Exploring the Painted Desert Inn: A Journey into Arizona's Natural History
Discover the Painted Desert Inn: A historic museum nestled in the heart of Petrified Forest National Park, showcasing Arizona's geological and cultural wonders.
Nestled within the breathtaking Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert Inn stands as a historic monument that encapsulates the vibrant colors and geological wonders of the Painted Desert. This museum invites tourists to delve into the region's rich Native American history and geological marvels, all while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A brief summary to Painted Desert Inn
- 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona, 86028, US
- +1928-524-6228
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Don’t forget your camera—sunrise and sunset are magical times for photography here.
- Check the park's website for any ranger-led programs or guided tours during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From Holbrook, Arizona, take I-40 East. Continue on I-40 for about 30 miles until you reach Exit 311 for Petrified Forest National Park. After exiting, follow the signs for the park entrance. Once inside the park, continue on 1 Park Rd for approximately 28 miles until you reach Painted Desert Inn, located at 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028. Please note that there is an entrance fee for the park, which is $25 per vehicle valid for 7 days.
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Public Transportation
If traveling by public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus to Holbrook, Arizona. From Holbrook, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the entrance of Petrified Forest National Park, which is approximately 28 miles away. Once at the park entrance, you can drive or take a shuttle service (if available) to Painted Desert Inn. Be aware that public transportation options may be limited and it's advisable to check schedules in advance.
Discover more about Painted Desert Inn
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whipple Point
2.1 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of the Painted Desert from Whipple Point in Petrified Forest National Park, a landmark steeped in history and natural beauty.
Navajo County Historical Society
39.2 km
Explore Holbrook's past at the Navajo County Historical Society Museum, with exhibits on Native American culture, the Wild West, and local history.
Historic Blevins House
39.2 km
Visit the site of the 1887 Blevins House shootout, a pivotal moment in Holbrook's Wild West history, now a senior citizens home.
Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
72.6 km
Experience a living history at the oldest continuously operating trading post on the Navajo Nation, fostering cultural exchange since 1878.
Apache County Historical Society Museum
74.9 km
Discover Apache County's diverse heritage through captivating exhibits and historical artifacts at the Apache County Historical Society Museum.
Tsu'vö Loop Trail
78.2 km
Explore ancient cultures and stunning desert landscapes on the Tsu'vö Loop Trail, a historical landmark near Winslow, Arizona.
Flying J Travel Center
80.9 km
Your reliable pit stop in Winslow, AZ, offering fuel, food, EV charging, truck services, and a comfortable travel experience off I-40.
Brigham City Fort
81.6 km
Discover the story of a Mormon pioneer settlement at Brigham City Fort in Winslow, Arizona, and explore the challenges of life in the Old West.
Earl's Rt 66 Motor Court
82.5 km
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Winslow Arts Trust
82.7 km
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Turquoise Room
82.8 km
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La Posada Hotel
82.8 km
Step back in time at La Posada Hotel in Winslow, AZ, a beautifully restored Harvey House on Route 66 designed by Mary Colter.
Brown Mug Cafe
82.8 km
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Violet Rose Bed & Breakfast
82.9 km
Experience Victorian charm and Route 66 history at Winslow's cozy Violet Rose Bed & Breakfast, a perfect home base for exploring Northern Arizona.
Flatbed Ford Cafe
83.0 km
Homestyle breakfast and lunch in Winslow, AZ, celebrating Route 66 history and serving up deliciousness one plate at a time.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kachina Point
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and the rich geological history at Kachina Point in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona.
Painted Desert Rim Trail
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Desert Rim Trail in Petrified Forest National Park, where vibrant landscapes and serene hiking await.
Chinde Point
0.7 km
Discover the stunning vistas and natural beauty of Chinde Point, a captivating cliff in Arizona that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Pintado Point
1.3 km
Explore the stunning vistas and geological wonders at Pintado Point, a breathtaking cliff in Arizona's picturesque landscapes.
Tiponi Point
1.5 km
Discover the stunning vistas and geological wonders at Tiponi Point in Petrified Forest National Park, an unforgettable experience in Arizona's majestic landscapes.
Nizhoni Point
1.7 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Nizhoni Point in Petrified Forest National Park, where nature's beauty and geological wonders await you in Arizona.
Painted Desert Visitor Center
2.1 km
Explore the Painted Desert Visitor Center: Your gateway to Arizona's stunning geological wonders and breathtaking landscapes.
Painted Desert
2.1 km
Explore the vibrant landscapes and rich geological history of the Painted Desert, a stunning natural wonder in Arizona's Petrified Forest National Park.
Onyx Bridge
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting Onyx Bridge in Petrified Forest National Park, where nature’s beauty meets historical engineering marvel.
Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area
4.9 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area, where ancient trees turned to stone create a breathtaking natural wonderland.
Rainbow Ranch
10.5 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Rainbow Ranch in Petrified Forest National Park, a perfect camping destination for nature lovers.
Puerco Pueblo
12.1 km
Explore Puerco Pueblo in Petrified Forest National Park, a historic site revealing the rich heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst stunning desert landscapes.
Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument
13.6 km
Explore the rich history and ancient petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument in Arizona's Petrified Forest National Park.
