Route 66 in Arizona | Best Stops + Historic Motels + Map |

Best attractions on Route 66 in Arizona: 10 must-see stops

These are the must-see and most famous stops along Route 66 in Arizona, from west to east:

1. Topock

Topock is a small community located along the Colorado River, on the border between Arizona and California. Although it is now a quiet, sparsely populated place, during the heyday of the Mother Road it was an important stop for travelers crossing the Mojave Desert on their way to the American West.

Its most iconic feature is the historic Old Trails Bridge, a steel bridge with a large arch that opened in 1916 and allowed Route 66 to cross the Colorado River between the two states. It was key to establishing passenger and freight traffic along the highway, and today it remains one of the most important historical landmarks of Route 66 in Arizona, even though it is currently closed to vehicular traffic and serves as a natural gas pipeline.

In addition, Topock is known for its desert landscapes and for being the starting point of one of the most spectacular and scenic stretches of Route 66: the road that winds its way up toward Oatman through mountains, sharp curves, and old mining towns.

2. Oatman

Oatman is one of the most charming towns on Route 66 in Arizona, even though getting there involves navigating quite a few curves. We love its secluded charm, the road leading up to it, and the beautiful natural landscape that surrounds it, with the Black Mountains taking center stage.

Oatman began as a mining camp during the gold rush in the early 20th century and today retains a distinct Wild West atmosphere that sets it apart from other towns, with wooden buildings, saloons, and street performances.

Its most iconic symbol is the wild donkeys that roam freely through the streets, descendants of the pack animals once used by miners. After the gold mines closed during World War II, the burros were set free and began to roam freely through the surrounding hills.

In fact, there are more donkeys than people in Oatman, and you’ll see them everywhere. But remember: it’s illegal to feed them anything other than the food prepared by the townspeople, which you can buy once you’re there. If you’re caught doing otherwise, you’ll be fined!

The town is very small and consists of a single main street where all the shops are located—a truly eclectic mix: retro clothing stores, antique and souvenir shops, bars and restaurants, photo booths for vintage-style pictures, and more. If you can, stop by the Oatman Hotel, whether to eat at its restaurant—whose walls are covered with $1 bills—or to visit the museum on the second floor, where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard’s bridal suite is located.

3. Kingman

Kingman is one of the most important historic towns along Route 66 in Arizona, located right at the intersection with Interstate 40. Its development was closely tied to the railroad, which arrived in the area in the late 19th century, and it continued to grow thanks to mining, ranching, and the passage of Route 66.

Today, it retains much of its historical heritage thanks to its historic district, murals, diners, motels, and museums dedicated to the highway. The most important site is the Powerhouse, a building constructed in 1907 that supplied electricity to Kingman until the Hoover Dam was built. We recommend stopping by, as it houses the Visitor Center, the Arizona Route 66 Museum, the Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum, and a gift shop.

Nearby is Locomotive Park, where you can see (and climb aboard) a Santa Fe steam locomotive that made its final trip in 1957 on the route from Los Angeles to Kansas City.

Kingman is also home to one of the most famous diners on Route 66: Mr. D’z. Aside from its colorful facade, photogenic sign, and the classic cars surrounding it, it’s well worth trying its American food and calorie-packed desserts. The interior is really cool! Right next door is a classic car dealership (which doubles as a gift shop) called Dunton Motor's Dream Machines, and inside you'll find some real gems.

4. Hackberry

Hackberry is a small, out-of-the-way stop in the middle of the desert, but you won’t be able to stop taking pictures there. Although it was once a mining town, it’s now virtually deserted, and the main attractions are centered around the Hackberry General Store, with its old gas station and gift shop filled with a wide variety of items, all arranged in a captivatingly chaotic display.

Hackberry feels more like a museum, with its collection of beat-up classic cars, vintage signs, old gas pumps, and that atmosphere that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. We love this place!

And if you're lucky, you'll be greeted by Charlie the cat, a little ball of orange fur who loves nothing more than being petted and is the star of the place.

5. Seligman

Seligman is considered by many to be the most iconic town on Route 66, as it claims to be the Mother Road. Following the construction of Interstate 40 in 1978, Seligman became virtually isolated, resulting in almost no one passing through and causing its various businesses to decline. It was one of its residents, barber Ángel Delgadillo, who led a movement to preserve and revitalize this route, which was later recognized as historic.

