What is the fictional Arizona town where much of Pixar’s Cars takes place?

Much of Pixar’s Cars takes place in the fictional Arizona town of Radiator Springs.

Radiator Springs is located along the historic U.S. Route 66 in the film’s story. Lightning McQueen damages the town’s road while fleeing after being separated from his transport truck, and a court order requires him to repair it. His forced stay introduces him to Doc Hudson, Sally Carrera, Mater, and the town’s other residents.

The setting was inspired by real Route 66 communities and by research trips taken by Pixar artists. The film uses the town to contrast fast modern highways with older roadside businesses and local communities. Its landmarks include the Cozy Cone Motel, Flo’s V8 Café, and the Radiator Springs courthouse.

Radiator Springs is sometimes confused with Ornament Valley, a neighboring fictional region appearing in the Cars video-game world and later franchise settings. The town itself remains the central home of many Cars characters.