Route 66 at 100: A Historic Journey through Arizona and Peach Springs
Commissioned on November 11, 1926, U.S. Route 66—the “Mother Road”—has become a symbol of American freedom, migration, and adventure. As we approach its 99th anniversary in November 2025 and prepare for the centennial celebration in 2026, travelers are rediscovering the towns that shaped its legacy. One such gem is Peach Springs, Arizona, a historic and cultural waypoint nestled in the heart of the Hualapai Nation.
Peach Springs, AZ
A Living Chapter of Route 66 History: A Town in Heritage
Located on the Hualapai Reservation, Peach Springs is the tribal capital and a cultural gateway to the Grand Canyon. The town’s name comes from the peach trees that once grew near its natural springs, first documented by Spanish missionaries in 1776.
Historic Landmarks
John Osterman Shell Station (1929)
A preserved gas station from Route 66’s golden era.
Peach Springs Trading Post (1917)
A hub for trade and cultural exchange.
Diamond Creek Road
The only road that leads directly to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.
Centennial Celebrations
Upcoming Events
- The Route 66 Centennial Commission is coordinating events across all eight states for 2026.
- Springfield, Missouri will host the national kickoff on April 30, 2026.
- Expect car shows, neon sign restorations, historic tours, and Route 66 monuments across the country.
Route 66 Through Arizona: Town-by-Town Directions
Traveling west to east, here’s your Route 66 itinerary through Arizona, with Peach Springs as a central stop:
West to East Route 66 AZ Towns
- Topock – Gateway from California
- Oatman – Wild burros and mining history
- Kingman – Route 66 Museum and vintage diners
- Valentine – Historic schoolhouse
- Hackberry – General store and photo ops
- Peach Springs – Hualapai Culture, Grand Canyon West, and Colorado River Access
- Truxton – Classic roadside Americana
- Grand Canyon Caverns – Underground tours
- Seligman – Birthplace of Route 66 revival
- Ash Fork – Flagstone capital of the world
- Williams – Gateway to Grand Canyon Railway
- Flagstaff – College town with Route 66 charm
- Winslow – “Standin’ on the Corner” park
- Holbrook – Wigwam Motel and Petrified Forest
- Chambers – Quiet desert stop before New Mexico
Rediscover the Spirit of the Open Road
As Route 66 approaches its 100th birthday, there’s no better time to explore its enduring legacy. From the neon lights of Kingman to the cultural richness of Peach Springs, Arizona’s stretch of the Mother Road offers a journey through time. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, Route 66 is calling—and Peach Springs is waiting to welcome you.