Massive Duck Greets Drivers Along State Route 96

Duck Rock

NEAR YAVA — Some of those folks in Yavapai County must have too much time on their hands. That might explain why they have painted boulders that resemble a giant frog, a giant skull and this one — a giant duck.

The Snow Cap Cafe: Seligman’s Funky Landmark

Snow Cap Cafe

SELIGMAN — For those who have been there before, part of the entertainment at the Snow Cap Cafe is watching the expressions on the faces of first-timers when they order an ice cream cone, and the man behind the counter asks, “Do you want mustard with that?” And before the befuddled customer can answer, the server aims a yellow plastic bottle and delivers a direct squirt.

The Dinosaurs of Holbrook

Dinosaurs of Holbrook

HOLBROOK — Millions of years ago, dinosaurs were common across the flatlands that now encompass this city. But they disappeared. A couple decades ago, several small-scale dinosaurs appeared along Interstate 40 near this city. But they also vanished. Holbrook, however, maintains a strong relationship with the big earth-stompers because some of them are still visible.

Captain John Hance Impresses Early Grand Canyon Tourists with Tall Tales

Captain John Hance

Another Arizona character who delighted locals and visitors alike was John Hance. In the old days they used to say that anyone who visited the Grand Canyon and didn’t meet Captain John Hance had missed half the show. For some 20 years, Cap Hance provided lying and lodging for the tourists. His brand of humor was a windy nature. The dudes never knew just how much of Cap’s stories to believe, for he always led them down the paths of plausibility…

Featured Artist: Ellen Jo Roberts

arizonaoddities-cottonwood arizona scape

Once a month, Arizona Oddities is featuring a Q&A with a talented Arizona artist who is influenced by our state’s people, places and history. This month, Ellen Jo Roberts shares her light-hearted collection inspired by the Southwestern landscape, old motels and vintage cars.