Our October 2026 visit to La Posada Hotel in Winslow, Arizona, was especially memorable: it was part of DRIVE Electric Arizona’s October EV Rally, with participation from the Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association (DRIVE Electric Valley of the Sun), and the second launch event for DRIVE Electric Northern Arizona. What better setting for bringing EV enthusiasts together than a landmark of Historic Route 66 during its centennial year? La Posada is an extraordinary destination—and a shining example of how historic hospitality and electric vehicle tourism can come together beautifully.
Opened in 1930 as the last great Fred Harvey railroad hotel, La Posada was conceived as the crown jewel of the Santa Fe Railway’s Southwestern hospitality network. Architect Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter—also celebrated for her Grand Canyon buildings—considered it her masterpiece. She imagined a centuries-old Spanish hacienda and shaped not just its architecture but its interiors, furnishings and gardens. The result is an enchanting composition of Spanish Colonial Revival arcades, arches, fireplaces, warm plaster walls, timber beams and inviting courtyards. The hotel’s grounds were especially lovely in their autumn colors during our stay.
The hotel’s survival is nearly as remarkable as its original design. After closing in 1957, its furnishings were sold, its interiors converted into railroad offices and the building repeatedly faced demolition. Allan Affeldt and his partners rescued it in 1997, beginning an extraordinary restoration that continues to give this architectural treasure new life. My room was well-appointed, exceptionally comfortable and full of historic character. The staff was consistently friendly, welcoming and helpful.
Art is woven into the experience, not tucked away in a conventional gallery. Tina Mion’s striking paintings, works by regional artists and John Suttman’s imaginative metalwork reward wandering through the halls and gardens. The restored 1930 railroad depot houses the Affeldt Mion Museum, including the extraordinary Diyogí Tsoh: The Big Rug, a monumental Navajo (Diné) weaving. Even the hotel’s Trading Post gift shop is worth browsing for its thoughtfully chosen locally made and regional goods, art and keepsakes. We enjoyed three delicious meals at the renowned Turquoise Room, where the food, presentation and service were outstanding. The excellent vegetarian and vegan choices made dining another highlight of our visit.
A particularly exciting feature is La Posada’s commitment to welcoming electric vehicle travelers. The hotel offers four Level 2 EV charging stations—two Tesla and two ChargePoint—conveniently located right in front of the hotel. For EV travelers exploring northern Arizona and Historic Route 66, this is a tremendous amenity.
EV tourism offers a wonderful opportunity for historic communities like Winslow. Rather than simply stopping for a quick charge along the interstate, travelers can make charging part of the destination experience. At La Posada, you can plug in, explore an architectural landmark, discover an extraordinary art collection, enjoy a leisurely meal at the Turquoise Room, stroll through the beautiful grounds, and spend a comfortable night while your vehicle charges.
This is exactly the kind of destination charging that can help revitalize Historic Route 66 communities. EV travelers aren’t just passing through—they’re staying in local hotels, dining in local restaurants, discovering cultural attractions, and contributing to the local economy. Convenient charging infrastructure encourages visitors to slow down, explore, and experience the places that make America’s historic highways so special.
As more Americans embrace electric road trips, destinations like La Posada demonstrate that the future of Route 66 tourism can be both electric and deeply connected to its rich heritage. Historic preservation and sustainable transportation aren’t competing priorities—they’re natural partners.
La Posada deserves recognition not only as one of Arizona’s great historic hotels, but also as a model for EV-friendly heritage tourism. Other historic hotels and Route 66 communities could learn from this thoughtful combination of preservation, hospitality, memorable experiences, and convenient EV charging.
Whether you’re driving an electric vehicle along Route 66, exploring northern Arizona, or simply seeking an unforgettable getaway, La Posada is absolutely worth the visit—and preferably an overnight stay.
Five stars for the history, art, food, hospitality, and for helping lead Historic Route 66 into the electric future!
We will definitely be back!