If you’re driving along State Route 64 in Arizona, on your way to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, you might feel like you’ve been transported straight back to the Stone Age. And no, it’s not just the desert landscape; but also the cartoonish domes of Bedrock City. This quirky, Flintstones-themed attraction, has survived the test of time to remain a beloved piece of Americana. Best part? It’s just a few hours away from Vegas.
A slice of 1970s nostalgia in a Flintstones park
First opened in 1972, Bedrock City was built as an homage to everyone’s favorite prehistoric TV family. For decades, travelers could pull over to explore the homes of Fred and Wilma or Barney and Betty. They could even grab a Bronto Burger at Fred’s Diner, or take a ride down the giant brontosaurus tail slide. A small rock-walled movie theater played classic Flintstones episodes on a loop.
For nearly 50 years, Bedrock City was an affordable, kitschy, and super photogenic stop for families.
The near-extinction of Bedrock City
In 2015, long-time owner Linda Speckels, decided it was time to retire. She listed the property for $2 million. Without a buyer lined up immediately, the park finally closed its doors in January 2019. For fans of vintage Americana, it was the end of an era.
But just a month later, a plot twist saved the Flintstones park. The property was purchased by new owners with a unique vision. They wanted to transform the land into Raptor Ranch, a conservation park and education center dedicated to birds of prey. Initially, the plan was to tear down most of Bedrock City to make way for the raptors. However, the charm and overwhelming nostalgia of the park proved too powerful to destroy.
Bedrock City reopened. To celebrate the park’s 50th anniversary in 2022, Raptor Ranch announced that the Flintstones landmark would be kept open indefinitely.
Bedrock City today (and hopefully forever)
Today, Bedrock City exists in harmony alongside Raptor Ranch. Visitors can enjoy flight demonstrations and raptor encounters, and then walk right into the 1970s time capsule next door.
It’s open 7 days a week (from 8 AM to sunset), and admission is just $12, or free for kids 5 and under. Oh, and if you visited the park decades ago and bring in a photo of yourself at the park to recreate today, you get free admission. How cool is that?!
Whether you’re a vintage pop-culture junkie, a Route-66 roadside attractions lovers, or just someone looking to yell “Yabba Dabba Doo!” on a dinosaur slide…Bedrock City, this adorable Flintstones park, is must-visit.
