Airports
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL): This is the primary commercial airport serving Claremore, located approximately 20-25 miles (about 25-30 minutes) southwest of the city . It offers direct flights to 17 cities with over 55 daily departures .
- Claremore Regional Airport (KGCM): This is a general aviation airport located about 7 miles east of Claremore, featuring a paved 5,200-foot runway . It serves private and corporate aircraft.
Major Highways and Roads
- Interstate 44 (I-44): Also known as the Will Rogers Turnpike, this tolled interstate runs past Claremore to the southeast, connecting it to Tulsa to the southwest and Joplin, Missouri, to the northeast .
- Historic Route 66 / State Highway 66: This road runs directly through Claremore and serves as a toll-free alternative to I-44 .
- State Highways: State Highway 20 and State Highway 88 also intersect within the town, providing key regional connections .
Rail Service
- Claremore is a significant multimodal hub with two Class I rail lines intersecting in the city: a Union Pacific (UP) rail line and a BNSF Railway line . The Claremore Industrial Park has direct access to an on-site rail spur served by BNSF .
Port Service
- The Tulsa Ports, an inland river port complex on the Verdigris River, is located less than 13 miles from Claremore . It offers year-round, ice-free service and provides access to the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, linking the city to international marine ports via the Mississippi River .
Public Transportation
- Public transportation options within Claremore are limited, and most residents and visitors rely on personal vehicles to get around .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Hammett House Restaurant
A true Claremore institution since 1969, Hammett House Restaurant is the cornerstone of local dining . This family-friendly spot is renowned for its classic American comfort food, generous portions, and above all, its legendary homemade pies . The menu features beloved dishes like chicken-fried steak, fried catfish with a perfectly seasoned cornmeal batter, and the famous "pamper-fried chicken" . A visit here is not complete without dessert; the pies are so celebrated that the restaurant has embraced a fun "eat dessert first" theme . The chocolate chip peanut butter pie is a local favorite, and the brownie delight skillet—a warm brownie served on a sizzling platter with ice cream—is a showstopper . For decades, it has been a must-stop for anyone traveling through or near Claremore .
The Pink House
For a completely different dining atmosphere, The Pink House offers a charming and intimate experience. Located in the historic Belvidere Mansion, a beautiful Victorian home built in 1907, this lunch spot is a true hidden gem . It's a popular destination for ladies' lunches, brunches, and special celebrations . The menu focuses on fresh, flavorful, and home-cooked dishes, with popular choices including quiche, chicken enchiladas, and chicken salad . They also offer a wide selection of hot and iced teas, which arrive in individual kettles, adding to the "tea party" vibe . The coconut cream pie is highly recommended, and the "baked fudge" is a must-try dessert . Beyond the food, guests are encouraged to tour the mansion, adding a touch of local history to their meal .
Claremore's Culinary Scene
Beyond its signature establishments, Claremore boasts a diverse and welcoming food scene. Oklahoma Pizza Company is a local favorite for its personal-sized, gourmet pizzas with unlimited fresh toppings, and they offer a highly-rated gluten-free crust . For Mexican cuisine, El Banquete Mexican Grille provides a festive atmosphere and attentive staff, with the novelty of a robot server adding a modern twist to the meal . Other notable spots include Gibbys South in Your Mouth for hearty meals, and Mazzio's Italian Eatery, praised for its gluten-free pizza and house-made ranch dressing . This variety ensures that both residents and visitors can find a memorable meal that reflects the warmth of the community .
Museums
Will Rogers Memorial Museum
The crown jewel of Claremore's cultural attractions is the Will Rogers Memorial Museum. Overlooking the city, this beautifully maintained museum is dedicated to Oklahoma's beloved son, the humorist and philosopher Will Rogers . The museum houses the world's largest collection of Will Rogers memorabilia, including his extensive writings, personal artifacts, and even a movie theater that screens his films . The grounds are peaceful and offer sweeping views of the Oklahoma landscape, making it an inspiring and uniquely Oklahoman experience for visitors of all ages .
Claremore Museum of History
Housed in the heart of downtown, the Claremore Museum of History celebrates the city's rich and diverse heritage . The museum shines a light on the city's most notable former residents, creating a who's who of American history and culture. Exhibits honor figures such as astronaut Stuart Roosa, who traveled to the moon; singing legend Patti Page; world-famous playwright Lynn Riggs, author of the play "Green Grow the Lilacs" which became the musical Oklahoma!; and Andy Payne, the winner of the legendary 1928 "Bunion Derby" footrace . The museum's most cherished artifact is the original "surrey with the fringe on top" from the Broadway musical and film Oklahoma!, a tangible piece of Americana .
Sport and Athletic Legends
Claremore Zebras
High school sports are a central part of the community spirit in Claremore. The Claremore Zebras represent Claremore High School and compete in Oklahoma's Class 5A . The football team has a strong local following, and their games are key community events . The school also has competitive programs in other sports, including cross country, with athletes regularly participating in state championship meets .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Rogers State University
Dominating the hill overlooking the city is Rogers State University (RSU) , the fastest-growing university in the state of Oklahoma . Its history is deeply intertwined with Claremore's identity. The institution was founded in 1909 as the Eastern University Preparatory School . It later became the Oklahoma Military Academy (OMA) in 1919, serving as a prestigious military school for cadets for over 50 years . The academy's Preparatory Hall, with its grand golden dome, remains the iconic centerpiece of the campus today .
In 1971, as the Vietnam War led to declining enrollment, the academy transitioned into a civilian junior college . After several name changes, it became Rogers State University in 1999 and was accredited as a four-year university in 2000 . Today, RSU offers a wide range of bachelor's and associate degrees, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), serving over 4,000 students . The university is a vital part of the Claremore community, contributing to the city's economy, culture, and identity.
Healthcare Institutions
Cherokee Nation Claremore Outpatient and Emergency Health Center
Claremore is at the center of a historic development in tribal healthcare. The Cherokee Nation has officially assumed operations of the former Claremore Indian Hospital from the Indian Health Service, marking a major step in tribal self-determination . The facility, now known as the Cherokee Nation Claremore Outpatient and Emergency Health Center, is being integrated into the largest tribal health system in the country .
The Cherokee Nation has committed over $255 million to this transition, including $11 million for immediate improvements to the existing facility . Most significantly, a new, state-of-the-art, $244 million replacement facility is scheduled to open in 2027 . This new center will feature an advanced emergency department, a wellness center, and expanded outpatient services, dramatically improving the quality and scope of care for Native Americans in the region. The tribe has also partnered with Hillcrest Hospital Claremore to provide labor and delivery services, ensuring comprehensive care for expectant mothers .
Claremore VA Clinic
The Claremore VA Clinic provides essential healthcare services to veterans in the area . Part of the VA Eastern Oklahoma health care system, the clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary care, mental health care (with specialized programs for PTSD and military sexual trauma), laboratory and pathology services, weight management through the MOVE! program, social work, telehealth, and specialized care for women veterans . This facility ensures that those who have served the country have access to dedicated and convenient healthcare close to home.