For those seeking adventure, Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 gives tourers a chance to embrace the open road and explore a region rich in culture and natural beauty. This is not just about visiting destinations—it’s about the journey itself, filled with memorable encounters and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Hit the open road and discover the best of Arizona’s Route 66 on a motorcycle. From iconic landmarks to scenic detours, this 5-day itinerary offers a thrilling, alternative way to experience America’s most famous highway. Whether you’re riding through desert landscapes or stopping at quirky roadside attractions, this journey is the ultimate adventure for road trip enthusiasts.
Having traveled the highway across Nevada (and back) myself, I can assure you, no special skills are needed to survive; just a sense of adventure, a little planning, and a better attitude than a certain ‘LIFE’ magazine writer. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of surprises for the curious-minded traveler.
Juneau, Alaska, will take your breath away! You will wonder at the vastness of glacier-carved mountains and expanses of frozen rivers of ice (or icefields). Juneau inspires a desire for exploration, breathing deeply, and curiosity at what remnants of the past remain hidden in the 17-million-acre rainforest.
From aliens to Bigfoot, Route 66 has over 2,400 miles of history and mystery to uncover. From sacred spirits to mysterious crash sites and extensive cave systems, you’ll find it all on the Mother Road.
Turn off all distractions, close your eyes for a moment, and relish the birdsongs and floral aromas that fill the air around you. In the winter, you might even catch sight of the aurora borealis. Then, after each day’s activities, hit the town for delicious food catering to all taste buds and budgets.
Delight in a scenic drive along the water as you head to the Alyeska Nordic Spa for some high-quality relaxation. Here, you’ll get acquainted with the Chugach Mountains, which are visible from the hot and cold pools that make up part of the spa’s signature hydrotherapy circuit. For a deeper dive into Alaska’s wilderness, take a floatplane to Katmai National Park & Preserve for some of the best bear watching in the state.
When you make Williams your Arizona basecamp, you’ll find outdoor adventure, Indigenous experiences, and Southwestern charm await in every direction. In this spoke-style itinerary, Williams is your home base and each day you’ll explore in a new direction. Discover everything from the magnificent sights of the Grand Canyon to ancient dwellings and national forests.
Relive the nostalgia of the Mother Road while creating new memories in its centennial year! Kick off your journey in Holbrook, a town where Route 66 nostalgia meets natural wonder. Stay at the Wigwam Motel, a charming retro accommodation featuring teepee-shaped rooms. Spend your afternoon exploring Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Desert, both brimming with ancient, colorful landscapes. End the day with a visit to Jim Gray’s Petrified Wood Co. for unique souvenirs. The whole trip will provide you with a vibrant mix of experiences just like this across the state of Arizona.
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is more than just a highway—it’s a journey through time, culture, and landscapes that inspire and connect us. From thrilling outdoor adventures to quiet moments of nostalgia, this historic route offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly getaway, motorcycle road trip, or a solo adventure, Route 66 reminds us that the journey truly is the destination.