J.J. Horton
May 10, 2023
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Williams, AZ to Needles, CA
California or Bust - The 8th And Last State…
Better get up early today, because you have an action packed day, loaded with sights to see, ahead of you! Seligman, Kingman, Oatman - the “three man section” of Route 66. Arizona touts the longest continuous stretch of uninterrupted and intact two-lane asphalt grandeur: 158 miles stretching from just outside Ash Fork in the east to the Colorado River in the west. Cross the river and there you are - California at last! So, get your tires warmed up and carefully enjoy some Mother Road bends when you head up Sitgreaves Pass, cause that’s what you’ve been missing all along, admit it!
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Williams ➤ Seligman ➤ Kingman ➤ Oatman ➤ Needles |
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197 miles / ~304 km |
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Pacific Standard Time As soon as you enter the state of California, you can set the clock back one last time. E.g. if it's 4:00PM set it to 3:00PM |
Attractions - Get Your Kicks on Route 66
Seligman
After a short ride through Ash Fork, and maybe a stop at the Route 66 Museum (closed Sat / Sun) you’ll arrive in Seligman. To your left you’ll notice a rather strange-looking display of cars, buildings, and manikins, that’s when you arrive at Snowcap.
Where the Spirit of Route 66 Lives On
Seligman is not just a dot on the map; it's a vibrant chapter in the story of historic Route 66. This tale, however, wouldn't be complete without mentioning Angel and Vilma Delgadillo, the dynamic duo behind the legendary Snowcap Drive-In.
Delgadillos Snow Cap, Seligman, AZ
The Guardian Angel of Route 66
Angel Delgadillo was more than just a local barber and businessman; he was the unofficial guardian of Route 66's legacy. Born 1927 (!) and raised in Seligman, he witnessed the rise and fall of the Mother Road. When the new interstate threatened to relegate Route 66 to the annals of history, Angel wasn't ready to say goodbye. He became a relentless advocate for preserving the highway's history, eventually helping to establish the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona in 1987.
The Snowcap Drive-In: A Shrine to Route 66 Kitsch
In 1953, Angel's brother, Juan Delgadillo, with a sense of humor as vast as the Arizona sky, built the Snowcap Drive-In. Constructed from scrap lumber salvaged from the Santa Fe Railroad, the Snowcap became a monument to the quirky and eccentric. Juan's playful sense of humor was evident in every corner, from the deliberately confusing door handles to the humorous signs like "Sorry, we're open" that adorned its walls.
After Juan's passing, Angel and his wife Vilma continued his legacy, turning the Snowcap into a must-visit spot on Route 66. Tourists from around the world stop by to indulge in a slice of Americana, from its famous cheeseburgers and root beer floats to the offbeat decorations that make it a delightful roadside attraction.
Delgadillo's Snow Cap
Angel & Vilma Delgadillo
The Legacy Continues
Today, thanks to the efforts of people like Angel and Vilma Delgadillo, Seligman remains a vibrant testament to the enduring allure of Route 66. The town not only celebrates its glorious past but also welcomes a new generation of travelers eager to experience the charm and whimsy of this historic highway.
So, when you find yourself here, grab a burger at the Snowcap, share a laugh over its quirky decor, and tip your hat to the Delgadillos. For in this small Arizona town, the spirit of Route 66 isn't just remembered; it's alive and kicking!
Grand Canyon Caverns
On your journey from Seligman to Peach Springs, consider a stop at the Grand Canyon Caverns. This isn't the famous Grand Canyon, but a sizeable cave system that offers tours. The site includes a motel, a restaurant, and eye-catching dinosaur statues at the entrance. It's also a hub for outdoor activities like rafting, helicopter tours, hiking, and horseback riding. Established in 1927, these caverns are a significant and traditional stop along Route 66.
Grand Canyon Caverns entrance on the left
Peach Springs serves as the administrative center for the Hualapai Tribe and features a historic gas station from the 1920s. It's an ideal stopping point for those heading to the Havasupai and Havasu Falls hikes, offering a convenient place to rest before the adventure begins.
