Wigwam Motel Holbrook

The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook is one of only three remaining Wigwam Villages in the United States, offering a truly distinctive lodging experience where guests sleep inside concrete teepee-shaped rooms. Beyond the unique architecture, the motel features a captivating display of vintage automobiles from the 1960s and earlier, and its office houses a small museum with Route 66 memorabilia, petrified wood, and Native American artifacts. Its direct inspiration for Sally's Cozy Cone Motel in Disney/Pixar's Cars also adds to its unique appeal.

Yes, the Wigwam Motel is strategically located for exploring the natural beauty of Arizona. It serves as an excellent base for visiting Petrified Forest National Park, which offers numerous scenic drives and short hiking trails among ancient petrified wood formations and colorful badlands. Another significant natural feature nearby is the Meteor Crater (Barringer Crater), a well-preserved impact crater offering a unique geological experience.

While the Wigwam Motel is open year-round, the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring Holbrook and nearby attractions like Petrified Forest National Park. Summers can be very hot, and winters can bring cold temperatures, though the motel rooms are climate-controlled for comfort regardless of the season.

The Wigwam Motel itself, being a historic property, may have limitations regarding full wheelchair accessibility in all its individual teepee rooms. It's advisable to contact the motel directly to inquire about specific room accessibility and any accommodations they might offer. The parking lot and general grounds are flat, but the interior of the teepees might pose challenges. Nearby attractions like Petrified Forest National Park offer some accessible viewpoints and facilities, but trail accessibility varies.

The Wigwam Motel itself is considered family-friendly, offering a unique and educational experience for all ages, especially with its vintage cars and museum. For dog-friendly options, Petrified Forest National Park is notably pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on all paved roads, pullouts, and trails. This makes it an excellent choice for families traveling with their canine companions. Always check specific attraction policies before visiting.

Holbrook offers several local dining options that capture the spirit of Route 66. You'll find classic American diners and cafes serving comfort food, often with a Southwestern flair. Many are independently owned and provide a taste of local culture. It's recommended to explore the main streets of Holbrook for a variety of choices, from casual eateries to more established local favorites.

Most visitors find that spending one night at the Wigwam Motel is sufficient to fully experience its unique atmosphere, explore the vintage car collection, and browse the museum. If you plan to visit nearby attractions like Petrified Forest National Park or Meteor Crater, consider extending your stay to two nights to allow for a more relaxed exploration of the surrounding area without feeling rushed.

Beyond the Wigwam Motel itself, Holbrook and the surrounding Route 66 corridor are rich with quirky roadside attractions. Keep an eye out for the Jack Rabbit Trading Post with its iconic 'Here It Is' billboard, various dinosaur statues scattered around Holbrook, and other vintage signs and relics that celebrate the golden age of American road trips. These spots offer fantastic photo opportunities and a nostalgic journey back in time.

In spring, Holbrook's weather can be variable. It's best to dress in layers. Daytime temperatures are generally pleasant, but mornings and evenings can still be cool. A light jacket or sweater is advisable, along with comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore nearby parks. Sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, is also recommended due to the high desert environment.

Public transport options are very limited in Holbrook, Arizona, and virtually non-existent for reaching the Wigwam Motel or exploring the surrounding attractions. The area is best navigated by private vehicle. Travelers typically arrive by car, often as part of a Route 66 road trip, making personal transportation essential for convenience and flexibility.

The entire Wigwam Motel property is a photographer's dream! Key photo spots include the individual teepee rooms, especially at dusk when the 'Sleep in a Wigwam' neon sign illuminates. The collection of vintage automobiles parked around the property provides excellent backdrops. Don't miss capturing the unique architecture of the main office and the various Route 66 memorabilia found on-site.