Seligman Arizona and the Real-Life Route 66 Town That Inspired Pixar’s Cars

Seligman Arizona

Hidden along the legendary Route 66 in northern Arizona, the small town of Seligman Arizona has become one of the most iconic stops for travellers seeking nostalgia, Americana, and cinematic history. Known as a major inspiration behind Pixar’s Cars, Seligman captures the spirit of a bygone road trip era, where neon signs, vintage diners, and quirky roadside attractions still thrive.

For fans of the film and lovers of classic American road trips, this tiny town feels like stepping directly into the world of Radiator Springs.

The Real Radiator Springs on Route 66

When the interstate highway system bypassed many small towns across America, Seligman faced the same fate as the fictional Radiator Springs in Pixar’s Cars. Traffic dwindled, businesses struggled, and the town risked fading into obscurity.

But unlike many forgotten stops, Seligman reinvented itself by embracing its Route 66 heritage. Today, it stands as one of the most famous preservation towns along the historic highway, drawing visitors from around the world who want to experience authentic roadside America.

Movie Magic Brought to Life in the Streets

Seligman Arizona

Walking through Seligman feels like entering a living movie set. The town’s colourful storefronts and retro signage reflect the playful spirit seen in Cars, where every building and vehicle tells a story.

Visitors will notice playful nods to the film scattered throughout town. Outside Historic Seligman Sundries, a vintage tow truck resembling the beloved character Mater greets passersby with its signature rusty grin.

At The Motoporium, a pastel-coloured Volkswagen Beetle reminiscent of the character Fillmore adds to the whimsical charm. These artistic touches make Seligman feel like a real-world tribute to Pixar’s creative vision.

Route 66 Nostalgia at Every Turn

Seligman Arizona

Seligman is often referred to as the birthplace of the modern Route 66 revival movement. Local business owners worked together to preserve the town’s identity, transforming it into a nostalgic destination celebrating classic American road culture.

From neon-lit diners to retro souvenir shops, every corner of Seligman reflects the golden age of road travel. Classic cars line the streets, and vintage murals tell stories of long road trips, family adventures, and the freedom of the open highway.

A Town That Refused to Fade Away

Seligman Arizona

What makes Seligman truly special is its resilience. Instead of disappearing after being bypassed by the interstate, the community chose to embrace its history and turn it into its greatest strength.

This spirit of reinvention is exactly what inspired Pixar’s storytelling in Cars, where forgotten towns rediscover their identity and importance through community and connection.

Why Seligman Is a Must-Visit Route 66 Destination

For travellers exploring Route 66, Seligman offers more than just photo opportunities. It delivers an authentic experience of small-town America, complete with friendly locals, historic charm, and cinematic nostalgia.

Whether you are a film enthusiast, road trip adventurer, or cultural explorer, Seligman provides a rare chance to step inside a real-life version of a beloved animated world.

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For travel features, Route 66 guides, and destination inspiration, visit:
Website: https://tourism.az.gov/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

What is Happening in Arizona

Sedona's natural wonders 

New Arizona Wild Bunch: Family Pass

Families traveling with kids can discover all of Arizona's best family-friendly activities with the new Arizona Wild Bunch: Family Pass. The free passport offers an interactive map and guide that showcases more than 60 kid-approved attractions and destinations across the state. With this pass as a resource, families can easily plan their trip and embark on fun adventures like riding the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, expressing creativity at the i.d.e.a Museum in Mesa, or exploring five completely different environments at Biosphere 2 near Tucson. With an abundance of outdoor adventures, museums, zoos and hands-on activities — there's something fun to discover for the whole family.

Visit Mesa Launches a New Digital Accessibility Travel Guide

Visit Mesa

Mesa, the world's first Autism Certified City, now offers a new digital Accessibility Travel Guide that helps people on the autism spectrum and their families easily plan and enjoy their visit. The new guide showcases the city's sensory-friendly attractions, autism-certified businesses and firsthand stories from travelers to support inclusive travel. As the first city to earn a Destination Verified Seal from Wheel the World, a website dedicated to connecting people with disabilities with recommended activities in destinations, Mesa's new guide also includes accessible trails, accommodations and resources.

Accolades

Travel + Leisure Names Sedona 'Most Mindful Destination on Earth'
Sedona's natural wonders and spiritual elements have earned the prestigious designation of "Most Mindful Destination on Earth" by Travel + Leisure. After analyzing thousands of TripAdvisor reviews for three years, Sedona scored a 92 on the mindfulness scale, beating other wellness hotspots to claim the honor. Sedona's red rock formations, strong spiritual community and energy vortexes help many travelers discover serenity and inner transformation. In addition to the vortexes, visitors can enjoy world-class spas and resorts, scenic hiking trails and a thriving arts community.

Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience Named “Best Under the Radar Activity”

Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience

PHOENIX Magazine's Arizona Travel Awards named Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience as the “Best Under the Radar Activity” for their “Best of the Valley” July/August 2025 issue. This two-day event, held in November, features Native Arizona cuisine, arts, and live performances. Attendees enjoy curated tasting stations and demonstrations by Indigenous chefs.

What new in Arizona Attractions

W Scottsdale

Enjoy an AI-Powered Massage at the W Scottsdale

Those ready to combine technology and tradition should experience a one-of-a-kind massage at the AWAY Spa in W Scottsdale, now offering Arizona's first AI-powered massage in collaboration with Aescape. This cutting-edge treatment features intelligent robotic arms guided by advanced AI technology to deliver a customized full-body massage. Guests can personalize their session by selecting pressure levels, target areas, and massage styles while the system responds and adjusts in real-time.

Unwind on a Lake Pleasant Cruise this Summer

Lake Pleasant

Visitors can explore Lake Pleasant in Peoria on an hour-long themed cruise aboard Lake Pleasant Cruises. They can watch a signature Arizona sunset on the water while enjoying a mouthwatering dinner and live music on the Sunset Music Cruise. They may want to savor brunch with a view on the Brunch Cruise or enjoy a personal charcuterie cup on the Wine & Cheese Music Cruise. If they are looking to learn about the lake and the surrounding desert fauna? The Narrated Sightseeing Cruises offers insights into the local landscape. This cruise also offers the best chance to spot desert creatures.

Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott is Now an Officially Recognized Arboretum

Sharlot Hall Museum

Plant lovers can wander among 89 species of trees and woody plants at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, a newly recognized arboretum. Visitors can explore the museum's four-acre campus, including the Yavpé Ethnobotany Garden, created with the help of the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe. Or, they choose to stroll through the stunning Memorial Rose Garden, home to 180 rose varieties and dedicated to Arizona's early pioneer and frontier women. Visitors can also explore the museum's eight historic buildings, including the log cabin Governor's Mansion built in 1864 for the first Governor of the Arizona Territory, John Goodwin. This landmark houses exhibits on pioneer life, the history of the Yavapai people and early vehicles.

Cosmic Wonders and Desert Surprises: New Adventures Await in Arizona

Mt. Lemmon Sky Center

Discover the unexpected in the Grand Canyon State

Arizona is known for its iconic red rock landscapes and sun-soaked deserts, but a fresh wave of attractions is giving travellers new reasons to explore this diverse southwestern state. From stargazing under pristine dark skies to surfing in the Sonoran Desert, Arizona’s latest experiences offer a thrilling blend of nature, culture and innovation. Here’s what’s new and not to miss.

Follow the Stars on Tucson’s New Astro Trail

Southern Arizona has long been a haven for astronomers, and now travellers can chart their own course through the cosmos with Tucson’s newly launched Astro Trail. This self-guided journey connects some of the best dark-sky locations in the state with astronomical institutions and natural wonders.

Explore the stars from world-renowned observatories like Kitt Peak, take a night hike in Saguaro National Park, or enjoy immersive exhibits at the Pima Air & Space Museum. The Astro Trail is designed to inspire celestial curiosity while highlighting Arizona’s commitment to preserving its incredible night skies.

Experience Monument Valley by Moonlight

Goulding’s Lodge has added a magical twist to one of Arizona’s most iconic destinations with their new Full Moon Tour. Offered on select nights from April through October, this unique excursion takes guests into the heart of Monument Valley under the glow of the moon.

Led by a local Navajo guide, the tour explores towering sandstone formations while offering insights into Navajo traditions, history and spirituality. It's a serene and powerful way to connect with the landscape, far from the daytime crowds.

Get Eye to Eye with Big Cats in Phoenix

Big Cats of Arizona

The Phoenix Zoo has just unveiled a major new attraction with the opening of the “Big Cats of Arizona: A Bridge to Arizona Wilderness” habitat. This immersive space allows visitors to observe mountain lions and jaguars up close, including a dramatic “catwalk” that lets the big cats roam above guests.

The habitat not only creates a thrilling experience for zoo-goers but also educates visitors about Arizona’s native wildcats and conservation efforts. It's a bold addition that brings the state’s untamed wilderness into the city.

0Catch a Desert Wave in Mesa

Surfing in Arizona? You read that right. Revel Surf in Mesa, the state’s first and only surf park, brings the beach to the desert. Officially opened in February 2025, the park offers a customizable wave lagoon where beginners can take lessons and experienced surfers can test their skills on six-foot waves.

With a consistent wave face over 30 feet wide, the surf experience is paired with relaxed beach vibes, sun lounges and refreshment areas—making it the perfect desert day out for thrill seekers and sun lovers alike.

