Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Casa Grande, Arizona to Durango, Colorado

Have you ever been on a road trip and wished you had taken a moment to explore a place along the way? From Casa Grande, Arizona to Durango, Colorado, there are several unexpected places worth stopping. This route takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes with multiple stops along the way. Here are five must-see locations to explore on your journey:

Halfway Point: Holbrook, AZ

The halfway point between Casa Grande and Durango is the small town of Holbrook, Arizona. This town may be small, but it is packed with history and attractions. Stop at the Wigwam Motel - a collection of teepees that have been converted into a hotel. The Wigwam Motel is an iconic Route 66 landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Make sure to snap a photo next to the neon "Sleep in a Wigwam" sign.

Must-try food at Holbrook: Joe and Aggie's Café is a must-try spot in Holbrook. This café is beloved by locals and visitors alike for their green chili sauce, which is served on a signature dish called "The Whole Enchilada."

1. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ

Petrified Forest National Park is located just east of Holbrook and is a must-see destination. This park boasts one of the world’s largest and most beautiful concentrations of petrified wood. The park also includes ancient petroglyphs, remnants of the historic Route 66, and the Painted Desert. Take a scenic drive along the park's 28-mile road or hike one of the park's several trails.

Must-try food at Petrified Forest: Woody’s Corral is a local favorite in Holbrook known for their cowboy cookin’. Try their signature dish - the Woody Burger.

2. Four Corners Monument, CO

The Four Corners Monument is a unique attraction where four states - Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah - meet. Visitors can stand in four states at once and take a photo straddling the state lines. The monument is also rich in Native American history and culture, with local vendors selling handmade Native American crafts.

Must-try food at Four Corners: The fry bread tacos sold by the local Navajo vendors.

3. Mesa Verde National Park, CO

Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the world. Take a guided tour of the cliff dwelling sites, or explore the park on your own. The park is also home to over 4,000 archaeological sites, some of which date back 10,000 years.

Must-try food at Mesa Verde: The Far View Lodge Restaurant is a great spot to try traditional Navajo tacos and other southwestern dishes.

4. Million Dollar Highway, CO

The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of road that connects the historic mining towns of Silverton and Ouray. The highway is known for its steep drops, hairpin turns, and beautiful mountain scenery. Stop at one of the pullouts to take in panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains.

Must-try food at Million Dollar Highway: The historic Buckhorn Exchange in Denver is known for serving exotic meats such as rattlesnake and elk.

Conclusion

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore these unique destinations on your next road trip. From the historic Wigwam Motel to the breathtaking views along the Million Dollar Highway, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to try the unique local cuisine at each stop for an unforgettable experience. Adding these stops to your journey will not only break up the drive but also add depth and adventure to your travels.