Winslow Travel Guide

Explore the top attractions and activities in Winslow, Arizona. Discover the best places to stay, where to eat, and how to get around.


Introduction to Winslow

Winslow is a small town in Northern Arizona, located on historic Route 66. Famous for its song lyrics, Winslow has become a popular stop for road trippers exploring the Southwest. The town has a rich history, which can be seen in its many cultural attractions and museums. In addition, Winslow is surrounded by natural beauty, with hiking and biking trails, scenic views, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Winslow

If you’re planning a trip to Winslow, here are some must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Old Trails Museum: Discover Winslow’s history through exhibits and artifacts at this local museum.
  • Standin’ on the Corner Park: Take a photo with the famous statue and mural that celebrates the Eagles’ hit song, “Take it Easy.”
  • La Posada Hotel: Visit this restored historic hotel which houses art galleries and a museum detailing the building’s rich history.
  • Homolovi State Park: Explore the ancient ruins of this Puebloan culture that inhabited the region over 700 years ago.

Natural Attractions of Winslow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Meteor Crater: See the best-preserved impact crater on Earth, located just a short drive from Winslow.
  • Painted Desert: Marvel at the colorful badland formations that stretch for miles throughout the desert wilderness.
  • Petrified Forest National Park: Take a scenic drive through ancient petrified forests, past colorful rocks and stunning landscapes.
  • Clear Creek: Go fishing, hiking, or enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Clear Creek Canyon Wilderness.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Winslow

Winslow has plenty of spectacular hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular routes include:

  • A 7.6-mile round trip hike to the top of the Twin Buttes, offering stunning panoramic views of the area.
  • A 12-mile round trip bike ride along the Chevelon Canyon Road, past beautiful scenery and wildlife.
  • A 3-mile hike along the Homolovi II Trail, where you can see ancient Puebloan ruins and pottery fragments.

Best Things to Do in Winslow: Activities and Tours

There’s never a dull moment in Winslow. Here are some of the best things to do during your stay:

  • Take a guided tour of La Posada Hotel and learn about its rich history and art collection.
  • Go birdwatching at Clear Creek Wetlands, a 600-acre bird sanctuary with over 200 bird species.
  • Visit the Winslow Arts Trust Gallery, where you can see works by local artists and learn about the town’s creative scene.
  • Take a Historic Route 66 Tour to explore the quirky roadside attractions and iconic spots that make the route so famous.

Week-Long Itinerary for Winslow

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Winslow, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Old Trails Museum and Standin’ on the Corner Park.
2 Take the Historic Route 66 Tour through Winslow and Holbrook.
3 Spend the day hiking in Petrified Forest National Park.
4 Go fishing or hiking in Clear Creek Canyon Wilderness.
5 Visit Homolovi State Park and the Winslow Arts Trust Gallery.
6 Take a guided tour of La Posada Hotel and the Winslow Harvey Girls exhibit.
7 See the Meteor Crater and Painted Desert, both located nearby.

Food and Drink Scene of Winslow

Winslow may be a small town, but it has its share of delicious food and drink options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Frybread tacos: A Southwest classic, frybread is topped with taco fixings for a hearty meal.
  • Navajo burgers: A burger topped with green chile and avocado, served on a Navajo bun.
  • Green chile enchiladas: Covered in cheese and smothered in green chile sauce, these enchiladas are a local favorite.

Local Beverages

  • Hopi tea: Served at La Posada Hotel, this tea is made with juniper berries and has a unique, earthy flavor.
  • Craft beer from the nearby Mother Road Brewing Company or Lumberyard Brewery.
  • Sarsaparilla from the historic Old Trails Soda Fountain.

Where to Stay in Winslow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Winslow has a variety of places to stay for every budget. Here are some top options:

  • La Posada Hotel: This historic hotel offers luxurious rooms, an onsite art gallery, and delicious dining options.
  • Motel 10: A Route 66 classic, this quirky motel features vintage decor and comfortable rooms.
  • Winslow Inn: This budget-friendly hotel has clean, comfortable rooms and a helpful staff.
  • White Dove of the Desert: This charming bed and breakfast is located just outside Winslow, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Buy in Winslow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to Winslow? Here are some options:

  • Navajo jewelry: Shop for authentic turquoise and silver jewelry made by local Navajo artisans.
  • Route 66 memorabilia: From keychains to postcards, there’s plenty of Route 66 branded souvenirs to choose from.
  • Petrified wood: Take home a piece of ancient history in the form of polished petrified wood.
  • Local art: Visit Winslow’s art galleries to find unique pieces by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Winslow

Winslow is a diverse town with a rich Native American culture. Visitors should be respectful of this culture and the customs of local tribes. In addition, Winslow has a strong Route 66 heritage, which is celebrated through museums and roadside attractions.

Best Time to Visit Winslow

The best time to visit Winslow is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy. However, winter visitors may be rewarded with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and frozen landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Winslow

Do:

  • Respect local cultures and customs.
  • Explore the natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Visit historic Route 66 attractions.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the town’s rich history.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property or ancient ruins.
  • Disrupt wildlife or landscape.
  • Disrespect local laws or regulations.
  • Use offensive language or behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Winslow

Winslow is generally a safe town, but visitors should take standard precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe. Be aware of the weather conditions, avoid walking alone at night, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Health in Winslow

Winslow has several medical facilities, including Little Colorado Medical Center and Winslow Indian Health Care Center. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid altitude sickness when visiting the area.

Getting to Winslow: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Winslow

The nearest airports to Winslow are Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Both airports offer rental car services and ground transportation.

Bus Stations Near Winslow

Greyhound Bus Lines operates in Winslow, with a station located in the downtown area. Amtrak also has a train station in Winslow, served by the Southwest Chief route.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Winslow via historic Route 66 or Interstate 40. Some tour companies offer guided tours of the area, including transportation to and from Winslow.

How to Get Around in Winslow

Winslow is a small town that can easily be explored on foot, or by bicycle. Rental cars are also available for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas. Additionally, some tour companies offer guided tours of Winslow and the surrounding attractions.

Where to Go Next from Winslow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Winslow is located in a beautiful area of Northern Arizona, with plenty of nearby destinations to explore. Some top options include:

  • Grand Canyon National Park: Just a few hours drive from Winslow, this natural wonder is a must-see.
  • Sedona: Known for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
  • Flagstaff: A college town surrounded by mountains and forests, Flagstaff is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and cultural attractions.
  • Canyon de Chelly: Explore the ancient ruins of this canyon, located on the Navajo reservation.

Conclusion

Winslow is a unique and charming town, full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring Route 66, hiking in the surrounding wilderness, or enjoying local cuisine, Winslow has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the wonders of Northern Arizona.

Take It Easy Take It Easy Barringer Meteor Crater Barringer Meteor Crater Little Painted Desert County Park Little Painted Desert County Park Petroglyph at Rock Art Ranch Petroglyph at Rock Art Ranch Interior of the historic La Posada Hotel Interior of the historic La Posada Hotel