Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is a treasure trove of roadside wonders, where history and whimsy collide in the most delightful ways. As you cruise along the Mother Road, you’ll find yourself surrounded by quirky attractions that are as much a part of the journey as the road itself. From prehistoric giants guarding rock shops to a ghost town where the Old West still comes alive, there’s no shortage of stops that will make your road trip through Arizona unforgettable.
But first, what exactly are roadside attractions? Think of them as the fun, unexpected stops that make any road trip memorable. These are the places that catch your eye from the highway—whether it’s a towering dinosaur sculpture, a mysterious ghost town, or a neon sign glowing in the desert night. They’re slices of Americana that capture the spirit of adventure, often quirky, sometimes educational, and always worth a detour.
Kicking things off, there’s nothing quite like standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, where a famous song lyric has been brought to life in a charming park dedicated to the Eagles’ classic hit. Then, there’s the towering Lumberjack Muffler Man in Flagstaff, a roadside giant with ties to the local university’s mascot and a history that dates back to the 1960s. And who could resist a stop at Kingman’s Route 66 Drive-Thru Shield, where your car can roll right through a neon-lit version of the iconic highway sign?
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. You can meet the Flintstones in Williams, sleep in a wigwam in Holbrook, or snap a selfie with a herd of cartoonish dinosaurs at the Rainbow Rock Shop. And no trip through Arizona would be complete without exploring the Gold Mining Ghost Town of Oatman, where wild burros roam the streets and the spirit of the Wild West is alive and well.
Each of these attractions tells its own story, adding a unique chapter to the larger tale of Route 66. So buckle up and get ready to discover the top 10 Arizona Route 66 roadside attractions—each one a must-see stop on your journey through this legendary highway.
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Top 10 Arizona Route 66 Roadside Attractions
1. Standin’ on the Corner
Take it easy and roll on into Winslow, Arizona, where a simple corner turned into one of Route 66’s most iconic stops. Opened in 1999, Standin’ on the Corner Park is a tribute to the legendary song “Take it Easy,” penned by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, and brought to life by the Eagles in 1972.
You might just hear those famous lyrics playing in your head as you stand there: “Well, I’m a-standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, such a fine sight to see. It’s a girl, my Lord, in a flat-bed Ford, slowin’ down to take a look at me.” Winslow has fully embraced its rock ‘n’ roll roots, making this corner a must-see for any fan of the Mother Road.
This classic Route 66 roadside attraction is packed with photo ops and nostalgia. You’ll find a two-story trompe-l’œil mural, a vintage Ford flatbed truck parked nearby, a statue of Eagles singer Glenn Frey, and even an interactive wings mural that’s perfect for your next Instagram snap. Don’t miss the centerpiece of this roadside attraction: the bronze statue of a man standing on that famous corner—because who wouldn’t want to be part of this rockin’ piece of Route 66 history?
2. Lumberjack Muffler Man
Standing tall at 20 feet, the lumberjack muffler man in Flagstaff, Arizona, is hard to miss. Decked out in blue pants, a yellow button-down shirt, a red cap, and black boots, he’s ready for action with his double-sided ax in hand.
But this isn’t just any muffler man; he’s thought to be the very first of his kind, built way back in 1962 when these giants first started popping up along the highways and byways of America. And while he’s found a permanent home on the NAU campus today, this lumberjack has quite a history.
Originally produced by Bob Prewitt and Prewitt Fiberglass Animals, this big guy, along with his twin, was a proud fixture at the Lumberjack Café (formerly Paul Bunyan Café) on Milton Road during the 1960s and 70s. The café and its towering guardians even made a cameo in the 1969 cult classic, Easy Rider. But when the Zanzucchi family bought the café in 1973 and renamed it Granny’s Closet, the lumberjack didn’t quite fit the new vibe. So, they donated both muffler men to nearby Northern Arizona University, where Louie the Lumberjack continues to stand tall, watching over the campus and welcoming Route 66 road trippers from near and far.
3. Drive-Thru Route 66 Sign
Ready to snap the ultimate road trip selfie? Head over to the Route 66 Drive-Thru Sign in Kingman, Arizona, where you and your car can become part of this iconic roadside attraction.
For years, Kingman put up a temporary drive-through shield for their annual Route 66 Fun Run—a favorite stop for road trippers looking to capture that perfect commemorative photo. It became such a hit, even with year-round visitors, that folks didn’t want to see it go. That’s when the idea sparked: why not make it permanent?
Enter Legacy Signs, who took on the task of bringing this vision to life. The result? A permanent Route 66 Drive-Thru Shield, proudly dedicated outside the Kingman Powerhouse Visitor Center on July 24, 2021—fittingly, National Drive-Thru Day. The grand unveiling was nothing short of epic, with a dedication and inaugural lighting ceremony that saw classic cars lining up to take their turn driving through and christening this new addition to Route 66 history.
