Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Arizona Route 66

Exploring Arizona’s iconic Route 66 becomes an easy and engaging adventure with the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour, offered at $26.66 per group (up to 8 people). This flexible tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours and covers highlights such as Oatman Highway, Kingman, Seligman, Williams, Flagstaff, and Winslow. What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of storytelling, scenic stops, and the freedom to explore at your own pace—all without the need for internet once downloaded. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a personalized, offline experience that channels the spirit of Route 66, especially for groups or families who prefer to avoid scheduled tours.

While this tour offers a cost-effective, self-paced journey with over 340 points of interest, it’s important to remember that entry fees and park passes are not included. The tour is perfect for independent explorers who enjoy discovering historic towns and scenic vistas with the convenience of auto-play stories, tips, and directions that activate based on your GPS location. Since it’s a one-time purchase with free updates and no expiry, it suits travelers who want to revisit or customize their experience.

Key Points

• Self-guided audio tour of Arizona’s Route 66 suitable for groups up to 8
• Price of $26.66 for the full experience, with no additional costs for updates
• Approximate duration of 2 to 3 hours, with flexibility to go at your own pace
• Offline capability means no cell service is needed after download
• Over 340 points of interest including legendary stops like Oatman Highway and Winslow
• Includes Route 66 Passport stamping as a souvenir from key stops

Starting Point in New Mexico: Laguna on I-40

This tour begins at Interstate 40 in Laguna, NM, where you’ll receive instructions via email and text after booking. The starting location is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient to begin your journey. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, closing the loop on this scenic drive. Operating hours extend from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing flexible start times throughout the day.

The process to access the tour is simple: download the GuideAlong app over WiFi or cellular data, sign in with your Apple or Google account, and load the tour onto your device. Once downloaded, the audio stories play automatically based on your GPS, delivering a seamless experience no matter where you are along the route.

Exploring the Historic Stops Along Route 66 in Arizona

The core of this tour lies in its stops, each offering unique stories and sights. The Oatman Highway is particularly spectacular, winding through Arizona’s Black Mountains with 191 curves as it ascends to Sitgreaves Pass. This stretch provides epic views and a taste of the rugged terrain that Route 66 is famous for.

In Kingman, the tour highlights the significance of the town as a key route along the longest stretch of remaining Route 66 blacktop. It’s a spot that deserves a quick stop for its history and authentic roadside charm. Moving east, Seligman impresses with its quirky sights like the Hackberry General Store and underground hotel rooms at the Grand Canyon Caverns, making it a favorite for those seeking Route 66 nostalgia.

Williams is notable as the last town bypassed by the interstate in October 1984. Its historic downtown and proximity to the Grand Canyon enrich the experience, offering a glimpse of old-fashioned Americana. Flagstaff, perched at nearly 7,000 feet, combines culture, outdoor activities, and a vibrant downtown, making it more than just a scenic stop.

In Winslow, the famous “stand on a corner” scene from the Eagles’ song adds a fun twist. The town maintains its charm with roadside attractions and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a quick photo and story.

The Scenic Marvel of Oatman Highway and Sitgreaves Pass

A standout feature of this tour is the Oatman Highway, renowned for its winding curves and dramatic mountain scenery. This part of the route is particularly memorable for its spectacular views and the thrill of navigating 191 turns in the craggy Black Mountains. The ascent to Sitgreaves Pass provides ample photo opportunities and the chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of Arizona’s desert landscape.

This segment is free of entry fees but offers an adventure packed with visual drama and historic significance. The route’s design allows travelers to stop as often as they like and enjoy the scenery with immersive audio commentary guiding the way.

Seligman and Williams: Quirky Towns on Route 66

Seligman is a highlight for its eccentric roadside attractions and stories of old Route 66 legends. The Hackberry General Store and the underground hotel at Grand Canyon Caverns give a quirky, nostalgic flavor to the drive. The town’s relaxed pace makes it a good spot to spend additional time if desired.

