Arizona’s Route 66 Road Trip
Start / End
Holbrook, AZ / Oatman, AZ
States Covered
AZ
Suggested Days
10 Days
Total Distance
265 mi (426 km)
Suggested Seasons
Year Round
#ThisIsMyRoute
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 as it prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2026! Starting in Holbrook and ending in Oatman, this itinerary will guide you east to west through iconic small towns, outdoor adventures, and nostalgic landmarks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or road trip aficionado, this trip offers something for everyone. Fly into Albuquerque and out of Las Vegas, or extend your trip by driving beyond Arizona’s borders to explore even more of the Mother Road.
Preparation
Before hitting the road, ensure you’re prepared to make the most of your Route 66 journey. Pack a mix of clothing for Arizona’s diverse climates—expect warm days, cooler evenings, and potential altitude changes in places like Flagstaff. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as well as sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Plan your stops in advance, especially for popular attractions like the Grand Canyon Railway or accommodations like the Wigwam Motel, as they can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Keep a paper map or guidebook handy; cell service can be spotty in some remote areas. Finally, bring a camera to capture the vintage neon signs, breathtaking landscapes, and quirky roadside attractions that make this trip unforgettable. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to hit the Mother Road and celebrate its 100th anniversary in style!
DAY 1: HOLBROOK
Travel Tip: For those traveling in the heat of the summer, stop by Clear Creek Reservoir just before Winslow to get out on the water and cool off.
DAY 2: WINSLOW
33 miles/53 km
Take it easy in Winslow, where the famous “Standin’ on the Corner” Park pays homage to the Eagles’ classic hit. Dive into history at the beautifully restored La Posada Hotel, a masterpiece of Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter’s Southwestern architecture and take a tour with a retired Harvey Girl. For an out-of-this-world experience, drive out to Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved impact sites on Earth.
Travel Tip: Grab lunch at The Turquoise Room at La Posada Hotel for a taste of Southwestern cuisine.
DAY 3: FLAGSTAFF
57 miles/92 km
Arrive in Flagstaff, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend your day hiking in Walnut Canyon National Monument or Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. If visiting in winter, head up to Arizona Snowbowl for skiing or snowboarding. In the evening, visit Lowell Observatory and the new Astronomy Discovery Center just outside of town on Mars Hill. As the world’s first International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff offers remarkable stargazing opportunities that will leave you in awe.
Travel Tip: Wear layers! Flagstaff’s high altitude means temperatures can change quickly.
DAY 4: FLAGSTAFF
Dedicate your second day in Flagstaff to exploring its historic downtown. Browse vintage shops, enjoy Route 66-era diners, and visit landmarks like the Hotel Monte Vista. Stop by the Museum of Northern Arizona to learn about the region’s Indigenous cultures and geological history.
Travel Tip: Park downtown and walk—Flagstaff’s compact center is best explored on foot.
DAY 5: WILLIAMS
30 miles/48 km
Head to Williams, the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.” Ride the Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic trip to the South Rim, or visit Bearizona Wildlife Park to see native animals up close. Stroll through Williams’ historic downtown, where neon signs and classic diners evoke the heyday of Route 66. Spend the evening at one of William’s charming inns or a night under the stars at nearby campsites and RV parks.
Travel Tip: Consider booking train tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
DAY 6: SELIGMAN
Seligman, known as the birthplace of the Route 66 revival, is a quirky town full of charm. Stop at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In for a burger and a laugh—its eccentric decor and playful staff are legendary. Seligman is also the perfect place for your route 66 memorabilia. Shop till you drop downtown and take plenty of photos with the vintage cars and vibrant murals.
Travel Tip: Spend some extra time chatting with locals—they’re full of stories about Route 66’s heyday.
DAY 7 AND 8: PEACH SPRINGS
Peach Springs offers a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences. Explore the Grand Canyon Caverns, a fascinating underground site filled with geological wonders and even a restaurant 200 feet below ground. Or spend the day floating through the Grand Canyon with Hualapai River Runners. Spend the night at the Hualapai Lodge to learn more about the Hualapai Tribe through local storytelling and cultural events. For those wanting more of the Grand Canyon, take an extra day to explore Grand Canyon West, operated by the Hualapai tribe and offering breathtaking experiences of the canyon unlike any other.
Travel Tip: Peach Springs served as the inspiration for Radiator Springs in Cars, making it a hit for fans of the film.
DAY 9: KINGMAN
50 miles/80 km
Dive into road trip history in Kingman. Take a stroll through the Arizona Route 66 Museum to learn about the evolution of travel along the Mother Road. Enjoy a meal at Mr. D’z Diner, a retro spot serving classic American fare.
Travel Tip: Check out the nearby Hackberry General Store for unique Route 66 memorabilia. The drive to Hackberry purportedly inspired the driving scenes with Lightning McQueen and Sally in the Pixar movie “Cars”.
DAY 10: OATMAN
29 miles/ 47 km
Arrive in Oatman, a former mining town where burros roam freely through the streets. Watch gunfight reenactments and explore local shops for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Make sure to stop in the Oatman Hotel which houses a restaurant and museum showcasing Oatman’s mining history. Or head out into the rugged landscape surrounding Oatman on a scenic drive full of jagged ridges and otherworldly photo ops.
Travel Tip: Drive cautiously—Oatman Highway is narrow and winding but offers stunning views.