If your car’s under eight feet tall and trailer-free, you can cruise right through the shield’s loop, getting that classic Route 66 experience. But, if you can, wait until the sun sets! That’s when the neon lights kick in, illuminating the shield’s outline and making for a photo op you won’t want to miss.
4. Giganticus Headicus
Get ready to meet one of the quirkiest characters on Route 66—Giganticus Headicus! Standing 14 feet tall and painted a vibrant green (though he’s been known to change his look now and then), this giant head in Kingman, Arizona, is part Tiki, part Easter Island Moai, and 100% pure kitsch.
This offbeat Route 66 attraction was brought to life in 2004 by artist and welder Gregg Arnold, a New Jersey native who made Kingman his home. Using metal, wood, chicken wire, styrofoam, and cement, Arnold created Giganticus Headicus as a tribute to all things weird and wonderful on the Mother Road.
You’ll find this big guy hanging out at the Antares Point Visitor Center & Gift Shop, a spot that’s packed with quirky sights just waiting to be explored. Once a humble trailer park known as Kozy Corner, Arnold bought the property in 2000 and has been transforming it into an artistic wonderland ever since. So, if you’re cruising down Route 66 and looking for something truly unique, don’t miss the chance to snap a pic with Giganticus Headicus—it’s a road trip memory you won’t forget!
5. Jack Rabbit Trading Post
When you’re cruising down Route 66 and in need of the perfect Route 66 road trip souvenir, look no further than the legendary Jack Rabbit Trading Post! This classic convenience store and curio shop has been a staple on the Mother Road since it first opened its doors in 1949. Whether you’re after a t-shirt, mug, shot glass, or magnet, this is the spot to grab a piece of Route 66 history to take home with you.
What made the Jack Rabbit Trading Post a must-stop attraction for travelers? A clever series of roadside billboards that stretched from Missouri to Arizona. Each bright yellow sign featured a black silhouette of a rabbit and told you just how close you were getting to this iconic stop. As you inched closer, the numbers dropped until finally, you’d spot the famous double-sided sign that boldly declares “HERE IT IS!” That sign still stands tall outside the shop today, welcoming road trippers from near and far.
Still going strong, the Jack Rabbit Trading Post is a favorite pit stop for those looking to snag some mementos and snap a pic with the famous “HERE IT IS” sign or the giant fiberglass jackrabbit you can hop on for a fun photo op. So, don’t miss your chance to be part of this Route 66 tradition that’s been delighting travelers for over seven decades!
6. Twin Arrows Trading Post
Back in the late 1940s, an Arizona trading post opened its doors under the name Canyon Padre Trading Post, but it wasn’t long before it became known as Twin Arrows Trading Post. Located between Winslow and Flagstaff, this spot quickly became a favorite pit stop for Route 66 travelers, offering a gas station, gift shop, and even a classic Valentine’s Diner—a prefab gem from the Valentine Manufacturing Company that was all the rage in the mid-20th century.
What really put Twin Arrows on the map were the two massive wooden arrows that shot up from the ground to catch the eyes of passing travelers. Made from repurposed telephone poles and extra wood, these bright arrows didn’t just point the way—they became an iconic symbol of Route 66, making Twin Arrows a must-see roadside attraction.
But as with many Route 66 landmarks, the arrival of I-40 spelled trouble. As travelers zipped by on the new interstate, Twin Arrows began to fade into the background. The once-bustling trading post fell into disrepair, with its buildings crumbling and its signs buried under layers of graffiti.
Still, those twin arrows stood tall, a stubborn reminder of the glory days. In 2009, there was a glimmer of hope when the Hopi tribe and Route 66 enthusiasts banded together to restore them. But that was the last time they saw any love. By 2022, only one arrow remained standing.
7. Wigwam Motel
“Have you slept in a Wigwam lately?” If not, it’s time to check in at one of Route 66’s most iconic stops—the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, also known as Wigwam Village No. 6. Since 1950, this quirky motel has been catching the eyes of road trippers with its unusual architecture, inviting travelers to spend the night in a place like no other.
The Wigwam Motel is no ordinary motor court. Each room is a standalone teepee, offering a unique twist on your typical roadside stay. If you’re spending the night in Holbrook, these wigwams have everything you need for a cozy stay. You’ll find a comfy bed, original hand-made hickory furniture, a small but functional flat-screen TV, free WiFi, and a heater/air conditioner to keep you comfortable, along with a small bathroom.
