Winslow, AZ
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Winslow, Arizona
- Administrative Role: Winslow is a city and the principal municipality of the Navajo Nation's remote exterior. It is not a county seat; that title belongs to Holbrook .
- Location: It is located in Navajo County in the state of Arizona, USA. This region of Northern Arizona is known for its high desert landscapes, the Painted Desert, the Hopi and Navajo reservations, and its rich history tied to the railroad and Route 66 .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Year Founded: Winslow was established in 1882 as a railroad town on the Atlantic & Pacific Railroad . It was officially incorporated in 1900 .
- Current Age: As of 2026, the city is 144 years old.
- Founder's Name: The city is named after Edward F. Winslow, a president of the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway, which owned half of the old Atlantic and Pacific Railroad .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 35°01′28″N 110°43′10″W .
- Natural Setting: Winslow sits on a high desert plateau in the Painted Desert region of Northern Arizona .
- Elevation: The elevation of the city center is approximately 4,900 feet (1,483 meters) above sea level .
- City Type: From a geographical perspective, it is a historic railroad and Route 66 town situated in a semi-arid high desert environment, serving as a gateway to regional natural and cultural attractions .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Tourist and Cultural Center: Today, Winslow's economy is heavily focused on tourism, driven by its association with the Eagles' song "Take It Easy" and its historic charm. The "Standin' on the Corner Park" is a major draw .
- Historic Railroad Town: Historically a significant division point and service hub for the Santa Fe Railway (now BNSF), the railroad still plays a vital role in the city's identity and economy .
- Regional Trade and Service Hub: Winslow serves as a commercial center for the surrounding area, including parts of the Navajo and Hopi reservations, with major employers including Walmart and the local hospital .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, Winslow has a population of 9,005 residents .
- City Class by Population: Winslow is a small city.
- Demographic Features: The city has a majority-Hispanic population (over 60%) and a significant Native American community, particularly Navajo, who make up about 15% of the population .
"City's Business Card" (Brief)
Winslow, Arizona, is a must-visit stop on historic Route 66, forever immortalized by the Eagles' hit song "Take It Easy." Visitors flock to Standin' on the Corner Park to recreate the famous lyrics, explore the meticulously restored La Posada Hotel, a masterpiece of Santa Fe Railroad architecture, and use the town as a gateway to the Painted Desert, Meteor Crater, and ancient Native American ruins .
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
- Mogollon Rim: Located about 40 miles south of Winslow, the Mogollon Rim is a prominent geological escarpment that defines the edge of the Colorado Plateau. Rising to over 2,000 feet in some places, it is famous for its stunning scenery, dense Ponderosa pine forests, and as the setting for Zane Grey's Western novels . It's a popular area for hiking, camping, and fishing.
Water Bodies
- Clear Creek Reservoir / McHood Park: Located about 5 miles south of Winslow on Highway 99, this reservoir on Clear Creek offers opportunities for canoeing, fishing for rainbow trout, swimming, and picnicking. The area is also home to Clear Creek Canyon, a deep rock canyon with petroglyphs accessible only by canoe .
- Little Colorado River: The river flows near Winslow, and its gorge, about a 30-minute drive away, offers stunning canyon views and hiking opportunities . The area around the river is dotted with ancient archaeological sites .
Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes
- Painted Desert: Winslow is situated within the Painted Desert region, known for its colorful, eroded badlands of bentonite clay. The Little Painted Desert County Park on Highway 87 offers a gem of a view, particularly beautiful in the early morning and late afternoon .
- Meteor Crater: One of the world's best-preserved meteorite impact sites, located about 6 miles west of Winslow. Formed 50,000 years ago by an iron-nickel meteorite, the crater is nearly a mile wide and 550 feet deep. It was used by Apollo astronauts for training due to its lunar-like topography .
- Little Colorado River Gorge: A stunning canyon carved by the Little Colorado River, offering dramatic views and a rugged landscape for hiking and photography .
