Oatman: A Wild West Ghost Town on Route 66
Experience the Wild West on Route 66 in Oatman, Arizona, where wild burros roam free and history comes alive in this living ghost town.
Oatman, Arizona, nestled in the Black Mountains, is a captivating step back in time. This former mining town, born from an early 1900s gold rush, offers visitors a unique blend of touristy charm and authentic Wild West atmosphere. Named in honor of Olive Oatman, who was kidnapped and enslaved by Native Americans in 1851, the town's history is as colorful as its present-day attractions. Once a bustling hub with a population exceeding 3,500, Oatman boasted two banks, seven hotels, twenty saloons and ten stores. The mines were incredibly productive, but as the gold dwindled and the Route 66 was rerouted in 1953, Oatman faced abandonment. However, it has survived as a nostalgic Route 66 stop with a Wild West feel. Today, Oatman is famous for its wild burros, descendants of the original animals used by miners. These burros freely roam the streets, interacting with tourists and adding to the town's unique character. Visitors can also witness staged gunfights by the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters, explore the Oatman Hotel, and visit the Oatman Mine Museum to learn about the town's rich mining history.
Local tips
- Buy alfalfa cubes from local shops to feed the burros, but avoid giving them other foods that could harm them.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and find parking, especially if you're visiting during peak season.
- Stay for the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters show for a taste of Wild West entertainment.
- Explore the Oatman Hotel, the oldest two-story adobe building in Mohave County, and check out the dollar-bill-covered walls.
- Take the scenic drive along Route 66 to Oatman, but be aware of the narrow, winding roads.
A brief summary to Oatman Az
- Historic Rte 66, Oatman, Arizona, 86433, US
- +1928-514-1904
Getting There
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Driving
From Kingman, Arizona, take Route 66 west for approximately 28 miles to Oatman. Be aware that this section of Route 66, also known as the Oatman Highway or the Sidewinder, is a narrow, winding road with sharp curves and steep grades. Vehicles over 40 feet in length are not recommended. Parking is available in dirt lots at each end of Main Street, and it's free. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak hours. There are also parking spaces available at 251 Main St.
