Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burbank, California to Phoenix, Arizona

If you are looking for a scenic drive and an adventure that combines history, art, and nature, a road trip from Burbank, California to Phoenix, Arizona is an excellent option. With a distance of approximately 375 miles, this trip can be completed in about 6 hours, or you can stretch it over a few days and explore the hidden gems along the way. Whether you take Interstate 10 or a combination of highways and byways, the trip will take you through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the American Southwest. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey.

Blythe, CA: The Gateway to the Colorado River (Halfway Point)

Located halfway between Burbank and Phoenix, Blythe is a small city with a big history. Founded in the late 19th century as a stopover for the Southern Pacific Railroad, Blythe is now known as the "Gateway to the Colorado River" and a paradise for boating, fishing, and outdoor activities. If you want to stretch your legs, take a walk along the Colorado River and enjoy the sunsets and the wildlife. The Palo Verde Historical Museum and the Blythe Intaglios (giant geoglyphs etched into the desert floor) are also worth a visit.

Favorite food: Mexican food at the Tacos Mi Ranchito.

Desert Center, CA: The Town That Time Forgot

Desert Center is a ghost town that looks like it's straight out of a post-apocalyptic movie. Founded in the 1920s as a water stop for motorists crossing the Mojave Desert, it had a gas station, a hotel, a cafe, and even an airfield. However, when Interstate 10 bypassed it in the 1960s, Desert Center lost its raison d'etre and became a forgotten relic. Today, it's a surreal and eerie place, with abandoned buildings, rusted machinery, and sand dunes encroaching on the road.

Favorite food: Bring your own or grab a snack at the vending machine.

Quartzsite, AZ: The Rock Capital of the World

Quartzsite is a small town in western Arizona that attracts rockhounds, RVers, and snowbirds from all over the world. Known as the "Rock Capital of the World," Quartzsite has a vast concentration of rock and gem dealers, as well as flea markets, swap meets, and RV parks. You can spend hours browsing the booths, looking for turquoise, jasper, agate, and other treasures. If you're into art, make sure to visit the Hi Jolly Monument, a tribute to a camel driver who helped the US Army in the 1850s, and the Tyson Wash Petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings that tell a story of a vanished culture.

Favorite food: A burger or a pie at La Mesa RV Park Cafe.

Wickenburg, AZ: The Gold Rush Town

Wickenburg is a historic town in central Arizona that was founded in the late 19th century during the gold rush. Today, it's a charming and picturesque place that celebrates its Western heritage. You can visit the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, which houses a collection of Western art and artifacts, or take a stroll along the sidewalks and admire the murals and sculptures. If you want to experience the Old West, you can go on a horseback ride, attend a rodeo, or visit a working cattle ranch.

Favorite food: A steak or a sandwich at Anita's Cocina.

Arcosanti, AZ: The Utopian Experiment

Arcosanti is a futuristic and visionary community that was founded in the 1970s by Italian architect Paolo Soleri. Located about 70 miles north of Phoenix, it's a self-sufficient and sustainable urban laboratory that aims to combine architecture, ecology, and social interaction. You can take a guided tour of the site and learn about the principles of arcology, which is a philosophy that seeks to harmonize human habitats with the natural environment. You can also attend concerts, workshops, or events that promote creativity and innovation.

Favorite food: A bowl of soup or a pastry at the Cafe at Arcosanti.

Conclusion

Burbank to Phoenix is not your typical road trip, but it's one that rewards the intrepid traveler with unforgettable experiences. From the rugged mountains and desolate deserts to the quirky towns and visionary communities, this trip has it all. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or just curious about the world, you will find something to amaze and inspire you along the way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the unexpected.