National and State Parks
- Homolovi State Park: Located about 7 miles northeast of Winslow, this park preserves over 300 archaeological sites, including seven separate 14th-century pueblo ruins left by ancestors of the Hopi people. It features interpretive programs, hiking trails, and a year-round campground .
- Petrified Forest National Park: About 30 miles east of Winslow, this national park is renowned for one of the world's largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood. The park also features the striking badlands of the Painted Desert and numerous fossils .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Winslow has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen BWk). It is characterized by hot summers, cool to cold winters, and a large diurnal temperature variation due to its high desert elevation of nearly a mile high. It is a very sunny location with low annual precipitation .
Average Temperatures by Month
- Hottest Month: July, with an average daily maximum of 94.6°F (34.8°C) and a minimum of 63.7°F (17.6°C) .
- Coldest Month: December, with an average daily maximum of 48.7°F (9.3°C) and a minimum of 21.7°F (-5.7°C) .
- Annual Average Temperature: The mean daily temperature year-round is 56.7°F (13.7°C) .
- Extreme Records: The record high temperature is 110°F (43°C), and the record low is -19°F (-28°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: Winslow receives very little rainfall, averaging only 6.52 inches (166 mm) per year .
- Wettest Months: August is the wettest month, with an average of 1.16 inches (29 mm) of rain, often from summer thunderstorms. The driest months are May and June .
- Snowfall: Average seasonal snowfall is 8.1 inches (21 cm) , mostly falling in December and January .
Sunshine and UV Index
Winslow is sunny and clear most of the time, characteristic of the high desert . With over 300 sunny days a year, UV index levels can be very high, especially during the summer months, making sun protection essential for visitors.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): One of the best times to visit. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, with average highs rising from the 60s to the low 80s°F. The desert landscape can have wildflowers, and the skies are clear .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot, with average highs in the 90s°F. June is typically the driest month, while July and August bring the most rainfall in the form of afternoon thunderstorms (monsoon season), which can be dramatic . Mornings and evenings are much cooler.
- Fall (September-November): Another ideal time to visit. Temperatures cool down to comfortable levels, with warm, sunny days and crisp, cool nights. The crowds are thinner than in summer .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cool to cold. While daytime highs can reach the upper 40s and low 50s°F, nights frequently drop below freezing. Snow is possible but usually light .
Landmarks
Standin' on the Corner Park
This is Winslow's most iconic attraction, established in 1999 to honor the Eagles' 1972 hit song "Take It Easy," with lyrics co-written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey . Located at the intersection of Kinsley Avenue and E. 2nd Street (old Route 66), the park features a large trompe l'oeil mural by artist John Pugh depicting a scene from the song . In front of the mural stands a life-size bronze statue of a troubadour with a guitar, known locally as "Easy," and a flatbed Ford truck parked at the curb, allowing visitors to become part of the song's story . Over 100,000 people visit annually to take photos at this prime selfie spot . A second statue of Glenn Frey was later added .
La Posada Hotel
A National Historic Landmark and one of the last great railroad hotels, La Posada ("The Resting Place") was designed by the renowned architect Mary Jane Colter and opened in 1930 as a Fred Harvey House . It is a masterpiece of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, designed to resemble a grand Spanish hacienda . After decades of neglect and near demolition, it was meticulously restored starting in 1997 and now operates as a luxury hotel, museum, and restaurant . The hotel's grounds cover 12 acres in the heart of Winslow and include the Affeldt Mion Museum in the former depot, showcasing local history and art . The on-site fine dining restaurant, The Turquoise Room, is a destination in itself .
Old Trails Museum
Housed in a historic building dating back to 1921 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this small museum offers a deep dive into Winslow's rich history . Its exhibits detail the area's story from ancient Native American trade routes and the railroad era to the glory days of Route 66 . It's an educational stop suitable for all ages and offers free admission .
