There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road with friends, good music, and the promise of adventure.
This three-day road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona, winding through stunning scenery and historic towns, was just that: a journey to remember.
With our bags packed, we set out on Highway 93 South, our sights set on the most beautiful road in Arizona – from Prescott to Flagstaff, passing through Jerome and Sedona.
Here’s a snapshot of our unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Leaving Las Vegas
Our first stretch took us south on Highway 93, with a quick stop at Willow Beach Scenic Overlook Rest Area to take in the sweeping views of the Colorado River.
The day was warm, and the desert air made us feel like we were already stepping into something special.
The view was breathtaking, with the shimmering river below and the vast, arid landscape stretching around us.
We took a moment to soak it all in, feeling the excitement of the journey ahead.
First Stop – Kingman, AZ
Next, we arrived in Kingman, AZ, a town steeped in the charm of the Old West.
Kingman was founded in the 1880s as a railroad town, and it became a pivotal stop along Route 66, attracting travelers, adventurers, and fortune-seekers alike.
The historic downtown retains a nostalgic feel. Old brick buildings and classic neon signs line the streets, evoking a simpler time when travelers paused here for a hearty meal and a story or two.
We chatted with a local shopkeeper who shared stories about the town’s golden days, and it felt like we were stepping back in time, surrounded by echoes of a bygone era.
Heading to Prescott, AZ
After Kingman, we continued south on Route 93 before branching off onto Route 97, a winding road that led us to Prescott, Arizona.
The road twisted and turned, offering stunning views of the rugged Arizona landscape.
I must admit, I’ve traveled all around and many times in Arizona, but this trip kept surprising me, from the beautiful road leading to Prescott to the City itself, which should be a definite Arizona hidden gem.
We arrived in Prescott, AZ, a city rich in history and character. Known as “Everybody’s Hometown,” Prescott was once the capital of the Arizona Territory. Today, its tree-lined streets are filled with historic Victorian homes.
Walking downtown, we found ourselves on the famed Whiskey Row. Once the rowdiest part of town, Whiskey Row is home to iconic saloons, unique shops, and art galleries. We felt the echoes of the Wild West as we strolled, imagining cowboys, miners, and outlaws who once passed through.
One local musician played his guitar outside a saloon, and we stopped to listen. The twangy notes added to the ambiance of the historic street. It was easy to picture the past coming alive here, with laughter, music, and the clink of glasses echoing into the night.
We had lunch at St. Michael Gastro Pub on Whiskey Row, an amazing spot that offers a restaurant, bar, and speakeasy.
The food was delicious, the service was great, and the place just gives the vibe that people are actually enjoying each other’s company.
The staff recommended coming back to Whiskey Row at night when things are getting lively.
We took their advice, and after a quick shower, we went back to it.
The city changed its vibe, and a night scene opened up like you wouldn’t imagine.
Couples and groups were walking up and down the street, and bars and little food joints were all over the place.
It felt like Memphis, with a Southwest twist to it.
Day 2: The Road to Flagstaff
First Stop – Jerome, AZ
The next morning, we headed north on Highway 89 toward Flagstaff. Our first stop was Jerome, AZ, a town unlike any other.
Perched on the side of Cleopatra Hill, Jerome was once a thriving copper mining town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
After the mines began closing in the 1950s, Jerome was nearly deserted, becoming a ghost town.
But today, it’s been revived by artists, free spirits, and historians who have breathed new life into its historic streets.
Jerome’s quirky charm made falling in love with this hillside town easy. We wandered through narrow streets lined with colorful galleries and artisan shops, each with unique creations.
We stopped at Jerome State Historic Park to enjoy the view and savored a beer at the Spirit Room, a local favorite.
The Spirit Room was buzzing with life, and we spoke with a few locals who shared tales of Jerome’s haunted history, making our visit even more intriguing.
Second Stop – Cottonwood, AZ
Our next stop was Cottonwood, AZ, another gem of Arizona’s Verde Valley. Known as the “Heart of Arizona Wine Country,” Cottonwood was a small farming community that has grown into a charming town with an incredible food and wine scene.
The historic Old Town has eclectic boutiques, cozy cafes, and a rich history. Once known as a bootlegger’s paradise during Prohibition, Cottonwood still carries that spirit of resilience and creativity.
We strolled through Old Town, stopping for coffee at a quaint cafe where the barista shared stories about Cottonwood’s past.
The town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere made it easy to see why it has become a favorite stop for many travelers.
As we stopped for coffee after riding one of the most beautiful roads in Arizona, we came across a hidden gem in Cottonwood: Firecreek Coffee Company.
If you find yourself in Cottonwood, stopping at this place is a must.
The staff was amazing. The owners were there, working, greeting, and showing interest in where you are from and what you do.
Everywhere you look, the place is filled with smiles of happy local customers.
