Have you ever found yourself humming “Take It Easy” by the Eagles while cruising down a desert highway? If so, then Winslow, Arizona should definitely be on your travel bucket list. This small desert town of about 9,000 residents has achieved legendary status thanks to one simple line in a classic rock song: “standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.”
But here’s the thing – Winslow is so much more than just a photo opportunity with an Eagles statue. This historic Route 66 town offers a fascinating blend of Native American culture, railroad history, and Southwest charm that will surprise even the most seasoned travelers. From ancient pueblo ruins to award-winning fine dining, Winslow proves that great things really do come in small packages.
Why Winslow Arizona Should Be Your Next Road Trip Stop
Winslow sits at the crossroads of history, culture, and natural beauty in northern Arizona’s high desert. At 4,850 feet elevation, this town offers a refreshing escape from the scorching heat that many associate with Arizona summers. But elevation is just the beginning of what makes Winslow special.
Think of Winslow as a time capsule that’s been perfectly preserved along America’s most famous highway. Unlike many Route 66 towns that have either faded away or become overly commercialized, Winslow has found the sweet spot between preservation and progress. You’ll discover authentic experiences around every corner, from the historic Harvey House hotel to the ancient petroglyphs just minutes from downtown.
The Eagles Connection That Made This Town Famous
In 1972, the Eagles released “Take It Easy,” co-written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey. The song included the now-famous lyric about “standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona,” and suddenly this small desert town was on the map in a way no one could have predicted.
But here’s what many people don’t know: the Eagles never actually intended to put Winslow on the tourist map. Jackson Browne chose Winslow simply because it fit the song’s rhythm and rhyme scheme. It was pure luck that transformed this railroad town into a pilgrimage site for rock music fans from around the world.
The impact of those lyrics cannot be overstated. For decades, visitors have flocked to Winslow hoping to find the exact corner mentioned in the song. The town eventually embraced its musical fame, creating Standin’ on the Corner Park complete with an Eagles statue and a mural depicting the famous flatbed Ford from the lyrics.
Route 66 Heritage and Historic Charm
Long before the Eagles made Winslow famous, this town played a crucial role in American transportation history. Established in 1882 as a railroad town, Winslow became an important stop along the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway. The town’s location made it a natural hub for travelers crossing the Southwest.
When Route 66 was established in 1926, Winslow found itself perfectly positioned along America’s Mother Road. The town became a popular overnight stop for families driving from Chicago to Los Angeles. Historic hotels, diners, and gas stations sprang up to serve the growing number of road-trippers, creating the infrastructure that still defines downtown Winslow today.
The National Old Trails Road, which predated Route 66, also ran through Winslow, further cementing the town’s importance in American transportation history. Today, you can still see remnants of all these historic travel routes as you explore Winslow’s streets.
Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Winslow
Despite its small size, Winslow packs an impressive number of attractions into its compact downtown area and surrounding desert. Whether you’re interested in music history, ancient cultures, or simply want to experience authentic Route 66 charm, these top attractions will give you a comprehensive taste of what makes Winslow special.
Standin’ on the Corner Park
Let’s address the elephant in the room first – yes, you absolutely must visit Standin’ on the Corner Park. This small triangular park at the intersection of Route 66 and Kinsley Avenue features the bronze Eagles statue that has become Winslow’s most photographed attraction.
The statue depicts a man with a guitar, seemingly waiting for someone or something, just like in the song lyrics. Behind the statue, a detailed mural shows a flatbed Ford truck with a woman who appears to be checking out the guitar player. The attention to detail in both the statue and mural is impressive, and they perfectly capture the laid-back vibe of the song.
The Famous Eagles Statue and Photo Opportunities
Getting your photo with the Eagles statue is practically mandatory when visiting Winslow. The best time for photos is early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is softer and the crowds are smaller. During peak tourist season, you might have to wait your turn, but the park’s small size means you won’t be waiting long.
