The upcoming celebration of the Route 66 Centennial in 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for travelers to plan a journey through Arizona. This state is home to the longest uninterrupted stretch of the Mother Road, stretching for 252km. Arizona’s Route 66 is world-renowned for its eclectic collection of charming small towns, quirky attractions and American style reminiscent of the famous road’s golden age.
Note the recent installations of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, including for Teslas, which have modernized the route offering a contemporary way to savor its vintage charm.
Kingman
Kingman offers a variety of excursions for travelers, including a giant Route 66 sign large enough for electric vehicles (EVs) to drive through. Of course, it is appropriate to take a short break to capture a memory of this unique experience. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum, which prides itself on being the world’s first electric vehicle museum, strategically located in the Kingman Visitor Center.
EV drivers can explore a remarkable collection of 28 vintage electric vehicles, while charging their own vehicle at the museum station or the adjacent Supercharger station.
The Visitor Center also features a new AI-powered exhibit featuring Angel Delgadillo, a dedicated steward of Arizona’s Route 66 heritage. Afterward, visitors can enjoy a meal at Mr. D’z Diner, a 1950s retro diner serving classic American cuisine, before staying at the Best Western Plus A Wayfarer’s Inn and Suites. Please note that this establishment offers its own charging stations for electric vehicles.
From Hackberry to Peach Springs
Before setting out on the stretch from Hackberry to Peach Springs, it’s wise to make sure your electric vehicle is sufficiently charged to explore the many attractions along this route, with Hackberry General Store offering a vintage setting complete with pumps retro gasoline and classic cars.
Arriving in Peach Springs, many will recognize the town as the inspiration for Radiator Springs in the Pixar film “Cars.” Visitors can stay at the Hualapai Lodge in town as a base to venture off the Mother Road and view the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, home to the famous Skywalk. Or continuing east on Route 66, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy a cheeseburger at Caverns Grill and take photos with dinosaur statues next to the Grand Canyon Caverns.
Seligman
Make a stop in Seligman, the place where Arizona’s Route 66 rescue began. Local barber, Angel Delgadillo, has become the “Guardian Angel of Route 66” after decades of hard work to preserve the nostalgia that Route 66 evokes and its place in American history.
Don’t miss the Historic General Store for Route 66 memorabilia before enjoying a milkshake at the famous Delgadillo’s Snow Cap drive-in. For accommodation, opt for the Seligman/Route 66 KOA to sleep in a comfortable chalet or to pitch a tent. There is also an EV charging station, and customers who call ahead can obtain a Tesla adapter.
Williams
This “railway city” fully supports electric car travelers by offering around 20 charging stations. For ultimate comfort, EV travelers can stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. This charming hotel offers two electric vehicle chargers next to its iconic Grand Canyon Railway depot, from where guests can catch the daily round-trip train to the Grand Canyon South Rim.
With the hotel located one block from downtown Williams and Route 66, you can stroll into town to be transported back in time with the many gift shops and vintage restaurants to explore. Visitors can also charge their EV at the Electrify America station in Williams before getting in their vehicle to explore Bearizona, a drive-in wildlife park.
Flagstaff
Stroll around Flagstaff and explore its restaurants, breweries and shops while charging your EV at the Visitor Center, located in the heart of downtown. Gaze upon the starry skies that earned Flagstaff the designation of the First International Dark Sky City at the Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered. Here you can observe the starry sky through state-of-the-art telescopes.
Stay at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel on Route 66 or the nearby Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, both of which are near downtown and have several charging stations. Once you’re ready to hit the road again, head out for a hike in the Coconino National Forest before visiting Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monument.
Winslow
Play the Eagles song “Take it Easy” when you arrive in Winslow, this classic song mentions the town in its second verse. Experience the scene depicted in the song at Standing at the Corner Park, just steps from the Winslow Visitor Center & Hubble Trading Post, where EV drivers can charge their vehicles.
To learn about the city’s history, cross the street to see Native American artifacts, the Santa Fe Railway and Route 66 at the Old Trails Museum. Stay at the historic La Posada Hotel, designed by renowned architect Mary Colter, to enjoy exquisite cuisine at the Turquoise Room restaurant, and take advantage of two charging stations.
Holbrook
Admire the wonders of nature in the colorful Painted Desert Hills, located near Holbrook. Once you arrive, charge your vehicle at the Supercharger or Blink terminals in Holbrook before heading to the Petrified Forest National Park, the largest concentration of petrified wood in the world.
For an enriching experience, spend the night in a wigwam (a type of tepee) at the Wigwam Motel, a favorite of travelers since the 1950s.
For more information : www.visitarizona.com
