There are many places in Arizona I’ve never been, and this one is on my bucket list. Most of the locales require a Jeep or ATV to get there, but not Jack Ass Acres. It’s located right off Interstate 17.
Jack Ass Acres, Arizona, is a name that might draw a chuckle or a raised eyebrow. Once a quirky and beloved roadside attraction, Jack Ass Acres played a unique role in the cultural and social history of the Arizona desert.
Located along Interstate 17 north of Phoenix, its story is one of entrepreneurial spirit, roadside Americana, and the changing landscape of travel and business in the American Southwest.
Jack Ass Acres was founded in the mid-20th century, when automobile travel was becoming more accessible and popular. The stop was originally established as a gas station and convenience store, serving travelers making the long journey between Phoenix and Flagstaff. Its name, chosen for its humorous and memorable appeal, quickly made it a landmark for those passing through the area.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Jack Ass Acres developed a reputation for its kitschy decor, unusual souvenirs, and friendly service. It was common for travelers to stop just to take photos with the sign, which became a symbol of road trip nostalgia. The business embraced its quirky identity, with merchandise and advertising that leaned into the humor and charm of its name.
As interstate travel evolved and larger, more modern travel centers opened along the highways, small stops like Jack Ass Acres found it difficult to compete. The rise of corporate chains and changing consumer preferences led to a decline in business. Eventually, Jack Ass Acres closed its doors, and the property was left abandoned for many years. The sign, however, remained a local landmark, drawing occasional visitors and photographers.
Though Jack Ass Acres is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through memories, photos, and stories shared by those who visited. It embodies a chapter of Arizona history marked by the freedom of the open road and the spirit of small business.
The site, while now little more than a memory and a faded sign, continues to symbolize the quirky, independent charm of American roadside culture. Today, it serves as a reminder of the unique stops that once dotted the highways and the importance of preserving local history.
The story of Jack Ass Acres, Arizona, is one of humor, hospitality, and the changing tides of travel. Its rise and fall mirror the evolution of roadside America, and its memory endures in the hearts of those who stopped for a tank of gas, a cold drink, or simply a good laugh at its unforgettable name.
I like to write junk... 