In Seligman, you'll use up your camera's battery, because even though it's a very touristy place, it's incredibly photogenic. Here you'll find several souvenir shops, plenty of references to the movie Cars—since it served as inspiration for Pixar—as well as historic motels and atmospheric bars.

But to truly honor Seligman, there are two places you shouldn't miss: Angel & Vilma Delgadillo's Original Route 66 Gift Shop (a souvenir shop and museum located where Angel Delgadillo's barbershop once stood) and Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In (a small restaurant and ice cream shop with very colorful decor).

6. Williams

Williams is one of the liveliest and most popular tourist destinations along Route 66 in Arizona, partly because it serves as the gateway to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Here, the selection of restaurants and lodging options is more abundant than at any other stop along the route, with a historic downtown filled with neon signs that light up at dusk, well-preserved buildings, souvenir and cowboy clothing shops, motels, and references to Elvis Presley.

In addition, Williams is the starting point for the famous Grand Canyon Railway, a historic train that has been operating since 1901 and connects the city to the Grand Canyon via a stunning 105-kilometer (65 mi) journey. You can purchase your tickets for the Grand Canyon Railway here.

7. Flagstaff

Although Flagstaff is a full-fledged city with a much more modern, college-town vibe, it still preserves several iconic landmarks along the Mother Road. Situated at an elevation of over 2,000 meters (6,820 ft) and surrounded by forests and mountains, Flagstaff enjoys much more pleasant temperatures in the summer, and you might even get a good snowfall at any other time of year. It also serves as the gateway to the beautiful town of Sedona.

Flagstaff is home to several historic buildings, diners, and neon signs associated with Route 66. We particularly love the signs of the Western Hills Motel and the Downtowner Motel, as well as the Galaxy and Miz Zip's diners, which are great places to eat.

You also shouldn't miss the Flagstaff Visitor Center, located in the historic train station—a building that feels like Harry Potter's Platform 9¾. Outside, you can take a photo with the Route 66 mural on the ground, and once inside, you can get information about the area and souvenirs, see a miniature replica of the Old Two-Spo locomotive, and purchase the Route 66 passport.

Flagstaff is also known for its street art, with the large mural on the back of the Lumberyard Brewing Co taking center stage—it features classic cars, the Pow Wow Native American festival, and Route 66 icons. If you’re interested, this guided tour of Flagstaff’s murals will let you discover many more.

8. Winslow

Winslow went from being a major stop on the railroad and Route 66 to becoming a minor cultural icon thanks to the Eagles' song "Take It Easy." The line "Well, I'm a standin' on a corner in Winslow, Arizona" came about when Jackson Browne got stranded in the town after his car broke down while he was on his way to Sedona.

For this reason, the spot that draws everyone's attention in Winslow is Standin' on the Corner Park, created in 1999 at the corner of Kinsley Avenue and 2nd Street. All travelers stop here to take photos at this spot, which features a mural on a brick wall, a red pickup truck, a sculpture of Jackson Browne with a guitar, and the Route 66 logo on the road surface.

Winslow is also home to the historic Hotel La Posada, built in 1929 and one of the most elegant and iconic hotels along Route 66. In fact, it is the last of the grand hotels built alongside the railroad tracks by the Santa Fe Company. If you can stay there, all the better; if not, its doors are open to visitors.

9. Holbrook

Holbrook is the last must-see town on Route 66 in Arizona, especially for its retro motels with big neon signs, classic restaurants, and its proximity to the spectacular Petrified Forest National Park.

Its most famous attraction is the Wigwam Motel, another of the most iconic lodgings along Route 66, where the rooms are shaped like giant teepees. The grounds are also filled with classic cars, and you can visit even if you’re not staying there. Did you know it was the inspiration for the Cozy Cone Motel in the movie Cars?

If you're traveling Route 66 with kids, they might enjoy stopping at Dinos of Holbrook, a place where you can buy pieces of petrified wood from the area and where there are tons of dinosaur sculptures.

10. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is the only national park crossed by Route 66; within its boundaries, an original section of the highway remains, marked by a row of old telephone poles.

Although it isn't as famous as other parks in the country, we think it's wonderful. In our opinion, it's one of the most amazing places in Arizona, thanks to its enormous fossilized tree trunks and multicolored landscapes, offering a unique blend of nature and history.

