Holbrook is uniquely tied to many periods of Arizona's history
Holbrook is a small Arizona town that is steeped in a rich and ancient history, one which can be seen daily along its major thoroughfare. “There are so many possibilities in Holbrook, since it’s right along Historic U.S. Route 66,” says Realtor Tamie Aguilera, branch manager of RE/MAX Fine Properties, an area native. “Compared to other nearby areas, it’s very affordable since we haven’t seen as much pricing inflation. People are drawn there thanks to the slower pace of life, and there are a lot of long-time residents, but it sees its fair share of tourists because of its history. It’s a memorable place with an Old West, small-town feel.” It sits near the prehistoric Petrified Forest National Park and ancient pueblo cities of the Native tribes, and was once known as a rough-and-tumble cowboy town. During the post-war automobile tourism boom, Holbrook became a stop along the West’s major highway. Today, while it still sees scores of road-tripping tourists passing through, it has become a welcoming and loyal desert community.
Brick ranch-style homes are common in Holbrook
Most of Holbrook’s residential real estate was developed during and after World War II, so homes on the tightly packed urban streets may need renovations. “There is a little bit of new construction, but not much,” Aguilera says. “Most homes are older and have been updated beautifully. Some built around 1960 have that adobe Santa Fe feel, but I would say most are brick ranch-style homes.” Prices range from around $100,000 to almost $400,000, varying based on build year, number of bedrooms and lot size. A few custom Modern Traditional builds from the late 1990s can also be found, costing anywhere from $350,000 to $400,000.
Holbrook High offers a dormitory for Navajo-nation students
Hulet Elementary School, located on Buffalo Street, receives a grade of B from Niche. Holbrook Junior High, one block east of the elementary school, earns a B-minus. Holbrook High, the only high school in the Holbrook Unified School District, scores a B. The high school is next to the Tiisyaakin Residential Hall, a dormitory operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs that provides boarding for students from the nearby Navajo Nation.
Visitors can explore Petrified Forest National Park and ancient pueblo cities
Hunt Park on the east side of town hosts a baseball diamond, the town skate park and a public swimming pool. Other small green spaces include Heward Park along Interstate 40, which is a popular place for travelers to stretch their legs. Just outside of Holbrook, people can explore a slice of America’s deep-rooted geological and anthropological history. “It’s right by the Petrified Forest National Park, which makes for a good weekend trip since it’s only about 15 or 20 minutes away,” Aguilera says. Trails through the park lead visitors past fossilized Triassic-era trees to an ancient pueblo village.
Restaurants along U.S. Route 66 include Romo's Restaurant and Big Fella's BBQ
The only major supermarket in Holbrook is the Safeway on Hopi Drive. Residents can pick up daily household necessities at either of the town’s Dollar General stores, or can head to the Walmart 33 miles west in Winslow. “There is a downtown area, mostly concentrated around the highway, so there are a lot of motels and gift shops,” Aguilera says. “But there are quite a few locally owned restaurants, too. My husband, who grew up in Holbrook, and his family go to Romo’s Restaurant for the tacos.” Other options include Big Fella’s BBQ Lounge, set up in the parking lot of the Pow Wow Trading Post.
Interstate 40 is the main regional thoroughfare
Interstate 40 is the region’s primary commuter lane, accommodating residents traveling to work and road trippers passing through. The interstate traces the path of the Historic U.S. Route 66, connecting Holbrook east to Albuquerque and west to Santa Monica. Navajo Boulevard serves as the town’s de facto Main Street, hosting numerous local businesses and the Holbrook General Hospital.
The Navajo County Fair and Rodeo is held annually in Holbrook
The east side of Holbrook is home to the Navajo County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Old West Fest on Route 66, a celebration of the town’s heritage. The Navajo County Fair and Rodeo also takes place here every September. Throughout the year, residents and visitors can head to the Navajo County Historical Society Museum to learn about the area’s history. Featured exhibits include prehistoric fossils from the Petrified Forest and cultural artifacts from the aboriginal populations and settlers of the Old West.
