Often called the “Arizona Veterans Highway,” I-17 is fairly short—it runs for less than 150 miles. However, it is often called one of America’s most scenic highways, as it takes drivers through beautiful desert valleys and stunning red mountains along its length. It’s perfect for a road trip!

Interested?

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can tell you everything you need to know about I-17. We’ll go over some of the major exits on I-17, some good places to eat, and some cool things to stop and see along the way.

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What is an interstate highway?

In case the name didn’t give it away, an Interstate is a highway that passes through multiple states and connects large cities throughout the country.

A numbered system of mostly one or two-digit numbers is used to code and name Interstates. Routes that run east-west are represented by even numbers, while odd numbers are used for north-south routes. The largest, most important Interstates typically end in a zero or a five.

Interestingly, I-17 does not pass through multiple states, despite its status as an Interstate. It is wholly located within Arizona.

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Major interchanges on I-17

Nobody wants to miss their exit, so here are some of the major connections and interchanges to look out for on I-17:

I-10 / US 60 in

Phoenix

, AZ

I-10 in Phoenix, AZ

US 60 in Phoenix, AZ

Loop 101 in Phoenix, AZ

Loop 303 in Phoenix, AZ

SR 74 in Phoenix, AZ

SR 69 in Cordes Lakes, AZ

SR 169 near Dewey-Humboldt, AZ

SR 260 in

Camp Verde, AZ

SR 179 near Sedona, AZ

SR 89A in

Flagstaff

, AZ

I-40 / SR 89A in Flagstaff, AZ

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Best places to eat along I-17

Finding new places to eat along the way is one of the best parts of a road trip. There are plenty of good places to stop for food along I-17, so here are a few options:

Carolina’s Mexican Food

(Phoenix, AZ): Phoenix is in the heart of the Southwest, so it’s only fitting that you try some good Mexican food while you’re there. Carolina’s is a popular local spot where people line up to get a taste of their burritos, chimichangas, enchiladas, and more, all wrapped in delicious griddled flour tortillas.

Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe

(Phoenix, AZ): This soul food spot has been open since 1964 and has been serving hearty meals to happy customers ever since. Fried chicken, stewed oxtail, and “moist succulent” pork chops are just a few of the specials you could try. Customers like to leave Sharpie messages on the wall, so make sure you have something to write with.

Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits

(Sedona, AZ): First opened as a saloon and pool hall in 1946, the Cowboy Club has become a local icon and has even had Hollywood stars like Burt Lancaster and Joan Crawford come through its swinging doors. It’s a great place to get yourself a steak or maybe even try their signature elk chops.

Coffee Pot Restaurant

(Sedona, AZ): This is a great spot to take the family for some breakfast. Kids will enjoy the unique and expansive omelet menu (they offer 101 different kinds) while the adults can have a nice cup of coffee with traditional fare like a waffle or breakfast burrito.

Diablo Burger

(Flagstaff, AZ): Flagstaff is home to the original Diablo Burger, so you should stop by if you’re feeling hungry for one of the classics. Diablo Burger is committed to offering a quality burger from top to bottom. Try their Belgian-style frites in DB special sauce for a crunchy, creamy treat.

Pro Tip Before you stop or make a detour, make sure that the place where you want to eat is open! Some places are seasonal, some are only open certain days of the week, and some might change their hours unexpectedly due to supply chain or staffing issues.

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What is there to do on I-17?

I-17 takes you through some interesting places, so plan ahead for some time to stop and take in some of the sights.

Here are some things to do and see along I-17:

Walnut Canyon National Monument

in Flagstaff, AZ

Lowell Observatory

in Flagstaff, AZ

Cathedral Rock

in Cococino National Forest, AZ

Blazin’ M Ranch

in Cottonwood, AZ

Montezuma Castle National Monument

in Camp Verde, AZ

Out of Africa Wildlife Park

in Camp Verde, AZ

Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum

in Phoenix, AZ

Musical Instrument Museum

in Phoenix, AZ

Desert Botanical Garden

in Phoenix, AZ

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Find affordable car insurance with Jerry

Before you start your journey down scenic I-17, you should make sure you have a good car insurance policy.

Jerry

can help with that. All you have to do is download the app and enter your information to get a customized list of quotes from our top insurance partners. We’ll walk you through the entire process—no tedious phone calls or mountains of paperwork! If you find a policy you like, our team of experts can even help you cancel your old one.