Background

Cool Springs Station: A Route 66 Revival

Experience the nostalgia of Route 66 at Cool Springs Station, a beautifully restored landmark offering souvenirs, history, and stunning desert views.

4.7

Cool Springs Station, a resurrected gem on Arizona's Route 66, offers a nostalgic pit stop for travelers. Built in the mid-1920s, it served weary motorists traversing the challenging Sitgreaves Pass. After burning down in the 1960s and sitting abandoned, it was lovingly rebuilt in the early 2000s and now stands as a gift shop, museum, and photo opportunity, embodying the spirit of the Mother Road.

A brief summary to Cool Springs Station

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take photos with the vintage gas pumps and classic cars for memorable keepsakes.
  • Ask the staff about the station's history; they have fascinating stories to share.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Cool Springs Station is located directly on Route 66 (Oatman Road), approximately midway between Kingman and Oatman. From Kingman, head west on Route 66. The road narrows and becomes increasingly winding as you approach the Black Mountains. Cool Springs Station will be on your right. There is no fee to visit Cool Springs Station. Parking is free. Be aware that the road to Cool Springs Station, especially the section known as the "Arizona Sidewinder" or Sitgreaves Pass, is very curvy with steep drop-offs. Drive carefully.

Unlock the Best of Cool Springs Station

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cool Springs Station

Cool Springs Station, nestled at the foot of the Black Mountains in Golden Valley, Arizona, is more than just a roadside stop; it's a living testament to the enduring allure of Route 66. Originally built in the mid-1920s, Cool Springs provided essential services to travelers braving the treacherous Sitgreaves Pass, offering fuel, repairs, and a place to rest. The station's history mirrors the rise and fall of Route 66 itself. During its heyday, Cool Springs thrived as a vital oasis for those making the cross-country journey. However, the construction of a new Route 66 alignment in 1952 bypassed the station, leading to its decline. A fire in 1966 destroyed the original building, leaving only stone remnants as a reminder of its former glory. In the early 2000s, Route 66 enthusiast Ned Leuchtner purchased the ruins and meticulously reconstructed Cool Springs, using vintage photos and original stonework to recreate its original charm. Today, visitors can explore the reborn station, browse Route 66 memorabilia, admire antique gas pumps, and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert. The friendly staff shares stories of the road, and the station serves as a picturesque reminder of a bygone era. Cool Springs also gained fame as a filming location for the 1991 film 'Universal Soldier'. Driving to Cool Springs is an experience in itself, as Route 66 winds through hairpin turns and offers breathtaking views. The station stands as a symbol of adaptability, grit, and the enduring spirit of the Mother Road.

Popular Experiences near Cool Springs Station

Popular Hotels near Cool Springs Station

Select Currency