Did you know that over 100,000 visitors annually make the pilgrimage to “stand on the corner” in Winslow, Arizona, immortalized by the Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy”? This small desert town, once a bustling railway hub, has transformed itself from a bypassed Route 66 community into a vibrant destination that celebrates its rich history while offering surprising outdoor adventures. Beyond its famous musical connection, Winslow hides turquoise waters carving through red sandstone canyons, Native American heritage sites, and one of the Southwest’s architectural treasures.
Getting to Winslow, Arizona
Winslow is located in northeastern Arizona, approximately 60 miles east of Flagstaff and 185 miles northeast of Phoenix. The town is easily accessible via Interstate 40, which replaced the historic Route 66.
By Air
The nearest major airports are Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), about an hour’s drive away, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), approximately 3 hours southwest. Winslow does have its own small airport, Winslow-Lindbergh Regional Airport, originally designed by Charles Lindbergh himself, though it primarily serves private aircraft.
Find the best flight deals to start your Winslow adventure:
By Car
Driving to Winslow is the most convenient option, allowing you to experience the scenic beauty of northern Arizona. Interstate 40 provides direct access to the town, and following parts of historic Route 66 adds a nostalgic dimension to your journey. From Flagstaff, it’s a straightforward 45-minute drive east on I-40.
Rent a car to explore Winslow and the surrounding attractions at your own pace:
By Train
For a truly unique arrival experience, consider taking Amtrak’s Southwest Chief, which stops at the historic Winslow Amtrak Station. The train runs between Chicago and Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into the town’s railroad heritage that dates back to the 1880s when the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad established Winslow as a division headquarters.
Best Time to Visit Winslow
Winslow experiences a dry, arid climate with significant temperature variations between seasons and even within a single day.
Spring (March-May)
Spring offers mild temperatures ranging from 48°F to 81°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The desert blooms with wildflowers, and the weather is perfect for hiking and exploring. Spring also brings occasional wind, so be prepared if you’re planning outdoor adventures.
Summer (June-August)
Summers are hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and occasionally reaching over 100°F. However, the low humidity makes the heat more bearable than in other regions. This is also monsoon season, bringing dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that create spectacular desert skies.
Fall (September-November)
Fall brings pleasant temperatures between 60°F and 85°F, with cooler evenings. This is an excellent time to visit, with clear skies and comfortable conditions for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions. The annual Standin’ On The Corner Festival happens in late September.
Ready to plan your Winslow getaway? Find the perfect accommodations for your stay:
Where to Stay in Winslow
La Posada Hotel
The crown jewel of accommodations in Winslow is undoubtedly La Posada Hotel. Designed by famed architect Mary Colter in 1929 as a Harvey House hotel, this meticulously restored Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece offers 54 unique rooms, beautiful gardens, and an art gallery featuring works by contemporary artist Tina Mion. The hotel’s award-winning Turquoise Room restaurant serves exceptional Southwestern cuisine. Staying at La Posada is like stepping back in time to the golden age of rail travel.
Chain Hotels
For travelers seeking familiar accommodations, Winslow offers several well-known hotel chains along Interstate 40, including Best Western Plus, Quality Inn, and Days Inn. These properties provide comfortable, budget-friendly options with standard amenities like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and swimming pools.
RV Parks and Camping
Outdoor enthusiasts can find several RV parks in and around Winslow. McHood Park at Clear Creek Reservoir offers free dispersed camping with basic facilities in a beautiful desert setting just 5 miles from town. Homolovi State Park, 3 miles north of Winslow, provides campsites with electrical hookups, water, and stunning dark sky views for stargazing.
Book your stay in Winslow to experience the unique blend of Route 66 nostalgia and desert beauty:
Top Attractions in Winslow
Standin’ on the Corner Park
No visit to Winslow would be complete without stopping at the famous Standin’ on the Corner Park. This downtown attraction celebrates the Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy” with its line “standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” The park features a bronze statue of a man with a guitar, a mural depicting “a girl, my Lord, in a flatbed Ford,” and a red flatbed truck parked nearby. Street musicians often perform Eagles classics, creating a festive atmosphere. The surrounding area offers Route 66 souvenir shops and eateries.
La Posada Hotel and Gardens
Even if you’re not staying overnight, La Posada Hotel is worth a visit. This architectural gem designed by Mary Colter (known for her work at Grand Canyon) has been lovingly restored and now serves as both a hotel and museum. Explore the beautiful gardens, admire the Southwestern architecture, and browse the impressive art collection. The adjacent Affeldt Mion Museum houses the world’s largest Navajo rug, created in 1932.
Clear Creek Reservoir and McHood Park
Just 5 miles southeast of Winslow lies one of Arizona’s hidden gems. Clear Creek Reservoir carves through beautiful Coconino Sandstone cliffs, creating what locals call a “miniature Lake Powell.” The deep blue waters offer opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Rock climbers enjoy “deep water soloing” – climbing the smooth canyon walls and dropping into the cool water below. Keep an eye out for ancient petroglyphs along the canyon walls as you explore.