Painted Desert Indian Center
14.1 km
Experience the vibrant artistry of Native American culture at the Painted Desert Indian Center, featuring unique handicrafts, jewelry, and rugs.
Petrified Forest National Park
14.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, a unique blend of ancient history and stunning natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Chang Thai Restaurant
80.9 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Winslow, AZ at Chang Thai Restaurant – where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Denny's
80.9 km
Experience the taste of America at Denny's in Winslow—where breakfast is served all day alongside hearty comfort food.
PJ Fresh Marketplace
81.0 km
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Sonic Drive-In
81.7 km
Experience nostalgic fast food at Sonic Drive-In in Winslow - where great taste meets retro vibes.
Falcon Restaurant & Lounge
82.1 km
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China Feast
82.3 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine in Winslow at China Feast - where flavor meets affordability in a welcoming setting.
Root Beer Stand
82.5 km
Experience classic American flavors at Root Beer Stand in Winslow, Arizona – where nostalgia meets great taste!
Maverik Adventure's First Stop
82.8 km
Discover Maverik Adventure's First Stop in Winslow, AZ—a unique blend of gas station convenience and delicious fast food offerings.
Church's Texas Chicken
82.8 km
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MOJO Coffee Roasting Co. & Cafe
82.9 km
Experience artisan coffee and delightful breakfast options at MOJO Coffee Roasting Co. & Cafe in Winslow, Arizona.
McDonald's
82.9 km
Experience classic American fast food at McDonald's in Winslow - burgers, breakfast favorites & coffee await you on your journey.
Captain Tony's Pizza
82.9 km
Discover delicious pizza and Italian delights at Captain Tony's Pizza in Winslow - where every bite tells a flavorful story.
Señor D's
82.9 km
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El Gordo Mexican Grill
82.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Gordo Mexican Grill in Winslow – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Taco Bell
83.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Petrified Forest Trading Company
2.1 km
Explore local crafts, savor delicious meals, and recharge at the Petrified Forest Trading Company—your gateway to the wonders of Petrified Forest National Park.
Painted Desert Diner
2.1 km
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Stewart's Petrified Wood Shop
13.4 km
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Mini Mart, Antique
27.2 km
Explore the eclectic offerings of Mini Mart, Antique in Holbrook, AZ, where unique groceries meet charming antiques for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Tribal Gift And Rock Shop
30.0 km
Explore the Tribal Gift and Rock Shop in Holbrook, AZ, for unique souvenirs, handcrafted art, and stunning geological treasures.
Rainbow Forest Lodge
30.7 km
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Petrified Forest Gift Shop
33.7 km
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Crystal Forest Museum & Gifts
33.8 km
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Petrified Wood Direct
38.9 km
Explore the fascinating world of petrified wood and geological treasures at Holbrook's unique rock shop, Petrified Wood Direct.
Petrified Smoke Shop
38.9 km
Discover the eclectic charm of Petrified Smoke Shop in Holbrook, Arizona, where unique vaporizers and local gifts await every visitor.
Linda's Indian Art & Crafts
39.2 km
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Rainbow Rock Shop
39.4 km
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Dusty River Antiques
39.5 km
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Desert Rainbow Novelties
39.5 km
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GIFT SHOP
40.0 km
Discover unique local souvenirs and handmade crafts in Holbrook's charming gift shop, a perfect stop for any traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar in Well
10.3 km
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Swaad Stop
30.0 km
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Burger King
30.0 km
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Bienvenidos Restaurant
35.5 km
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Mesa Italiana Restaurant
36.2 km
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Empty Pockets Saloon
36.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Empty Pockets Saloon, a local favorite bar in Holbrook, AZ, offering great drinks and lively entertainment.
Camaleon Cafe
37.0 km
Experience the flavors of Holbrook at Camaleon Cafe, where breakfast is a delicious adventure waiting to be savored.
Tom & Suzie's Diner
37.5 km
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El Rancho Restaurant & Motel
39.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of American and Mexican cuisine at El Rancho Restaurant & Motel, a charming stop along Route 66 in Holbrook, Arizona.
Mr Maestas
39.0 km
Experience a culinary delight at Mr. Maestas in Holbrook, AZ, where authentic Mexican flavors meet American comfort food in a charming setting.
Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs
39.1 km
Discover the best hot dogs in Holbrook, AZ, at Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs, where flavor meets fun in a casual dining experience.
Romo's Restaurant
39.4 km
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Butterfield Stage Co. Steak House
39.9 km
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Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
43.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana at Popeyes in Holbrook, AZ - a perfect stop for delicious fried chicken and seafood.
Tom's Tavern
81.7 km
Discover Winslow's vibrant bar scene at Tom's Tavern, where friendly faces, great drinks, and unforgettable experiences await.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Clarion Pointe Winslow I-40
82.9 km
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The Winslow Theater
83.1 km
Discover the charm of The Winslow Theater in Arizona, where affordable films meet a historic atmosphere for an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Winslow Elks Lodge #536
83.2 km
Experience community spirit and local camaraderie at Winslow Elks Lodge #536, a unique fraternal organization in the heart of Arizona.
Winslow Alano Club
84.2 km
Experience the spirit of community at the Winslow Alano Club, a welcoming hub for support and fellowship in Winslow, Arizona.
