Planning a road trip adventure through Arizona, perhaps to the majestic Grand Canyon National Park or the otherworldly Petrified Forest National Park? If your route takes you through Holbrook, Arizona, prepare for a delightful detour into roadside Americana at its finest: the Rainbow Rock Shop. This isn’t just your average rock shop; it’s a vibrant, slightly eccentric, and thoroughly memorable stop that perfectly embodies the spirit of Route 66.
Our own spontaneous detour to Holbrook led us to this gem, and it turned out to be an unexpected highlight of our trip. Originally, we were ahead of schedule on our Grand Canyon leg and decided to check into our Holbrook hotel a night early. This happy accident gave us a wonderful half-day to explore Holbrook, a town brimming with vintage Route 66 vibes and, as we soon discovered, colossal dinosaur statues!
Driving through town, it’s impossible to miss the Rainbow Rock Shop. Towering dinosaur figures, some reaching a staggering 25 feet, stand proudly along the roadside, beckoning travelers to stop and explore. These aren’t just any dinosaurs; they are the iconic greeters of the Rainbow Rock Shop, a place also affectionately known as the Indian Rock Shop.
Rainbow Rock Shop: More Than Just Dinosaurs
While the dinosaurs are undeniably the stars of the show, drawing visitors in with their retro charm, the Rainbow Rock Shop offers much more than just photo opportunities with prehistoric giants. This Holbrook institution is a treasure trove of rocks, fossils, geodes, petrified wood, and an array of unique gifts and souvenirs. It’s a place where the geological wonders of Arizona meet classic roadside attraction kitsch.
The shop’s fame rests not only on its impressive collection of minerals and fossils but also on those seven giant cement dinosaurs that have become synonymous with Holbrook. As soon as we spotted them, our vehicle practically steered itself into the parking lot. We were instantly captivated, hopping out to marvel at these quirky roadside figures and, of course, snap some photos.
Rainbow Rock Shop in Holbrook, Arizona, featuring large dinosaur statues, signage, and a building, under a bright sky
Exploring the Rainbow Rock Shop Experience
Stepping onto the Rainbow Rock Shop property is an experience in itself. While the perimeter is secured with chain-link fencing and barbed wire – understandable given the valuable displays of petrified wood and rocks outside – don’t let that deter you. It’s part of the shop’s unique character. We spent a good amount of time wandering through the outdoor displays, admiring the piles of petrified wood and diverse rock formations. While the outdoor exploration was self-guided, it allowed us to soak in the sheer variety of geological treasures on offer.
Venturing inside, we found ourselves in a classic rock and gift shop atmosphere. It’s packed with an assortment of items, from polished stones and Arizona geodes to quirky souvenirs and, naturally, more rainbow-colored rocks than you can imagine. While the original author noted a slightly unengaged cashier, our experience might vary, but the real draw here is the unique collection and the overall roadside attraction vibe.
Why Rainbow Rock Shop is Worth a Stop on Your Route 66 Journey
So, is the Rainbow Rock Shop worth adding to your Arizona itinerary? Absolutely, especially if you:
- Appreciate Roadside Oddities: The giant dinosaurs alone are a fantastic example of classic Americana roadside attractions. They offer fun photo opportunities and a memorable break from driving.
- Are a Petrified Wood Enthusiast: Rainbow Rock Shop boasts a significant collection of Arizona petrified wood, potentially at competitive prices. It’s a great place to find unique pieces to take home.
- Travel with Kids (or are a kid at heart): Dinosaurs! Need we say more? Kids will be thrilled by the giant statues, and the shop offers plenty of kid-friendly rocks, fossils, and souvenirs.
- Love Rocks and Minerals: From geodes to fossils and, yes, rainbow rocks of various types (often dyed or naturally colorful stones marketed under this appealing name), there’s something for every rock enthusiast.
- Are Exploring Route 66: Rainbow Rock Shop is a quintessential Route 66 stop, embodying the quirky charm and independent spirit of this historic highway.
A close-up view of a large, green dinosaur statue at the Rainbow Rock Shop, with a clear blue sky in the background
Stacks of petrified wood logs of varying sizes and colors, piled high outside the Rainbow Rock Shop
A wide shot of the Rainbow Rock Shop dinosaurs lined up along the roadside, showcasing their size and variety
Two children, Natalie and Carter Bourn, posing with a blue dinosaur statue at the Rainbow Rock Shop, smiling at the camera
A vibrant image of multiple dinosaur statues at the Rainbow Rock Shop, emphasizing their role as a Holbrook landmark
A detailed shot of a brown dinosaur statue at the Indian Rock Shop, highlighting its textured surface and classic design
A pile of Arizona geodes, showcasing their rough exteriors and potential for crystal-filled interiors
Several cement dinosaur statues standing in front of the Rainbow Rock Shop in Holbrook, Arizona, under a sunny sky
Close-up of Arizona petrified wood pieces, displaying the wood grain texture replaced by colorful minerals
A group of dinosaur statues at the Rainbow Rock Shop in Holbrook, Arizona, capturing the playful and nostalgic atmosphere
Know Before You Go: Planning Your Rainbow Rock Shop Visit
To make the most of your visit to this Holbrook landmark, here’s some essential information:
- Location: Rainbow Rock Shop (also known as Indian Rock Shop) is conveniently located at 101 Navajo Blvd, Holbrook, Arizona 86025. It’s situated on the west side of Navajo Boulevard (HWY 77), just south of Hopi Drive (US 180), making it easily accessible for travelers.
- Opening Hours: The shop is open Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you have time to explore.
- Photo Policy: While some signs mention a fee for dinosaur photos, the original author wasn’t charged, even after inquiring. Policies might change, but it’s always worth asking if you’re unsure. However, generally, enjoying these roadside attractions from the exterior is free.
Whether you’re on a dedicated Route 66 pilgrimage, exploring Arizona’s national parks, or simply passing through Holbrook, the Rainbow Rock Shop is a worthwhile stop. It’s a fun, quirky, and genuinely unique place to experience a slice of Americana, marvel at geological wonders, and maybe even take home your own piece of rainbow rock treasure.
