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Holbrook
1h
Holbrook was once a rough-and-ready Route 66 town, famous for the “Bucket of Blood” saloon, the legendary 1887 Owens–Blevins shootout, and an Old West past you can still spot in a few surviving buildings today.
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Keep an eye out for the iconic Wigwam Motel, known for its unique concrete teepee-shaped rooms and featured in the movie Cars.
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1h
The Jackrabbit Trading Post, with its mysterious billboard ads and iconic jackrabbit symbol, has drawn travelers for decades. After miles of suspense, it’s still standing as a nostalgic stop along Route 66.
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Winslow
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Winslow, Arizona, is a classic Route 66 stop known for its iconic "Take It Easy" corner, immortalized by the Eagles song. With its historic charm, you'll find classic diners, shops, and landmarks to explore.
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The La Posada Hotel in Winslow, a 1930s Harvey House designed by Mary Coulter, is a historic Route 66 landmark offering a glimpse into railroad-era luxury.
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1h
The Winslow Visitor Center, located in the historic 1917 Hubble Trading Post, is a great starting point for exploring Winslow’s landmarks, including the Tiny Church of the Mother Road and the Old Trails History Museum.
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Reach Meteor Crater, the best-preserved impact crater in the U.S., formed 50,000 years ago by a meteor traveling at 11 miles per second. To visit, take Exit 233 and follow Meteor Crater Road for 15 minutes. The site offers exhibits, walking tours, and a short film. While the admission is pricey and not included with the tour, you can buy it separately; it's a unique experience—NASA even trained Apollo astronauts here due to the crater's lunar-like terrain. It's a must-see for space enthusiasts!
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Twin Arrows Trading Post
1h
Twin Arrows was once a popular Route 66 stop, originally known as Canyon Padre Trading Post. Founded in the 1940s, it featured two giant wooden arrows to draw in travelers. Though the trading post closed in 1995, one of the iconic arrows still stands today, making it a unique photo opportunity. For those interested in stopping, take Exit 219, head to the south side of the interstate, and follow the signs to the Twin Arrows site.
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Two Guns is a haunting reminder of Southwestern history. Once a service station and trading post, it carries an eerie vibe, largely due to the infamous Apache Death Cave and the 1878 conflict between the Apache and Navajo. Legend has it that the Apache sought refuge in a secret cave in Diablo Canyon, where they were ultimately trapped and suffocated by the Navajo. Later, the railroad boomtown of Canyon Diablo sprung up nearby, known for its lawless streets filled with saloons, gambling halls, and shootouts.
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San Francisco Peaks
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The San Francisco Peaks are a striking feature of Flagstaff’s landscape, with Humphreys Peak standing as Arizona’s highest mountain at 12,633 feet. These peaks are the remnants of an ancient volcano that erupted about 200,000 years ago, once towering over 16,000 feet. The area is part of the San Francisco Volcanic Field, which sits over a geological hotspot, similar to famous locations like Hawaii and Yellowstone. The last eruption in the region was at Sunset Crater less than 1,000 years ago.
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Walnut Canyon National Monument
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Walnut Canyon National Monument is a hidden gem just off Route 66, offering stunning views of a limestone gorge carved by Walnut Creek. The cliff dwellings, built by the Sinagua people 900 years ago, are an incredible sight. For a closer look, we can take a one-mile loop trail through the canyon, passing around two dozen cliff dwellings, or opt for the easier Rim Trail, which offers scenic vistas. If we have a National Parks pass, it’s a must-see stop, and if not, we can still pay for entry to enjoy the experience.
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Flagstaff
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Flagstaff is a charming mountain town known for its cool climate, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings. Located along historic Route 66, it offers a mix of outdoor adventures, from hiking in the San Francisco Peaks to exploring Walnut Canyon and the Lowell Observatory. With a vibrant downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, Flagstaff is the perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor beauty.
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Flagstaff Visitor Center
1h
The Flagstaff Visitor Center is a great starting point for exploring the town and its surroundings. Located in a historic 1917 building, it offers helpful maps, brochures, and local information. Visitors can also learn about Flagstaff’s rich history, Route 66 heritage, and nearby attractions like the San Francisco Peaks and Walnut Canyon National Monument. It’s a perfect stop to get oriented and plan your visit to this scenic mountain town.