Pro tip: Don’t just settle for the standard pose next to the statue. The mural provides excellent backdrop opportunities, and the park’s design allows for creative angles that can make your photos stand out from the thousands of others taken at this same spot.
The park also features informational plaques about the song’s history and impact on Winslow. Take a few minutes to read these – they provide fascinating insights into how a single song lyric transformed an entire town’s identity and economy.
Historic Winslow Commercial District
Beyond the Eagles connection, Winslow’s historic downtown district tells the story of a classic American railroad town. The buildings along Route 66 showcase architectural styles from the early 1900s through the 1950s, creating a visual timeline of American commercial architecture.
Many of the original Route 66-era buildings have been carefully restored and now house shops, restaurants, and galleries. You’ll find everything from Native American jewelry and pottery to vintage Route 66 memorabilia. The shopping experience here feels authentic rather than touristy – these are real businesses serving both locals and visitors.
La Posada Hotel: A Masterpiece of Southwest Architecture
The crown jewel of Winslow’s historic district is undoubtedly La Posada Hotel. Built in 1930 as the last of the great railroad hotels constructed by the Fred Harvey Company, La Posada represents the pinnacle of Southwest hospitality and architecture.
Designed by Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, who also designed several Grand Canyon buildings, La Posada was intended to resemble a grand Spanish hacienda. The hotel’s public spaces feature hand-painted ceilings, custom furniture, and authentic Southwest artwork that transport visitors to another era.
After falling into disrepair and nearly being demolished in the 1990s, La Posada was lovingly restored by Allan Affeldt and Tina Mion. Today, it stands as one of the finest historic hotels in the Southwest, earning accolades from travel magazines and discerning guests worldwide.
The hotel’s gardens alone are worth a visit, featuring desert plants, railroad artifacts, and outdoor art installations. Even if you’re not staying at La Posada, you can explore the public areas, dine at the acclaimed Turquoise Room restaurant, or browse the hotel’s impressive art collection.
Homolovi State Park
Just northeast of Winslow lies one of Arizona’s most significant archaeological sites. Homolovi State Park preserves the remains of four major Ancestral Puebloan villages that were inhabited between 1260 and 1400 CE. The name “Homolovi” means “little hills” in the Hopi language, and these ruins represent some of the ancestors of modern Hopi people.
The park offers several hiking trails that wind among the ancient ruins, providing opportunities to see petroglyphs, pottery shards, and building foundations. Interpretive signs along the trails explain the significance of different areas and help visitors understand how these ancient people lived in this harsh desert environment.
Ancient Pueblo Ruins and Cultural Significance
What makes Homolovi State Park particularly special is its ongoing connection to contemporary Native American culture. The Hopi people consider this area sacred and still visit the site for religious ceremonies. This living cultural connection adds depth and meaning to your visit that you won’t find at many other archaeological sites.
The park’s visitor center features excellent exhibits about Ancestral Puebloan culture, including displays of pottery, tools, and other artifacts found at the site. Rangers and volunteer guides provide regular talks about the site’s significance and the ongoing archaeological research being conducted there.
Visiting Homolovi provides important context for understanding the long history of human habitation in the Winslow area. These ruins remind visitors that this landscape has been home to sophisticated cultures for over 700 years, long before railroads or highways brought modern travelers to the area.
Outdoor Adventures Around Winslow Arizona
Winslow’s location in northern Arizona’s high desert provides access to diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. The area’s elevation creates a climate that’s more temperate than southern Arizona, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
Hiking Trails and Desert Landscapes
The desert around Winslow offers hiking opportunities for all skill levels. The terrain varies from flat desert walks to challenging climbs up nearby mesas, providing options whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a serious workout.
McHood Park, right in town, offers easy walking trails along the Little Colorado River. These trails are perfect for families or anyone wanting to stretch their legs without venturing far from downtown amenities. The park also features picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a great spot for a lunch break during your Winslow exploration.
