Discover the Americana Town in Arizona So Charming You’ll Want to Keep It a Secret

Many old towns along Route 66 seem to have been forgotten as we tend to take the freeways, bypassing these slices of small-town life thriving with locals and those who don't mind exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Towns like these are prime examples of Americana, with historic charm, character, and elements of nostalgia that I can't get enough of. While our freeway systems are convenient ways to get from Point A to Point B, a Route 66 road trip to a lovely little slice of Americana will take us back to a time when life was simpler and we traveled more slowly. Seligman is one favorite hidden town in Arizona along Route 66, and it's so charming, you'll want to keep it a secret.

Where is Seligman?

Seligman is approximately 76 miles west of Flagstaff and 33 miles north of Sedona. A census-designated community with around 730 residents in Yavapai County, Seligman is best known as the "Birthplace of Historic Route 66," and it was given that designation in 1987. Historic Route 66 in Arizona stretches 160 miles from Seligman to Kingman.

Things to do in Seligman

Despite its small size, Seligman offers several notable must-see attractions, which you'll certainly want to visit when you're here. For starters, Angel & Vilma Delgadillo's Original Route 66 Gift Shop also serves as the town's visitor center as well as a museum and gift shop, where you can pick up all the Route 66 souvenirs your heart desires. Another place to drop by is The Rusty Bolt for more Route 66 souvenirs, leather goods, and handmade jewelry. But you don't have to go shopping to see the sights in a time capsule of a town like Seligman. For gas, groceries, and more, stop at Route 66 General Store. Along the street, your eyes will be dazzled as they gaze upon colorful vintage cars and murals that give this town so much of its character.

Where to Eat in Seligman

If you find yourself hungry in Seligman, there are some interesting options that can only be found along Route 66 in a town like this. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Roadkill Cafe & O.K. Saloon prides itself on its buffalo burgers and steaks. You'll also find some interesting names for dishes on the menu, like "The Chicken That Almost Crossed The Road" (a slow-roasted chicken dish) and "Whippoorwill on a Grill" (a hamburger steak). Another option is Delgadillo’s Snow Cap, a kitschy yet nostalgic drive-in serving classic American fare. Try a burger and pair it with a shake or a malt. The menu also offers hot dogs, burritos, tacos, and other treats.

Where to Stay in Seligman

Seligman offers several accommodation options. The Historic Route 66 Motel is an excellent choice, especially if traveling with family. This vintage motel features 16 newly remodeled rooms and is a family-friendly option if traveling with kids. Inside a 1915 vintage guest house is The Aztec Motel & Creative Space, which has also been remodeled. With its "creative space" living room area and comfortable rooms, you're set to have a memorable stay here!

An Americana Town in Arizona

Do you have any plans to visit Seligman in the near future? You may discover that this Americana town in Arizona is one you'll want to keep a secret! Don't bypass this Route 66 town the next time you take an Arizona road trip.

With the Route 66 Centennial celebration coming up next year, you may want to plan a trip to Seligman and several other small towns along the Mother Road in Arizona, and you can use Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner to help.