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The Museum Club
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The Museum Club in Flagstaff isn’t your typical club—it’s a historic landmark with a unique story. Founded in 1931 by Dean Eldredge, a Wisconsin native, the Museum Club began as the world’s largest log cabin, built to house Eldredge’s impressive taxidermy collection. Today, it’s a vibrant venue that blends the charm of its past with modern-day entertainment, offering live music and a glimpse into Flagstaff’s quirky history.
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Williams
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Williams, the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon," is a historic Route 66 town known for its charming atmosphere, the Grand Canyon Railway, and nearby outdoor adventures, making it a perfect stop on your trip.
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Bearizona Wildlife Park
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Before leaving Williams, consider stopping at Bearizona Wildlife Park to see bears, bison, elk, and more. The entrance is on your right after passing under the rail crossing—look for the big sign! If not, we’ll continue east on Route 140 toward Flagstaff.
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Ash Fork
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The Ash Fork Museum is just ahead. After passing the Canyon's Edge Motel on our right, look for a sign that says Arizona Tourist Info: Museum. Turn right on the next street, just past the museum. The town is modest, but if you’d like to explore, continue this way and rejoin the interstate when you're done.
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The Ash Fork Route 66 Museum is a charming stop showcasing the history of Route 66 and the town's role along the iconic highway. Located near the Canyon's Edge Motel, it’s a great place to learn more about Ash Fork's past.
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Seligman
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Seligman, the unofficial birthplace of Route 66, owes much of its fame to Angel Delgadillo, a local barber who fought to preserve the historic road. Don’t miss Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In for a taste of Route 66’s quirky charm.
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Angel Delgadillo’s Original Route 66 Gift Shop in Seligman is a must-visit stop, offering Route 66 memorabilia and a nod to the man who helped revive the iconic highway. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and learn about the history of the road.
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Peach Springs
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Peach Springs is the closest Route 66 town to the Grand Canyon, though you won't spot it from here. The rugged Diamond Creek Road leads to the canyon, but you'll need a permit to drive it. While Peach Springs has no major tourist activities, you can sign up for a whitewater rafting trip at the Hualapai Lodge. These trips run from April to September, offering a taste of the Colorado River’s rapids. If you're hungry, stop by the Diamond Creek Restaurant for Hualapai fry bread.
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Hualapai Reservation
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As we enter the Hualapai Reservation, remember it’s a place where people live, not a tourist attraction. Avoid taking photos of people or homes, respect the speed limit, and dispose of trash properly. Smoking, vaping, and alcohol are prohibited. The Hualapai have a rich history, and any purchases here support their local economy. The reservation is a sovereign nation, and their homeland once spanned seven million acres.
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Grand Canyon Caverns
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Grand Canyon Caverns are the largest dry cave system in the U.S. and the third largest in the world. These 240-million-year-old limestone caverns descend 300 feet underground. While most of the cave is closed, the Cave of the Domes is open for tours, including a 21-story elevator ride down. You can even spend the night 220 feet underground! Rediscovered in 1927 by Walter Peck, who thought he’d found gold, the caves have revealed fascinating artifacts, including a mummified giant sloth.
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We’re approaching Truxton, a tiny town you might miss if you blink! Known for its natural spring, Truxton was once a bustling stop on the Santa Fe railroad line. In the 1950s, plans for a dam near the Grand Canyon drew newcomers, but when the project was scrapped in the 60s, the town returned to its quiet roots. Truxton has two great photo ops: the Gas n Grub with a vintage motorcycle, stagecoach, and hay bales, and the Frontier Motel, where you’ll spot a blue mural on the diner’s wall. Perfect for your next Instagram post!
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Valentine
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Valentine was once home to the Truxton Canyon Training School (1901-1937), where Native American children were forced to assimilate into Anglo-American culture. The school’s harsh practices aimed to erase Indigenous traditions. In 2024, the U.S. government issued an apology for the abuse suffered at such institutions.
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Keepers Of The Wild Nature Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
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Keepers of the Wild, located on the left, is a sanctuary for over 100 rescued animals, including tigers, lions, and wolves. Open daily (except Tuesdays), it offers safari-style tours and focuses on animal rescue and welfare. Founded by former illusionist Jonathan Kraft, the refuge provides a safe home for animals previously exploited in entertainment.
