Oatman Highway Oatman Arizona - Image 1
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Oatman Highway Oatman Arizona

4.6
·491k reviews·Oatman, United States

Step into a living ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam Main Street and the spirit of the Wild West thrives.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Oatman Highway Oatman Arizona - Image 1

Oatman Highway Oatman Arizona

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a living ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam Main Street and the spirit of the Wild West thrives.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Oatman is a quirky, unforgettable stop on Route 66, famous for its wild burros and historic charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Cash for Feed! 💰

Buy burro feed from local shops to interact with the friendly donkeys.

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Explore the historic town on foot; comfortable footwear is essential for walking the dusty streets.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roaming Wild Burros

Roaming Wild Burros

Main Street

Meet the friendly, wild donkeys that outnumber the residents! They're the stars of this historic Route 66 town.

TikTok
Historic Route 66 Drive

Historic Route 66 Drive

Kingman to Oatman

Experience a thrilling, winding stretch of the iconic Route 66 with stunning desert vistas.

TikTok
Old West Town Atmosphere

Old West Town Atmosphere

Main Street

Step back in time with wooden storefronts, saloons, and a genuine ghost town feel.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild West Charm

Oatman is a living ghost town where wild burros roam freely! Prepare for a unique experience on a historic Route 66 stretch. The drive itself is scenic but winding, so take it slow and enjoy the desert views. TikTok

Burro Etiquette & Essentials

Bring cash for burro feed! While the donkeys are friendly, remember they are wild animals. Keep a safe distance and never corner them. The town is small, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Catch the gunfight shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Route 66 🚗✨ #california #arizona #route66 #travel #historicroute66 #History #route66trip #selingman #kingman #oatman #roysmotel
@jonas_raue
471.2K likes • 3.4M views

Bring Cash for Feed! 💰

Buy burro feed from local shops to interact with the friendly donkeys. TikTokInstagram

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Explore the historic town on foot; comfortable footwear is essential for walking the dusty streets. TikTok

WEEKEND TRIP in #Arizona : ROUTE 66 🚗 can’t believe there were goldfish on the side of the highway! #wildjoy #oatman #kingman #route66 #arizonacheck
@wildjoyexperiences
76.1K likes • 488.3K views
There is a town about two hours away from Las Vegas, where you can feed wild donkeys! This is Oatman, Arizona — It’s a perfect day trip from Las Vegas or a fun stop on your way home from Lake Havasu. Have you ever stopped there?
local.livin
6.2K likes • 129K views

Drive Carefully on Route 66 🚗

The highway to Oatman is winding with steep drop-offs; enjoy the views but prioritize safety. TikTok

Check Gunfight Show Times 🤠

Don't miss the Wild West reenactments, usually held daily at noon and 2:15 PM. Instagram

😱 Scariest Part of Route 66 The highway from kingman arizona to the historic town of Oatman is Route 66 and it is perhaps one of the best drives in the state of Arizona. There is nonstop gorgeous views of the landscapes, a few attractions to see along the way and a high probability of seeing wild burros! Would YOU take this road? 👉 Full Video on my YouTube Channel "Jessie's Drone Adventures" Li...
az_jessie
1.6K likes • 36.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Cash for Feed! 💰

Buy burro feed from local shops to interact with the friendly donkeys. TikTokInstagram

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Explore the historic town on foot; comfortable footwear is essential for walking the dusty streets. TikTok

Drive Carefully on Route 66 🚗

The highway to Oatman is winding with steep drop-offs; enjoy the views but prioritize safety. TikTok

Check Gunfight Show Times 🤠

Don't miss the Wild West reenactments, usually held daily at noon and 2:15 PM. Instagram

Stay Hydrated! 💧

Arizona desert heat can be intense; carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Oatman is widely loved for its unique charm, especially the friendly wild burros that roam the streets and the thrilling drive along historic Route 66. Visitors appreciate the authentic Old West atmosphere and the chance to step back in time. Some find the town a bit rustic and the drive challenging, but most agree it's a memorable and worthwhile stop.

What People Like

Wild burros roaming freely
Historic Route 66 drive
Authentic Old West town

What People Dislike

Winding, challenging roads
Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oatman is accessible via a scenic, winding stretch of historic Route 66. It's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, Nevada TikTokInstagram and roughly an hour from Kingman, Arizona.TikTok The drive from Kingman is particularly famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and sharp turns. TikTok

The highway leading to Oatman is known for its steep drop-offs and sharp curves, making it a thrilling but potentially challenging drive. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution, especially if unfamiliar with mountain roads. TikTok

Yes, Oatman is a popular day trip from Las Vegas, located approximately two hours away by car. TikTokInstagram+1

Many travelers recommend driving the stretch of Route 66 from Kingman to Oatman for its stunning desert landscapes and historic charm. TikTokInstagram

The primary route to Oatman is the historic Route 66, which is part of the appeal. While scenic, it requires careful driving due to its winding nature. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Oatman is a public town, so there are no admission tickets required to enter or walk around. However, you may need to purchase items or services within the town. TikTok

While it's free to see the burros, purchasing feed from local vendors is encouraged if you wish to interact with them. This supports the town and the animals. TikTokInstagram

Oatman is an open town, so you can visit at any time. However, individual shops and attractions have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. TikTok

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Oatman. It's a historic town that welcomes visitors to explore its streets and soak in the atmosphere. TikTok

