“Standing on the corner of Winslow, Arizona—such a fine sight to see…” The iconic lyric from Take It Easy, written by Jackson Browne in 1972 and made famous by Eagles, has turned Winslow into a must-visit stop for music lovers and road trippers alike. But beyond its pop culture fame, Winslow has long been an important travel hub, dating back to the rise of the railroads and its role along the historic Route 66—making it a classic destination for anyone exploring the American Southwest.
Staying overnight at La Posada adds another layer to the experience, as the hotel has hosted notable guests like John Wayne, Amelia Earhart, James Stewart, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Each room reflects a piece of history, and the on-site Turquoise Room offers a memorable dining experience with classic Southwestern cuisine and a nod to the original Harvey Girls tradition.
In the 1880s, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway helped establish Winslow as a key stop for cross-country travelers heading west. Today, trains still pass through regularly, and visitors can even arrive via Amtrak. The town’s rich railroad heritage is beautifully preserved at La Posada Hotel, a restored Harvey House that originally opened in 1930. Designed by Mary Jane Colter, the hotel offers a unique blend of Southwest charm and historic elegance. Sitting on the back veranda with a drink in hand while watching trains roll by is an experience that perfectly captures the spirit of old Route 66 travel.
No visit to Winslow is complete without a stroll through its charming downtown. Be sure to stop at Standin’ on the Corner Park, where you can snap a photo with statues inspired by the famous song—including a flatbed Ford and tributes to the musicians who made the town famous. Nearby shops and quirky photo ops, like a giant guitar and colorful street art, make this small town surprisingly lively. Whether you’re on a Route 66 road trip or just passing through northern Arizona, Winslow is more than a quick stop—it’s a nostalgic, worthwhile destination that captures a unique slice of Americana.