Williams, positioned among ponderosa pines, offers a historic downtown with restaurants and shops. As the last town bypassed by the interstate, Williams retains much of its vintage charm, giving travelers a sense of stepping back in time. The stop here is brief but rich in Americana.

Flagstaff: A Cultural and Outdoor Hub

Flagstaff stands out as the highest town along Route 66, with almost 7,000 feet elevation. The tour features its historic downtown, renowned for great restaurants and cultural sites. Besides its downtown charm, Flagstaff is an excellent base for outdoor activities, which might require additional planning beyond the tour.

This stop is ideal for those interested in culture, outdoor pursuits, and scenic views. The audio stories enrich the visit with local insights, making it more than just a quick stop.

Winslow and the “Standing on a Corner” Photo Moment

In Winslow, the tour highlights the town’s association with the Eagles’ hit song, offering a fun story about the famous “Standing on a Corner” scene. The town remains a quiet gem with roadside attractions and a welcoming vibe. The brief stop is perfect for a quick photo, souvenir stamping, and a bit of Route 66 lore.

Customizable and Flexible Route Options

This tour provides suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day exploration, but also allows users to create their own routes. The trip planners are available via in-app, web, and PDF formats, giving flexibility to suit personal schedules.

The ability to explore offline means travelers are free from cell service constraints, perfect for remote stretches of the route or areas with poor connectivity. With no time limits or expiry, the tour can be paused and resumed at convenience, making it suitable for spontaneous detours or extended explorations.

Support and Technical Assistance

The GuideAlong support team offers help via toll-free phone, chat, or email. This ensures that users can troubleshoot issues or ask questions during their trip. The easy-to-use app and pre-downloading process make setup straightforward, and the free updates keep the content current over time.

What’s Not Included and Planning Tips

Entry fees to national parks or other attractions are not included in the tour price, so travelers should budget accordingly. It’s wise to bring a fully charged device and a USB or car charger to keep the audio guide running throughout the drive.

Travelers should also review the operating hours—the tour runs daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM—to ensure their schedule aligns. Since the tour is private and for your group only, it offers a personalized experience without the pressure of a group tour.

Summing Up the Value of the Route 66 Self-Guided Tour

This self-guided audio tour offers a cost-effective, flexible way to explore Arizona’s Route 66. With over 340 points of interest, iconic stops like Oatman Highway, and the ability to drive offline, it appeals especially to those who prefer independent exploration over scheduled tours.

Its storytelling brings the history and legends of Route 66 to life, providing an enriching backdrop to scenic drives through towns full of character. The easy app setup, free updates, and support further enhance its practicality.

The main limitations are the additional costs for entry fees and the need to bring your own device and charger. Nevertheless, for families, groups, or solo adventurers seeking a personal, informative ride along one of America’s most legendary highways, this tour delivers value, flexibility, and a nostalgic journey through Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the audio stories and scenic stops make it engaging for families, but parents should consider the driving distances and the need for a device with sufficient battery life.

Do I need a data connection during the tour?
No, once the tour is downloaded onto your device, it works offline using GPS, so no cell service is required.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the tour provides suggested itineraries and trip planners, allowing you to create your own route or adjust stops as you wish.

Are there any additional costs?
Entry fees to national parks, attractions, or other sites are not included in the tour price and should be purchased separately if desired.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is 2 to 3 hours, but you can take more or less time depending on your pace and interests.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Oatman Highway, Kingman, Seligman, Williams, Flagstaff, and Winslow, among others, with opportunities for sightseeing and storytelling at each.

Is the tour accessible for solo travelers or small groups?
Absolutely, it accommodates up to 8 people per purchase, making it suitable for small groups, families, or solo explorers.

What if I need help during the tour?
Support is available via toll-free phone, chat, and email from the GuideAlong team.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is flexible with no fixed start time; you can begin whenever suits your schedule within operating hours.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the 340+ points of interest, offline capability, and personalized pacing, this tour offers good value for those wanting an independent and story-rich Route 66 experience.