Oatman Ghost Town Arizona
Oatman, Arizona: A living ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam Main Street and the spirit of the Old West thrives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the shootout & avoid midday heat
Oatman Ghost Town Arizona
Best Time
Catch the shootout & avoid midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oatman, Arizona: A living ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam Main Street and the spirit of the Old West thrives.
"Oatman is a ghost town that's still alive, with burros, desert views, and Route 66 charm."
🚗 Drive Carefully on Route 66
The road to Oatman is winding and steep. Take your time and enjoy the views!
💰 Bring Cash for Feed
Buy special burro feed from shops to interact with the donkeys. Don't feed them human food!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Burros of Oatman
Main Street
These friendly, free-roaming burros are the stars of Oatman, often wandering into shops and greeting visitors.
Historic Route 66 Drive
Kingman to Oatman
Experience a thrilling, scenic drive on a classic stretch of Route 66 with dramatic mountain views.
Wild West Shootout Show
Main Street
Catch a live, reenacted Wild West gunfight that brings the town's history to life.
Oatman Hotel
Main Street
A historic hotel with a storied past, once frequented by Hollywood stars like Clark Gable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Burros!
Route 66 Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully on Route 66
The road to Oatman is winding and steep. Take your time and enjoy the views!
💰 Bring Cash for Feed
Buy special burro feed from shops to interact with the donkeys. Don't feed them human food!
🤠 Watch the Gunfight
Don't miss the daily Wild West shootout reenactment for a dose of history.
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
Browse quirky souvenir shops and art galleries along Main Street.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on Route 66
The road to Oatman is winding and steep. Take your time and enjoy the views!
💰 Bring Cash for Feed
Buy special burro feed from shops to interact with the donkeys. Don't feed them human food!
🤠 Watch the Gunfight
Don't miss the daily Wild West shootout reenactment for a dose of history.
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
Browse quirky souvenir shops and art galleries along Main Street.
🍦 Cool off with Ice Cream
Beat the desert heat with a delicious ice cream from one of the local shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oatman is a charming and quirky ghost town that truly brings the Wild West to life, largely thanks to its free-roaming burros and daily shootout reenactments. While some find the tourist-centric nature detracts slightly from authenticity, most visitors enjoy the unique atmosphere, historic sites, and scenic Route 66 drive.
"I took hubby for 66th bday to Route 66 and Oatman. He had never been Before and had so much fun feeding and petting the donkeys. Oliver (i believe was his name) brayed at him like dude im here!
We went and saw the Tortoises Paul,George,Ringo,John over by the jail.
Feeding was so fun"
Lori Geuy
"It was a very warm but enjoyable day in Oatman AZ shared with the company with a life long friend, a new friend and birthday girl, and birthday girl's son... It had been years since my last visit and I saw many changes. There were businesses that were gone and new ones operating in their space. The souvenirs were fun to look and were moderately priced.... I bought a few items... It was still off season and Oatman was not crowded but moderately busy this time of year (mid-October)."
Adrienne D Lujan
"The road is kinda scary on the way up but fine going down. The donkey tried to steal my bag but I had a blast . Great little stores. Amazing ice cream, different kinds of artists and a shootout at 12:30. Lots of fun. Lots of donkeys.Worth the drive. The views were amazing and you can see some really cool mines."
Shannon Kelley (A Hidden Treasure Estates)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oatman is accessible via historic Route 66. The drive from Kingman, AZ, is particularly scenic but winding. From Las Vegas, it's about a 2-hour drive. Be prepared for narrow roads and steep inclines. 
The road, especially the stretch of Route 66 between Kingman and Oatman, is known for its sharp turns and steep drop-offs. Drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings.
The most direct route from Las Vegas to Oatman, AZ, is typically via US-93 S and then taking the historic Route 66. It offers stunning desert scenery.