Those are the places you wish to have around you, and with great people surrounding you, there is not much more a person can ask.
Amazing people, great coffee, and a banana cheese cream muffin that will blow your mind!
Third Stop – Sedona, AZ
From Cottonwood, we made our way to Sedona, AZ. The views approaching Sedona were breathtaking: iconic red rock formations rising majestically against the bright blue sky.
Sedona seems almost otherworldly, a haven for artists, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers.
We parked and took a short walk along Sedona’s scenic trails, marveling at the towering red rocks that seemed to glow in the afternoon sun.
After a morning of exploring, we stopped for lunch at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, an enchanting space filled with art galleries, craft shops, and charming fountains.
Wandering through its cobbled courtyards was like stepping into another world, with beautiful sculptures and vibrant flowers everywhere.
We paused to listen to a street musician playing a soft tune, which added to the village’s tranquil and almost magical atmosphere.
Continuing on Route 89A
With full bellies and happy hearts, we continued our journey along Route 89A, a scenic mountain road that every road trip enthusiast should add to their bucket list.
The road’s twists and turns took us higher into the mountains, where lush pine forests and dramatic rock faces surrounded us.
We made a quick coffee stop at Don Hoel’s Cabins, Coffee House & Shop, where the scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Then, we continued up the winding road to Oak Creek Vista.
It was the perfect spot to recharge, surrounded by towering pines, before heading onward.
We filled our water bottles with cool, crisp water and took a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air, feeling completely at peace in the serene setting.
Last Stop – Flagstaff, AZ
Our day ended in Flagstaff, AZ. This city, known for its proximity to the Grand Canyon and historic Route 66 heritage, is a lively mix of college-town charm, outdoor adventure, and rich history.
Flagstaff’s downtown art district has a unique vibe. Its colorful murals, quirky shops, and live music venues keep the town buzzing day and night.
We spent the evening exploring the art district, admiring the murals that told stories of the town’s past and present.
We had dinner at the famous Salsa Brava to enjoy some Carnitas and drinks and stayed the night at the High Country Motor Lodge, a hotel that deserves a story on its own.
This is my fourth time visiting the hotel, and it’s an experience like no other.
The place is modern and well-designed and offers everything you need in a Flagstaff stop, from a lively bar to a coffee shop serving delicious breakfast to an outdoor spa and sauna that will relieve you of the stress of the long day.
The echoes of Route 66 can still be found here in the classic diners and motels that remind us of America’s love for the open road.
Walking through the downtown area, we stopped at a local diner for a late-night snack, savoring the nostalgic charm that seemed to be everywhere.
Day 3: Heading Home
First Stop – Williams, AZ
We left Flagstaff bright and early on our final day, heading west on Route 66 toward Williams, AZ. Williams, known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” is a small town with a big personality.
Its historic downtown is a time capsule of Route 66 memorabilia, and we couldn’t resist stopping at the historic Grand Canyon Hotel for a quick peek.
We also visited Bearizona, a drive-through wildlife park where we saw black bears and bison up close, and the Grand Canyon Railway, which offers nostalgic train rides to the Grand Canyon.
Williams felt like stepping into a living postcard, with its retro motels, vintage cars, and friendly locals who seemed to have endless stories to share about the town’s rich history.
Second Stop – Seligman, AZ
Continuing east on Highway 40, we passed Ash Fork and took a right onto Historic Route 66. We enjoyed the scenic drive towards Seligman, AZ, a quirky town that captures the spirit of the Mother Road.
Though we’d visited Seligman on a previous road trip to Monument Valley, we couldn’t resist stopping again to take in the nostalgic Americana.
The town’s quirky shops and vintage signs make it feel like a place frozen in time, and we couldn’t help but smile at the colorful displays and friendly greetings from shopkeepers.
We picked up a few souvenirs, each one a reminder of the rich history and charm of Route 66.
Third Stop – Hackberry General Store
Our next stop was the Hackberry General Store, a must-visit on Route 66. The store is filled with historic artifacts and memorabilia, offering a glimpse into the golden age of the American road trip.
We made another quick stop at Giganticus Headicus for a photo op – a giant, quirky roadside sculpture that never fails to bring a smile to our faces – before making our way back to Las Vegas, full of memories from our Arizona adventure.
The drive back was filled with laughter and stories, each of us reflecting on our favorite moments from the trip.
The Road Beckons
Every twist and turn of this journey reminded us why road trips are so special.
It’s not just about the destinations but also about the experiences along the way—the people we meet, the places we discover, and the stories we hear.
From the friendly locals in Kingman and Williams to the breathtaking views of Sedona and Jerome, Arizona’s most beautiful road lived up to its reputation.
We can’t wait for the next adventure, knowing that the road always has something new to offer and that every journey is a story waiting to be told.
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If you’ve spotted something we missed, found a typo, or have any suggestions,
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