Driving Through Route 66, Arizona – USA

Driving Through Route 66, Arizona, USA gives you that feeling of living between the 40s and the 60s? Along the iconic Route 66, you will find plenty of restaurants, motels, and gas stations that look as if they were stuck in time. This road truly captured the essence of the American spirit like no other. If you want to have a true taste of it, you should definitely drive the original section, located between Williams and Topock.

This route is the first highway of its kind because it connected America from Chicago to Los Angeles. In other words, it goes across eight states, making it around 3600 km long. Route 66 symbolizes the Great American Dream of the 40s and the 60s with California being the right place for people who wanted to change their lives. It also became a favorite holiday drive during this period of time.

Activity/Place Highlights

The town of Williams

After almost being abandoned, this road was restored and you can find original sections in almost every state. However, the practically intact one is in Arizona, over 600 km long. Going west, around 40 km from Flagstaff, you can find the little town of Williams. This town will be the perfect getaway to the incredible Grand Canyon, standing just an hour’s drive or train ride to the north. Above all, Williams’ streets are filled up with classic 1950 diners, gas stations, and soda shops.

Twister Soda Fountain

Now, Twister Soda Fountain is another must-see. Once you enter, you will feel as if you traveled back to a time when people didn’t have their phones out all day. A time when people could actually enjoy a good ice cream or a cup of coffee without hurries or worries.

Ash Fork

Another unforgettable experience is when you’re driving west to Ash Fork. Roll down your windows and enjoy some good old rock and roll music as the breeze makes your hair dance. Here, Route 66 says goodbye to the Interstate. From time to time, a Harley-Davidson passes by, giving you the perfect picture of freedom and the everlasting American Dream.

Seligman

Seligman is an important town you will encounter while driving through Route 66. Along this single wide main street, classic diners, motels, and general stores are the highlights. In backyards, you can see old Chevrolets, Cadillacs, and Ford Dodge trucks parked. Stay at the Historic Route 66 Motel, where there is almost 100% chance you will stay in a room where at least one celebrity has been in the past.

Hackberry gas station

Heading west, you will see the distinctive Hackberry gas station, decorated with Route 66 memorabilia. Colorful neon signs light up the dark night sky, and an impressive collection of pick-up truck ruins stands behind the station.

The Black Mountains

Now going south-west of Kingman, you will pass the most classic section. Once you leave this place, Route 66 will take you up into the Black Mountains towards the Oatman village. This is a thrilling section of the route, with twisting and snaking roads, forcing you to completely focus on the drive. Of course, this section is dotted with parking spots, where you can stop and enjoy the breathtaking landscape.

Oatman village

This village was once active and energetic, with gift shops and restaurants full of life. Now, Oatman’s only inhabitants are cute, funny donkeys. However, keep in mind that it is prohibited to feed them, so don’t fall for their charming tricks as they ask for food.

How to get there

The Arizona section of Route 66 starts from Lupton, on the New Mexico state line.