Further along in Truxton, remnants of the Route 66 era linger, with notable buildings like an old gas station and the once-popular Frontier Motel and Restaurant.
In Valentine, visit the Keepers of the Wild, a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to the care of rescued exotic and native wild animals. They offer guided safari-style tours approximately three times daily, providing an insightful experience.
Hackberry
Another must-visit spot is the Hackberry General Store in Hackberry, known for its unique collection of memorabilia, vintage cars including a beautiful orange and white 1957 Corvette, and decorations. It's a perfect place to pick up souvenirs and enjoy a snack while soaking in the classic Route 66 atmosphere.
Hackberry General Store
Kingman
Just 27 miles further you run into Kingman. Often hailed as the "Heart of Historic Route 66," Kingman's unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the legendary Mother Road.
Kingman's role in Route 66 lore is as colorful as the highway itself. Established as a railroad town in the late 19th century, it became an essential stopover for travelers venturing along Route 66. Today, Kingman preserves this rich heritage with lovingly restored buildings, vintage neon signs, and a plethora of memorabilia from the golden era of American road travel.
A journey through Kingman is a step back in time. The Historic Route 66 Museum, housed in the Powerhouse Visitor Center, is a treasure trove of exhibits showcasing the history of the famous highway. Here, travelers can immerse themselves in the stories of the people who traveled this road, from Depression-era migrants to vacationing families.
Dating back to 1899, the Beale Hotel, once the abode of famed actor Andy Devine, unfortunately closed its doors in 2012. Kingman's historical journey is further chronicled in the repurposed old power station, constructed from 1907 to 1911, now the Arizona Route 66 Museum, affectionately known as "The Powerhouse". The city's rich heritage is also displayed in the Mohave Museum of History and Arts, the Kingman Railroad Museum, and Locomotive Park, where visitors can explore a steam engine, a caboose, and a tribute to Beale's Wagon Trail. Additionally, Kingman holds significant history in military aviation and is noted for being the location where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard tied the knot in 1939 (you’ll hear more about those two during your next stop in Oatman…).
But Kingman's appeal extends beyond its Route 66 roots. The Mohave Museum of History and Arts offers fascinating insights into the region's Native American and pioneer past, while the Bonelli House provides a glimpse into early 20th-century life in Kingman.
Kingman Locomotive Park
Kingman Visitor Center
Downtown Kingman is a hub of activity, with its historic buildings now home to charming restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops. Whether you're craving classic American diner fare, Mexican cuisine, or just a good cup of coffee, Kingman's culinary scene has something to offer every palate.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy the city's growing arts scene, with galleries, murals, and regular cultural events adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The city's First Friday events are a celebration of local art, music, and community, and a great way to experience the local culture.
As the sun sets over the Arizona desert, casting a golden glow on the vintage motels and diners of Kingman, it's easy to see why this city captures the hearts of those who visit. Kingman is more than just a stop on Route 66; it's a place where history comes alive, nature beckons, and every street corner tells a story.
Mr. D'z Diner, Kingman, AZ
Before it gets real curvy make a stop at the Cool Springs Station. Besides breathtaking vistas, there’s a lot of storytelling to this place.
In the mid-sixties, a fire burned Cool Springs to the ground. Nothing remained but fragments of the stone foundations and the original stone pillars. For the next quarter of a century, Cool Springs was just a forgotten memory, a crumbling stone relic along a forgotten road, home to lizards, tarantulas, and tumbleweeds.
Then briefly in 1991, Cool Springs came to life again when Hollywood used it as a location for their movie "Universal Soldier". Dolph Lundgren and Jean-Claude Van Damme starred in the movie. A frame station was built around the old pillars and remaining stone foundation. At the end of the scenes that were filmed there, the buildings were blown to smithereens. Cool Springs became ruins once more. It would stay this way until 2001.
