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If you’re planning a road trip, you won’t want to miss the state’s unique and quirky roadside attractions in Arizona. From giant dinosaurs to mysterious desert oddities, Arizona has plenty of sights to offer for those who love the unusual. These attractions are not only fun to visit, but they also provide an opportunity to learn more about the state’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
One of the most famous roadside attractions in Arizona is The Thing, a mysterious object that has been intriguing travelers on Interstate 10 for decades. Other popular attractions include the Wigwam Village Motel No. 6, where you can spend the night in a teepee-shaped motel room, and Standin’ on the Corner Park, a tribute to the Eagles’ hit song “Take it Easy” that is located in Winslow.
If you’re interested in prehistoric creatures, be sure to check out the Rainbow Rock Shop Dinosaurs in Holbrook or the giant metal T-Rex at the Dinosaur Store in Fountain Hills.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a fun photo opportunity, Arizona’s roadside attractions have something for everyone. So hit the road, and discover the state’s unique and fascinating sights that you won’t find anywhere else.
Historical Roadside Attractions
Arizona is home to many historical roadside attractions that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history. Here are two of the most popular historical roadside attractions in Arizona:
Tombstone
Tombstone is a historic town located in Cochise County, Arizona. It is known for its famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, which took place on October 26, 1881. The town has preserved many of its historic buildings and landmarks, including the O.K. Corral, where the gunfight took place, and the Bird Cage Theatre, which is said to be haunted.
Visitors can take a step back in time by walking the streets of Tombstone, where they can see historic saloons, shops, and other buildings that have been preserved from the 1800s. The town also hosts reenactments of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral and other historic events throughout the year.
London Bridge
London Bridge is a historic bridge that once spanned the River Thames in London, England. In the 1960s, the bridge was dismantled and transported to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where it was reconstructed and opened to the public in 1971.
Today, London Bridge is a popular tourist attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy views of Lake Havasu and the surrounding mountains. The bridge is also home to shops, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Arizona’s historical roadside attractions offer a unique glimpse into the state’s rich history. Whether you’re interested in the Wild West or British history, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Nature-Based Roadside Attractions
If you’re a nature lover, Arizona’s roadside attractions will not disappoint you. The state is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Here are two must-see nature-based roadside attractions in Arizona.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world and a must-visit roadside attraction in Arizona. This massive canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. The Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors every year from all over the world.
There are many ways to experience the Grand Canyon, including hiking, rafting, and helicopter tours. The South Rim is the most popular area of the canyon, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and visitor centers.
Petrified Forest National Park
The Petrified Forest National Park is another incredible nature-based roadside attraction in Arizona. The park is home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world. The petrified wood is estimated to be over 200 million years old and is a popular attraction for visitors.
In addition to the petrified wood, the park also features stunning landscapes, ancient petroglyphs, and historic structures. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and museums.
Both the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest National Park are unique and awe-inspiring natural wonders that should be on every nature lover’s bucket list.
Quirky Roadside Attractions
Arizona is home to some of the quirkiest roadside attractions in the country. From mysterious objects to unusual animals, these attractions are sure to make your road trip unforgettable.
The Thing
One of the most famous roadside attractions in Arizona is “The Thing,” located off of I-10 near Dragoon. This mysterious object has been intriguing travelers since the 1950s. The attraction features a museum filled with oddities, and visitors can view “The Thing” for a small fee. Despite many theories, nobody knows for sure what “The Thing” actually is, but it’s definitely worth a stop to see for yourself.
Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch
If you’re looking for an unusual animal encounter, head to the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch in Picacho. This working ranch allows visitors to feed and interact with ostriches, emus, and other exotic animals. You can also take a monster truck tour of the ranch and try your hand at ostrich racing. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Whether you’re a fan of the strange and unusual or just looking for a unique adventure, Arizona’s quirky roadside attractions are not to be missed. Plan your road trip today and discover all the weird and wonderful sights this state has to offer.
Culinary Roadside Attractions
If you’re a foodie and love trying out new dishes, then Arizona’s roadside culinary attractions are a must-visit. Here are two culinary roadside attractions that you should definitely check out:
Pie Town
Pie Town is a small town in Arizona that’s famous for its pies. The town is located on the Historic Route 60 and is home to several pie shops that serve delicious homemade pies. You can find all kinds of pies here, from the classic apple pie to the more exotic prickly pear pie.
Some of the most popular pie shops in Pie Town are The Pie-O-Neer, The Gatherin’ Place, and The Daily Pie Cafe. Make sure to stop by one of these shops and grab a slice of pie to enjoy on your road trip.
Oatman’s Wild Burros
Oatman is a historic mining town in Arizona that’s known for its wild burros. These burros are descendants of the burros that were used by miners during the gold rush. Today, they roam the streets of Oatman and are a major attraction for tourists.
But that’s not all that Oatman is known for. The town is also home to some great restaurants that serve delicious food. One of the most popular restaurants in Oatman is The Oatman Hotel. This hotel was built in 1902 and has hosted several famous guests, including Clark Gable and Carole Lombard.
