Route 66 is more than just a highway; it’s a symbol of adventure, freedom, and Americana. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, this legendary road has drawn travelers for nearly a century. As it approaches its centennial, Route 66 remains a timeless experience, particularly along its longest section, through Arizona. Through this stretch, you will find a stunning blend of ponderosa pine forests, dramatic desert landscapes, rich Native American history, and some of the most recognizable landmarks along the entire route. From the Petrified Forest to the charming towns preserved in time, the Arizona section provides the perfect mix of adventure and nostalgia, making it the heart of the Mother Road.
This story was created in partnership with Visit Arizona.
Section 1: Outdoor Recreation and Parks
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is more than just a scenic drive—it’s a launchpad to some of the most remarkable parks and outdoor recreation in the Southwest. Along the route, Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument showcase the stark beauty of volcanic landscapes, where visitors can hike through ancient lava flows and explore Native American ruins set against the backdrop of the Painted Desert and ponderosa pine forests. These sites give visitors an immersive experience of the natural forces that shaped the land and its history.
Walnut Canyon National Monument and Petrified Forest National Park further highlight the region’s natural wonders. Walnut Canyon invites visitors to hike down into a canyon rich in history, where cliff dwellings become a window into the lives of ancient peoples. Petrified Forest, with its striking colors and massive fossilized trees, transports visitors back millions of years, revealing a glimpse into Earth’s distant past. For those looking to explore Arizona’s cultural heritage, Riordan Mansion State Historic Park and Homolovi State Park offer a deeper connection to the region’s Native American and settler history, where archaeological sites and historic buildings bring the area’s story to life.
Section 2: Wildlife Viewing
Arizona’s Route 66 is also a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, with a variety of parks and sanctuaries offering up-close encounters with native species. At the Grand Canyon Deer Farm in Williams, visitors can interact with a range of animals, from deer and llamas to exotic species, all in a beautiful setting near the Grand Canyon. For a more immersive wildlife experience, Keepers of the Wild Nature Park in Valentine hosts a sanctuary for rescued animals, including lions, tigers, and bears, providing a chance to learn about conservation and the importance of protecting these majestic creatures.
Further down the road, Bearizona presents a unique opportunity to drive through a wildlife park, where bison, wolves, and bears roam freely in a natural setting. This interactive wildlife experience allows visitors to get up close with the animals in their native habitats, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic connection to the wilderness.
Section 3: Iconic Stops
No trip along Route 66 would be complete without stopping at some of its most iconic landmarks, and Arizona’s stretch of the highway is home to a variety of unique, nostalgic stops that have become symbols of the road’s enduring spirit. Start with the famous “Here It Is” Billboard at Jack Rabbit Trading Post in Joseph City, an iconic stop that has greeted visitors for decades. Cool Springs Station in Oatman, once a gas station and lunch stop for Route 66 sightseers, now offers the opportunity to step back in time through its restored memorabilia. Not far away in Kingman, Giganticus Headicus is a quirky roadside sculpture that has become a beloved photo opportunity.
Other stops, like the La Posada Hotel in Winslow, evoke the charm and nostalgia of a bygone era. La Posada, once a Fred Harvey railroad hotel, has been beautifully restored to its former glory, bringing to life the lavish world of Route 66’s heyday. Don’t miss Standin’ on the Corner Park, also in Winslow, immortalized by the song “Take It Easy” by The Eagles, or Meteor Crater, a massive impact site that is home to one of the best-preserved examples of a meteor strike on Earth. And of course, the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook stands as one of the most memorable places to stay along the route, with its iconic tepee-shaped rooms that continue to captivate travelers from around the world.
