Unearth The Voyage
Embark on a flavorful journey across Arizona with these 15 delightful stops. From the world-famous date shakes to house-made root beer floats, each location offers a unique taste that will make your drive unforgettable.
1. Dateland Travel Center
Nestled along I-8, Dateland Travel Center is renowned for its world-famous date shakes, a tradition that has delighted travelers for decades. This desert oasis offers a refreshing respite from the road, inviting visitors to indulge in the creamy blend of dates and ice cream.
As you sip your shake under the shade of swaying palms, the charm of this classic pit-stop becomes evident. It’s more than just a quick break; it’s a sweet tradition cherished by generations. Whether you’re a first-time taster or a returning fan, Dateland’s iconic shake is a must-try treat.
2. Delgadillo’s Snow Cap
Delgadillo’s Snow Cap, a Route 66 icon since 1953, offers more than just delicious malts and shakes. This zany stop is a blend of nostalgia and humor, where practical jokes are as much a part of the menu as the food.
Visitors are greeted by colorful decor and a playful vibe, making each stop a memorable experience. The creamy malts and shakes, served with a side of laughter, capture the essence of roadside Americana. Whether you’re there for the sweets or the smiles, Delgadillo’s promises a joyful pause on your journey.
3. Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner
At Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner, the past comes alive with every frosty mug of house-made root beer float. This retro-styled diner offers a sweet escape into the 1950s, complete with chrome accents and classic tunes.
As you sip the creamy root beer float, brewed in-house, the nostalgic atmosphere transports you to a simpler era. The welcoming staff and vibrant decor add to the charm, making it a beloved stop for both locals and travelers. It’s not just a diner; it’s a delightful time capsule on the iconic Route 66.
4. Hackberry General Store
Step into the past at Hackberry General Store, where nostalgia and refreshment meet. Located on Route 66, this store is a living museum of neon signs, gas pumps, and Americana artifacts.
Visitors can grab a cold soda or an ice-cream bar while soaking in the charm of yesteryear. The store’s unique collection of memorabilia and its friendly vibe make it a perfect photo op. Whether you’re a history buff or just in need of a cool drink, Hackberry offers a refreshing pause on your travels.
5. Rock Springs Café
Since 1918, Rock Springs Café has been a beloved stop on the Phoenix–Flagstaff run, known for its legendary pies. The aroma of freshly baked crust fills the air, drawing pie enthusiasts from far and wide. Each slice bursts with flavor, whether it’s apple, berry, or peach.
The café’s rustic charm and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place to pause and savor a pie. Take a whole pie for the road or enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee. This historic spot promises a delightful culinary experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
6. Cameron Trading Post
Cameron Trading Post, north of Flagstaff on US-89, is a cultural gem offering Navajo fry bread that’s worth the detour. Established in 1916, it’s a place where tradition and taste come together beautifully.
Visitors are welcomed by the aroma of freshly cooked fry bread, which serves as a base for the famous “Navajo Taco.” The trading post’s rich history is reflected in the surrounding Native American art and crafts. It’s more than a meal; it’s an immersive cultural experience that adds flavor to any journey toward the Grand Canyon.
7. “The Thing” Travel Center
“The Thing” Travel Center along I-10 is Arizona’s quirkiest stop, drawing curiosity with its mysterious museum exhibits. Billboards for miles lead to this unique travel plaza, which offers a mix of intrigue and indulgence.
After exploring the oddities, visitors can treat themselves at the on-site Dairy Queen, enjoying soft-serve and shakes in the desert heat. This peculiar stop combines the unusual with the delightful, making it an essential part of any road trip adventure. Whether you’re there for the mystery or the ice cream, “The Thing” promises an unforgettable experience.
8. Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch
At Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch near Picacho Peak, visitors can meet exotic creatures and savor unique ostrich jerky. This interactive experience allows families to feed and learn about ostriches, making it an exciting stop on I-10.
While the ranch is alive with the sounds of lorikeets and laughter, the only food sold is the distinctive ostrich jerky, offering a novel snack for the road. It’s a place where adventure and taste converge, providing a playful escape into the world of these fascinating birds. Perfect for animal lovers and adventurous eaters alike.
9. Apple Annie’s
Apple Annie’s, just off I-10 in Willcox, celebrates the harvest with seasonal delights like apple-cider donuts and warm slices of pie. This family-friendly spot invites visitors to pick their own fruit or simply enjoy the farm’s freshly baked treats.
During the harvest season, the aroma of cinnamon and apples fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether enjoying a donut on the spot or taking a pie home, Apple Annie’s offers a taste of the countryside that’s perfect for any road trip. It’s a sweet slice of tradition that’s hard to resist.
10. Martha’s Gardens Date Farm
Martha’s Gardens Date Farm in Yuma is a tranquil escape offering farm-fresh date shakes among palm groves. This peaceful oasis invites travelers to relax on a shaded patio, savoring rich, creamy shakes made from their own Medjool dates.
The farm’s serene setting and delicious offerings make it a favorite stop for those exploring I-8. As you sip the smooth blend of dates and cream, the cares of the road seem to melt away. It’s a refreshing pause that combines local flavor with a touch of luxury, perfect for a sunny Arizona day.
11. The Peanut Patch
Since the 1970s, The Peanut Patch in Yuma has been a go-to stop for those craving peanut brittle and other nutty delights. This charming store invites you to stock up on road-worthy snacks that are as delicious as they are convenient.
With a selection of sweets and ice cream, The Peanut Patch offers something for everyone. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make each visit a delightful experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this stop is a crunchy, sweet haven that keeps travelers returning time and again.
12. Tortilla Flat General Store
In the heart of the Apache Trail, Tortilla Flat General Store offers a taste of the unique with its prickly-pear gelato. This last surviving stagecoach stop is a cool retreat in the Arizona heat, serving up refreshing cactus-themed treats.
The historic ambiance and scenic views make it a memorable stop for travelers. Enjoy a scoop of gelato while taking in the rustic charm and vibrant desert surroundings. Tortilla Flat combines history with flavor, making it a sweet highlight on any journey through Arizona’s rugged landscapes.
13. Indian Gardens Café & Market
Tucked in Oak Creek Canyon, Indian Gardens Café & Market is a delightful stop for fresh pastries and soft-serve. This revamped 1940s market combines its historic charm with modern culinary flair.
The café’s cozy setting amid scenic views makes it a perfect spot for a quick espresso and a sweet treat. The homemade pastries, with their flaky crusts and rich fillings, pair wonderfully with a swirl of soft-serve. It’s a taste of nostalgia with a contemporary twist, offering a refreshing break for those traveling along 89A.
14. PIEbar AZ
PIEbar AZ in Strawberry is known for its travel-friendly hand pies, offering both sweet and savory options. This cozy roadside spot invites you to explore its creative menu of empanadas, perfect for enjoying on the go.
Each hand pie is a burst of flavor, wrapped in a flaky crust that promises satisfaction with every bite. The vibrant setting and friendly service make it a charming pause on your journey. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory bite or a sweet indulgence, PIEbar AZ delivers with its unique twist on a classic treat.
15. Queen Creek Olive Mill
At Queen Creek Olive Mill, near the US-60 loop, visitors can enjoy a refreshing scoop of olive-oil gelato. This working olive farm and market offers a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Arizona.
Guests can explore the groves and sample a variety of gourmet nibbles, including the unique gelato that pairs wonderfully with a sunny afternoon. The mill’s blend of agricultural tradition and culinary innovation makes it a unique destination for food lovers. It’s a flavorful exploration that combines the rustic with the refined, perfect for a leisurely stop.