Ready for adventure? Rent equipment to explore Clear Creek Reservoir:
Homolovi State Park
Just 3 miles north of Winslow, Homolovi State Park preserves the archaeological sites of the Hopi people who lived in the area from 1260 to 1400. Explore ancient pueblo ruins, discover petroglyphs, and learn about the rich Native American heritage of the region. The park’s visitor center offers exhibits on Hopi culture and archaeology. With minimal light pollution, Homolovi is also an excellent spot for stargazing, featuring a new observatory and ranger-led star parties.
Old Trails Museum
Located across from Standin’ on the Corner Park, the Old Trails Museum chronicles Winslow’s rich history. Exhibits cover the Native American heritage, railroad era, Route 66 heyday, and the town’s connection to aviation pioneer Charles Lindbergh, who designed the local airport. The museum occupies a historic building and houses fascinating artifacts from Winslow’s past.
First Street Pathway
This six-block walkway showcases Winslow’s eclectic culture through public art installations. Highlights include a 35-foot wooden sculpture honoring local tribes, a windmill featuring brands from area ranches, and colorfully painted “Art Cars” that light up at night. The pathway begins at the historic Hubbell Trading Post warehouse, now home to the Winslow Visitor Center.
9/11 Remembrance Garden
This moving memorial features two steel girders recovered from the World Trade Center wreckage. Winslow was among the first communities to receive these artifacts, creating a solemn space to honor those lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
Day Trips from Winslow
Petrified Forest National Park
Located just 45 minutes east of Winslow, this national park showcases one of the world’s largest concentrations of petrified wood, colorful badlands of the Painted Desert, and archaeological sites including Puerco Pueblo. The park’s scenic drive offers numerous viewpoints and hiking trails ranging from easy paved paths to backcountry routes.
Meteor Crater
Just 20 minutes west of Winslow lies one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on Earth. This massive crater measures nearly a mile across and 550 feet deep, created approximately 50,000 years ago when a meteorite struck the desert. The visitor center offers exhibits on meteorites and astronomy, while guided rim tours provide spectacular views of this impressive natural landmark.
Jack’s Canyon
Located 30 miles south of Winslow, Jack’s Canyon is a hidden gem for rock climbers and hikers. This limestone and sandstone canyon offers numerous climbing routes for intermediate-level climbers, as well as scenic hiking trails with sweeping views. The canyon can be enjoyed year-round, with free dispersed camping available for those wanting to extend their visit.
Explore these amazing day trips with your own vehicle:
Where to Eat in Winslow
The Turquoise Room
Located inside La Posada Hotel, this award-winning restaurant serves sophisticated Southwestern cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Chef John Sharpe’s menu features creative dishes like black bean and corn chowder, Hopi-style lamb stew, and seasonal specialties such as stuffed squash blossoms. The elegant dining room with its Southwestern decor provides a memorable setting for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
RelicRoad Brewing Company
This local brewery and restaurant offers craft beers and pub fare with a Southwestern twist. The dog-friendly patio provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their house-brewed beers alongside burgers, sandwiches, and shareable appetizers. Live music often adds to the ambiance on weekends.
Flatbed Ford Café
Named after the famous Eagles lyric, this downtown café serves hearty breakfast and lunch options. Try their breakfast burritos, banana bread French toast, or green chile dishes for a taste of local flavors. The café’s Route 66 memorabilia creates a nostalgic atmosphere.
Sipp Shoppe
This charming spot offers homemade ice cream, old-fashioned sodas, and light fare like their popular strawberry salad. It’s the perfect place to cool off after exploring downtown Winslow, with a nostalgic atmosphere that celebrates the town’s Route 66 heritage.
Practical Tips for Visiting Winslow
Getting Around
Having your own vehicle is essential for exploring Winslow and its surrounding attractions. While the downtown area is walkable, attractions like Clear Creek Reservoir and Homolovi State Park require transportation. There is no public transit system in Winslow, though Hopi Senom Transit does provide bus service from Winslow to the Hopi Reservation.
Weather Preparedness
The desert climate means significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Dress in layers, especially in spring and fall. Summer visitors should bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) and plenty of water for outdoor activities. Winter nights can be surprisingly cold, so pack accordingly if visiting during colder months.
Local Resources
The Winslow Visitor Center, located in the historic Hubbell Trading Post warehouse at 523 W. 2nd Street, offers maps, brochures, and local advice. They also provide free electric vehicle charging stations. Download the free Winslow app (available in app stores) for on-the-go information about attractions, dining, and events.
Why Winslow Deserves More Than Just a Quick Stop
Winslow, Arizona isn’t just a lyric in a famous song or a quick photo opportunity along Route 66. This resilient desert town offers a perfect blend of Americana nostalgia, natural beauty, and cultural heritage that rewards travelers who choose to linger. From standing on that famous corner to paddling through a hidden desert canyon, from exploring ancient pueblos to dining in a masterpiece of Southwestern architecture, Winslow delivers authentic experiences that capture the spirit of the American Southwest.
Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Winslow provides a genuine connection to both the past and present of the American West. So take it easy, slow down, and discover why this small Arizona town deserves a prominent place on your travel itinerary. As the Eagles might say, it’s a place that can “lighten up your load” and leave you with memories that will have you planning your return visit before you’ve even left town.
Ready to experience Winslow, Arizona for yourself? Start planning your trip today:
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