In the fall of 2004, Ned Leuchtner and his general contractor and builder Dennis DeChenne, completed the rebuild of the station at Cool Springs. December 7th, 2004 was a banner day for Cool Springs. The power was hooked back up. As Ned puts it, “We had the power hooked up at Cool Springs last night. It marks the first time that the lights were on there since 1966.”
Ned also had a roadrunner that would come by every day at exactly the same time, mainly because he’d feed it with chicken.
Get ready now, here comes the moment you’ve been waiting for. As you’re heading west you’re climbing Sitgreaves Pass and it seems as if all of Route 66’s curves had been placed into the one stretch between Cool Springs and Oatman. Enjoy the vistas and the bends but please be careful and watch for loose gravel, fallen rocks in the curves as well as occasional wild animals.
Sitgreaves Pass
Note how the road gets washed out and leaves gravel and sand - ride safe!
Entering Oatman is like having the time turned back a couple hundred years. Once a thriving gold mining hub in the 1920s through the 1940s, Oatman transformed into a ghost town following the closure of its mines and the development of the Interstate. Today, it has reinvented itself as a tourist destination, with its single street perfectly embodying the quintessence of a classic Route 66 town. Visitors to Oatman can enjoy lively Old West shows that play out right on the main street, pausing traffic for a dose of historical drama.
The town's streets are also home to wandering burros, descendants of the mining era, adding a unique charm. When the mining days came to an end the prospectors left their burros behind. The descendants of those burros still wander into town to see what's up.
While you can get close to the Burros, maybe pet them or offer a treat (burro pellets, carrots), they are wild and will kick and bite if provoked.
A key highlight is the Oatman Hotel, formerly known as the Durlin Hotel. This two-story historical building invites guests to step in and explore, perhaps even grab a meal, as they soak in the rich history of this fascinating town. You can walk upstairs to see the honeymoon suite of Clark Gable and Carole Lombard and then come down to eat and drink at the “Dollar Bar”. This bizarre saloon has a custom where the patrons contribute a dollar, and there are supposedly over 100.000 dollar bills hanging from the ceiling and walls.
Oatman Resident
Oatman Hotel
Inside the Oatman Hotel, Dollar Bar
Leaving Oatman behind, your journey leads you to Following the old Route 66, there’s a fork in the road. You may pick it up and use it for dinner - no, not that kind of fork! You’ll want to stay to the left and follow Route 66 down to Golden Shores and Topock. Here, you'll find the Old Trails Bridge, an arch-style bridge that served as a crossing over the Colorado River from around 1916 until 1947. Nowadays, travelers use a more modern bridge for crossing. As you approach Topock, it marks the final stop in Arizona before you cross the Colorado River, entering California - the eighth and final state on your iconic Route 66 adventure!
A few miles of I-40 will lead you into Needles, your sizzling first stop in California and our recommended place to bunk down for the night. Here in Needles, the heat doesn't play around – think 110 degrees Fahrenheit in August, the kind of heat that makes you grateful for air conditioning. The heat here means serious business, so keep your water bottle handy and slather on that sunscreen – safety first in the desert heat!
Needles isn't just a hot spot, literally; it's brimming with historical gems. Stroll down memory lane with Route 66's vintage charm, from neon-signed motels to burger joints frozen in time – shout out to the (currently snoozing) Burger Hut from the '50s. Gaze at relics like defunct service stations, a historic train depot, and the mammoth Borax wagon. Don't miss El Garces, a 1908 Harvey House hotel that whispers tales of yesteryear (fingers crossed it reopens for tours).
For museum buffs, the Needles Regional Museum is the place to be. If you're itching for some aquatic adventure, Moabi Regional Park and the Colorado River beckon with canoeing, kayaking, and a splash of fishing. And as the sun dips, Needles' (although limited…) nightlife comes alive with bars, grills, and lounges, where karaoke stars and live music acts light up the weekends.