Yes, Oatman is a popular day trip from Laughlin, NV. The drive is relatively short and takes you through scenic desert landscapes.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Street parking is available, but be prepared to walk a bit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oatman Ghost Town itself does not have an entrance fee. Most attractions, like the shops and the shootout show, are free to observe, though you may want to purchase souvenirs or feed for the burros.
While the town is always accessible, most shops and attractions operate during daylight hours, typically from around 9 AM to 5 PM. The shootout show usually happens daily around midday.
No, the Wild West shootout reenactment is generally a free event for visitors to watch. It's a highlight of the Oatman experience.
Accommodation options directly in Oatman are limited. The historic Oatman Hotel is a notable place to stay, offering a unique experience.
Oatman was a bustling gold mining town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was named after Olive Oatman, a pioneer girl captured by Native Americans.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic wild burros, the historic Route 66 signs, the old-timey storefronts, and the dramatic desert landscapes. The shootout show also makes for dynamic photos.
Yes, you can take photos of the burros, but always maintain a safe distance. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
The Oatman Hotel, the old jail, the Route 66 signs, and the general store facades are great spots for photos.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
It is not safe to take photos while driving on the winding Route 66. Pull over at designated safe spots if you wish to photograph the scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Oatman has a few dining options, including the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon, which offers classic American fare. There are also smaller cafes and diners.
While Oatman is a small town, you can find decent food, particularly at the historic Oatman Hotel. Reviews mention good hamburgers.
Expect typical diner-style food, including burgers, sandwiches, and American classics. Ice cream is also a popular treat.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to picnic. However, be mindful of the burros and don't leave food unattended.
Options may be limited in such a small, historic town. It's best to check with individual establishments beforehand or pack your own suitable snacks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the burros, the Wild West shootout reenactments provide exciting entertainment that captures kids' imaginations. The historic buildings and shops also offer a glimpse into the past. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert sun can be intense. The drive on Route 66 can be a bit winding, so keep that in mind for younger children prone to car sickness.
🚗 Road Trippers & Route 66 Enthusiasts
+1Oatman offers a genuine taste of a bygone era. You can explore the historic buildings, browse unique souvenir shops, and experience the quirky charm of a town where burros are the main residents. It's a perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere before continuing your journey.
📸 Photographers & History Buffs
+1History buffs will appreciate the town's gold mining past and the stories of pioneers like Olive Oatman. The daily Wild West shootout reenactments offer dynamic subjects for action photography. Remember to visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wild Burros: Oatman's Iconic Residents
+2While interacting with the burros is a unique experience, it's crucial to remember they are wild animals. Visitors are advised not to feed them human food, as it can be harmful to their health. Instead, many shops sell special burro feed, allowing for a safe and enjoyable interaction. Always maintain a respectful distance and avoid startling them.
The presence of these burros adds an undeniable character to Oatman, making it feel like a living piece of history. Their playful antics and gentle nature have charmed visitors for years, solidifying their status as the true stars of this Arizona ghost town.
Driving the Historic Route 66 to Oatman
+1Travelers often describe the drive as both exhilarating and a bit nerve-wracking, especially for those unaccustomed to mountain roads. It's essential to drive with caution, pay attention to speed limits, and be mindful of oncoming traffic on the narrow sections. The views, however, are spectacular, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert.
This iconic drive is a must-do for anyone traveling along Route 66. It provides a tangible connection to the past and a memorable prelude to the unique atmosphere of Oatman. Many visitors consider the drive itself a highlight of their trip.
Oatman's Wild West History and Entertainment
+1To bring this history to life, Oatman hosts daily Wild West shootout reenactments. These performances, often put on by the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters, captivate visitors with staged gunfights right on Main Street, adding an entertaining and authentic touch to the ghost town experience.
+1Beyond the reenactments, the town's atmosphere, with its saloons, old-fashioned storefronts, and the ever-present burros, transports visitors back in time. It's a place where the spirit of the Old West is not just remembered but actively celebrated.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit