Arizona’s Route 66: 7 Must See Stops
Route 66, often called the “Main Street of America” or the “Mother Road,” is one of the most iconic highways in the United States.
Established in 1926, Route 66 stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, covering nearly 2,500 miles across eight states. It played a crucial role in America’s development, facilitating westward migration, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is particularly significant due to its well-preserved attractions, vintage roadside diners, quirky motels, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Why Route 66 is Important
- Historical Significance: Route 66 represents a critical period in American history, especially during the Dust Bowl era when it served as a primary route for those fleeing the economic hardships of the Midwest. It symbolizes freedom, adventure, and the pioneering spirit of America.
- Cultural Impact: The road has inspired countless songs, movies, and books, solidifying its place in popular culture. It’s a symbol of the American dream and the quest for adventure and new opportunities.
- Preservation of Americana: Along Route 66, you can find vintage motels, neon signs, classic diners, and general stores that preserve the charm of mid-20th-century America. It’s a nostalgic trip back to a time when road travel was about the journey, not just the destination.
Exploring Arizona’s Route 66
In Arizona, Route 66 runs parallel to Interstate 40 (Highway 40) for much of its length. However, for those seeking the full experience, it’s worth taking the slower route along the original sections of Route 66. This way, you can truly immerse yourself in the history and character of the towns and attractions that have defined this famous road.
From vibrant small towns like Winslow to abandoned ghost towns like Two Guns, Arizona’s Route 66 offers a variety of stops that showcase the state’s unique history.
The route winds through desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and wide-open plains, providing stunning vistas at every turn. The slower pace allows you to enjoy the journey and stop to take in the sights whenever you like.
Hackberry General Store
As you cruise down Arizona’s Route 66, you’ll notice the signs for Indian Fry Bread and, eventually, the Hackberry General Store.
The store has a fascinating history—it was once run by Bob Waldmire, a Route 66 artist whose love for the road is legendary. So much so that Bob was the unofficial inspiration for Fillmore, the groovy VW bus in the Disney/Pixar movie Cars!
Today, Amy Franklin keeps the store alive, doing a fantastic job preserving its unique vibe. The ceilings are lined with license plates, and the walls are covered with money, each unique and from a different part of the world. It truly shows how the spirit of Route 66 resonates not just with Americans but with everyone looking for an adventure.
Make sure to wander around outside, too. There are vintage gas pumps, old cars, and plenty of photo ops that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into the golden age of road trips.
Wigwam Motel
This historic motel, which opened in 1950 and was known initially as Wigwam Village #6, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s one of only three remaining wigwam villages in the United States, with the others in San Bernardino, California, and Cave City, Kentucky.
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook has a special place in pop culture, too—it inspired the Cozy Cone Motel in the Pixar movie Cars. The main reason we know it is this location and not one of the other two is the movie’s picturesque background of Arizona.
As you approach, watch for the quirky signs that herald your arrival. Messages like “Sleep in a Wigwam” and “Have you Slept in a Wigwam Lately?” will let you know you’re getting close. It’s a charming reminder of a bygone era when roadside motels like this were the heart of American road trips.
Pro-Tip: If you are a light sleeper and plan to stay the night, bring ear plugs as there is a train track nearby.
Stand on a Corner in Winslow
No road trip along Route 66 would be complete without stopping in Winslow, Arizona, to “stand on a corner.” Made famous by the Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy,” this spot has become an iconic photo op for travelers.
The city did a great job hyping up what they are known for. A real red flatbed Ford is parked at the corner, along with a mural of another red flatbed Ford with a girl looking back. It’s a fun and quirky nod, making fantastic pictures to remember.
If you’re feeling hungry after snapping some photos, you’re in luck! Just a short walk away is the RelicRoad Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a hearty meal at a decent price. Their portions are huge—big enough to easily feed two people.
But if you’re in the mood for something more familiar and heading toward the next stop, there’s a Denny’s just outside town. It was a lifesaver for us when we rolled in at 9:30 PM on our last trip, offering comfort food that hit the spot.
Meteor Crater
As you continue your journey along Route 66, a stop at Meteor Crater is perfect for anyone intrigued by space, geology, or the raw power of nature.