Rock Art Ranch
Located on a working cattle and buffalo ranch southeast of Winslow, this site protects over 3,000 petroglyphs listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The carvings span a period of 6,000 years and were produced by several Native American cultures. The ranch owner offers personal guided tours of the archaeological sites and a small on-site museum .
Brigham City Ghost Town
Founded by Mormon settlers in 1876, this settlement on the east bank of the Little Colorado River was abandoned just five years later in 1881 due to devastating flash floods . Now on the National Register of Historic Places, 37 of its buildings have been partially restored, offering a glimpse into the challenges of pioneer life in the Arizona desert .
9-11 Memorial Garden
This memorial in Winslow features two lofty steel beams from the former World Trade Center site, a gift from New York to the city. It serves as a place for reflection and remembrance .
Transport
Main Airports in the City and Region
Winslow is served by Winslow-Lindbergh Regional Airport, which has a rich history as a key stop for the 1929 Lindbergh Line (Transcontinental Air Transport) . Today, it is a general aviation airport with two 7,500-foot hard-surfaced runways, welcoming private planes . For commercial airline service, the closest major airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) , about 62 miles away . The nearest large commercial air hub is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) , approximately 150 miles (a three-hour drive) to the south .
Major Railway Stations
- Winslow Amtrak Station: The daily Southwest Chief route, running between Chicago and Los Angeles, stops in Winslow . The station is located at 303 E 2nd St, within the historic La Posada Hotel complex . The westbound train arrives in the evening (8:50 PM) and the eastbound train in the morning (7:09 AM) . This stop has no ticket office, so tickets must be purchased online or at another station.
Public Transportation System
There is no public bus or rail transit system within Winslow . Transportation options are limited to a privately-owned taxi service (Winslow Shuttle) and hire car firms . Given this, a personal vehicle is essential for getting around town and accessing nearby attractions.
Major Highways and Roads
- Interstate 40 (I-40): The main east-west interstate highway, which follows the corridor of historic Route 66, runs just north of downtown Winslow. It provides direct access to Flagstaff, the Petrified Forest, and beyond .
- Historic Route 66: The "Mother Road" itself runs through the heart of downtown Winslow as E. 2nd St. and W. 2nd St., lined with vintage buildings and nostalgic charm .
- State Route 87 (SR 87): This highway heads south from Winslow towards Payson and the Phoenix area, offering a route into the Mogollon Rim country .
- State Route 99 (SR 99): Provides access to McHood Park and Clear Creek Reservoir south of town .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Winslow, Arizona, sits at a crossroads of cultures, and its food scene reflects this heritage with a delightful mix of Native American, Mexican, and classic American influences. As a historic stop on Route 66, the town offers travelers a chance to experience authentic Southwestern comfort food.
Green Chili Posole at the Brown Mug Cafe
The most legendary dish in Winslow is the green chili posole served at the Brown Mug Cafe . This is not just soup; it's a cultural experience in a bowl. The dish begins with a rich, savory broth that perfectly balances spicy and soothing elements. Each spoonful contains tender hominy kernels and chunks of slow-cooked pork shoulder that melt in your mouth. The true magic lies in the use of authentic New Mexico green chilies, which deliver a complex, gradual heat with earthy notes and a hint of sweetness . Each bowl is served piping hot, garnished with fresh lime wedges, diced onion, and cilantro, allowing diners to customize the flavor. It arrives with a stack of warm tortillas, perfect for dipping . The Brown Mug Cafe itself is a beloved local institution, an unassuming pink building with vintage signage that has been serving this signature dish for generations .