Needles Wagon and Old Trails Bridge
Also Worthwhile / Detour
Grand Canyon West
If you are able to add another day to your trip, you could overnight in Kingman instead of Needles. From here it’s a 74-mile ride to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon and its spectacular Grand Canyon Skywalk. The total trip distance from Kingman to the Grand Canyon Skywalk to Needles adds up to just over 210 miles.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk: Walking on Air Over a Natural Wonder
Are you ready to take a walk on the wild side, or should I say, the "sky" side? Welcome to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, an architectural marvel that literally hangs you out over one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. Here, 4,000 feet above the canyon floor, you can live your "roadrunner and coyote" fantasies, minus the anvil dropping, of course!
A Bridge Not Too Far
Located at the Grand Canyon's West Rim, the Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that dares you to step out into the void. It's like walking on a transparent magic carpet, with the Colorado River playing peek-a-boo beneath your feet. Designed by architect Mark Johnson and the brave souls at MRJ Architects, the Skywalk is an engineering feat, boasting the strength to hold seventy fully loaded 747 airplanes. But don’t worry, they won’t actually try this – it's just to assure you that your selfie session is in safe hands.
More Than Just a Walk in the Park
This is no ordinary stroll. It's a heart-pumping, adrenaline-boosting experience that gives you a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon like no other. The Skywalk's glass floor provides a window to the soul of the earth, offering a perspective that can only be described as 'terrifyingly majestic.'
And let's talk about that glass for a second. It's strong (obviously), but it also offers a clarity that makes you feel like an eagle surveying its kingdom. And for those of you wondering – yes, it's cleaned daily, because nobody wants to look through dusty glass while suspended in mid-air.
The Full Experience
The Skywalk experience doesn't just end with the walk. The site is packed with history and culture. The nearby Eagle Point provides not only breathtaking views but also a chance to dive into the rich cultural tapestry of the Hualapai Tribe. There's also Guano Point (yes, you read that right), which offers some of the most stunning views of the canyon. And when hunger strikes after all that excitement, the Skywalk Café is ready to serve up some delicious treats with a side of spectacular views.
Wrapping It Up
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is more than just a feat of engineering; it's a testament to human audacity. It's for those who say, "Yes!" to dangling over a canyon on a sheet of glass. So, lace up your walking shoes (scratch that, make it non-slip shoes), leave your fear of heights at the door, and step into the void for an unforgettable walk on the wild side. Remember, it's not just a walk; it's a full-fledged sky dance!
Dining Recommendations
Here's a full and detailed list of great places to eat along the way. The blue “thumbs up” dots state our top recommendation(s).
PS: since we don’t know when you’re feeling peckish, we have included an “along the way list” - pick your poison…
Seligman |
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Delgadillo’s Snow Cap: Discover the charm of yesteryear at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap, a legendary 1953 drive-in. Revel in the nostalgia as you bite into classic American fare like juicy cheeseburgers, sizzling hot dogs, and mouth-watering shakes. Opened by the innovative Juan Delgadillo, this iconic spot offers a whimsical outdoor seating experience you won't forget. Have some dead chicken! 🏠 301 E. Chino Ave |
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Road Runner Cafe: Step back in time at Road Runner Cafe, housed in a 1936 building that once served as a garage and car dealership. Today, this cafe delights its guests with a variety of American delights - from smoky BBQ and crisp paninis to classic hot dogs, fresh salads, and scrumptious pizzas. Their sweet treats like ice cream perfectly end your meal. For those looking for something stronger, the bar area serves a range of alcoholic beverages. Plus, don't miss browsing their extensive gift shop. 🏠 22330 W. Old Highway Route 66 |
