Route 66 may not run directly through Phoenix, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the iconic highway on a day trip. In fact, Phoenix is perfectly positioned for several Route 66 day trips, each offering a completely different experience depending on which direction you drive.
Whether you’re looking for classic roadside attractions, historic towns, or unique natural landmarks like Meteor Crater, these three full-day itineraries give you flexible options for a Route 66 day trip from Phoenix without committing to a multi-day road trip.
Northern Route: Phoenix to Flagstaff, Winslow & Meteor Crater
Driving north from Phoenix offers the most complete and iconic Route 66 experience in a single day. This route combines mountain scenery, historic towns, and one of the most unique stops in Arizona.
Start your day early by heading north on I-17 toward Flagstaff. As you climb in elevation, the desert landscape gradually gives way to pine forests and cooler temperatures. Flagstaff itself is worth a short stop, whether for coffee, a quick walk downtown, or a scenic viewpoint.
From Flagstaff, continue east along Interstate 40, which closely follows the original Route 66. Your first major stop is Winslow, home to the famous “Standing on the Corner” landmark. It’s a quick but classic Route 66 photo opportunity that captures the spirit of the highway.
Just outside Winslow, you’ll find one of the most unique stops along Route 66: Meteor Crater. This massive impact site, formed over 50,000 years ago, offers a completely different experience from the typical roadside attraction. Standing on the rim and looking out over the crater adds a memorable and unexpected highlight to your trip.
After visiting the crater, you can either head back the same way or continue a bit farther east before looping back to Phoenix. This route offers the best balance of history, scenery, and variety, making it the top choice for a Route 66 day trip.
Purchase your Meteor Crater Tickets
Buy in advance, tickets never expire!
Western Route: Phoenix to Kingman, Oatman & Historic Route 66
If you’re looking for a more rugged and historic Route 66 experience, heading west from Phoenix offers a completely different perspective. This route is longer but delivers some of the most authentic and visually dramatic sections of the highway.
Begin by driving west toward Kingman, which serves as a major hub for Route 66 in Arizona. From there, you can access one of the most famous stretches of the original Route 66 highway—the winding road between Kingman and Oatman.
This section of Route 66 is known for its sharp curves, mountain views, and historic feel. It’s one of the few places where you can truly experience what driving Route 66 was like before modern highways replaced it.
Oatman itself is a highlight of this route. This former mining town has embraced its Route 66 identity, complete with wooden sidewalks, old-west buildings, and wild burros roaming the streets. It’s one of the most unique and memorable stops in Arizona.
Because of the distance, this itinerary makes for a long but rewarding day. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more immersive Route 66 experience and don’t mind spending extra time on the road.
Eastern Route: Phoenix to Payson, Winslow & Route 66 Connection
The eastern route from Phoenix offers a slightly different take on a Route 66 day trip by combining scenic drives, water destinations, and a connection to the historic highway.
Start by heading northeast toward Payson, where the landscape shifts into forested terrain and cooler temperatures. This area is known for outdoor activities and water destinations like the Salt River and Water Wheel Falls, making it a great option if you want to combine a Route 66 experience with nature.
From Payson, continue north and then west toward Winslow to connect with Route 66. While this route takes a bit more planning, it allows you to experience a mix of Arizona landscapes before arriving at one of the highway’s most iconic towns.
Once in Winslow, you can visit the “Standing on the Corner” site and explore nearby Route 66 stops. If time allows, you can also add a visit to Meteor Crater, which is located just outside town and makes for a worthwhile detour.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want variety by combining forests, water, and historic Route 66 in a single day.
Choosing the Best Route 66 Day Trip from Phoenix
Each of these Route 66 day trips offers a different experience, so the best choice depends on what you’re looking for.
The northern route is the most balanced, combining classic Route 66 stops with natural landmarks like Meteor Crater. The western route offers the most authentic and historic driving experience, especially along the Kingman to Oatman stretch. The eastern route provides the most variety, blending outdoor scenery with Route 66 highlights.
No matter which direction you choose, these trips prove that you don’t need a full cross-country journey to experience Route 66. With the right itinerary, you can capture the spirit of the Mother Road in a single day from Phoenix.
