There was a slower, simpler time before the interstate picked up the pace of today. Back then, Route 66 was the Main Street of America.
Starting near Ash Fork and ending in Topock, Arizona has the longest remaining stretch of old Route 66. It goes through arid tribal lands, high desert sagebrush, and mountain switchbacks. This is one of 25 scenic byways in Arizona, and much of it is still preserved by locals who’ve been there for generations.
Along the way you can visit some of the quirky places that make Route 66 so much fun. Stop at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In, built in 1953 mostly from scrap lumber. Don’t miss Hackberry General Store, a museum of old Route 66 known as the “mother lode of mother road memorabilia”. You’ll be greeted by vintage gas pumps and the Greyhound dog. Downtown Williams is another wonderful stop, not too far from the Grand Canyon.
Another worthwhile stop is the town of Oatman, a historic gold mining town where wild burros roam the streets. These are just a few of the interesting sites you’ll encounter and if you are lucky, you may run into a couple who still live and work on the road and can tell you a story or two. History and nostalgia lie along the way on this classic road trip. So get your kitsch on Route 66!
– Ace {Concierge}