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Westside Lilo’s Cafe: Indulge in a unique culinary fusion at Westside Lilo’s Cafe, where American dishes meet German delicacies. Feast on bratwursts, schnitzel, and sauerkraut alongside your favorite American dishes. Operating since the 1950s, this spot, revamped in 1996 by a German couple, offers a vibrant atmosphere adorned with Route 66 memorabilia. Enjoy their renowned German desserts, like carrot cake and pies, on their summer patio, complete with live entertainment. 🏠 415 Chino St |
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Roadkill 66 Cafe & OK Saloon: Dive into the intriguing and unusual ambiance of Roadkill 66 Cafe & OK Saloon. This American eatery with a roadkill theme serves an adventurous menu highlighting burgers, steaks, buffalo chicken sandwiches, and game. Open from breakfast till dinner, this spot also features a bar to quench your thirst and a gift shop for a memorable takeaway. 🏠 22830 W. Route 66 |
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Peach Springs |
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Grand Canyon Caverns Restaurant: Nestled within the fascinating Grand Canyon Caverns, this American restaurant offers a charming journey back in time with its retro decor. A must-visit for pie enthusiasts, this spot prides itself on serving scrumptious, homemade pies that have become a local favorite. 🏠 115 Mile Marker AZ-66 |
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Diamond Creek Restaurant: Discover a blend of classic American diner favorites and authentic Hualapai culinary delights at Diamond Creek Restaurant. Located in the heart of Hualapai Lodge, this restaurant offers a unique menu, featuring dishes like hearty breakfast burritos, flavorful tacos, traditional fry bread, and the special Hualapai stew. 🏠 900 Route 66 |
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Kingman |
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Rutherford’s 66 Family Diner: Step into Rutherford’s 66 Family Diner in Kingman for a nostalgic dining experience. This retro-style diner, set in a former 1960s Denny’s, dishes out a range of American and local classics. From juicy cheeseburgers and succulent prime rib to Navajo tacos and crispy chicken fried steaks, there's something to satisfy every craving. 🏠 2011 E. Andy Devine Ave |
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Ma and Pa’s Hot Rod Cafe: Cruise into a unique dining experience at Ma and Pa's Hot Rod Cafe. This charming family-owned establishment not only serves up classic American road fare like juicy cheeseburgers, hearty sandwiches, and delicious hot dogs but also doubles as a mini car museum. Perfect for car enthusiasts and foodies alike! 🏠 2215 Hualapai Mountain Rd |
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Floyd and Company Real Pit BBQ: Indulge in the deep flavors of the South at Floyd and Company Real Pit BBQ, a gem that's been delighting BBQ lovers since 2016. Savor their mouth-watering Southern-style BBQ and perfectly wood-fired pizzas, in a setting that's cozy and welcoming. 420 E. Beale St |
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Mattina’s Ristorante Italiano: For a touch of Italian elegance, Mattina’s Ristorante Italiano is the place to be. Nestled in a beautifully converted historic home, this upscale restaurant serves an array of exquisite Italian dishes, from classic pastas to succulent steaks and seafood, complemented by a curated wine list. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a special evening out. 🏠 318 E. Oak St |
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Mr. D’z: Step back in time at Mr. D’z, a 1950s-themed American diner that exudes a nostalgic charm. Famous for its delectable hamburgers, hot dogs, shakes, and the renowned Mr. D’s root beer, this casual spot, originally a 1938 cafe and gas station, is a blast from the past that continues to captivate locals and visitors alike. 🏠 105 E. Andy Devine Ave |
Oatman |
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Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon: Step into a slice of history at the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon. This establishment, once a haven for miners, now serves classic American fare in its Million Dollar Saloon. Enjoy a range of dishes from juicy burgers to hearty chili, complemented by ice cream delights. The bar, adorned with dollar bills from visitors, adds to the charm. It's also famed for being the honeymoon spot of Clark Gable and Carole Lombard in 1939. 🏠 181 Main St |
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Olive Oatman Restaurant & Saloon: Immerse yourself in the Old West at the Olive Oatman Restaurant & Saloon, named after the town's namesake who had a dramatic history. Delight in a menu featuring American Southwestern cuisine, from savory breakfast plates to Navajo tacos and fry bread, all in a setting that echoes the rich past of the region. 🏠 171 Main St |