Plan Your Arizona Escape

Whether you're chasing stars in Tucson, moonlit moments in Monument Valley, or desert waves in Mesa, Arizona’s latest attractions prove the state’s ability to surprise and delight in every season.

For more information about planning your trip to Arizona, visit:
https://www.visitarizona.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Arizona: Places to Go in 2024

 Tucson

Experience Tucson's History and Culture

Condé Nast Traveler recognized Tucson as one of the best places to go in North America in 2024, especially for embracing its rich history and culture. Travelers are encouraged to explore downtown's historic Barrio Viejo, which contains the largest collection of Sonoran Row houses in the U.S. The area is also set to receive a National Historic Landmark designation in 2024. While at Barrio Viejo, enjoy dining and shopping before visiting the nearby Tucson Museum of Art to celebrate the museum's centennial anniversary. A must-visit for families, Tucson's numerous museums, outdoor recreation and fine cuisine earned the city recognition in Good Housekeeping's 2024 Family Travel Awards.

Explore All of Arizona In the New Year

Grand Canyon

Arizona was the only U.S. state that earned a spot on luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent's List of the best destinations to travel in 2024. The tour operator highlighted Arizona's diverse experiences, including the Verde Valley wine-growing region, Tucson's thriving culinary scene as the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Scottsdale's ongoing sustainability efforts and the new Ambiente hotel in Sedona as reasons to visit, along with exploring the iconic Grand Canyon, Route 66 and Navajo Nation.

For more information and inspiration: www.visitarizona.com
* Arizona Office of Tourism https://www.visitarizona.com/
* Taryn Super at tsuper@tourism.az.gov

Arizona: New Celebrations 2024

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Boyce Thompson Arboretum to Celebrate Centennial Anniversary in 2024

Celebrate 100 Years of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior by exploring its new exhibits, tours and sustainability programs. In the new Spiny Splendor exhibit, marvel at hedgehog cacti, named after the arboretum's founder, Colonel William Boyce Thompson, surrounded by fiberglass sculptures decorated by local artists. Leading up to the new year, the arboretum will launch its 100 Tree Spree, where they will plant 100 trees and host new sustainability educational programs in 2024.

Chiricahua National Monument to Celebrate Centennial Anniversary in 2024

Visit the Chiricahua National Monument in 2024 to celebrate this hidden gem's centennial anniversary and hike among whimsical rhyolite rock pinnacles, better known as hoodoos, made from the remains of an ancient volcano eruption. Explore the area's 17 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Echo Canyon Trail, where travelers can immerse themselves among the irregular rock formations. Additionally, the bipartisan Chiricahua National Park Act, which is under consideration by Congress, would designate the monument as the state's fourth national park.

Saguaro National Park becomes the World's Ninth Urban Night Sky Place

Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park in Tucson was designated the newest certified Urban Nighty Sky Place in November 2023, the second National Park to earn this recognition, for implementing sustainable lighting that allows for an authentic nighttime experience despite its proximity to an urban area. Here, visitors can marvel at the park's sea of saguaro cacti before stargazing at the starry skies at night.

For more information and inspiration: www.visitarizona.com
* Arizona Office of Tourism https://www.visitarizona.com/
* Taryn Super at tsuper@tourism.az.gov

Arizona: New Hotels for 2024

Tin Can Alley AirBnb

Tin Can Alley AirBnb To Welcome Travelers on Route 66

Opening Spring 2024
With the Route 66 Centennial only two years away, Kingman will welcome visitors exploring the Mother Road at Tin Can Alley starting in Spring 2024. This new Airbnb experience along Route 66 allows guests to stay overnight in renovated vintage Airstream trailers, footsteps away from the city's numerous museums, retro diners and memorabilia shops. Be sure to start every adventurous day at Mud on 66, the onsite coffee shop in a transformed mid-century tavern, and end it at Scoops, a refurbished 1939 Mobile gas station serving delicious ice cream.

VAI Resort Brings Oasis to the Desert in 2024

VAI Resort

Opening 2024
The ultimate desert oasis is the best way to describe the coming VAI Resort in Glendale. With its white sand beaches and six-acre swimming pool, VAI takes a lazy day at the pool to the next level with Konos Island, a man-made place to party. Konos offers guests a Mediterranean restaurant, private cabanas and an aerial bar to take in panoramic views from 130 feet in the air. Guests will have everything they need to create a memorable trip thanks to its entertainment epicenter, shopping corridor, ten exclusive bars, and 13 deluxe restaurants. This property and its associated Mattel Adventure Park are among the primary reasons Frommer's named Glendale as one of its Best Places to Go in 2024.

