ABANDONED FORT COURAGE

Step back in time on Route 66, and into the Wild West! This ain’t no F Troop mirage, folks. This is Fort Courage, abandoned and baking under the Arizona sun. Grab your canteen and follow me, as we explore this forgotten outpost… if you’ve got the guts!

Ever heard of Fort Courage? 🌵 This abandoned Route 66 attraction in Arizona has a fascinating story. Watch the video above to uncover its secrets!

Hey folks, Big Mike here, and I’m gonna let you in on a little secret about Route 66 in Arizona: Houck. Now, it might not be the biggest or the flashiest town on the Mother Road, but trust me, it’s got a story to tell.

Back in its heyday, Houck was a bustling stop for travelers and traders. It all started with a humble trading post, then the railroad came through, and boom – Houck was on the map! Folks were passing through, stocking up on supplies, sharing stories, and experiencing that classic Route 66 spirit.

And speaking of spirit, let me tell you about Fort Courage. This place was something else! They built it to look just like the fort from that old “F Troop” TV show, and it was a real hit with travelers. You could grab a bite to eat, find some unique souvenirs, and even spend the night. It was like stepping back in time to the Wild West!

Sadly, Fort Courage has seen better days. Time, and a bit of bad luck, have taken their toll. But don’t worry, Houck still has plenty to offer.

Where to stay near Houck Arizona

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The Best Place to Stay near Houck Arizona or Fort Courage

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Fort Courage? Isn’t that just a pile of rubble now?” And you’d be right, it’s seen better days. But back in its prime, Fort Courage was THE place to be in Houck. We’re talking a pancake house serving up fluffy stacks, a Taco Bell slingin’ those tasty tacos, and of course, a trading post chock-full of souvenirs and treasures. But time, as it often does, marched on. The crowds thinned, businesses closed, and eventually, only the weathered bones of Fort Courage remained. It’s a bittersweet sight, a reminder that even the most bustling places can fade with time. But hey, that’s part of what makes Route 66 so fascinating, ain’t it? It’s a journey through history, with all its ups and downs.

a Taco Bell slingin’ those tasty tacos, and of course, a trading post chock-full of souvenirs and treasures. But time, as it often does, marched on.

The crowds thinned, businesses closed, and eventually, only the weathered bones of Fort Courage remained. It’s a bittersweet sight, a reminder that even the most bustling places can fade with time. But hey, that’s part of what makes Route 66 so fascinating, ain’t it? It’s a journey through history, with all its ups and downs.

Houck still has plenty to offer. There’s Ortegs’a Indian City Trading Post, a modern spot with all sorts of interesting finds. And then there’s Chee’s Indian Store, a family-owned business where you can find authentic Native American crafts and support the local community.

East of Houck, Arizona on Route 66

Lupton, Arizona

Right at the New Mexico border, Lupton sits tucked into the red rock cliffs. It’s best known for its roadside trading posts carved right into the stone. These shops sell Navajo jewelry, pottery, and souvenirs, continuing a tradition that started back when Route 66 first came through.

Gallup, New Mexico

Just a short drive east, Gallup is one of the larger towns along this stretch of Route 66. The crown jewel is the El Rancho Hotel, a grand lodge that hosted Hollywood stars filming westerns nearby. Downtown is full of murals, local diners, and trading posts packed with Zuni and Navajo crafts.

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West of Houck, Arizona on Route 66

Chee’s Indian Store (in Houck)

Right in Houck, Chee’s Indian Store has been a Route 66 mainstay since 1948. Family-owned and operated, it offers some of the best authentic Navajo rugs, jewelry, and pottery along the highway.

Ortega’s Indian City (in Houck)

Across the road from Chee’s is Ortega’s Indian City Arts, with its tepee-style front and large selection of handcrafted Southwestern goods. It’s a great stop for serious collectors or curious travelers alike.

Chambers, Arizona

A few miles west of Houck, Chambers is quiet now, but it once had several Route 66 stops. Today, the highlight is the Old Red Mesa Garage, an abandoned gas station that still stands at Exit 333. It’s a favorite for photographers looking to capture the spirit of forgotten America.

Sanders, Arizona

Further west, Sanders offers a peek into Route 66’s past through the remains of roadside businesses. Look for the White Elephant Lodge, the old Stop Go Café, and a classic Valentine Diner—all standing as relics of the road’s golden era.

Route 66 Attractions in Houck, Arizona

1. ABANDONED Fort Courage
2. Chee’s Indian Store
3. Ortega Indian City Arts