Southwestern Fine Dining at The Turquoise Room
For a more upscale dining experience that also celebrates regional ingredients, The Turquoise Room, located within the historic La Posada Hotel, is a must-visit . This stylish Southwestern restaurant offers creative, farm-to-table cuisine. Chef John Sharpe sources ingredients from local farmers' markets and nearby growers to create a menu that changes with the seasons. The restaurant is renowned for its unique atmosphere, vintage charm, and exceptional food. Must-try items include the squash blossom appetizer, the Boxcar burger, and a warm pudding dessert that has been described as "absolutely amazing" . The dining room itself is a beautiful space with Arizona-inspired decor, offering great views of the trains that pass by the hotel, adding to the historic Route 66 ambiance.
A Modern Brewpub on Historic Route 66
Winslow also offers a modern twist on dining with RelicRoad Brewing Company. Housed in a charming building with exposed-brick walls, this taphouse combines a historic vibe with contemporary craft beers and cocktails . The food menu focuses on delicious comfort food like burgers and sandwiches, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Diners rave about the handmade onion rings, which are individually battered and fried, and the mushroom sliders . With its inviting atmosphere, generous portions, and friendly service, RelicRoad is a perfect spot for families or groups to unwind after a day of exploring.
Museums
Winslow's museums are dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich tapestry of history in Northern Arizona, from the arrival of the railroad to the stories of the families who shaped the region.
Old Trails Museum
The Old Trails Museum is the primary historical museum in Winslow, operated by the Winslow Historical Society. Housed in the historic 1921 First National Bank Building at 212 N Kinsley Ave, the museum offers free exhibits and public programs that delve into the area's diverse cultural heritage . Its collections are a deep dive into local history, featuring artifacts, documents, photographs, and textiles donated by past and present residents .
Key exhibits include "The Story of Winslow," "Journeys to Winslow," and "African Americans in Winslow," which highlight significant aspects of the town's past. Visitors can explore themes central to the region's identity, such as the impact of the Santa Fe Railway, the legacy of the Harvey Girls, and the history of U.S. Route 66 . The museum also sheds light on the area's ranches, trading posts, and the historic La Posada Hotel. The knowledgeable docents and the museum's commitment to education make it a worthwhile stop for anyone wanting to understand the forces that shaped this part of the Southwest .
Sport and Sports Legends
While Winslow may not have major professional sports franchises, it has a strong tradition of high school athletics that rally the community.
The Winslow Bulldogs
The town's athletic pride is embodied by the Winslow Bulldogs, the teams representing Winslow High School. The Bulldogs compete in the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) and are known for their competitive spirit, particularly in football . Their colors are maroon, white, and gold .
The football team has a rich history, having won multiple league championships, including titles in 2014, 2013, and a run of championships in the late 2000s . The Bulldogs have a developing rivalry with the Monument Valley Mustangs from Kayenta, AZ, with their recent matchups being closely contested . Home games are a central part of the community's social fabric, bringing together residents to support their team on Friday nights.
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Healthcare in Winslow is provided through a network of facilities that serve the town and the surrounding Navajo County.
Winslow Memorial Hospital
The primary medical facility in the area is Winslow Memorial Hospital, located at 1501 Williamson Avenue . It is a voluntary, non-profit hospital that provides essential medical services to the community. The hospital's emergency department is staffed by physicians trained in emergency medicine, ensuring that residents and travelers have access to critical care .
Winslow Indian Health Care Center
A major provider of healthcare services is the Winslow Indian Health Care Center, Inc. , which operates the Winslow Indian Health Care Group as a clinic/center . With its main practice location at 1501 N Williamson Ave (the same address as the hospital), this organization is a crucial part of the local healthcare landscape . It functions as an ambulatory health care facility for outpatient diagnosis and treatment, serving a distinct patient group. The Center also operates other facilities in the region, including a pharmacy and mental health clinic, highlighting its comprehensive role in providing health services to the Native American population in the area . It is licensed by the state of Arizona and accepts Medicaid, making it a key access point for healthcare in the region .
Nearby Facilities
For specialized medical needs not available in Winslow, residents typically seek services in larger nearby cities such as Flagstaff, which is about an hour's drive away and offers a broader range of specialist physicians and larger medical centers.