The Last Bypassed Route 66 Town - Historic Williams

Williams a proud Arizona town, waged many court battles, before finally giving way to a future of being bypassed in 1984. Fortunately, because of Williams location to the Grand Canyon, the compact town is doing fine and very busy with tourists, despite the highway overpass.

A definite stop for any route 66 traveler, Williams has many stores selling route 66 souvenirs. This quaint town comes alive with overnight tourists in the evening, searching for food and browsing the historic sights in the cool mountain air.

Route 66 in Williams is close to the Grand Canyon, about one hour by car, and if you have plans to make a detour, you will find accommodation in Williams plentiful and more reasonable than staying up at the Grand Canyon. Those who would like a break from the road can leave their car behind and take the vintage train that Williams provides. The train leaves on the two hour journey for the Grand Canyon every morning from March to December.

Besides the standard hotels, Williams has a few route 66 historic motels. The Lodge on Route 66 offers upscale accommodation in a renovated motor lodge. The Route 66 Inn provides accommodation in an historic landmark motel for budget minded travelers and the Mountain Side Inn on Route 66 is a reasonably priced, rustic motel in a peaceful location. Looking for something different, stay in a retired caboose or rail-car at the Canyon Motel & RV Park. This place is perfect for family fun. A full services RV site is also available for travelers.

If you have a craving to feast on the best milkshakes and fries while in Williams, stop by Twisters 50's Soda Fountain. Open for lunch and dinner, Twisters offers an ice cream menu with old fashioned ice-cream floats, malts and sundaes in nostalgic surroundings, while you sit and listen to old time 50's music.

Cruiser's Cafe is another, not to be missed, route 66 diner with a 50's and 60's style atmosphere. The restaurant offers a full bar and grille menu, live entertainment, outdoor patio, and a route 66 gift shop, full of memorabilia.

While in Williams, be on the look out for cowboys! A visit to the Wild West Junction will take you back to the Old West and a good old fashioned cowboy gun fight can be seen along with other western entertainment.

With all that Williams has to offer, it is no wonder the bypass has made little difference to the popularity of this old picturesque town.