For more adventurous hikers, the nearby Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park offer world-class hiking among some of the most colorful and unusual landscapes in the Southwest. The badlands topography creates an almost alien landscape that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Meteor Crater Road Trip
One of the most unique attractions near Winslow is Meteor Crater, located about 35 miles west of town. Also known as Barringer Crater, this is the best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth, created about 50,000 years ago when a nickel-iron meteorite crashed into the Arizona desert.
Best-Preserved Impact Site on Earth
The crater measures nearly one mile across and 560 feet deep, creating a perfectly circular depression that’s visible from space. What makes this site particularly valuable to scientists is its excellent state of preservation – unlike most impact craters on Earth, this one hasn’t been significantly eroded by weather or covered by vegetation.
The Meteor Crater Visitor Center offers excellent educational exhibits about meteors, impacts, and space exploration. Interactive displays help visitors understand the tremendous forces involved in creating this natural landmark. The center also features an IMAX theater and guided rim tours that provide spectacular views of the crater.
The drive to Meteor Crater from Winslow takes you through classic high desert scenery and offers excellent opportunities for photography. Many visitors combine their crater visit with stops at other area attractions, making it a perfect half-day excursion from Winslow.
Where to Stay in Winslow: From Historic Hotels to Budget Options
Winslow offers accommodation options ranging from luxury historic hotels to budget-friendly chain motels. The town’s compact size means that regardless of where you stay, you’ll be within walking distance of most attractions.
Luxury Accommodations at La Posada
For the ultimate Winslow experience, nothing beats staying at La Posada Hotel. This lovingly restored railroad hotel offers 53 unique rooms and suites, each individually decorated with authentic Southwest furnishings and artwork. No two rooms are alike, and many feature original details like hand-painted ceilings and custom tile work.
Staying at La Posada isn’t just about the rooms – it’s about experiencing a piece of American hospitality history. The hotel’s public spaces invite exploration, from the cozy library to the expansive gardens. You’ll feel like you’re living in a museum, but one with world-class amenities and service.
The hotel’s location in the heart of downtown Winslow puts you within easy walking distance of Standin’ on the Corner Park, shops, and restaurants. You can park your car when you arrive and explore most of Winslow’s attractions on foot.
Budget-Friendly Motels and Chain Hotels
Winslow also offers several budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers watching their expenses. The town features familiar chain hotels like Best Western Plus, which provides modern amenities and reliable service at reasonable rates.
For those seeking authentic Route 66 atmosphere without La Posada’s luxury price tag, several vintage motels along Route 66 have been restored and updated while maintaining their retro charm. These motels offer clean, comfortable rooms with period touches that enhance the Route 66 experience.
Many of Winslow’s budget accommodations offer excellent value, providing clean rooms, continental breakfast, and convenient locations at prices that won’t break your travel budget. During peak tourist season (summer months and major festivals), it’s wise to book ahead as Winslow’s limited accommodation options can fill up quickly.
Best Restaurants and Local Dining in Winslow
Winslow’s dining scene punches well above its weight for a town of 9,000 people. From award-winning fine dining to classic Route 66 diners, you’ll find excellent food options that reflect both local traditions and contemporary culinary trends.
Turquoise Room Fine Dining Experience
The Turquoise Room at La Posada Hotel has earned national recognition as one of the Southwest’s best restaurants. Chef John Sharpe creates innovative Southwestern cuisine using local and regional ingredients, earning praise from food critics and discerning diners alike.
The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally but always features creative interpretations of Southwest flavors. You might find dishes like duck with prickly pear glaze, elk tenderloin with pine nut crust, or locally-sourced trout prepared with native herbs. The wine list focuses on American wines, with particular emphasis on selections from Arizona, New Mexico, and California.
The dining room itself is as impressive as the food, featuring hand-painted murals, vintage railroad artifacts, and Southwest artwork. Large windows provide views of the hotel’s gardens and the passing trains that still rumble through Winslow several times daily.
Route 66 Diners and Local Favorites
For more casual dining, Winslow offers several classic Route 66 diners that have been serving travelers for decades. These establishments provide hearty American fare in authentic surroundings that haven’t changed much since the heyday of highway travel.