Lesser-known stops on Route 66 in Arizona

If you want to get off the beaten path and discover some of the lesser-known—yet still fascinating—spots along Route 66 in Arizona, here are our recommendations:

1. Arizona Sidewinder

If you're driving from Kingman to Oatman, you'll pass through the famous Arizona Sidewinder, a legendary 13-kilometer (8 mi) stretch of Route 66 that winds through the Black Mountains with 191 curves. It's a very popular stretch among motorcyclists, and although it's a narrow road with no guardrails, we drove it in a large vehicle without any major issues.

You’ll pass by Cool Springs Station, a restored old gas station that’s very photogenic, and Sitgreaves Pass, a mountain pass at an elevation of 1,082 meters (3,550 ft) offering breathtaking views of the desert and iconic mountains such as Thimble Mountain and Elephant’s Tooth. You can also reach Shaffer Springs if you feel like walking, or continue on to Topock to see the Colorado River.

2. Antares

Located between Kingman and Hackberry is this tiny community, which is known for the Giganticus Headicus sculpture—a massive green head inspired by the moai statues of Easter Island—and is attracting an increasing number of visitors.

This sculpture, along with classic cars and vintage signs, is located on the grounds of what used to be the Ranchero Motel, a roadside motel with a gas station that still retains that nostalgic feel.

3. Walnut Canyon National Monument

Although it lies off Route 66, you only need to take a 5-kilometer (3 mi) detour from the highway as you leave Flagstaff to admire one of northern Arizona’s most important historical and archaeological sites. This spectacular canyon features a series of cave dwellings carved into its walls, which once belonged to Native American tribes. There is a loop trail that descends into the canyon, allowing you to explore this village up close and even enter some of the dwellings.

4. Twin Arrows

Between Flagstaff and Winslow, you’ll find one of the most legendary abandoned sites along Route 66 in Arizona. It’s an old trading post that became famous for its two wooden arrows, each nearly 25 feet tall, planted alongside the road—visible from a distance and now one of the route’s most iconic symbols of decay.

Twin Arrows began in the 1940s as a small stop for travelers on Route 66, but the construction of Interstate 40 eventually diverted traffic away from the area, leading to its decline until it closed in the 1990s. Today, the site stands empty, covered in graffiti and with buildings in ruins—a relic in the middle of the desert that was once teeming with life.

From here, about 20 km (13 mi) toward Winslow, you can also stop at Canyon Padre Bridge, an old Route 66 bridge, and at the Graffiti Gas Station, an abandoned gas station covered in graffiti.

5. Meteor Crater

Although it’s not actually on Route 66, if you have time and enjoy lunar landscapes, you can take a 10-kilometer (6 mi) detour before reaching Winslow to visit the spectacular Meteor Crater (also known as Barringer Crater).

Visually, it resembles Nevada's Lunar Crater, although in this case it was not formed by a volcanic eruption, but rather by a high-speed meteorite impact. This created a crater more than 1 km (0.8 mi) in diameter and 170 meters (560 ft) deep that is perfectly preserved.

Admission isn't cheap (it costs $29 for adults and $25 for children ages 6 to 12), but it includes a guided tour, and the complex offers plenty of amenities: 4 observation decks, a children’s play area, a visitor center, a space museum, a 4D simulation where you can feel like a spaceship pilot, a film about the crater’s formation, and an exhibit featuring one of the Apollo 11 space capsules, which was used for training here.

6. Jack Rabbit Trading Post

Located between Winslow and Holbrook is the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, which opened its doors in 1949 and became famous for putting up signs along the road for several miles bearing the message "Here it is" and a rabbit, thus piquing travelers' curiosity long before they arrived.

Today, you’ll find a souvenir shop filled with quirky items and a vintage atmosphere, many of which feature the Jack Rabbit, the undisputed star of this stop. Don’t forget to climb onto the sculpture of the famous rabbit and snap a photo with it, and be sure to check out one of the legendary signs right there on the spot.

Where to stay on Route 66 in Arizona: Historic motels and hotels

A trip down Route 66 just isn't the same without spending the night at one of the historic motels or retro hotels, right? We recommend some of the most charming ones—whether for their historical significance or their decor—leaving the big-chain hotels behind. There are also a few more modern options.

Topock66 (Topock)

Located along the Colorado River, this is one of the most unique and scenic resorts along Route 66 in Arizona. Although modern and boutique-style, it has managed to preserve that classic Route 66 atmosphere in a spectacular desert setting. It features a restaurant and a marina, as well as a pool and terraces with views.