The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie Offers Luxury in 2024

Opening 2024
The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie is designed with the luxury traveler in mind. Guaranteed to offer high-end experiences, this resort will enhance any trip to Arizona with its world-class spa, views of Camelback Mountain and specialty dining. Adjacent to the resort will be The Palmeraie Shops, an open-air paradise where shoppers can wander through more than 60 boutiques and dine at one of the dozen restaurants.

First Grand Hyatt Property in Arizona to Open in 2024

Opening late 2024
The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch will undergo an approximately $110 million renovation and be rebranded as the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa, making it the first Grand Hyatt property in Arizona. Guests will enjoy the newly renovated guest rooms, pools, spa, fitness center and event spaces in between exploring the endless activities within Scottsdale.

Caesars Republic Scottsdale Set to Open in 2024 as First Non-Gaming Caesars Hotel in U.S.

Caesars Republic Scottsdale

Opening in February 2024
Visitors seeking fine dining and a convenient luxury shopping experience should book their next vacation at Caesars Republic Scottsdale, the first non-gaming hotel from Caesars Entertainment in the U.S. Located near Scottsdale Fashion Square, the 11-story lifestyle hotel offers two new dining concepts created by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis that will serve Romanian and Italian-inspired cuisine.

Dual-Branded TownePlace Suites and Fairfield by Marriott Property to Open in Tempe

Opening early 2024
Aqua-Aston Hospitality will open a new dual-branded Marriott International hotel in Tempe. Located in the heart of the Phoenix metro area, guests can easily explore countless retail, restaurant and entertainment venues, such as nearby Tempe Market Station, before returning to the hotel's comfortable Fairfield Inn rooms or TownePlace Suites to relax before heading to the pool or onsite restaurant and bar.

The Scottsdale Resort & Spa by Hilton to Reopen After Multi-Million Dollar Makeover

Opening in 2024
Once known as the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, the resort has transformed into The Scottsdale Resort and Spa after undergoing multimillion-dollar enhancements. Guests will enjoy the revamped guest rooms and spa along with the resort's brand-new hidden speakeasy, signature restaurant, indoor golf simulator and lounge.

The Global Ambassador

The Global Ambassador

Opened December 2023
Oriented around its plaza courtyard, The Global Ambassador in Phoenix offers an elevated hospitality experience with incomparable views of Camelback Mountain. An ideal spot for foodies with five original dining experiences onsite, guests can easily enjoy fine dining every night. Unwind at the ultra-luxe spa before sipping a cocktail and observing the sunset sky when dining at the rooftop restaurant, théa Mediterranean Rooftop.

For more information and inspiration: www.visitarizona.com
* Arizona Office of Tourism https://www.visitarizona.com/
* Taryn Super at tsuper@tourism.az.gov

Arizona: New Attractions for 2024

Rockin' River Ranch State Park

New Rockin' River Ranch State Park to Open in Camp Verde

Opening 2024
Be one of the first to visit and explore Rockin' River Ranch State Park in Camp Verde. Spend the day at Arizona's newest state park and enjoy hiking trails, kayaking or fishing while you take in remarkable views of the cottonwood tree-lined Verde River. Then, have a picnic at this day-use-only park. After visiting, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding Verde Valley for even more outdoor adventures such as visiting Montezuma Castle National Monument and touring the area wineries.

New Astronomy Discovery Center Coming in 2024 to Lowell Observatory

Opening November 2024
Infinite wonders await at the new Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, which will enable visitors to explore the origins and growth of the universe through the lens of astronomy with new exhibits and experiences. For example, the new Universe Theater will take guests on a journey through the galaxy with the help of the theater's awe-inspiring two-story, 165-degree curved LED screen. While there, visitors can also marvel at Flagstaff's famous dark skies and explore at the Giovale Open Deck Observatory.

2024 NCAA Men's Final Four Returns to Glendale

April 2024
The legendary college basketball tournament returns to crown a champion in Arizona this April with the Men's Final Four games hosted at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale. In between games, visitors can explore Westgate for shopping outlets, cuisine and nightlife before embarking on adventures across the state.

First-Ever Mattel Adventure Park To Open in Glendale

Mattel Adventure Park

Opening 2024
See the Mattel toys and board games you love come to life at Mattel Adventure Park, the first-ever Mattel-branded theme park opening in Glendale. Join Barbie at the Barbie Beach House attraction where fans of all ages can curate an ultimate wardrobe with Barbie through hologram technology. Then hit the four-level Hot Wheels go-kart track for a thrill before speeding off on the Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer and Hot Wheels Boneshaker rollercoaster.


For more information and inspiration: www.visitarizona.com
* Arizona Office of Tourism https://www.visitarizona.com/
* Taryn Super at tsuper@tourism.az.gov