Directions To Highway 40 Travel Guide
Discover the Best of Highway 40
Exploring Top Attractions
Highway 40 is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the country. Make sure to visit the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Petrified Forest National Park is another must-see attraction along the way.
Uncovering Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, stop by the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark or the Winslow Arts Trust Museum. These hidden gems offer unique insights into the history and culture of the region.
Indulging in the Food Scene
Highway 40 offers a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Try out the authentic Mexican cuisine at La Fonda Mexican Restaurant or enjoy a hearty burger at the Route 66 Roadhouse. Make sure to stop by the iconic Snow Cap Drive-In for some delicious milkshakes and burgers.
Exploring Outdoor Adventures
Highway 40 is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and camping to fishing and boating, there’s something for everyone. Explore the Coconino National Forest or the Kaibab National Forest for some breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget to check out the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area for some water-based adventures.
Discovering Historical Landmarks
Highway 40 is steeped in history and culture. Visit the Lowell Observatory to learn about the history of astronomy or the Wupatki National Monument to explore the ancient ruins of the Sinagua people. The Route 66 Museum is another must-visit attraction that showcases the history of the iconic highway.
Enjoying Family-Friendly Activities
Highway 40 offers plenty of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Visit the Bearizona Wildlife Park to see the local wildlife up close or explore the Walnut Canyon National Monument for some family-friendly hiking trails. The Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is another fun-filled activity that offers ziplining and obstacle courses.
Experiencing Natural Wonders
Highway 40 is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the country. Explore the Antelope Canyon for some stunning rock formations or the Horseshoe Bend for some breathtaking views of the Colorado River. The Havasu Falls is another must-see attraction that offers turquoise blue waters and stunning waterfalls.
Enjoying Vibrant Nightlife
Highway 40 offers plenty of options for those who love to party. The Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge is a popular spot for live music and dancing, while the Museum Club offers a unique western-themed bar experience. The Orpheum Theater is another must-visit spot that offers a variety of shows and events.
Exploring Local Markets
Highway 40 is home to some vibrant local markets that offer unique shopping experiences. The Flagstaff Downtown Farmers Market is a popular spot for fresh produce and handmade crafts, while the Sedona Farmers Market offers a variety of local products and artisanal goods. The Navajo Nation Flea Market is another must-visit spot that offers traditional Navajo crafts and jewelry.
Relaxing on Beaches and Mountains
Highway 40 offers plenty of options for those who want to relax on the beach or in the mountains. The Lake Powell is a popular spot for water-based activities and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Red Rock State Park is another must-visit spot that offers hiking trails and stunning views of the red rock formations.
Experiencing Cultural Immersion
Highway 40 offers plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. Visit the Hopi Cultural Center to learn about the history and culture of the Hopi people or explore the Navajo Nation Museum for some unique insights into the Navajo culture. The Heard Museum is another must-visit spot that showcases the art and culture of the Native American communities.
Exploring Art and Music Scene
Highway 40 is home to a vibrant art and music scene that offers something for everyone. Visit the Coconino Center for the Arts for some unique art exhibitions or explore the Museum of Northern Arizona for some stunning collections of Native American art. The Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra and the Flagstaff Friends of Traditional Music are popular spots for live music performances.
Discovering Architectural Marvels
Highway 40 is home to some stunning architectural marvels that are worth exploring. Visit the Grand Canyon Railway Depot for some stunning examples of Victorian architecture or explore the historic Route 66 buildings for some unique Art Deco designs. The Lowell Observatory is another must-visit spot that offers some unique examples of 19th-century architecture.
Exploring Historical Sites
Highway 40 offers plenty of historical sites that are worth exploring. Visit the Walnut Canyon National Monument to explore the ancient cliff dwellings or the Fort Verde State Historic Park for some unique insights into the military history of the region. The Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is another must-visit spot that offers some stunning examples of Arts and Crafts architecture.
Enjoying Biking Routes
Highway 40 offers plenty of options for those who love to bike. Explore the Arizona Trail for some stunning views of the surrounding mountains or the Flagstaff Urban Trail System for some scenic biking routes. The Grand Canyon South Rim offers some unique biking opportunities that offer stunning views of the canyon.
Relaxing at Wellness Retreats
Highway 40 offers plenty of options for those who want to relax and rejuvenate. The Mii Amo Spa at the Enchantment Resort is a popular spot for wellness and relaxation, while the Sedona Wellness Retreat offers a variety of wellness programs and activities. The Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa is another must-visit spot that offers some unique wellness experiences.
Enjoying Adventure Sports
Highway 40 is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts. The Colorado River offers some unique opportunities for rafting and kayaking, while the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course offers ziplining and obstacle courses. The Sedona Red Rock Adventures is another must-visit spot that offers some unique adventure sports experiences.
With so much to see and do along the Highway 40, make sure to plan your trip in advance and explore all the top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences that this iconic highway has to offer.