The Trovatore Motel (Kingman)

This historic motel opened in 1937, making it one of the few remaining pre-World War II motels still in operation along Route 66. Its neon sign is incredibly photogenic, and the entire place is decorated in a Route 66 theme, complete with themed rooms.

Historic Route 66 Motel (Seligman)

This motel, located in the picturesque town of Seligman, is a functional place to stay, but it has a real sense of authenticity with its neon sign and Route 66-themed decor.

The Aztec Motel (Seligman)

Also in Seligman, this is another one of the most charming historic motels in the town of Cars film. Its origins date back to 1915, and today it blends the classic Route 66 atmosphere with an artistic and meticulously restored interior. It’s perfect if you prefer to stay somewhere with a more modern touch!

The Historic Grand Canyon Hotel (Williams)

Williams offers a huge selection of hotels, including both historic and modern options. This hotel opened its doors in 1892 and served as a base for travelers visiting the Grand Canyon, including the famous conservationist John Muir. In fact, it was the first hotel in northern Arizona and the one that remained in operation the longest in the state. It was completely renovated by its new owners in 2024, and its exquisite Victorian decor transports you back to the era of the cowboys.

The Red Garter Inn (Williams)

Also in Williams, though much smaller than the previous one, is this hotel, which dates back to 1897 and was originally a bordello and saloon. It has only a few rooms, but its decor and atmosphere will transport you back in time.

Americana Motor Hotel (Flagstaff)

A perfect example of a Route 66 motel that’s been restored with incredible style. Built in 1962, it retains the retro-futuristic aesthetic typical of the era, but with a modern twist—it’s incredibly photogenic and bursting with color. It’s ideal for travelers who want a vintage vibe without sacrificing comfort.

La Posada Hotel (Winslow)

More than just a typical motel, it is one of the most elegant historic hotels along the entire Route 66. It opened in 1930 as a luxury railroad hotel but stood abandoned for decades until it was carefully restored. It retains a unique atmosphere of a classic American Western hotel with a modern boutique style, and its garden is beautiful!

Wigwam Motel (Holbrook)

One of the most famous motels on Route 66, known for its giant teepee-shaped rooms. It perfectly preserves the retro aesthetic of the 1950s, and its grounds are filled with classic cars. Plus, it inspired the Cozy Cone Motel in the movie Cars!

Itineraries along Route 66 in Arizona

1-Day Arizona's Route 66 Itinerary

If you only have one day to explore Route 66 in this state, then it’s best to focus on the main and most accessible attractions:

1. Kingman
2. Hackberry
3. Seligman
4. Williams. Spend the night at The Historic Grand Canyon Hotel or the Red Garter Inn

Keep in mind that the drive to Oatman takes about an hour (one way) from Kingman, so fitting it into your schedule might be a tight squeeze if you only have one day.

2-Day Arizona's Route 66 Itinerary

Here is the itinerary we recommend if you have two full days:

Day 1: From Oatman to Seligman (190 km or 118 mi)

1. Oatman (via the Arizona Sidewinder)
2. Kingman
3. Antares
4. Hackberry
5. Seligman. Spend the night here at the Historic Route 66 Motel or the Red Garter Inn

Day 2: From Seligman to Petrified Forest (310 km or 193 mi)

1. Williams
2. Twin Arrows
3. Winslow
4. Jack Rabbit Trading Post
5. Holbrook
6. Petrified Forest National Park (perfect for watching the sunset)

3-Day Arizona's Route 66 Itinerary

If you have 3 days, then you can include just about all the stops we’ve recommended in this post:

Day 1: From Oatman to Seligman (190 km or 118 mi)

1. Oatman (via the Arizona Sidewinder)
2. Kingman
3. Antares
4. Hackberry
5. Seligman. Spend the night here at the Historic Route 66 Motel or the Red Garter Inn

Day 2: From Seligman to Winslow (215 km or 134 mi)

1. Williams
2. Flagstaff
3. Twin Arrows
4. Meteor Crater (you can go instead to Walnut Canyon)
5. Winslow. Stay overnight at La Posada Hotel

Day 3: From Winslow to Petrified Forest (85 km or 53 mi)

1. Jack Rabbit Trading Post
2. Holbrook
3. Petrified Forest National Park

Map of Arizona's Route 66

On this map, you can see all the places we've mentioned throughout this post, including tourist attractions as well as places to eat and stay:

Tips for traveling Route 66 in Arizona

• 📅 Set aside at least 2 days to really enjoy the experience. Route 66 isn’t like driving on a regular highway. It’s best to take it slow and let yourself be surprised by the less touristy spots, stop at cool signs, and eat at authentic diners.
• 💤 Spend at least one night in a historic hotel. Part of the experience is staying in classic spots with neon signs and vintage decor. In the section on where to stay on Route 66 in Arizona, you'll find several options.
• 🗺️ Bring downloaded maps. In some areas, cell service may be limited or unavailable, so be sure to bring a downloaded Google Maps map or an offline map app.
• 🚗 Always follow Historic Route 66. In several places, Interstate 40 replaces the old Route 66, so it’s easy to miss sections without realizing it. Always follow the signs for "Historic Route 66".
• 🌄 If you're visiting in the summer, get an early start. Temperatures in this part of Arizona can get very high in the summer, especially in the desert areas. Starting out early will allow you to take breaks during the hottest part of the day.
• ⛽ Fill up your gas tank whenever you can. The entire route from Topock to Petrified Forest National Park is about 530 km (330 mi), and there are long stretches without gas stations, so don't let your gas tank run low.
• 🚶🏼 Combine Route 66 with other iconic destinations in Arizona. To make the most of your trip, visit the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Canyon de Chelly, and/or Hoover Dam.

FAQs about Route 66 in Arizona

What is the most scenic stretch of Route 66?

Of all of Route 66, Arizona boasts the most spectacular and diverse stretch of the road. The section between Topock and Kingman, passing through Oatman, is the most spectacular thanks to its scenery and winding road, but the area between Kingman and Williams is one of the most authentic and best-preserved.

How many miles of Route 66 are there in Arizona?

Route 66 runs for approximately 620 kilometers (385 mi) through Arizona, making it one of the states that has best preserved the original historic highway.

How many days does it take to drive Route 66 in Arizona?

Ideally, you should set aside 2 to 3 days to leisurely explore the historic towns, vintage motels, and unique spots along the route. That said, it’s also possible to visit the main highlights in a single day if you’re short on time.

Which are the best towns along Route 66 in Arizona?

The most famous and highly recommended towns are Oatman, Kingman, Hackberry, Seligman, Williams, Winslow, and Holbrook. Each one preserves a piece of Route 66’s history and classic charm.

Is it worth driving Route 66 in Arizona?

Yes, for many travelers, this is the most authentic and legendary stretch of Route 66. Arizona is home to numerous original sections of the highway, as well as historic motels, classic diners, vintage neon signs, and spectacular desert landscapes.

Where does Route 66 begin and end in Arizona?

Route 66 enters Arizona from California near Topock and crosses the state until it reaches New Mexico, with Holbrook being the last town worth visiting.

When is the best time to travel Route 66 in Arizona?

Spring and fall are usually the best times to visit, thanks to the milder temperatures. In summer, temperatures in some parts of the desert can easily exceed 40 °C (104ºF), while in winter it can snow in high-altitude areas such as Flagstaff or Williams.

Is it possible to travel the Route 66 in a motorhome or campervan?

Yes, it's a very popular route for traveling by camper or RV. That said, you should exercise caution on some mountain sections and sharp curves, especially on the way to Oatman.

What locations in Arizona inspired the movie Cars?

Seligman was one of the main inspirations for the fictional Radiator Springs in Cars. The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook also served as a partial inspiration for the Cozy Cone Motel in the film.

Is it worth staying at a historic Route 66 motel?

Of course it is—it’s the perfect way to fully enjoy the Route 66 experience. Some of these motels and hotels have been renovated, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort. You’ll find several examples in the section on where to stay on Route 66.

Are there any original sections of Route 66 that still remain?

Yes, Arizona is one of the states that has best preserved the historic Route 66. There are still numerous original sections, especially between Seligman and Kingman, near Oatman, and within Petrified Forest National Park.

What's the most quirky stop along Route 66 in Arizona?

Some of the most quirky stops are Oatman and its wild donkeys, the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, Twin Arrows Ghost Town, and the Giganticus Headicus in Antares.

We hope this post has been helpful in planning your itinerary along Arizona's Route 66!

Walnut Canyon: Packbj, CC BY-SA 4.0; Antares: Joshua Noble, CC BY-SA 2.0; Meteor Crater: Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., CC BY-SA 4.0; Jack Rabbit: Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain