When I was planning my last Route 66 road trip several people chimed in to say that Oatman, Arizona was a highlight of their own trip. The town, separated from the rest of the route via a treacherous winding road through the mountains, is markedly different that other “ghost towns” along the route. While many lay abandoned Oatman, Arizona still attracts tourists with a combination of souvenir shops, western entertainment, and, the real draw, wild burros who call the town home.
I was excited for my trip to Oatman, it would be the furthest west I’d drive this time, my last stop before turning around and heading back to Texas, and I even braved that winding Arizona Sidewinder to get there. But I wouldn’t call it a highlight of my trip.
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I could see why people would love it there. The kitschy shops with punny names, the fun tourist traps like a jail and mine, the staged Western shootouts in the streets, those cute burros wandering free and begging for food. Except I did not see a single burro. Or a gunfight for that matter.
The burros do not always make appearances in town. And, sometimes, those shootouts get cancelled. And I was just unlucky enough to get there on a bad day.
I hope someday to return to Oatman and hopefully on that day I will see a cowboy shootout and get to see and feed those burros and have someone else to drive me through that mountain. And maybe then Oatman will be a highlight of Route 66 for me too.
If Oatman, Arizona is on your Route 66 road trip itinerary, here are some things to do.
Things to do in Oatman, Arizona
Nestled within the rugged terrains of the Black Mountains in Arizona, Oatman boasts a rich history steeped in the allure of the Wild West. The town flourished in the early 1900s, fueled by the discovery of gold in the surrounding mines. Prospectors and miners descended on the town, seeking their fortunes and transforming the remote area into a bustling gold mining hub along the famous Route 66. Oatman’s prosperity peaked in the 1920s before declining when the mines dried up and closed. Today, the town’s well-preserved historic buildings and the free-roaming wild burros serve as living remnants of its vibrant past, attracting visitors keen to experience the nostalgia and spirit of the Old West.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an animal lover, or someone seeking a unique adventure, Oatman has something special to offer. This charming town, frozen in time, invites visitors to immerse themselves in that Wild West spirit. Plan your visit to Oatman, Arizona, and discover a slice of American history in this quaint and captivating destination on Route 66.
Feed the Wild Burros
Oatman is famous for its resident wild burros, which are said to outnumber the people in town. The donkeys are descendants of animals used by miners in the early 1900s. The friendly creatures roam the streets freely, often approaching visitors in search of treats. Feeding them is not only allowed but also encouraged—just be sure to bring some carrots or apples to make new furry friends. Didn’t bring your own donkey feed? Don’t worry, many of the shops in town sell food to feed to the animals! Just be cautious, they are wind animals after all!
Explore Unique Shops
Step into the various eclectic shops that dot the town. From souvenir stores filled with Wild West memorabilia to art galleries showcasing local talents, Oatman offers an array of unique shopping experiences. Don’t miss the chance to grab handmade crafts, locally crafted jewelry, or a kitschy souvenir as a keepsake of your visit.
Be sure to check out the names of the shops you enter and have a giggle: most of them have punny names based on the famous residents. Find shops like Saving Your Ass, New Digg’ns, Jackass Junction, or Classy Ass.
Enjoy Old West Entertainment
Oatman hosts various entertainment shows that capture the essence of the Old West that bring history to life and offer an immersive experience for visitors. Besides the burros, this Route 66 town is probably best known for the staged shootouts and gunfights that happen right in the middle of the road.
Go to Jail or Explore a Mine
There are plenty of other tourist attractions in Oatman, Arizona. Check out the old-timey jail, wander into a mineshaft, or plan some fun arcade-style games!
Take Photos with the Murals and Photo Ops
While most people coming to town probably want a picture with their famous resident burros, there are plenty of other things to take photos with! Look for funny murals on buildings throughout the town and silly cutout photo ops, perfect for portraits that will serve as a memento of your time on Route 66!
Have a Bite to Eat
Savor the flavors of the Old West by dining in one of Oatman’s charming eateries. While the town doe not have an extensive selection of bars and restaurants to choose from, what they lack in quantity they make up for in Western charm. Check out the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Bar for classic American fair in a historic building.
Take in Scenic Views
Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Black Mountains, Oatman boasts stunning scenic views. Don’t miss the chance to capture the picturesque landscapes and panoramic vistas. The drive to Oatman itself, along the iconic Route 66, offers breathtaking sights of the desert terrain.
More Photos of Oatman, Arizona
When you’re traveling Route 66 to Oatman, Arizona be sure to stop off the Route 66 Drive-Thru Shield in Kingman, El Trovatore Motel in Kingman, and Cool Springs Station in Golden Valley.
Oatman, Arizona
Address: 75 Quail Dr, Oatman, AZ 86433
Hours: Business Hours Vary
Cost: Costs of Entertainment, Food, and Souvenirs Vary
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