Located about 37 miles east of Flagstaff, this enormous crater was formed around 50,000 years ago when a meteorite slammed into the earth, leaving behind a stunning, nearly mile-wide depression.
While the admission fee might seem steep for those traveling on a budget, it’s worth it if you’re fascinated by the area’s history or have a keen interest in these natural phenomena.
The admission includes access to all the attractions on-site, like the Meteor Crater Museum, which features informative exhibits on space and geology, a 4D theater for an immersive experience, and guided rim tours that offer an up-close look at the crater’s impressive size.
Additionally, there’s a gift shop with unique souvenirs and an on-site eatery if you’re looking for a quick snack before getting back on the road. Plan to spend about an hour here to take in all the sights and learn about this cosmic marvel.
Discover the Ghost town of Two Guns
One of the most intriguing stops along Route 66 is the ghost town of Two Guns, Arizona. This eerie and abandoned place has a rich if somewhat dark, history.
Once a bustling stop for travelers in the early 20th century, Two Guns saw its rise and fall within just a few decades. It was initially a trading post and then evolved into a tourist attraction featuring a zoo, a roadside hotel, and a gas station. The area became famous, or perhaps infamous, for its connections to various legends, including tales of Apache massacres and Wild West shootouts.
Today, Two Guns is a ghost town, offering visitors a haunting glimpse into the past. The abandoned gas station and pool are now covered in colorful graffiti, starkly contrasting the desolation surrounding them.
While wandering through the ruins, you’ll come across the remains of the zoo, a reminder of the quirky roadside attractions that once dotted Route 66. Even more intriguing is the cave, which still has a ladder leading down into its depths. Once part of the zoo, it holds an air of mystery, tempting visitors to imagine what it was like in its heyday.
Two Guns is more than just a ghost town; it’s a place where history, myth, and modern expression collide. I’ll be honest: for me, it is easy to spend hours here, letting my imagination run wild as I explore the remains of what was once a vibrant stop along the Mother Road.
P.S. I do plan to write a detailed post about Two Guns for you soon!
Twin Arrows Trading Post
A quicker stop for you is the Twin Arrows Trading Post.
Once a bustling roadside attraction, this trading post is now a haunting relic of the past.
Located east of Flagstaff, the trading post was built in the 1940s. It became known for its distinctive giant arrows sticking out of the ground, which still stand today as a reminder of its former glory.
This was once a popular stop for travelers looking to refuel, grab a snack, or pick up some souvenirs. Today, the buildings are abandoned and weathered, but the towering arrows continue attracting visitors, drawn to their unique charm and the nostalgia they represent.
Like many things along the route, these arrows have been a favorite photo op for decades.
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is a must-visit stop along Route 66. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history.
Located in northeastern Arizona, this park is home to one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood. Over the millennia, these ancient logs have turned to stone, creating a mesmerizing landscape filled with vibrant hues of red, orange, and purple.
As you explore the park, you’ll encounter more than petrified trees. The park is also home to the stunning Painted Desert, with its dramatic badlands and sweeping vistas that showcase a palette of colors, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The Painted Desert Inn, a historic landmark within the park, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage.
In addition to its natural wonders, the Petrified Forest is rich in archaeological sites, including petroglyphs and ancient dwellings left behind by the region’s early inhabitants. The park’s Rainbow Forest Museum provides an excellent overview of the area’s geological and human history, helping visitors appreciate the full scope of what makes this place so unique.
A visit to Petrified Forest National Park is a journey through time, where you can witness the incredible power of nature and the remnants of ancient civilizations. For more detailed information, check out this more detailed post.
My Final Thoughts on Route 66 in Arizona
Traveling along Route 66 in Arizona is more than just a road trip—a journey through time, culture, and the American spirit.
As you make your way across the state, you’ll find that Route 66 is more than just a highway; it’s a living piece of history that tells the stories of those who traveled before you. Whether you’re captivated by the ghost towns and abandoned trading posts or enchanted by the vibrant roadside attractions and natural beauty, something on the Mother Road will fascinate everyone.
So take your time, explore the hidden gems, and embrace the slower pace of Route 66. It’s about the journey, the stories, and the memories you create. Happy travels, and I hope you enjoy your adventure on the Mother Road!
