The “Here It Is” Sign: A Route 66 Landmark

Now, folks, as we continue our journey down Route 66, there’s a little town that’s near and dear to my heart: Joseph City, Arizona. It might be small, but it’s got a big claim to fame, and that’s the iconic Jack Rabbit Trading Post.

This place has been a Route 66 staple since the 1940s, and it’s one of those roadside attractions that just makes you smile. You see that giant fiberglass jackrabbit standin’ tall, and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special.

Meet Mr. Rabbit: The Star of the Jack Rabbit Trading Post

Now, when you visit the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, you gotta make time to meet the star of the show: Mr. Rabbit himself! This ain’t no ordinary bunny, folks; he’s a giant masterpiece, standin’ tall and proud, just waitin’ to greet you with a toothy grin.

And here’s the best part: you can actually climb aboard Mr. Rabbit and take a ride! Yep, that’s right, you can saddle up on this oversized bunny and snap a photo that’ll be the envy of all your Route 66 buddies. It’s a chance to let your inner child run wild and create a memory that’ll last a lifetime.

So, don’t be shy, folks. Hop on Mr. Rabbit, give him a pat on the head, and say cheese! It’s a Route 66 photo op you won’t wanna miss.

Where to stay near Joseph City Arizona

Joseph City doesn’t have many lodging options right in town, but there are great places to stay just down the road in either direction.

If you’re headed east, stop in Holbrook — a classic Route 66 town with vintage charm. It’s home to the famous Wigwam Motel, plus reliable stays like Best Western Arizonian Inn, which makes a great overnight base.

If you’re rolling west, Winslow has you covered with both comfort and history. Check out the beautifully restored La Posada Hotel, a 1930s railroad-era gem that’s become a true Route 66 favorite. You’ll also find familiar comfort at the Best Western Plus Winslow Inn.

No matter which direction you’re going, you’re just a short drive from a good night’s rest.

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Jack Rabbit Trading Post: A Must-Stop on Route 66

Now, let me tell you, the Jack Rabbit Trading Post is not just a roadside attraction; it’s a Route 66 institution. It’s one of those places that captures the true spirit of the Mother Road, a place where history, nostalgia, and good ol’ fashioned fun collide.

Whether you’re lookin’ for souvenirs, Native American crafts, or just a chance to stretch your legs and soak up the Route 66 vibe, the Jack Rabbit Trading Post has got you covered. And don’t forget to say hello to Mr. Rabbit himself and snap a photo on his back. It’s a Route 66 experience you won’t wanna miss.

TAKE A TOUR OF THE GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Howdy Hank’s: A Ghostly Glimpse from the Road

Just a short hop down the road from the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, you’ll catch a glimpse of a Route 66 ghost: Howdy Hank’s. Now, you can’t actually wander through this one, folks, since it’s on private property. But even from the road, it’s a sight to behold. Back in its heyday, Howdy Hank’s was a bustling trading post, a haven for travelers seeking souvenirs and supplies along the Mother Road. And get this – it even had a wooden tepee built right into the building! Can you imagine? Talk about a unique blend of Route 66 and Native American culture.

Today, Howdy Hank’s stands silent and weathered, a reminder of how time can change even the most vibrant places. But don’t let the quiet fool ya. Howdy Hank’s still whispers stories of Route 66’s past. Imagine those travelers browsin’ for treasures, families gatherin’ ’round to share stories, and laughter fillin’ the air. It’s a reminder that even ghosts have tales to tell, and that the spirit of the Mother Road lives on, even in the quietest corners.

Red Arrow Camps: A Faded Memory on Route 66

Now, just a little ways down the road from Howdy Hank’s, you’ll spot another piece of Route 66 history, though it’s a bit more…faded. It’s the Red Arrow Camps Campground, or at least what’s left of it. The campground itself is long gone, but the sign still stands, a proud reminder of a time when families piled into their station wagons and set off on cross-country adventures.

You can still see some of the wooden remains of the campground, those weathered picnic tables and fire pits where folks gathered to share stories and roast marshmallows under the desert stars. It’s a bit melancholic, I know, but it’s also a testament to the enduring spirit of Route 66. Even though the campground is gone, the memories linger, and the spirit of adventure lives on.

Things to Do in Joseph City, Arizona

Joseph City may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to quirky roadside stops and Route 66 nostalgia. A must-see is the legendary Jack Rabbit Trading Post, home to the iconic “Here It Is” sign and the giant fiberglass jackrabbit known as Mr. Rabbit — and yes, you can climb on for a fun photo that screams classic Americana. While you’re there, step inside the shop for Route 66 souvenirs and vintage roadside charm.

Just a little ways down the road, you’ll find Howdy Hank’s — a long-abandoned trading post with a wooden tepee built right into the front. Across the street stands the weathered Red Arrow Camps sign, a faded relic from a once-busy campground. Both are private property, but still make for great photo ops from the road. To find them, take the next exit east of the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, cross over the freeway, then turn left at the T in the road — they’ll be right there, within about 100 yards of each other.

Add in the joy of simply cruising Route 66 through Joseph City, and you’ve got yourself a quick but memorable stop with a few great stories to tell and photos to snap. It’s a town where the old road still hums with history, even in the quietest corners.

🌵 Nearby Attractions: East Toward Holbrook & Petrified Forest

If you’re heading east from Joseph City, you’re just a few miles away from some classic Route 66 stops in Holbrook. First up is the Wigwam Motel, where travelers can still sleep in concrete teepees and admire vintage cars parked out front. It’s one of the most photographed motels along the Mother Road.

Just down the road, the Geronimo Trading Post offers a fun roadside stop with souvenirs and what’s claimed to be the world’s largest piece of petrified wood out front. Great for a photo op and a quick stretch.

Keep rolling and you’ll reach the entrance to Petrified Forest National Park — a rare national park that Route 66 once ran straight through. Visitors can see colorful badlands, petrified logs scattered like ancient bones, Native American petroglyphs, and even the remains of the old Route 66 alignment. Whether you hike or just take the scenic drive, it’s one of the most unforgettable natural spots along the highway.

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🌆 Nearby Attractions: West Toward Winslow & Meteor Crater

If you’re traveling west from Joseph City, you’ll hit Winslow, a town that’s been brought back to life by Route 66 pride and a certain rock ‘n’ roll lyric. Stop by the Standin’ on the Corner Park, where a bronze statue and mural honor the Eagles’ hit song. It’s one of the most famous photo ops on the entire route.

Next, step into history at the La Posada Hotel, a beautifully restored 1930s railroad-era hotel that still welcomes travelers today. Even if you’re not staying the night, it’s worth visiting for the gardens, art, and one of the best restaurants on the route.

A short drive further west brings you to Meteor Crater, an awe-inspiring site formed by a meteorite over 50,000 years ago. It’s one of the best-preserved craters on Earth, complete with an interactive visitor center and sweeping views from the rim.

Before you reach Two Guns, you’ll also pass Meteor City, a once-abandoned trading post that’s being restored and reopened. With its dome structure and long mural wall, it’s another piece of Route 66 history that’s making a comeback.

Route 66 Attractions in Joseph City, Arizona

1. Jack Rabbit Trading Post: This iconic trading post features a giant jackrabbit statue and is famous for its “Here It Is” sign, which has been a Route 66 landmark for many years. You can stop here for a photo opportunity and to browse through the gift shop.
2. Red Arrow Campground the remains of a abandoned old campground
3. Howdy Hanks an abandoned trading post with a wooden tepee.