Arizona may be known for its stunning views but there is also an offbeat side that can seem pretty wacky. Take a drive down Route 66, check out a few oddball attractions, or take a look at a map. You’ll find places that both look and sound strange! Today, we’re going to check out some towns around the state with names that sound a bit strange. You might even want to visit these places in person!
1. Carefree
Part of the Phoenix-metropolitan area, Carefree sits in the far north end of the city, bordering Tonto National Forest. The town started as a master-planned community in the 1950s before incorporating in 1984. When you visit, be sure to check out the street names as well! They seem to fit right in with the town name.
2. Dateland
You don’t need a date to visit this town but it could make the drive there a little more worthwhile. The major attraction in town is the Dateland Travel Center which sells several varieties of dates that are fresh, made into candy rolls, covered in chocolate, and even made into some ridiculously good shakes!
3. Jake’s Corner
This census designated place sits about 19 miles south of Payson and has a population of approximately 1,800 people. Here, you’ll find a pretty cool little bar and general store that bear the same name, perfect for a quick pit stop.
4. Nothing
These days, you’ll find close to nothing in Nothing. It was established in 1977 and operated as a gas station, pizza place, and convenience store over the years but was completely abandoned by 2011. Don’t blink when driving past, however! It’s easy to drive right past.
5. Santa Claus
With the holidays coming up, the kids in your life are probably aching to see Santa Claus. Unfortunately, they won’t be able to do that here unless they manage to get their hands on a time machine. Santa Claus was once meant to become a Christmas-themed resort but those plans eventually fell through leading the entire area to be abandoned by 1995.
6. Top-of-the-World
It’s probably a safe bet to assume this town between Globe and Superior isn’t located at the top of the world. It is, however, a scenic area with a great antique store and trading post.
7. Tortilla Flat
This tiny place along the Apache Trail is home to a famous little restaurant called Tortilla Flat Saloon. Here, you’ll find some awesome chili and burgers, as well as a chance to see an old schoolhouse that has survived since the town’s earliest days.
8. Valentine
Another town related to a holiday but we can’t guarantee you’ll find a date on Valentine’s Day in this sleepy town. Located on Route 66, you’ll find this tiny town has a few historic buildings to see and Keepers of the Wild, an exotic animal sanctuary you can visit.
9. Why
This tiny town sits in southern Arizona and has a population of just 116. While the name often gives people a giggle due to its very rural location, the town’s name is actually derived from the highway intersection that was once shaped like a Y.
Want to see more places around the state that have some pretty weird names? Read Here Are 14 Crazy Street Names In Arizona That Will Leave You Baffled.; some of these names are
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