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The 20 Best Things to do in Holbrook, AZ

Rabbit Trading Post

Holbrook, AZ is a small town located in the Navajo County of Arizona. The town is teeming with things to do, see, and experience. If you're looking for a fun-filled getaway, this is the place to go. This small town is home to some of the best attractions and activities in the area. From exploring ancient Native American ruins to marveling at the stars at the world's largest observatory, there's something for everyone in Holbrook. Here are the 20 best things to do in this charming Arizona town:

Navajo County Fairgrounds

20. Navajo County Fairgrounds

Navajo County Fairgrounds is a place where rodeos and fairs are held all year round. There are also a lot of events that take place here such as the Navajo County Fair, which is one of the biggest and most popular fairs in the area. According to The Crazy Tourist, the fairgrounds are also home to a variety of different businesses, including a food court, an amusement park, and a flea market. There's also a stage where live music is often performed. This is the perfect place to go if you're looking for a place to have some fun and experience some of the best that Holbrook has to offer.

Empty Pockets Saloon

19. Empty Pockets Saloon

Empty Pockets Saloon is one of the most popular places to go in Holbrook. There are pool tables and a jukebox that make it a great place to hang out with friends. The bartenders are also very friendly and will make sure you have a good time. You are allowed to come with takeouts here while you drink so you can have your dinner and a few drinks at the same time. It is also one of the most affordable places in Holbrook. It has a rustic vibe that is perfect for a small town.

Bucket of Blood Street

18. Bucket of Blood Street

This place was originally the infamous gunfight venue but now, it is a place where you can find many souvenir shops. It has become a well-known site that offer a variety of things to see and do. You will find many interesting things in this area including a replica of the gunfight that took place many years ago.

Heward Park

17. Heward Park

If you would like to experience the breath of fresh air, you need to visit Heward Park. This is one of the largest parks in Holbrook and it offers a great view of the city. You can also find a lot of activities to do here such as hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The park also has a playground for the kids. This green space is ideal for relaxing and even walking your pet. You can also find a lot of benches where you can sit and enjoy the view.

Mexican Food

16. Sombreritos Mexican Food

For those who love Mexican food, this is the place to be. This restaurant is known for its excellent food and service. According to Trip101, the dishes are all made with fresh ingredients and they offer a wide variety of options. The staff is also very friendly and they will make sure that you have a great experience. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The unique thing about this place is that they also offer a delivery service. So, if you are in the mood for some Mexican food, this is the place to go.

Petrified National Forest and Painted Desert

15. Petrified National Forest and Painted Desert

Petrified wood occurs when a piece of wood gets buried in minerals and water over a long time. The wood becomes a fossil and often turns different colors. The Petrified National Forest has one of the largest concentrations of petrified wood in the world. You can see it scattered throughout the park or take a hike to see some of the more remote pieces. The Painted Desert is a colorful badland that gets its name from the red, orange, and yellow rocks that make up the landscape. The hills and slopes come in varying shades of blue, tan, orange, and red. It also gets a pattern resembling the height and widths of fallen logs. The Painted Desert is one of the most photographed places.

Jim Gray’s Petrified Wood Co.

14. Jim Gray’s Petrified Wood Co.

Once you have completed the search for ancient stones, you will surely want to take one home. If that is the case, Jim Gray’s Petrified Wood Co. will help you out. They have a wide selection of polished petrified wood for sale, as well as unpolished wood and fossils. You can also buy rocks by the pound here. If you are looking for a certain type of rock, they may be able to help you find it. According to Atlas Obscura, you can also find souvenir wood pieces just like those found in the forest to take home with you. When you first enter, the woodshop smells like fresh sawdust. The sound of sanding and drilling fills the air. You are immediately greeted by one of the friendly staff members and offered help. The shop is full of wood pieces in all shapes and sizes. There are also many fossils for sale. The staff is very knowledgeable about the different types of rocks and can help you find what you are looking for.

Dobell Curios

13. Dobell Mineral & Excavations

Dobell Mineral & Excavations is a great place to learn about and purchase petrified wood. They also offer a variety of other minerals, rocks, and fossils. You can have a tour around observing different types of petrified wood or purchase some to take home with you. You will find something special here to take home as a gift for your loved ones. That is why this is one of the best things to do in Holbrook, AZ.

Painted Desert Site

12. Painted Desert Site

For the best shopping experience in Holbrook Arizona, visit the Painted Desert Indian Center. With a wide variety of Native American arts and crafts, the Painted Desert Indian Center is a great place to find that perfect souvenir. You can also purchase a wide variety of food items, including Navajo fry bread. According to Daily Out With Kids, there is also a wide variety of authentic native jewelry, clothing, and pottery. The Painted Desert Indian Center is a great place to learn about the rich culture of the Navajo people.

