Every state has off the wall and unconventional restaurants that tourists and native’s alike flock to in order to experience something different. Arizona is no exception to that rule while boasting these unique venues, where out of the ordinary, wacky, unusual and zany is commonplace.
Space Age Restaurant – Gila Bend, AZ
Located in Gila Bend north of the I-8, this charming diner was built as an addition to the Space Age Lodge in 1964. The cafe is decorated with murals of astronauts and spaceships, and there is a quaint gift shop with a small selection of spacey souvenirs. In 1998 the diner caught fire and burned down. Nevertheless, the structure has been restored and is still an enjoyable roadside attraction with tasty food and a rich history.
Canyon King Pizzeria – Page, AZ
Once a tour boat on Lake Powell the Canyon King hosted a plethora of festivities during it’s nearly 27 year run on the water. After being replaced by the Canyon Princess, the older paddle wheeler was bought and moved to the town of Page where it currently rests on dry land as part of a pizzeria. With delicious food and a delightful atmosphere, this eatery is certainly a sight to see.
Longhorn Bar & Grill – Amado, AZ
You won’t believe your eyes when you cast your gaze upon this wildly unique building. The Longhorn Bar & Grill is located off the I-19 on the Nogales Hwy, and is pretty hard to miss – what with the massive longhorn skull decorating the entrance to the restaurant. In order for guests to enter the bar, they pass through the nasal cavity of the huge skull. This is certainly a perfect roadside picture opportunity for any fan of all things western.
Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse – Tucson, AZ
There is but one rule that is exceedingly enforced in this steakhouse: No Ties Allowed! If a patron is “caught” entering the facility with a necktie, the staff will cut it off and hang it from the ceiling! This, of course, is part of the fun experience of this saloon; so if you have a tie that you do not mind losing, wear it! This 1800s themed restaurant is located in Trail Dust Town in Tucson, and is just one part of an entire location dedicated to the old west.
Angel Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In – Seligman, AZ
Loved by tourists the world over, the Snow Cap is an iconic stop along the famous Route 66. Bursting with an array of unusual and zany decor, customers are treated to surprising pranks and silly antics while visiting this quirky food joint. Originally built, owned, and operated by the late Juan Delgadillo, who was famous in his own right, the legacy of the Snow Cap is carried on by his children.
Sources:
Arizona Tourist Attractions and Oddities Index / RoadsideAmerica.com
Gila Bend / Around AZ
Todd Glasenapp / Paddler now peddles pizza / azdailysun.com
Route 66, Route 66 Gifts – Angel’s Barbershop in Seligman, Arizona / route66giftshop.com