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Topock |
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Silver Dollar Chuck Wagon: Enjoy a hearty American meal at the Silver Dollar Chuck Wagon. Known for their delicious broasted chicken, this eatery offers a full bar and a menu packed with classic favorites like burgers and steaks, perfect for starting your day or refueling during your Route 66 adventure. 🏠 12907 S. Oatman Hwy |
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Topock66 Spa & Restaurant: Experience contemporary dining by the Colorado River at Topock66 Spa & Restaurant. With a modern twist on comfort food, the menu boasts everything from mouth-watering burgers to succulent shrimp. Not just a place to eat, it features a bar, store, marina, and a sprawling swimming pool for a complete leisure experience. 🏠 14999 Route 66 |
Needles |
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Lucy’s Mexican Restaurant: Dive into authentic Mexican flavors at Lucy’s Mexican Restaurant. This cozy spot offers a delightful array of Mexican staples, from tantalizing tacos and burritos to chile rellenos. Perfectly located near the train station, it's a convenient and tasty stop on your Route 66 journey. 🏠 811 Front St |
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Munchy’s Mexican Restaurant: Discover local flavors at Munchy’s Mexican Restaurant. This small, highly-praised eatery serves a variety of budget-friendly Mexican and Tex-Mex delights, right next to the train station. It's the perfect spot for a flavorful pit stop. 🏠 829 Front St |
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Wagon Wheel Restaurant: Step back in time at the Wagon Wheel Restaurant, a local favorite adorned with Old West charm. Savor American comfort dishes from chicken fried steak to pot roast, burgers, and melts. Known for serving all-day breakfast, this spot, originally Lynn’s Broiler from the 1950s, offers a hearty start or end to your day. 🏠 2420 Needles Hwy |
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Chilling Point (formerly Juicy’s River Cafe) – Once also known as “Giggling Cactus,” Chilling Point stands next to the Best Western Colorado River Inn as a culinary hidden treasure. Enjoy fantastic meals, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. With a menu featuring traditional dinner favorites like Liver and Onions, steaks, and burgers, this place is known for its generous portions and warm service. The diner offers varied seating options, from bar tables to a dedicated dining section and a cozy breakfast counter. 🏠 411 W Broadway St |
Hotel Recommendations
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Best Western Colorado River Inn Located right on Route 66, the Best Western Colorado River Inn is a great choice for a stay in Needles. Guests can take a dip in the outdoor pool or grab a bite to eat at Chilling Point Restaurant or the Wagon Wheel, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A bar/lounge and a spa tub are offered, and in-room conveniences include refrigerators and microwaves. Fellow travelers like the comfortable beds and helpful staff. |
Pirate Cove Resort&Marina, Needles, CA
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Pirate Cove Resort & Marina This secluded California oasis is located in the Moabi Regional Park, on the banks of the Colorado River, just 11 miles southeast of Needles, California. Pirate Cove offers an oasis that brings you back to a simpler life where you can eat, drink, play, and unwind the pirates way. This riverfront property offers cabins with kitchens, a kitchen, playground, restaurant, bar, marina, and boat rentals. Great place for families as well as those wanting to spend some time on the water. |
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Hampton Inn Located on historic Route 66, in the Mohave Valley. The Colorado River is nearby, with marinas, boat launches and golf courses all within a few miles of the hotel. |
Congrats! You have successfully mastered Day 11 of Route 66.
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A complete link list to Route 66
DAY 1 | Chicago - Springfield
DAY 2 | Springfield - St. Louis
DAY 3 | St Louis - Springfield
DAY 4 | Springfield - Tulsa
DAY 5 | Tulsa - Weatherford
DAY 6 | Weatherford - Amarillo
DAY 7 | Amarillo - Santa Fe
DAY 8 | Santa Fe - Gallup
DAY 9 | Gallup - Winslow
DAY 10 | Winslow - Williams
DAY 11 | Williams - Needles
DAY 12 | Needles - Victorville
DAY 13 | Victorville - Santa Monica
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