The hotel’s restaurant serves some amazing dishes, including their famous Oatman Burger. So, make sure to stop by The Oatman Hotel and try out their delicious food.
Arizona’s roadside culinary attractions are a must-visit for foodies. Pie Town and Oatman are just two of the many culinary attractions that you can find in Arizona. So, make sure to add them to your road trip itinerary and enjoy some delicious food while exploring the state.
Artistic Roadside Attractions
If you’re looking for some unique and artistic roadside attractions in Arizona, you won’t be disappointed. Here are two must-see spots that showcase the creativity and innovation of Arizona’s artists.
Biosphere 2
Located in Oracle, Biosphere 2 is a one-of-a-kind research facility that was designed to be a self-sustaining ecosystem. The facility consists of several biomes, including a rainforest, a desert, and an ocean, all contained within a massive glass structure.
In addition to its scientific research, Biosphere 2 also features an impressive art installation called “The Landscape Evolution Observatory.” This installation consists of three large-scale landscapes that are designed to demonstrate how natural systems evolve over time. It’s a fascinating and thought-provoking work of art that’s definitely worth checking out.
Arcosanti
Arcosanti is a unique experimental community located in the desert near Mayer. The community was founded in the 1970s by architect Paolo Soleri, who believed in the concept of “arcology” – the fusion of architecture and ecology.
Today, Arcosanti is home to a small community of artists and architects who are dedicated to creating a sustainable and innovative way of living. The community features a number of striking buildings and sculptures that showcase Soleri’s unique vision.
One of the highlights of Arcosanti is the bronze bell casting workshop, where visitors can watch as artisans create beautiful bells using a traditional casting technique. The bells are available for purchase in the gift shop, and they make a beautiful and unique souvenir of your visit.
Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or sustainability, Biosphere 2 and Arcosanti are two must-see destinations for anyone traveling through Arizona.
Final Thoughts
Arizona is a state that is full of surprises, and its roadside attractions are no exception. Whether you’re driving along Route 66 or exploring the state’s more remote regions, you’re sure to come across some truly unique sights.
From the giant green head in Tucson to the Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona’s roadside attractions offer something for everyone. You can learn about the state’s rich cultural heritage, marvel at its stunning landscapes, or simply enjoy the thrill of the unexpected.
If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, be sure to take some time to explore its roadside attractions. You never know what you might discover! To help you plan your trip, here are some of the top attractions to consider:
| Roadside Attraction | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| London Bridge | Lake Havasu City | The London Bridge was transported to Arizona from London in the 1960s. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s unique history. |
| Wigwam Village | Holbrook | The Wigwam Village is a collection of teepees that have been converted into hotel rooms. It’s a fun and quirky place to stay, and it’s located near many of the state’s top attractions. |
| Route 66 Museum | Kingman | The Route 66 Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the iconic highway. It features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Route 66 and its impact on American culture. |
| Ostrich Farm | Picacho | The Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is a working farm that offers tours and activities for visitors. You can feed the ostriches, ride a monster truck, or explore the farm’s many other attractions. |
No matter where you go in Arizona, you’re sure to find something that will capture your imagination. So why not hit the road and explore this amazing state for yourself?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unusual roadside attractions to see in Arizona?
Arizona is home to many unusual and quirky roadside attractions that are definitely worth checking out. Some of these include the World’s Largest Kokopelli in Camp Verde, the Petrified Wood Gas Station in Holbrook, and the Cabazon Dinosaurs in Benson.
What are the top roadside attractions to visit in Arizona?
There are many popular roadside attractions that are a must-see when visiting Arizona. These include the Grand Canyon, the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, and the Hoover Dam. Other popular attractions include the Wigwam Village Motel No. 6 in Holbrook and the O.K. Corral in Tombstone.
What are some popular roadside attractions in Arizona?
Arizona is home to many popular roadside attractions, including the Grand Canyon, the Petrified Forest National Park, and the Montezuma Castle National Monument. Other popular attractions include the Sedona Red Rocks, the Hoover Dam, and the Painted Desert.
What are some of the best roadside attractions to see on a road trip through Arizona?
If you’re planning a road trip through Arizona, there are many great roadside attractions to see along the way. Some of the best include the Wigwam Village Motel No. 6 in Holbrook, the Petrified Wood Gas Station in Holbrook, and the Cabazon Dinosaurs in Benson. Other great attractions include the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City.
What are some of the most unique roadside attractions in Arizona?
Arizona is home to many unique roadside attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. Some of these include the World’s Largest Kokopelli in Camp Verde, the Petrified Wood Gas Station in Holbrook, and the Cabazon Dinosaurs in Benson. Other unique attractions include the Mystery Castle in Phoenix and the Biosphere 2 in Oracle.
What are some must-see roadside attractions in Arizona?
If you’re visiting Arizona, there are some must-see roadside attractions that you won’t want to miss. These include the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City. Other must-see attractions include the Sedona Red Rocks, the Wigwam Village Motel No. 6 in Holbrook, and the Petrified Forest National Park.