Even if you’re just passing through, the Wigwam Motel is a must-stop for photos. With its retro vibe and unique design, it’s no wonder road trippers pull over to snap a pic—even if they’re not staying the night. So, whether you’re looking for a place to rest your head or just want to add a cool shot to your Route 66 photo album, the Wigwam Motel is ready to welcome you!
8. Flinstones Bedrock City
Yabba Dabba Doo! Take a trip back to the Stone Age and hang out with the Flintstones at Flintstones Bedrock City in Williams, Arizona—just a stone’s throw off good ol’ Route 66.
The Flintstones first burst onto our TV screens in 1960, thanks to the creative minds at Hanna-Barbera. Fred, Wilma, Pebbles, and their dino buddy Dino, along with neighbors Barney, Betty, and Bamm-Bamm, gave us a hilarious glimpse into the life of a modern Stone Age family. Now, you can relive those cartoon memories at this delightfully quirky Arizona theme park.
Opened in 1972 by Francis “Hudi” Speckels and his dad, Woody, Bedrock City brought the Flintstones’ world to life right between Route 66 and the Grand Canyon. With its colorful, bubbly buildings and larger-than-life sculptures, it’s like stepping straight into prehistoric times!
In 2019, when the park got new owners, there were plans to transform it into a bird refuge called Raptor Ranch. But the public’s love for this blast from the past was too strong to let go. So, the new owners decided to keep Bedrock City alive while adding their bird sanctuary around it. Sure, the park’s a bit worn around the edges, but that only adds to its charm. If you’re cruising down Route 66, this is one stop that’s sure to rock your world!
9. Rainbow Rock Shop
Looking for some larger-than-life fun on your Route 66 adventure? Swing by the Rainbow Rock Shop in Holbrook, Arizona, where giant dinosaurs stand guard over a garden of petrified wood, rocks, and souvenirs.
Dinosaur statues have become a go-to theme for the petrified wood shops around Petrified Forest National Park, and you’ll see these prehistoric giants popping up at places like Stewart’s Petrified Wood and Painted Desert Indian Center. But one of the most iconic dino displays can be found right in the heart of Holbrook’s downtown Route 66 area at the Rainbow Rock Shop, also known as Indian Rock Shop.
Out front, you’ll be greeted by a crew of big, cartoonish dinos peeking over the chain-link fence that surrounds the shop. These eleven cement giants were crafted by owner Adam Luna, who spent more than twenty years bringing them to life with reinforcing rods and plenty of creativity. They’ve since become a favorite backdrop for fun Route 66 photo ops.
But don’t let the dinosaurs steal all the spotlight—step inside the shop, and you’ll find a treasure trove of rocks, fossils, geodes, and petrified wood in every shape and size. Plus, there’s a wide range of souvenirs waiting to be discovered. So, if you’re in Holbrook, make sure to stop by the Rainbow Rock Shop and take a walk among the dinos!
10. Oatman Burrows
Tucked away in the rugged Black Mountains of Arizona, the Gold Mining Ghost Town of Oatman is a place where the spirit of the Wild West still roams free. This isn’t your typical ghost town—it’s a lively slice of history along Route 66, where the past and present meet in the most charming way.
Oatman hit its stride in the early 1900s, when the discovery of gold in the nearby mines drew prospectors and miners from all over. The town quickly transformed from a remote outpost into a bustling gold mining hub. Oatman’s golden days peaked in the 1920s, but when the mines eventually dried up, so did the town’s fortunes. Yet, Oatman refused to fade away, and today, its well-preserved historic buildings and free-roaming wild burros keep the town’s vibrant past alive for all who visit.
Unlike other ghost towns that have crumbled into dust, Oatman is still buzzing with life. Repurposed buildings now house quirky shops (many with clever donkey-themed names) and lively spots like the haunted Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Bar, where you can grab a bite. And don’t miss the daily entertainment—a fictional heist performed by the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters that brings the Old West to life. Of course, no visit to Oatman would be complete without meeting the town’s most famous residents: the friendly burros that roam the streets, always on the lookout for a snack.
And there you have it—a whirlwind tour of the top 10 Arizona Route 66 roadside attractions! From towering dinosaurs and giant arrows to a night in a wigwam and a stroll through a ghost town, this stretch of the Mother Road is packed with history, charm, and just the right amount of quirky fun.
These attractions are sure to make your journey through Arizona unforgettable. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of roadside Americana, a blend of the past and present that keeps travelers coming back year after year.
So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and hit the road—Arizona’s slice of Route 66 is waiting to show you a good time. And remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, especially when you’re cruising down a road as legendary as this one. Safe travels, and may your road trip be filled with great memories, epic photos, and plenty of unexpected surprises along the way!
