Did you know that Arizona boasts the longest remaining stretch of the original Route 66 in the United States, spanning an impressive 385.2 miles?
This iconic highway, affectionately known as the “Mother Road,” takes you on a journey through Arizona’s diverse landscapes, from the Painted Desert in the east to the Colorado River in the west.
As you drive along this historic route, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, historic landmarks, and breathtaking natural wonders that capture the essence of mid-century American road trip culture.
Get ready to explore the must-see attractions and experience the authentic slice of Americana that continues to captivate travelers from around the world.
The Mother Road: History and Significance of Route 66 in Arizona
As you drive along Route 66 in Arizona, you’re not just on a road – you’re on a journey through American history. This iconic highway, known as the “Mother Road,” has been a symbol of adventure and freedom for nearly a century.
From Chicago to Los Angeles: Birth of an American Icon
Established in 1926, Route 66 was designed to connect the Midwest to the West Coast, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. It quickly became a popular route for those seeking a new life or a vacation in the sun.
Arizona’s Claim to Fame: The Longest Original Stretch
Arizona is proud to have the longest original stretch of Route 66, thanks in part to the efforts of Angel Delgadillo, a barber from Seligman who founded the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona in 1987. His grassroots movement helped preserve the highway’s integrity and charm.
The Preservation Story: How Route 66 Was Saved in Arizona
The preservation of Route 66 in Arizona was a community-driven effort. When Interstate 40 bypassed many small towns, local businesses and history enthusiasts worked together to save landmarks, restore neon signs, and promote tourism along the original route. Today, the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona continues to advocate for the preservation of this important piece of American heritage.
The successful preservation efforts have transformed Route 66 from a forgotten highway into one of America’s most beloved historic and cultural treasures. As you explore Arizona’s stretch of the Mother Road, you’ll discover why it remains an integral part of American culture and identity.
Eastern Arizona Route 66 Highlights
As you travel along Route66 in Eastern Arizona, you’ll discover a treasure trove of natural wonders and quirky attractions. This section will guide you through some of the most fascinating stops along the way.
Petrified Forest National Park and Painted Desert
The Petrified Forest National Park is a must-visit attraction, boasting stunning landscapes and a rich geological history. The adjacent Painted Desert is known for its vibrant colors and unique rock formations.
Holbrook: Wigwam Village Motel and Dinosaur Attractions
In Holbrook, stop by the historic Wigwam Village Motel, a nostalgic roadside motel that has been restored to its former glory. The area is also home to dinosaur attractions that will delight both kids and adults.
Winslow: Standing on the Corner Park
Standing on the Corner Park in Winslow is a tribute to the Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy.” The park features a statue, mural, and a flatbed Ford, making it a fun stop for music lovers and fans of the iconic highway.
Winslow has fully embraced its connection to the Eagles’ song, with the town’s historic downtown district featuring preserved storefronts and buildings that reflect its rich history along both the Santa Fe Railway and Route66. Local shops and restaurants capitalize on the Eagles connection, offering themed merchandise and menu items that celebrate the town’s place in rock and roll history.
Central Arizona U.S. Route 66: Driving – Attractions, Landmarks, Fun
From quaint towns to iconic landmarks, Central Arizona’s Route 66 is a driving adventure that promises to captivate and inspire. As you explore this segment of the Mother Road, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of history, culture, and entertainment.
Flagstaff’s Historic Downtown and Route 66 Landmarks
Flagstaff’s historic downtown is a charming area filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and landmarks that celebrate the city’s rich Route 66 heritage. Be sure to visit the Flagstaff Visitor Center to get a feel for the local history and culture.
Williams: Gateway to the Grand Canyon
Williams is a quintessential Route 66 town that serves as a gateway to one of America’s most iconic natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. Visit the Williams Visitor Center to plan your trip and explore the town’s many Route 66 attractions.
Seligman: The Birthplace of Historic Route 66
Seligman is considered the birthplace of the Route 66 preservation movement, thanks to the efforts of local barber Angel Delgadillo. This small town offers an authentic and concentrated Route 66 experience, with colorful storefronts, vintage gas stations, and classic diners that are sure to transport you back in time.
Western Arizona’s Route 66 Treasures
Western Arizona is home to some of the most fascinating Route 66 treasures, waiting to be explored. As you drive along this iconic highway, you’ll encounter a mix of nostalgic attractions, historic landmarks, and entertainment options that showcase the region’s rich history.
Kingman: The Heart of Historic Route66
Kingman is a must-visit stop on your Route 66 journey. The city is proud of its Route 66 heritage, and you can experience this at the Kingman Arizona Route66 Museum. To capture the essence of Kingman,
Oatman: Wild Burros and Gold Mining History
Oatman is another gem on Route 66, known for its wild burros and gold mining history. You can enjoy a stroll down the main street, visit the Oatman Hotel, and interact with the friendly burros. To visualize Oatman’s charm,
Iconic Neon Signs and Historic Motels
One of the highlights of driving Route 66 in Western Arizona is the spectacular neon signs and historic motels. You’ll see animated displays like the Western Hills Motel sign, with its trotting horses and spinning wagon wheels. These signs represent the golden age of American roadside architecture. To capture the beauty of these signs,
The region’s historic motels, ranging from basic motor courts to elaborate themed accommodations, offer authentic Route 66 overnight experiences. Preservation efforts have ensured that these landmarks remain intact, allowing you to imagine the highway as it was during its heyday.
Planning Your Arizona Route 66 Adventure
Discover the ultimate Arizona Route66 experience with our insider tips and planning guide. Planning a road trip along historic Route66 in Arizona requires deciding whether to travel the entire 385-mile stretch or focus on specific segments that match your interests and available time.
The Arizona Route66 Passport program offers a fun way to document your journey, with stamps available at visitor centers and attractions along the route. Consider timing your trip to avoid summer’s extreme desert heat in western Arizona while also being mindful that winter can bring snow to high-elevation towns like Flagstaff and Williams.
Allow time for side trips to nearby world-class attractions, including the Grand Canyon (accessible from Williams or Flagstaff), Sedona’s red rocks, and Petrified Forest National Park. Authentic dining experiences are a crucial part of Route66 history, so research historic diners and restaurants that serve classic road food.
For family travelers, the Route66 Check-in Challenge gamifies the journey with digital check-ins at landmarks. Consider renting a classic car to fully embrace the nostalgic spirit of America’s most famous road trip route.
The above is subject to change.
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