Back in the USA: Flagstaff, Route 66 & a Taste of Arizona

After months of international travel, our return to the United States began in Flagstaff, Arizona, where good food, a walkable downtown, and a little Route 66 history welcomed us home. From accidentally dining a bit underdressed to celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66, Flagstaff gave us the perfect introduction to Arizona.

AMERICA 250 ROAD TRIP

Tamara Driver

8/28/20264 min read

After so much international travel, it felt a little surreal to be back in the United States—but refreshing as well. Our first stop was Flagstaff, Arizona, where we spent February 27 through March 1, 2026. We didn't have much time, but we quickly discovered there was plenty to see, eat, and experience in this northern Arizona city. And, as it turned out, our timing couldn't have been better. We arrived during a very special year for one of America's most legendary highways—Route 66!

🏨 Location, Location, Location!

During our stay, we called the Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff home, and its location proved to be excellent for exploring downtown. Once we dropped off our bags, we couldn't wait to get outside and start walking around. Restaurants, shops, and downtown attractions were within easy reach, making it convenient for a short stay without constantly having to get into a car. After months of international adventures, there was something nice about simply walking out of our hotel and exploring an American city again.

🍽️ Wait…Are We Dressed for This?

One of our first dining experiences was Atria, a modern American restaurant in Flagstaff. Let's just say it was a little more upscale than we were expecting! 😂

Wayne and I almost felt out of place when we walked in, but thankfully, we were among the first people to arrive. We didn't have a reservation, but the restaurant accommodated us for an early dinner. As more patrons began arriving, however, we noticed something. Everybody seemed a little more dressed up than we were! Uh-oh.

We had arrived dressed like two travelers who had been out exploring—not necessarily two people preparing for an upscale dining experience. We honestly wouldn't have been surprised if there had been a dress code, but thankfully, no one made us feel uncomfortable or unwelcome. Instead, we settled in and enjoyed a very good—and yes, rather fancy—meal. Sometimes travel means being perfectly dressed for the occasion.

And sometimes…it doesn't! 🤣

🛣️ Getting Our Kicks on Route 66

The next morning, we headed over to the Flagstaff Visitor Center, where Route 66 takes center stage. Of course, pictures were required! We also purchased postcards to send to family and friends—something that feels particularly appropriate when you're standing along one of America's most historic travel routes. And 2026 made our visit even more significant.

Established in 1926, Route 66 became one of America's most iconic highways, stretching roughly 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. Known as the “Mother Road,” it connected communities across eight states and became a symbol of American road trips, migration, and westward adventure.

In 2026, Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary, making our time in Flagstaff even more special. We weren't simply visiting Route 66—we were experiencing a piece of American history during its centennial year. 🛣️🇺🇸🎉

How cool is that?

🌯 Now THAT'S a Breakfast!

After our Route 66 visit, it was time for breakfast. We found a Mexican restaurant, ordered our meals, and when those plates arrived…

Oh. My. Goodness.

The food practically covered the entire plate! 😂 There was absolutely no possibility of leaving this restaurant hungry. Wayne and I probably could have shared half a plate and still walked away satisfied. One thing was certain—the food was delicious.

And unlike our experience at Atria, this time we were definitely dressed for the occasion!

🍕 The Pizza Place We Almost Visited Twice

We also discovered a pizza place located right behind our hotel. The pizza was homemade, oven-baked, and so very good. In fact, Wayne and I enjoyed it so much that we vowed we would go back one more time before leaving Flagstaff. Well… That didn't happen.

Travel plans have a funny way of changing, and somehow we ran out of time. Maybe we'll get another slice someday if our travels bring us back to Flagstaff.

🏔️ Flagstaff Was Fantastic, But Here's One Thing to Know

Overall, we had a fantastic time in Flagstaff. The downtown area was walkable, we ate extremely well, and experiencing Route 66 during its centennial year made the visit even more memorable. But there is one important lesson we learned that might help other travelers.

If your primary reason for visiting northern Arizona is the Grand Canyon, pay close attention to where you book your hotel.

While staying in downtown Flagstaff worked beautifully for exploring Flagstaff, there are accommodations much closer to the Grand Canyon. Before booking, check the driving distance between your hotel and the specific entrance or area of the park you plan to visit. In other words, Flagstaff deserves to be enjoyed as a destination of its own.

💬 Have You Traveled Route 66?

Have you ever visited Flagstaff?

Or maybe you've driven all—or even just a portion—of iconic Route 66?

Do tell! We'd love to hear about your experience, especially if you have a favorite Route 66 stop we should add to a future journey.

🚗 Next Stop: Wayne Meets the Grand Canyon!

Our time in Flagstaff had come to an end, but our Arizona adventure certainly had not. It was finally time for me to introduce Wayne to the Grand Canyon for the very first time. 🏜️

I had visited twice before as a teenager with my family, but this experience would be completely different. This time, I would see it alongside my husband—and I couldn't wait to watch his reaction when he saw the Grand Canyon for himself. And maybe you've never seen it either.

So come along with us!

Next, we're heading to the Grand Canyon to experience Wayne's first impressions of one of America's most extraordinary natural wonders. ❤️🇺🇸