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Historic Route 66, often romanticized as “The Mother Road,” holds a storied place in American culture, representing freedom, adventure, and the search for prosperity. This connection is particularly evident in Flagstaff, Arizona. This mountain town expects people from around the world to visit during the year-long centennial celebration for the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026.
Experience classic cars, neon signs, festivals, diners, and roadhouses along Flagstaff’s original Route 66. The highway’s heyday welcomes guests with retro motels, revitalized motor lodges, restaurants, breweries, galleries, and eye-catching murals.
Refuel at Mother Road Brewery, savor a classic burger and milkshake at Galaxy Diner, and explore the vintage vibes of the Museum Club. Get your kicks at 1 E. Route 66 with a pic at the Flagstaff Visitor Center, where you can also grab your Route 66 passport. Embark on a free, self-guided “Walk this Talk” tour, and delve into the history of Flagstaff’s Route 66. Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona, Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, and Northern Arizona University’s Cline Library for Route 66 special exhibits for the centennial.
Flagstaff is located on the longest and highest stretch of intact Route 66 — the only section located in the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest and in the world’s first international dark sky city. Flagstaff also has the most national parks and monuments for visitors to see on a side trip from their Route 66 vacation, including Grand Canyon National Park, a beautiful 80-mile scenic drive. In the evening experience stargazing reimagined in the place Pluto was discovered – Lowell Observatory. The infinite wonders of the universe await in Lowell’s new Astronomy Discovery Center featuring the world’s only rooftop dark sky planetarium from the comfort of heated seats. And check-out, Starlight Lanes in Flagstaff, one of Arizona’s oldest bowling alleys established in 1957.
As the largest city and hub of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff is positioned two-hours north of Phoenix and just over an hour drive from Grand Canyon National Park. The Flagstaff Airport offers flights on American Airlines serving Phoenix, LAX and Dallas/DFW. Plan several vacation days on the best stretch of Route 66 with Flagstaff as your base camp for a remarkable road trip.
Discover Flagstaff
