Are you ready to get your kicks on Route 66 in Arizona? We've put together a trip along the Mother Road that leads to some of the most charming small towns in Arizona! Whether or not you're a history buff, you'll fall in love with the quaint town squares, incredible scenery, and great food this journey has to offer. The total driving time is about five and a half hours, but we've elected to split the trip up into a two-day affair. The customizable Google Map can be found on the Google Maps Route 66 Arizona map.
1. Lake Havasu City
We can't think of a better first stop than Lake Havasu City, a uniquely charming town that's equal parts beachy oasis and English Village. Here, you'll find the London Bridge, which was sold and transported to Arizona in the late-1900s. Take a stroll along the Bridgewater Channel, then peruse all the quaint shops and restaurants in the town square. You'll hardly believe you're in Arizona! If you're a fan of party-hard atmosphere and lots to do, you'll fall in love with Lake Havasu - especially on a holiday weekend.
2. Oatman
Next up is Oatman, population: 43. This former gold mining camp keeps the spirit of the Old West alive with regular gunfight reenactments and wild burros roaming the streets. Get to know the locals, then pass through Kingman and stop by the Arizona Route 66 Museum on your way out of town. It's full of original photos and artifacts from the Mother Road, and chronologically-arranged displays tell the fascinating story of the iconic highway.
3. Seligman
Our journey now leads us to Seligman, home of the legendary Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In. This kitschy restaurant is Americana at its finest, with vintage memorabilia covering the walls. The atmosphere isn't the only selling point, though - the burgers and shakes are to die for!
4. Williams
With full bellies, we make our way to Williams, or the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon." Hop on the Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic ride through high desert and alpine forest landscapes en route to the world-famous Grand Canyon Village.
Take your time exploring the largest canyon in the United States, then turn in for the evening at the Grand Canyon Lodge. It's across the canyon on the less-trafficked North Rim, but the views are so worth the trip. Please note: the Grand Canyon Lodge is open from May 15 through October 15, and guests often book their stay well in advance, so we'd advise doing the same.
5. Flagstaff
Next on the itinerary is Flagstaff, known for its towering mountain peaks (one of which is the highest natural point in Arizona) and dense foliage. Refreshed from your overnight stay in the Grand Canyon, hit the trail for a memorable hike. There are tons to choose from!
Flagstaff is also home to some of the nation's darkest skies, which you can admire at the Lowell Observatory. Fun fact: Pluto was discovered here! Forever a planet in our hearts.
6. Winslow
Last - but certainly not least - our trip comes to an end in Winslow. Stop for an obligatory photo at Standin' on the Corner Park, which commemorates the Eagles' song "Take it Easy," which put Winslow on the map. Just 18 miles west of Winslow, you'll find the best preserved meteorite impact site on earth. It's open to the public for tours - both guided and self-led - and is a totally bucket-list-worthy destination. It's about a mile across thanks to a meteor about the size of a school bus that struck the area eons ago.
And yes, of course, you can get photos while standing on THE corner while in Winslow. Come on, you have to.
Would you take this Route 66 road trip in Arizona? Which stop is your favorite and why? Tell us in the comments below! For more reasons to visit Arizona, check out our Winslow, Arizona coverage! You, too, can be standing on a corner in Winslow Arizona.
For more amazing Arizona must-sees, check out another nine amazing small towns in AZ you need to visit ASAP. Oh, and you can't forget about the best hiking trails in Arizona, the best hotels in Arizona, or the best things to do in Arizona for free! The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination, so have at it.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!