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Hackberry
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Hackberry is a nostalgic stop, with the Hackberry General Store dating back to 1934. Once a service station, it now offers a glimpse into Route 66 history with old cars, vintage pumps, and a retro diner. The store, which closed in the 1970s and was revived by artist Bob Waldmire in 1992, is also the inspiration for the character Fillmore from Cars. It's a great spot to see memorabilia from the past and capture some classic Route 66 photos.
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Hackberry General Store
1h
Hackberry General Store is a historic stop on Route 66, originally opening in 1934 as Northside Grocery. It features vintage cars, old gas pumps, and a retro diner. Revived by artist Bob Waldmire in 1992, it’s also the inspiration for the character Fillmore from Cars. The store now serves as a quirky gift shop with a glimpse into Route 66’s past.
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Antares is home to Giganticus Headicus, a 14-foot green head created in 2003. This quirky stop also features a gift shop, art gallery, and the largest curve on any U.S. highway, a two-mile bend.
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Kingman
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Kingman, a historic Route 66 town, is known for its charming downtown, museums, and vintage diners. It’s a key stop on the famous highway, offering attractions like the Route 66 Museum and Mohave Museum of History and Arts. Kingman’s proximity to the Grand Canyon Railway and outdoor adventures in the surrounding desert makes it a must-see for history buffs and travelers alike.
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El Trovatore Motel, a historic Route 66 landmark in Kingman, dates back to 1937. Originally a service station, it expanded into a motel with a 100-foot neon tower to attract travelers. While the neon lights aren't visible during the day, they were a key marketing tool in the past. With rooms once priced at $3 a night, El Trovatore is one of the few pre-WWII motels still standing on Route 66. For a great photo, pull into the parking lot as we reach the top of the hill, and it’ll be on your right.
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Kingman Railroad Museum
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The Kingman Railroad Museum showcases the history of Kingman as a vital railroad hub on Route 66. Located in a historic depot, the museum features exhibits on trains, local history, and the railroad’s impact on the area. It's a must-see for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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Mohave Museum of History and Arts
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We’ll pass the Mohave Museum of History and Arts on our right. If it's a busy time, you might notice some traffic as vehicles merge onto the interstate. Don’t worry, though – we’ll continue straight through the intersection.
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Oatman
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We’re about to arrive in Oatman, known for the Elephant Tooth rock formation. You can park at the visitor lot or on the street. The town is full of historic buildings, including the Oatman Hotel, where miners once tacked their dollar bills on the walls. Feel free to add your own signed bill to the collection!
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Look to the left for the Gold Road Mine, the area’s first major mine. Discovered in 1900 by Jose Jerez, it produced $7 million in gold over 20 years. The mine closed in the 1940s, and the town was demolished in 1949 due to unpaid taxes. It has since reopened and closed several times, depending on gold prices.
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Sitgreaves Pass
1h
At Sitgreaves Pass (3,550 feet), enjoy stunning views east and west. This pass was part of the original Beale Wagon Road. Stop at the large pullout on the left for a wide view and a memorial site. The first pullout past the pass offers a great eastern view. Feel free to take photos, and I’ll meet you on the other side for the descent.
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Cool Springs is a restored 1920s gas station with vintage Mobil pumps and views of Thimble Butte. Originally a natural spring, it became a Route 66 stop in 1926. After closing in the 1960s, it was revived in 2004 by Ned Leuchtner, who renovated it using historic photos. Cool Springs is now a must-stop for photos and a glimpse of Route 66 history.
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The Colorado River is a crucial lifeline for seven Western states, supplying water to major cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas, as well as irrigating farmland, particularly in the Imperial Valley. The river faces significant challenges, especially near the Hoover Dam, where the "bathtub ring" marks the declining water levels. Built during the Great Depression, the dam still provides hydroelectric power to the region, but its water levels are increasingly strained.
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Topock
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Topock 66 offers great views of the Colorado River from its outdoor patio, and features a pool, swim-up bar, and marina for renting jet skis and motorboats. It's the only marina stop on our tour! You can also pick up a Route 66 passport here for a stamp, with no purchase required.
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Boundary Cone marks a notable point along Route 66, located near the Colorado River. It’s a prominent landmark and scenic spot, often recognized for its unique shape and as a historical reference point for travelers. Keep an eye out for this distinctive feature as we continue along the route!
