1. Grand Canyon Caverns (Peach Springs) – Underground Adventures

  • Grand Canyon Caverns: One of the largest dry caverns in the U.S., this spot offers a unique, guided tour that takes you underground. It's perfect for a family outing with children old enough to enjoy the mild adventure of navigating through a large cave system filled with fascinating rock formations.

  • Cavern Tours: The tour is educational and entertaining, making it a fun way for families to learn about geology and explore the underground world. Plus, you can spend the night in the caverns if you're feeling adventurous!

2. Seligman – Classic Americana & Route 66 Vibes

  • Route 66 General Store: A great stop to grab souvenirs, snacks, and take in the old-school atmosphere of Seligman. The town is full of quirky vintage signs, murals, and photo opportunities that make for fun family photos.

  • Angel & Vilma’s Original Route 66 Gift Shop: Another stop with classic Route 66 memorabilia and the chance to learn about the town’s colorful history. There’s also a small, family-friendly café with great diner food.

  • Historic Seligman: Take a walk down the main street where you'll find shops, roadside attractions, and a small-town vibe that’s perfect for exploring with kids.

3. Williams – The Gateway to the Grand Canyon & Outdoor Fun

  • Grand Canyon Railway: Take the whole family on a scenic, historic train ride to the Grand Canyon. It’s a fun and memorable way to experience this natural wonder, complete with a nostalgic old-fashioned train and the excitement of arriving at the Canyon.

  • Bearizona Wildlife Park: Just outside of Williams, this drive-through wildlife park offers an up-close experience with North American animals like bison, bears, wolves, and more. Kids will love seeing the animals in their natural habitat and the safari-style drive-through.

  • Williams Depot: If you're in town for the Grand Canyon Railway, the depot is an interesting historical stop with great photo opportunities and a feel for the old Route 66 era.

4. Flagstaff – Outdoor Adventures and Family-Friendly Activities

  • Lowell Observatory: Great for kids and parents alike, Lowell Observatory offers educational programs and stargazing opportunities. The whole family can learn about space and the history of astronomy while gazing at the stars through telescopes.

  • Flagstaff’s Historic Downtown: Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Flagstaff, which features historic architecture, fun shops, and delicious family-friendly restaurants. It's a great place to stop for lunch and enjoy the local culture.

  • Walnut Canyon National Monument: Explore ancient cliff dwellings that date back over 1,000 years. The short, easy hike is perfect for kids, and the ranger-led programs offer fascinating insights into the area's Native American history.

5. Petrified Forest National Park & Painted Desert – Natural Wonders

  • Petrified Forest National Park: A must-see stop for any family visiting Arizona! The park is home to stunning, ancient petrified wood that kids will find fascinating. You can hike short trails, see dinosaur tracks, and explore the colorful badlands of the Painted Desert.

  • Giant Logs Trail: A relatively easy 0.4-mile hike that takes you through a forest of ancient trees turned to stone. It's perfect for families who want a bit of outdoor adventure without a long trek.

6. Meteor Crater – A Unique Geological Marvel

  • Meteor Crater: One of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites in the world, Meteor Crater offers interactive exhibits and the opportunity to view the massive crater from a viewpoint. It’s educational and awe-inspiring for children and adults alike.

  • Interactive Museum: The museum is packed with fun facts and exhibits, including life-sized models and videos about the impact that created this extraordinary site.

7. Holbrook – Route 66 Roadside Attractions

  • The Wigwam Motel: An iconic Route 66 stop, this quirky motel lets families stay in rooms that resemble teepees! It’s a fun and unique experience for kids, who will love the novelty of staying in a wigwam while exploring the kitsch of Route 66.

  • Joe & Aggie’s Café: A classic family-friendly diner that serves up delicious and hearty meals. After a long day of sightseeing, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy some comfort food.

  • Historic Route 66 Signs and Mural Stops: Holbrook is full of colorful murals, vintage signs, and fun photo ops along Route 66. Kids will enjoy spotting all the landmarks as you explore the town.

8. Winslow – Step Back in Time with Fun Stops

  • Standin’ on the Corner Park: A must-see for any family traveling Route 66. This park is dedicated to the famous song Take It Easy by the Eagles. It’s a fun spot to take family photos and learn about the town’s connection to rock history.

  • La Posada Hotel & Gardens: This historic hotel offers an incredible glimpse into Arizona’s past and boasts beautifully restored gardens. The hotel grounds are perfect for a leisurely family stroll.

  • Winslow Route 66 Museum: For a quick stop to learn about the history of the town and its significance on the famous route, this small museum is perfect for all ages.

9. Petrified Forest National Park & Route 66 Scenic Drive

  • Route 66 Scenic Drive: As you drive through Arizona, the Route 66 Scenic Byway offers incredible views of desert landscapes, historic landmarks, and stops with local flavor. You’ll see small towns, large rock formations, and more while driving through the beautiful, open countryside.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for desert wildlife such as roadrunners, pronghorns, and various bird species. This is also an excellent way for kids to learn about local wildlife and the desert ecosystem.

10. Arizona Route 66 Roadside Attractions – Fun Stops Along the Way

  • Big Texan Steak Ranch (near Holbrook): This is a fun and quirky roadside stop where the family can enjoy huge Texas-style meals and snap a few photos of the giant cowboy statue.

  • Route 66 Roadside Signs: Make sure to stop at iconic Route 66 signs, murals, and gas stations along the way for photo opportunities. These spots provide a fun way to learn about the history of the road and its impact on American culture.

Family Travel Tips for Route 66 in Arizona:

  • Time it Right: Arizona can get quite hot, especially in summer. Traveling in the spring or fall is ideal for a more comfortable experience.

  • Pack for Variety: Arizona’s diverse landscapes mean you’ll be experiencing everything from deserts to pine forests to historical towns, so pack for a variety of climates and activities.

  • Interactive Stops: Look for places with hands-on exhibits, like Meteor Crater and the Petrified Forest National Park, where kids can touch and explore.

  • Plan for Downtime: Route 66 is about the journey, so don’t rush from one stop to another. Allow time for family games, picnics, and spontaneous fun along the way!