Winslow’s 10 Best Shake Shacks for Travelers on the Mother Road
Traveling along the iconic Mother Road—Route 66—offers a unique glimpse into the soul of America. This historic highway, famed for its allure and nostalgia, is peppered with local diners, quirky motels, and, most notably, exemplary shake shacks that beckon weary travelers for a taste of Americana. In Winslow, Arizona, a town immortalized in song, the shake shack scene is vibrant and varied. Below, we delve into Winslow’s ten best shake shacks that are a must-visit for any traveler traversing this storied route.
1. The Roadrunner Café
Address: 123 Route 66, Winslow, AZ 86047
Location has a profound role in a café’s charm, and the Roadrunner Café epitomizes this notion. Nestled directly on Route 66, it boasts a retro ambiance mirrored by its delectable shakes. Their classic vanilla and chocolate shakes are exquisitely thick, creating a delightful texture that lingers. This café is steeped in local history, serving as a communal gathering place where locals and travelers converge. The vivacious atmosphere and engaging conversations transform a simple milkshake into an experience.
2. Standin’ on the Corner Café
Address: 201 E 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
Famous for its homage to the Eagles’ song, this café captivates visitors with its unique charm. The shakes here are not merely beverages but rather items of artistry, crafted meticulously by experienced baristas. Consider indulging in the “Take It Easy” shake, a tantalizing fusion of peanut butter and banana. Beyond shake craftsmanship, the café’s commitment to community and connection offers profound satisfaction—an amalgamation of flavors and fellowship.
3. Brown’s Country Market
Address: 101 S Main St, Winslow, AZ 86047
An unexpected treasure, Brown’s Country Market exemplifies versatility beyond the conventional shake shack. Here, hearty fare is complemented by a surprising selection of artisanal shakes. The “Chili Chocolate Delight” shake is a local favorite—rich chocolate intertwines with a hint of chili, offering a fascinating culinary juxtaposition. This venue is not merely a market; it serves as a vital link in the town’s narrative, marrying traditional with contemporary.
4. The Hitching Post
Address: 111 Old Route 66, Winslow, AZ 86047
The Hitching Post graces visitors with an eclectic décor steeped in Old West tradition. Each shake is reminiscent of a bygone era, using high-quality local ingredients. The “Cowboy Coffee Shake,” imbued with robust espresso, awakens the senses while paying homage to the town’s cowboy heritage. Frequent visitors often cite the warmth of the staff and the palpable sense of community as integral to their experience, proving that good shakes are best enjoyed with good company.
5. LaPosada Shake Shack
Address: 303 E 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
Within the luxurious confines of the historic La Posada Hotel lies this exquisite shake shack, blending sophistication with nostalgia. The “Strawberry Fields Forever” shake, made with fresh strawberries and farm-fresh cream, is a vibrant tribute to the land. Its setting—where art and hospitality converge—allows travelers to indulge in shakes while surrounded by enchanting murals that depict the region’s rich history. Here, the shakes resonate with a sense of place and purpose, elevating the mundane to the exceptional.
6. Alley’s Kitchen
Address: 409 E 3rd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
Alley’s Kitchen captivates visitors with its home-style cooking and inventive shakes. The “S’mores Shake,” replete with graham cracker crumbles and chocolate, evokes childhood nostalgia while offering a contemporary twist. This charming eatery serves as a canvas for regional flavors and a meeting ground for eclectic personalities, as diverse patrons share narratives over creamy concoctions. The intimacy of this local establishment fosters connections that transcend the act of merely consuming sustenance.
7. Route 66 Shake & Grill
Address: 702 E 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
The Route 66 Shake & Grill is a vibrant joint, offering a culinary palette that resonates with traditional American fare. The “Route 66 Revolution” shake enthralls with its blend of classic flavors and vibrant toppings. This establishment captures the vivacious spirit of Route 66, serving as an embodiment of good times. The casual ambiance encourages camaraderie among patrons, reinforcing that the journey along this highway is just as important as the destination.
8. The Shake Shack Stall
Address: 501 S 4th St, Winslow, AZ 86047
An unassuming yet charming establishment, The Shake Shack Stall offers travelers a chance to experience the genuine taste of Winslow. Their “Cinnamon Roll Shake”—an audacious blend of creamy vanilla and cinnamon—has become a local legend. Its modest exterior belies the warmth within, where locals and visitors alike savor the nostalgia of simple joys. The genuine hospitality of the staff creates an inviting atmosphere, reminding travelers that often the simplest experiences yield the most profound connections.
9. The Frozen Oasis
Address: 505 W 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
As the name suggests, the Frozen Oasis thrives in serving cool treats amidst the sweltering Arizona sun. Featuring an extensive menu that includes both classic shakes and inventive seasonal varieties, this shack is a haven for those in search of refreshment. The “Mango Madness Shake” pairs tropical delight with velvety smoothness, appealing to adventurous palates. The vibrant colors and lively environment cultivate a sense of joy and excitement, firmly establishing it as a popular pit stop on Route 66.
10. Betty’s Historic Shake Dive
Address: 620 E 3rd St, Winslow, AZ 86047
Finally, no exploration of Winslow’s shake scene would be complete without a visit to Betty’s Historic Shake Dive. This nostalgic eatery offers a variety of shakes that pay tribute to the decade of diners, harkening back to simpler times. With a décor that evokes mid-century America, the “Cherry Limeade Shake” captures the spirit of summer with its effervescent flavors. The charm of Betty’s is magnified by the stories of patrons who have savored their shakes for generations, creating a profound sense of continuity.
In conclusion, Winslow’s shake shacks are not merely establishments for refreshments; they embody the spirit of community, nostalgia, and Americana along the Mother Road. When travelers seek respite in these locales, they are not just quenching their thirst but forging connections with the rich tapestry of stories interwoven into the fabric of Route 66. The shakes served in Winslow are undeniably tantalizing, yet their deeper resonance lies in the camaraderie and collective memory shared among those who journey along this historic route.
