Route 66. America’s Main Street
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Route 66. The Arizona Stretch
Once known as "Main Street America" and stretching over 2,400 miles, Route 66 came across Northern Arizona. The Arizona stretch of U.S. Route 66 is one of the most iconic and best-preserved sections of the legendary “Mother Road,” offering a nostalgic journey through classic Americana, desert landscapes, and historic small towns. Running across northern Arizona, Route 66 connects destinations like Kingman, Seligman, Williams, and Flagstaff, where travelers can experience vintage motels, neon signs, roadside diners, and authentic remnants of the original highway. Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or a scenic Arizona drive, Route 66 delivers a unique blend of history, culture, and unforgettable scenery.
Route 66 as a major highway has mostly been replaced by Interstate 40 where most travelers drive right by without experiencing the sights, attractions and historical significance found off the beaten path of Route 66.
Attractions Along Route 66
Traveling Route 66 in Arizona means discovering a wide range of attractions, from quirky roadside stops to historic landmarks and natural wonders. Visitors can explore classic Route 66 museums, browse gift shops filled with vintage memorabilia, and stop for photos at famous landmarks like the Hackberry General Store. The route also passes near major attractions such as the Grand Canyon, Meteor Crater, and Petrified Forest National Park, making it easy to combine a historic road trip with some of Arizona’s most scenic destinations. Along the way, travelers can enjoy local restaurants, classic diners, and small-town charm that define the Route 66 experience.
Arizona can boast the longest original stretch of Route 66 which begins at Exit 139 off I40 at Seligman where it turns northwest to the Grand Canyon Caverns and progresses near the West Rim of the Grand Canyon before turning southwest to Kingman and through the ghost town of Oatman, Arizona on its way to Topock, California on the west bank of the Colorado River.
Best Route 66 Destinations
- Kingman – Gateway to Route 66 with museums, historic districts, and nearby scenic drives
- Seligman – Birthplace of the Route 66 revival with classic diners and retro shops
- Williams – Historic railroad town and gateway to the Grand Canyon
- Flagstaff – Lively mountain city with Route 66 history and outdoor recreation
- Hackberry General Store – One of the most photographed stops along the route
- Petrified Forest National Park – Unique desert landscapes accessible from historic Route 66
It's a nostalgic journey into simpler times where evidence and small town amenities still remind us of the "good ole days". It's a route of dreams and a great lesson in geography, history and life experience, for all to enjoy.
Related Route 66 Interest
Arizona Route 66
Route 66 Arizona Stretch
Route 66 History
Most Popular Things To Do In AZ
Additional Arizona Activities
