Traveling Arizona
Exploring Arizona's Scenic Wonders Along Route 66, Grand Canyon, and Sedona
Let me begin by stating that Route 66 has been a dream for me since childhood, so if it sounds overly hyped, no surprises here. The “Mother Road” was the route that dominated a great part of our entire trip. It wasn’t all Route 66 though, we decided to zig & zag - north & south - to catch other wonderful, scenic, ethnic, and charming parts of the state as well. There is so much to do & see that is unique to this area of the world that you will be mesmerized by some of the world class iconic sights including the painted desert and the petrified forest. Enjoy this mixture of all things Arizona!
Embarking on a journey through the heart of Arizona, where rugged landscapes, iconic landmarks, and historic routes beckon adventurers from far and wide. From the nostalgic charm of Route 66 to the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Grand Canyon and the mystical allure of Sedona, this road trip promises a manifold variety of experiences that will leave a lasting impression. Join us as we venture into the captivating beauty of the Grand Canyon State.
Route 66: A Journey Through Time Our journey begins on the legendary Route 66, often referred to as the "Main Street of America." Stretching across Arizona, this historic highway is lined with quaint towns, quirky roadside attractions, and glimpses of a bygone era. As we hit the road, the nostalgic allure of neon signs and vintage diners sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. From the charming streets of Oatman to the quirky town of Holbrook, this iconic highway promises a treasure trove of roadside attractions, scenic vistas, and timeless Americana.
Oatman is where we being our joinery. It is just outside of California on Route 66. This is where the “wild west” comes alive and is an honest to goodness ghost town. Beginning in this rustic mining town nestled in the desert terrain of western Arizona we find a once bustling gold mining hub. Oatman retains its Wild West charm with wooden boardwalks, abandoned saloons, and resident burros that roam freely through the streets. Yes, wild burros left from days past will be easily spotted in the wild approaching the town & inside the town itself as you explore. It is truly unique, fun & remarkable all at once. Visitors can stroll through the town's eclectic shops, where local artisans showcase handmade crafts and souvenirs. There is also a daily reenactments of gunfights and cowboy showdowns, which bring the spirit of the Old West to life against the backdrop of the desert landscape. It’s more fun that it should ever have the right to be and might just win over the most hardened skeptic!
As we hit the road, the iconic Route 66 stretches before us, winding through the arid desert terrain toward our next destination. Winding is the key road as this is the most survey strength of our journey and of the Mother Road itself.
Our next stop continues to the vibrant city of Kingman, known as the "Heart of Historic Route 66." Serving as a vital stop along the route, Kingman boasts a rich heritage of railroad and mining history, preserved in its museums and historic landmarks. Kingman will not fall short on bright vibrant colors either. Visitors can explore the iconic Route 66 Museum, where exhibits trace the evolution of the Mother Road and its impact on American culture. For a taste of nostalgia, we indulge in classic diner fare at Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner, a beloved local institution that captures the essence of roadside dining in the 1950s. It’s all here, good food & even better dessert.
Seligman is next and is hailed as, “The Birthplace of Historic Route 66.” Here, we step back in time to the heyday of the Mother Road, where neon signs and vintage storefronts evoke the spirit of Americana. A stroll down Seligman's main street reveals a treasure trove of roadside attractions, including the famous Snow Cap Drive-In, where visitors are greeted with a dose of quirky humor and homemade ice cream. What many do not know is that this is the main inspiration that Pixar / Disney used to create “Cars” the movie. Residents were interviewed and carefully listened to so that the classic characters you know and love could be brought to life. I had the privilege of talking to and interviewing family members of those who were responsible preserving Route 66 and giving it the “historic” title it holds today. These are are also the same people Disney interviewed. Stop into the shops in this town and you will not only find people who love the route but also know who the “real tow-mater” truck (both vehicle and personality") are! Hint, he appeared on Jay Leno once!
Be sure to snap a photo with the iconic Route 66 shield mural, a symbol of Seligman's enduring legacy as a Route 66 icon.
