Winslow, Arizona, is a small yet iconic town in Navajo County, best known for its deep ties to Route 66, its historic landmarks, and its unique place in pop culture. Though it may seem unassuming at first glance, Winslow is steeped in history, filled with charm, and surrounded by natural beauty. This desert town is a must-visit for road trippers, history buffs, and those looking to experience the American Southwest’s distinctive culture and heritage.
In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into everything that makes Winslow, Arizona, such a fascinating destination. From its role in the heyday of Route 66 to its connections with famous songs and historic sites, Winslow offers plenty to discover. Let’s explore its history, attractions, and surrounding areas, as well as what makes it such a special part of Navajo County.
The History of Winslow, Arizona
Early Beginnings
Winslow’s story began in 1880, when it was established as a railroad town along the Atlantic and Pacific Railway, which later became part of the Santa Fe Railway system. The town was named after Edward Winslow, a railroad executive. Winslow’s strategic location made it a critical stop for the railroad industry, linking major cities across the Southwest and playing a vital role in Arizona’s growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
As a frontier town, Winslow saw rapid development, attracting settlers, merchants, and businesses eager to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the railroad. Over time, it grew into a bustling hub for transportation and trade, setting the stage for its later association with the legendary Route 66.
Winslow and Route 66: A Timeless Connection
When the legendary Route 66 was built in 1926, Winslow found itself right in the middle of one of the most famous highways in American history. Route 66 ran directly through the town, bringing with it a surge of travelers, tourists, and businesses eager to cater to the influx of visitors. Winslow thrived during the height of the Route 66 era, with motels, diners, gas stations, and shops lining the road.
For decades, Winslow was an essential stop for road trippers traveling the “Mother Road.” The town’s proximity to other key Route 66 destinations, such as the Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, and Meteor Crater, only enhanced its appeal as a rest stop for weary travelers.
Though Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, its legacy lives on in Winslow. The town has embraced its historic connection to the road, and today, visitors can still experience the nostalgic charm of this era through preserved landmarks, vintage motels, and Route 66-themed attractions.
“Take It Easy” and Winslow’s Musical Fame
One of Winslow’s most famous claims to fame is its mention in the Eagles’ 1972 hit song, “Take It Easy.” The lyrics, written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, reference a man “standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” This line immortalized Winslow in popular culture and transformed the town into a pilgrimage site for fans of the band and lovers of classic rock music.
Over the years, Winslow has fully embraced its musical legacy, with the town’s most famous landmark, Standin’ on the Corner Park, serving as a tribute to the song. Today, visitors from around the world come to Winslow to stand on the iconic corner, take photos with the life-sized bronze statue of a guitar player, and enjoy the murals that pay homage to the Eagles and Route 66.
Top Attractions in Winslow, Arizona
Though Winslow is a small town, it boasts a variety of unique attractions that capture its history, culture, and natural surroundings. Whether you’re interested in historic architecture, Route 66 nostalgia, or the rugged beauty of the desert, Winslow offers something for everyone.
Standin’ on the Corner Park
Without a doubt, the most famous attraction in Winslow is Standin’ on the Corner Park. Created in 1999 to commemorate the Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy,” this park has become a must-see stop for visitors traveling through the town. Located at the corner of Kinsley Avenue and East 2nd Street, the park features a bronze statue of a man holding a guitar, which symbolizes the character in the song’s lyrics.
Behind the statue is a mural that depicts a classic Route 66 street scene, complete with a vintage red flatbed Ford, another nod to the song. Visitors flock to the corner to snap photos, enjoy the music playing from nearby shops, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. For Eagles fans and Route 66 enthusiasts alike, Standin’ on the Corner Park is a quintessential Winslow experience.
La Posada Hotel: A Southwestern Treasure
Another of Winslow’s historic gems is the La Posada Hotel, a beautifully restored Spanish-style building that originally opened in 1930 as part of the Fred Harvey Company’s chain of railroad hotels. Designed by famed architect Mary Colter, La Posada is considered one of her greatest architectural achievements and remains one of the finest examples of Southwestern design.
The hotel was once a luxurious stop for railroad travelers, including celebrities and dignitaries, who journeyed across the American Southwest by train. After falling into disrepair in the mid-20th century, the hotel was restored to its former glory in the 1990s and has since become a popular destination for those looking to experience the charm and history of the old Southwest.
La Posada’s elegant gardens, cozy guest rooms, and exquisite dining at the Turquoise Room restaurant make it a top choice for travelers seeking a unique and memorable stay. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, a visit to explore its art galleries, beautifully landscaped grounds, and historical exhibits is well worth your time.
Winslow’s Historic Route 66 District
Winslow’s historic Route 66 District preserves the look and feel of the town’s heyday during the peak of the Mother Road era. Along this stretch of road, visitors will find vintage signage, restored motels, and classic roadside diners that harken back to the golden age of American road trips.