The Falcon Restaurant has been a Winslow institution since 1955, serving comfort food classics like chicken fried steak, homemade pie, and thick milkshakes. The restaurant’s vintage interior and neon sign make it feel like stepping back in time to the golden age of Route 66 travel.
RelicRoad Brewing Company offers a more contemporary dining option while still honoring Winslow’s Route 66 heritage. This local brewery serves craft beer alongside elevated pub food, creating a casual atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. The outdoor patio provides excellent people-watching opportunities along Route 66.
Winslow Arizona Weather and Best Time to Visit
Winslow’s high desert climate creates distinct seasons with dramatic temperature variations between day and night. Understanding the local weather patterns will help you pack appropriately and plan activities that match the conditions.
Four Seasons in the High Desert
Summer in Winslow (June through August) brings warm days with temperatures typically reaching the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit. However, the high elevation means cooler nights, often dropping into the 50s or 60s. This temperature swing makes summer evenings particularly pleasant for outdoor activities.
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Winslow and surrounding attractions. Daytime temperatures during these seasons typically range from the 60s to 70s, perfect for hiking, photography, and outdoor dining. These shoulder seasons also offer the advantage of smaller crowds at popular attractions.
Winter in Winslow can be surprisingly cold, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow is possible but not common, usually melting quickly when it does occur. Winter days can be quite pleasant when the sun is shining, but visitors should be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings.
The high desert climate means low humidity year-round, making even the warmest days more comfortable than you might expect. However, this same low humidity can be dehydrating, so drinking plenty of water is important regardless of the season.
Getting to Winslow Arizona
Winslow’s location along Interstate 40 makes it easily accessible by car from major cities throughout the Southwest. The town serves as a convenient stopping point for cross-country road trips and makes an excellent base for exploring northern Arizona’s attractions.
Transportation and Accessibility
Most visitors arrive in Winslow by car, either as part of a planned Route 66 road trip or while traveling between other Southwest destinations. The drive from Phoenix takes about 3 hours, while Flagstaff is just 55 miles to the west. Albuquerque is approximately 4 hours to the east, making Winslow a perfect midway stopping point for travelers crossing the Southwest.
For those preferring not to drive, Amtrak’s Southwest Chief still makes daily stops in Winslow at the historic railroad depot. This passenger train connects Chicago to Los Angeles, with Winslow serving as one of the few remaining staffed stations along the route. Arriving by train adds an extra dimension of authenticity to your Winslow experience, connecting you to the town’s railroad heritage.
The Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, about an hour’s drive from Winslow, offers limited commercial air service. However, most air travelers use Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which provides comprehensive airline service with rental car options for the drive to Winslow.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Winslow’s central location in northern Arizona makes it an excellent base for exploring some of the Southwest’s most spectacular natural and cultural attractions. Several world-class destinations are within easy driving distance, making day trips both feasible and rewarding.
Petrified Forest National Park
The Petrified Forest National Park, located about 50 miles east of Winslow, preserves one of the world’s largest concentrations of petrified wood along with significant paleontological and archaeological sites. This 346-square-mile park offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient ecosystems that existed over 200 million years ago.
The park’s famous petrified logs are actually fossilized trees from the Triassic period, when this area was a lush forest rather than high desert. Over millions of years, minerals replaced the organic material in the trees, creating the colorful crystalline structures visitors see today.
Beyond the petrified wood, the park features the Painted Desert, an area of colorful badlands that creates some of the most photogenic landscapes in the Southwest. The visitor center provides excellent exhibits about the area’s geology and paleontology, helping visitors understand the incredible processes that created these unique formations.
Flagstaff and Sedona Excursions
Flagstaff, less than an hour west of Winslow, offers a completely different mountain town experience. Home to Northern Arizona University and located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff provides cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and cooler temperatures that make it a popular summer destination.
The Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff is where Pluto was discovered in 1930, and it continues to be an important astronomical research facility. Evening viewing programs allow visitors to look through historic telescopes and learn about current astronomical research.
Sedona, about 2 hours south of Winslow via scenic routes, is famous for its red rock formations and spiritual atmosphere. The drive to Sedona through Oak Creek Canyon is spectacular, offering numerous photo opportunities and hiking trails along the way.
Winslow Events and Annual Festivals
Throughout the year, Winslow hosts several events that celebrate its unique character and heritage. These festivals provide excellent opportunities to experience local culture and meet both residents and fellow travelers.
Standing on the Corner Festival
The annual Standing on the Corner Festival, typically held in late September, celebrates Winslow’s connection to the Eagles and Route 66 culture. This multi-day event features live music, classic car shows, and activities that bring the town’s main street to life with the energy that made Route 66 famous.
Local and regional musicians perform on outdoor stages, creating an atmosphere that honors both the Eagles’ legacy and the broader musical heritage of the American Southwest. Classic car enthusiasts display their vintage vehicles along Route 66, turning the main street into a rolling museum of American automotive history.
The festival also features local artisans, food vendors, and activities for children, making it a true community celebration that welcomes visitors while showcasing local pride. It’s an excellent time to visit Winslow if you want to experience the town at its most vibrant and social.
Conclusion
Winslow, Arizona proves that sometimes the most memorable travel experiences come from the most unexpected places. What started as a brief mention in a rock song has evolved into a destination that offers authentic American culture, fascinating history, and genuine hospitality that’s increasingly rare in our modern world.
Whether you’re standing on that famous corner, exploring ancient pueblo ruins, or savoring innovative Southwestern cuisine at the Turquoise Room, Winslow delivers experiences that resonate long after you’ve returned home. This small desert town has managed to embrace its fame without losing its soul, creating a destination where every visitor feels like they’ve discovered something special.
The beauty of Winslow lies not just in its individual attractions but in how they combine to create a cohesive sense of place. From the Eagles statue to La Posada’s elegance, from Homolovi’s ancient ruins to the simple pleasure of watching trains pass through town, Winslow offers a uniquely American story that continues to unfold with each visitor who takes the time to truly explore what this remarkable place has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should I plan to stay in Winslow, Arizona?
Most visitors spend 1-2 days in Winslow, which provides enough time to see the main attractions, enjoy a meal at the Turquoise Room, and explore the historic downtown area. However, if you want to visit nearby attractions like Petrified Forest National Park or Meteor Crater, plan for 3-4 days to fully experience the region without feeling rushed.
2. Is the Eagles statue really located on the exact corner mentioned in the song?
The song lyrics don’t specify an exact corner, just “a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” The town chose the intersection of Route 66 and Kinsley Avenue for the park because it’s centrally located and provides good visibility for the statue and mural. While it may not be the “exact” corner from the song (which was likely fictional anyway), it perfectly captures the spirit of the lyrics.
3. Can you visit La Posada Hotel even if you’re not staying there?
Absolutely! La Posada welcomes day visitors to explore the hotel’s public areas, gardens, and art collection. You can also dine at the Turquoise Room restaurant, browse the hotel’s gift shop, or simply admire the architecture and artwork. The hotel encourages visitors to appreciate its historic significance and artistic beauty.
4. What’s the best time of day to visit Standin’ on the Corner Park?
Early morning (around 8-9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) offer the best lighting for photographs and smaller crowds. Midday can be busy with tour buses and the harsh desert sun creates unflattering shadows. If you’re visiting during summer, early morning is especially recommended to avoid the heat.
5. Are there any Native American cultural experiences available in Winslow?
Yes, Homolovi State Park offers excellent opportunities to learn about Ancestral Puebloan and contemporary Hopi culture. The park’s visitor center features educational exhibits and the trails provide access to ancient ruins and petroglyphs. Additionally, several shops in downtown Winslow sell authentic Native American jewelry, pottery, and artwork created by local and regional artists