Continuing our journey eastward, we arrive in the picturesque town of Williams, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon." Nestled amidst the ponderosa pine forests of northern Arizona, Williams exudes small-town charm and hospitality. It was here that we stayed in the Historic Grand Canyon Hotel, not to be confused with the Grand Canyon Hotel. The Historic Grand Canyon Hotel is the oldest operating Hotel in Arizona, redone with modern comfort but ALL the charm of centuries past. It is a family owned hotel that focuses on guest satisfaction. You should simply stay at least one night if passing this way.
Visitors can also embark on a nostalgic train journey aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railway, which departs daily from the town's historic depot. As the train chugs along the rails, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, culminating in a scenic arrival at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It’s over 2 hours each way but is a great opportunity to let someone else do the driving while you watch the scenery, get entertained by the crew, and enjoy a different form of travel.
Leaving the nostalgia of Route 66 behind for a couple of days, our next destination was the crown jewel of Arizona – the majestic Grand Canyon. A mere detour off our route, this natural wonder is an absolute must-see for any traveler exploring the Southwest. As we stand on the canyon rim, we are greeted by a breathtaking panorama that defies description. The sheer scale and depth of the canyon are awe-inspiring, as layers of colorful rock stretch as far as the eye can see. Exploring the South Rim, we embark on hiking trails that wind along the rim, offering unparalleled views of the canyon's vast expanse. For the adventurous at heart, a hike into the canyon offers a unique perspective, with each step revealing new wonders of this natural masterpiece.
As the sun sets over the canyon, casting a warm glow across the rugged landscape, we pause to reflect on the timeless beauty of this place. Whether witnessing a sunrise or gazing at the stars above, the Grand Canyon leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
After we travel back to Williams, we ventured onward to the vibrant city of Flagstaff, a hub of outdoor adventure and cultural richness. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in Flagstaff's rich history and culture by exploring historic sites such as the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park and the Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby San Francisco Peaks beckon with skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. I highly recommend eating at the Galaxy Diner here for the best 50’s charm in food and atmosphere. It is a must see on the Mother Road.
Holbrook: A Glimpse into the Past Our final stop along Route 66 brings us to the quirky town of Holbrook, where time seems to stand still amidst the desert landscape. Home to iconic roadside attractions such as the Wigwam Motel and the historic Navajo County Courthouse, Holbrook offers a glimpse into the past and a taste of Route 66 nostalgia. Don’t pass this part of the route and take the time to stay in a Wigwam for only $100 a night.
Visitors can then explore the Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands create a surreal landscape straight out of a prehistoric dream. From this direction the painted dessert comes next. I personally enjoyed this more than the Grand Canyon. The beauty is beyond compare & I will provide pictures which simply do not do justice to this beautiful land. This was a natural part of the Route 66 journey that sent drivers for years west from Chicago to L.A. As the sun sets over the desert horizon, it is easy to reflect on the memories made along the Mother Road and the timeless allure of Route 66.
Our journey continues southward to the enchanting town of Sedona, where towering red rock formations and mystical energy converge to create a truly magical destination. Nestled amidst the Coconino National Forest, Sedona is renowned for its stunning scenery. Upon arriving in Sedona, we are immediately captivated by the town's striking beauty. Vibrant red rock formations rise dramatically from the desert floor, casting a spellbinding glow in the golden light of dawn. Exploring Sedona's many attractions, we embark on scenic drives through Oak Creek Canyon, where sheer cliffs and lush forests provide a serene backdrop for outdoor adventures. Hiking trails abound, offering opportunities to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of this unique land.
Arizona is a must see for people who are not familiar with the west or the state. It is well worth the time and consideration we gave and think that there is something for everyone also. We haven’t even mentioned the world’s largest land meteor crater (which is off Route 66) or access to beautiful cacti and Joshua trees. Phoenix was awesome but that for another blog. And yet, with all this, there is still more to say for another time! Arizona, it was fun! And in the words of everyones favorite terminator, “I’ll be back.”