Crystal Forest Campground

11. Crystal Forest Campground Gift Shop

This is a must-see for any petrified wood enthusiast. Located right in the heart of the petrified forest, the Crystal Forest Gift Shop Campground has one of the largest selections of petrified wood in the area. They also offer a variety of other gifts and memorabilia, making it the perfect place to pick up a souvenir of your visit. This is a perfect place to stay for those who want to be close to the petrified wood and other attractions in the area. The atmosphere here is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Navajo County Museum

10. Navajo County Museum

Besides the rocks, Holbrook is rich in history. The Navajo County Historical Society’s Museum is small but mighty, providing an insight into the area’s past. It’s definitely worth an hour or two of your time. There are exhibits of local Native American tribes, pioneer life, and the famous Route 66. The museum is also home to the largest collection of petrified wood in Arizona. It was built around what used to be a courthouse and a jail, the museum itself is quite a historic building.

Geronimo's Trading Post

9. Geronimo's Trading Post

If you’re looking for some authentic Native American souvenirs, then you need to head to Geronimo’s Trading Post. They have a wide selection of jewelry, pottery, and other items that are all handmade by local artists. You’re sure to find something special to take home with you. This is an iconic tourist attraction site that's been around since the early 1900s, so it's worth a visit. According to Travellens, you will have the chance of viewing different types of jewelry, sculptures, and paintings. The place is also great for photography lovers as there are plenty of photo opportunities around the store. If you get the chance, make sure to talk to one of the owners – they’re very friendly and happy to chat about the history of the store and the area.

Old Route 66 Vista Point

8. Old Route 66 Vista Point

If you want to get a taste of what life was like on Route 66 back in the day, make sure to visit Old Route 66 Vista Point. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Holbrook and for good reason. The view from the Vista Point is simply stunning, and it's a great place to take some photos. There are also a few interpretive panels that provide some information about the history of Route 66.

Dobell Mineral

7. Dobell Ranch

Dobell Ranch is a working cattle ranch that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the Old West. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities, including horseback riding, cattle drives, and hayrides. There's also a great gift shop on-site, where you can purchase some authentic cowboy gear. It is regarded as one of the top things to do in Holbrook, AZ.

Painted Desert Indian Center

6. Painted Desert Indian Center

The Painted Desert Indian Center is a great place to learn about the area’s Native American heritage. The center offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. You will find a large collection of souvenirs, jewelry, sculptures, rugs, pottery, and many other cool things. If you are looking to get away from the city and experience something different, the Painted Desert Indian Center is a great place to visit.

Historic Blue Forest Trail

5. Historic Blue Forest Trail

The Historic Blue Forest Trail is a great way to see the amazing Painted Desert. The trail is a short 0.25 miles, but it is packed with beautiful views of the blue, red, and purple rocks. According to Papers Dude, the trail is easy to follow and takes you right up to the edge of the Painted Desert. There are a lot of activities to enjoy while on the trail, including picnicking, hiking, and photography.

Desert

4. Desert Rainbow Novelties Speciality & Gift Shops

The Desert Rainbow Novelties Speciality & Gift Shops is one of the best things to do in Holbrook, Arizona. This shop is full of all kinds of novelties and gifts, and it's the perfect place to find a unique gift for someone special. The shop is also full of Arizona-themed gifts, so if you're looking for something that represents the state, this is the place to find it.

Winner's Circle Bars

3. Winner's Circle Bars & Clubs

If you are looking for a place to have a good time, then you should check out Winner’s Circle. They have a wide variety of drinks and they also offer a pool and darts. If you are looking for a place to dance, then this is the spot for you. They have a large dance floor and they also offer lessons. In addition to that, they also have a live band that plays every Friday and Saturday night.

Rock Art Canyon Ranch

2. Rock Art Canyon Ranch

This is a perfect place to spend some quality time with your loved ones. You will get a chance to view stunning historic sites that are preserved. There are also a variety of fun activities that the whole family can take part in. You can go on a horseback ride, ATV tour, or hike through the beautiful canyon. You will also have a chance to learn about Native American history and culture.

Rabbit Trading Post

1. Rabbit Trading Post

This is a unique store that offers a variety of items that are perfect for souvenirs. It was opened in the early 1940s and is still family-owned and operated. They offer a wide range of items from jewelry to pottery and even rugs. The store is also home to some different animals that you can feed and pet. If you love antique equipment, then this is the place for you to go shopping.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a lot of great things to do in Holbrook, Arizona. Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to relax, you'll find something to do here. You will want to come back and experience everything that this town has to offer.

Liz Flynn

Written by Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn has worked as a full-time writer since 2010 after leaving a career in education. She finds almost all topics she writes about interesting, but her favorite subjects are travel and food. Liz loves the process of researching information, learning new things, and putting into words what others who share her interests might like to read. Although she spends most of her time writing, she also enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, watching films, cooking, dining out, reading, motorsports, gaming, and walking along the beach next to her house with her dog.

Read more posts by Liz Flynn

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