Take a stroll down 2nd Street (formerly Route 66) to explore charming gift shops, cafes, and murals that celebrate the town’s connection to the famous highway. The district offers a blend of nostalgia and modernity, with some businesses still operating just as they did decades ago, while others offer contemporary takes on classic Route 66 traditions.
For travelers interested in Route 66 history, Winslow’s downtown area is an essential stop. Be sure to check out the Winslow Visitor Center, housed in the old Hubbell Trading Post building, where you can pick up maps, souvenirs, and learn more about the town’s history.
The Old Trails Museum
For those interested in delving deeper into Winslow’s history, the Old Trails Museum is a fantastic place to start. Located in a historic building on Kinsley Avenue, this small but informative museum features exhibits that cover the history of Winslow and the surrounding area, from its Native American roots to its development as a railroad and Route 66 town.
The museum’s collections include artifacts, photographs, and documents related to Winslow’s early settlers, the construction of Route 66, the town’s Wild West past, and its role as a transportation hub. Visitors can also learn about the area’s indigenous peoples, including the Hopi and Navajo tribes, who have lived in the region for centuries.
The museum is a great stop for history buffs and anyone interested in understanding how Winslow evolved into the iconic town it is today.
McHood Park and Clear Creek Reservoir
Just outside Winslow lies McHood Park and Clear Creek Reservoir, a scenic spot perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy some recreational activities. The reservoir is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and picnicking, offering a refreshing oasis in the middle of the desert.
The park features shaded picnic areas, hiking trails, and plenty of space for camping. For those looking to escape the heat or enjoy a relaxing day by the water, McHood Park is a great destination. It’s especially popular during the warmer months when visitors flock to the area to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Meteor Crater: A Natural Wonder
Located about 20 miles west of Winslow, Meteor Crater is one of the most impressive and well-preserved meteorite impact sites in the world. This massive crater, measuring nearly a mile in diameter and 550 feet deep, was formed around 50,000 years ago when a large meteorite struck the Earth.
Today, visitors can explore the site through guided tours, view exhibits at the Meteor Crater Visitor Center, and walk along the crater’s rim for stunning views of the impact site. The center also features interactive exhibits about meteors, space, and the science behind meteorite impacts, making it a fascinating stop for science lovers and curious travelers alike.
Meteor Crater is a natural wonder that offers a unique glimpse into the forces that have shaped our planet. It’s an easy drive from Winslow and makes for an unforgettable day trip.
Homolovi State Park: Exploring Ancient Ruins
Just a few miles north of Winslow lies Homolovi State Park, an important archaeological site that preserves the ancient ruins of the Ancestral Hopi people. The park is home to several prehistoric villages, or pueblos, that were inhabited between the 13th and 14th centuries by the ancestors of today’s Hopi people.
Visitors to Homolovi State Park can explore these ancient ruins, hike along scenic trails, and learn about the history and culture of the Hopi people at the park’s visitor center. The park is a peaceful and fascinating place to connect with the region’s Native American history, offering insight into the lives of the people who once called this area home.
The park is also known for its stunning desert landscapes, which provide a beautiful backdrop for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. For those interested in both history and nature, Homolovi State Park is a must-see destination near Winslow.
Winslow’s Surrounding Natural Beauty
While Winslow is best known for its historical attractions, the town is also surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes that showcase the beauty of the American Southwest. From red rock canyons to vast deserts, the region offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
The Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park
Located about 60 miles east of Winslow, the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park are two of Arizona’s most unique and striking natural wonders. The Painted Desert is famous for its multicolored, layered rock formations, which create a stunning palette of reds, pinks, purples, and oranges across the landscape.
The nearby Petrified Forest National Park is home to one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood. Here, visitors can explore ancient forests that have turned to stone over millions of years, hike through scenic desert trails, and see petroglyphs left by the area’s ancient inhabitants.
Both the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest offer unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and photographers. These parks are easy day trips from Winslow and provide a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Arizona’s desert landscapes.
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
For those looking to escape the heat of the desert, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest offers a cooler and greener alternative. Located about an hour southeast of Winslow, this sprawling forest is home to lush pine trees, sparkling lakes, and scenic mountain vistas.
The forest is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest has something for everyone.
In Short
Winslow, Arizona, may be a small town in Navajo County, but it’s filled with rich history, iconic landmarks, and unforgettable experiences. From its legendary ties to Route 66 and “Take It Easy” to its stunning natural surroundings, Winslow is a destination that offers something for every traveler.
Whether you’re passing through on a road trip or planning an extended stay, Winslow’s unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor beauty makes it a place worth exploring. Take in the sights of Standin’ on the Corner Park, explore the historic La Posada Hotel, and venture out to nearby natural wonders like Meteor Crater and the Painted Desert.
Winslow, Arizona, is a small town with a big personality, and it’s waiting to welcome you to the heart of the American Southwest.
