Winslow, Arizona: Standing on a Corner in the American Southwest
The famous corner is just the beginning — Winslow's deep railroad history, Route 66 character, and proximity to Homolovi ruins and Meteor Crater make it one of the Southwest's most rewarding small-town stops.
There are places that capture the spirit of the American road trip, and then there is Winslow, Arizona. Set along legendary Route 66 in northern Arizona, this small city blends railroad history, Southwestern culture, wide-open landscapes and a healthy dose of Americana into a destination that feels wonderfully connected to its past.
Of course, no visit to Winslow would be complete without standing on the corner. The Standin’ on the Corner Park celebrates the Eagles’ classic song “Take It Easy,” which forever linked Winslow with one of rock music’s most recognizable lyrics. Located in the historic downtown district, the park features a life-sized bronze musician, a colorful mural and one of Route 66’s favorite photo opportunities.
But the famous corner is only the beginning.
Winslow’s story has deep ties to the railroad, and few places embody that history as beautifully as La Posada Hotel. Built in 1929 for the Santa Fe Railway as a Fred Harvey House, the landmark was designed by renowned architect Mary Jane Colter. Restored to its former grandeur, La Posada remains one of the city’s architectural treasures and a reminder of an era when rail travel helped shape communities across the American West.
Nearby, the Old Trails Museum explores even more of the region’s story through Native American artifacts, Santa Fe Railroad equipment, Fred Harvey memorabilia, Western art and exhibits devoted to Route 66 and Meteor Crater. The historic Hubbell Building, now home to the Winslow Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, offers another glimpse into the city’s trading-post past.
Beyond downtown, Winslow opens the door to some of northern Arizona’s most remarkable scenery. Just three miles away, Homolovi State Park preserves archaeological sites associated with ancestors of the Hopi people, with pueblo ruins, petroglyphs, pottery, hiking trails and a visitor center. McHood Park and Clear Creek offer a different kind of escape, inviting travelers to swim, fish, hike, picnic or paddle through the dramatic rock walls of Clear Creek Canyon.
Winslow also makes an excellent home base for exploring farther afield. Meteor Crater lies about 20 miles west, while the colorful Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park await to the east.
Historic, quirky and surrounded by extraordinary landscapes, Winslow proves there is much more here than a famous lyric. Slow down, explore awhile and discover why this Route 66 town remains such a fine sight to see.