Best spot near Flagstaff for Rt 66 ?

Question

We're driving from Page to Meteor Crater this day for a short stop before heading to the south rim overnight.

Is there any place close to Flagstaff you recommend for the Rt 66 type stop?

We may stop in Flagstaff fo4 lunch before heading into the park. Any thoughts are appreciated.

Answer

Flagstaff is one of the most enjoyable and easily accessible Route 66 towns in Arizona, and it makes a perfect stop on your drive from Page to Meteor Crater before heading to the South Rim. While some of the most iconic “classic” Route 66 spots (like Seligman, Williams, or Winslow) are a bit farther out, Flagstaff has several easy, authentic Route 66 highlights right in town—ideal for a lunch break and short walk.

The key thing to know is that historic Route 66 runs directly through central Flagstaff, parallel to the railroad tracks. You can park once, grab lunch, and explore a few nostalgic spots within minutes on foot.

Here are the best Route 66–style places close to or right in Flagstaff:

Historic Downtown Route 66 Corridor – This stretch has vintage signage, the railroad station, murals, and several restored buildings. Perfect for a quick “feel” of Route 66 without a detour.
Flagstaff Visitor Center (Old Train Depot) – Located right on Route 66; the building is historic, and the area around it is full of photo ops, old neon, and the classic ambiance of the Mother Road.
Motel Du Beau – A historic 1931 motor hotel with true Route 66 roots. It still has vintage charm and makes for great quick photos.
Weatherford Hotel & Monte Vista Hotel – Both are historic hotels a block off Route 66, dripping with atmosphere and classic Western/small-town charm.
Mother Road Brewing Company – Near the Route 66 corridor; even if you don’t drink, the building has great vibe and outdoor seating and a fun Mother Road theme.

If you’re willing to go just a little outside Flagstaff (10–30 minutes), there are even stronger Route 66 stops:

Winona (15 min east) – Tiny but iconic because of the “Don’t forget Winona!” lyric in the Route 66 song. Not much to do here, but fun for enthusiasts.
Two Guns Ghost Town (30 min east) – Abandoned Route 66 trading post, zoo ruins, and old bridge. Great for photos but no services.
Williams (30 min west) – The last town bypassed by I-40. Classic diners, neon signs, and shops. Amazing Route 66 vibe if you want a full experience.

For lunch in Flagstaff (all close to the Route 66 strip and easy for travelers):

Downtown Brewing / Mother Road Brewing (route-themed) – Casual, great outdoor space.
Diablo Burger – Local, delicious burgers in the heart of downtown.
Macy’s European Coffeehouse – Vegetarian-friendly and loved by locals.
The Tourist Home Café – Fresh, trendy cafe with great brunch/lunch options.
Beaver Street Brewery – A Flagstaff classic near Route 66.

If your schedule is tight and you just want a quick, authentic Route 66 feel without leaving your path, the best plan is this:

You enter Flagstaff, park at or near the Visitor Center (old train depot), walk a few minutes around the Route 66 signage and buildings, grab lunch downtown, then continue toward Meteor Crater (which is about 40 minutes east). This gives you a fun, easy, no-detour Route 66 stop that fits perfectly into your day.

Best spot near Flagstaff for Rt 66 ?

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