POPS in Arcadia is a modern Route 66 landmark built around the classic roadside idea that a business should be impossible to miss. Its signature feature is a giant illuminated soda bottle rising beside the highway, visible from a considerable distance after dark.
Inside, the restaurant and store are known for a huge selection of bottled sodas from many brands and flavors. The concept combines food stop, novelty shop and photo opportunity in a way that echoes historic Route 66 attractions while using distinctly contemporary design.
The building's glass façade and bright bottle contrast with older nearby landmarks such as the Round Barn, making Arcadia a useful place to compare different eras of roadside tourism.
POPS is not historic in the same sense as a 1930s service station, but that is part of its significance. It demonstrates that Route 66 continues to generate new roadside architecture and businesses long after decommissioning. The stop is especially fun at dusk or night when the bottle lighting becomes part of the experience.
OkieX Recommendation
Grab a unique brew and a bison burger!
What We Liked
The sheer variety of sodas is impressive. The LED-lit bottle at sunset is cool. Great photo opportunities from multiple angles.
Visited 7/13/2025
Things to Know
The restaurant can get busy on weekends. No reservations needed for the soda shop side.
Practical Tips
The soda bottle glows beautifully at sunset — time your visit accordingly. Try at least three unusual sodas. The burgers are underrated.
