Kingman Water Tower: A Route 66 Icon
A historic Route 66 landmark in Kingman, Arizona, showcasing railway heritage with a vibrant mural and iconic water tower.
The Kingman Water Tower, located on E Andy Devine Ave (Route 66), is a cherished historical landmark that embodies the spirit of Kingman, Arizona. Erected in 1910 by the Santa Fe Railroad, the tower and accompanying silos were essential for supplying water to steam engines during the early 20th century. Kingman, like many towns along Route 66, owes its existence to the railroad, and the water tower stands as a testament to this heritage. In 1942, Kingman was home to an air force base that trained 33 Chinese American Cadets who fought in World War II. By the 1950s, with the advent of diesel locomotives, the need for water tanks diminished, and the City of Kingman took over the tanks for use in firefighting. In 1986, the water tanks were slated for demolition, but a citizen-led effort, spearheaded by Betty McBrayer, saved them as historical artifacts. Today, the Kingman Water Tower is a popular photo stop for travelers along Route 66. A colorful mural, depicting a steam locomotive bursting through the tank, enhances its appeal. The surrounding area provides a perfect spot for leisurely strolls, allowing tourists to capture photos of this iconic landmark.
Local tips
- Take photos from different angles to capture the tower and the surrounding Route 66 scenery.
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the colorful mural on the water tower.
- Combine your visit with a stop at other nearby historical sites and museums in downtown Kingman.
A brief summary to Kingman Water Tower
- 500-510 E Andy Devine Ave, Kingman, Arizona, 86401, US
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Kingman, head east on E Andy Devine Ave (US Route 66). Continue along the sidewalk for about 0.5 miles. You'll pass shops and restaurants. The Kingman Water Tower will be on your left around 500-510 E Andy Devine Ave. There is no fee to visit the water tower.
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Public Transport
Check the local bus schedule for the Route 1 bus, which services the downtown area. Board the bus heading east on E Andy Devine Ave. Get off at the bus stop nearest to 500 E Andy Devine Ave. From there, it's a short walk of about 2 minutes to the Kingman Water Tower. A single ride on Kingman Area Regional Transit (KART) costs $1.25.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Kingman. A short trip from downtown Kingman to the water tower will cost approximately $8-$12. Confirm the fare before starting your trip.