Yes, Oatman often features Wild West reenactments, including gunfight shows, which are a popular attraction. Check local listings for showtimes, typically around noon and 2:15 PM. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main draw is interacting with the wild burros that roam the streets.TikTokInstagram You can also explore the historic buildings, visit the Oatman Hotel, and enjoy the Old West atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can feed the burros! It's highly recommended to buy feed from local shops to ensure you're giving them appropriate food. TikTokInstagram+1

The burros are generally friendly and accustomed to people, but they are still wild animals. It's important to approach them calmly and avoid cornering them. TikTok

Capture the unique sight of burros on Main Street, the historic Route 66 signs, and the classic Western architecture. The scenic drive itself also offers incredible photo ops. TikTokInstagram

Oatman is often referred to as a 'living ghost town' because while it retains its historic ghost town charm, it is still inhabited and has active businesses. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are a few dining options in Oatman, including the historic Oatman Hotel and other local eateries that offer a taste of the Old West. TikTok

You can typically find classic American diner fare and comfort food at the local restaurants in Oatman. TikTok

Options may be limited in a small historic town like Oatman. It's best to check with individual restaurants directly for specific dietary accommodations. TikTok

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan to picnic or enjoy snacks while exploring. Remember to dispose of trash responsibly. TikTok

While not specifically mentioned, many small towns like Oatman have local shops that might offer ice cream or other treats. It's worth exploring the main street. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire town is a photographer's dream! Focus on the burros interacting with visitors, the vintage Route 66 signs, and the rustic architecture of the buildings. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The burros are very photogenic. Just remember to be respectful and maintain a safe distance while capturing your shots. TikTokInstagram

Generally, photography is allowed throughout the town. However, always be mindful of private businesses and ask permission if you plan to photograph inside. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the town administration regarding drone usage to ensure compliance with any restrictions. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Oatman is a fantastic destination for families looking for a unique adventure. The main attraction, the wild burros, are a huge hit with children who love feeding and interacting with them. TikTokInstagram+1 It's a hands-on experience that brings history to life in a fun and engaging way. The Old West atmosphere, complete with saloons and historic storefronts, sparks imagination and offers plenty of photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Tips for Families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as options can be limited. Ensure children understand how to interact safely with the burros. The drive on Route 66 can be winding, so consider motion sickness remedies if needed. TikTok The gunfight shows are also entertaining for all ages. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers & Route 66 Enthusiasts

For anyone traveling the iconic Route 66, Oatman is an absolute must-stop. TikTokInstagram+1 The drive to Oatman from Kingman is considered one of the most scenic and challenging stretches of the Mother Road, offering breathtaking desert vistas and a true sense of adventure. TikTokInstagram The town itself embodies the spirit of old Route 66 with its preserved historic buildings and unique charm. Instagram

Don't Miss: The opportunity to feed the wild burros, which are a quirky and unforgettable part of the Oatman experience. TikTokInstagram Take time to explore the shops and soak in the authentic Old West atmosphere. TikTokInstagram The drive is an experience in itself, so plan for stops to enjoy the scenery. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Oatman offers a wealth of unique photographic opportunities, from the charismatic wild burros to the vintage Route 66 signage and the rugged desert landscapes. TikTokInstagram+1 The town's preserved Old West architecture provides a nostalgic backdrop, perfect for capturing the essence of a bygone era. TikTokInstagram The winding highway leading to Oatman is also a prime location for dramatic landscape shots. TikTokInstagram

Best Shots: Focus on candid moments with the burros, the iconic Route 66 signs, and the historic storefronts. TikTokInstagram Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Instagram Be mindful of the desert sun during midday, which can create harsh shadows. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Oatman Highway

The drive to Oatman along Route 66 is an adventure in itself. This stretch, particularly between Kingman and Oatman, is renowned for its dramatic desert scenery and challenging, winding roads. TikTokInstagram It's a true test of driving skill and a visual feast, offering panoramic views of the Mohave Desert. Many travelers consider this drive one of the most memorable parts of their Route 66 journey. TikTok

Be prepared for steep inclines, sharp turns, and sheer drop-offs. It's crucial to drive cautiously, especially if you're not accustomed to mountain driving. TikTok This section of Route 66 is a stark reminder of the rugged beauty of the American Southwest and a highlight for road trip enthusiasts. TikTok

Pro Tip: Take your time and pull over at designated viewpoints to truly appreciate the vastness and beauty of the landscape. Instagram The drive is as much a part of the Oatman experience as the town itself.

Oatman's Famous Donkey Residents

Oatman is famously known as 'Donkey Town' because of the wild burros that roam freely through its streets. TikTokInstagram These descendants of prospectors' pack animals have become the town's unofficial mascots and are a major draw for visitors. They are surprisingly accustomed to human interaction and often approach people, especially if they sense food. TikTokInstagram

Visitors are encouraged to purchase feed from local shops to offer the burros. This interaction is a highlight for many, creating memorable photo opportunities and a unique connection with the town's wild inhabitants. TikTokInstagram+1 While generally docile, it's important to remember they are wild animals and to approach them with respect, avoiding cornering them or startling them. TikTok

The presence of these burros adds an undeniable charm and authenticity to Oatman, truly bringing the Wild West to life. TikTokInstagram It's a quirky and delightful aspect of Oatman that sets it apart from other historic towns.

A Glimpse into Oatman's Past

Oatman, Arizona, is steeped in history, originally established as a mining town during a gold rush in the late 19th century. Instagram+1 It was named after Olive Oatman, a young woman who had a remarkable and often tragic life story involving captivity and adoption by Native American tribes. Instagram The town boomed with mining activity, attracting prospectors and settlers, and became a significant stop along the original Route 66. Instagram

As mining declined, Oatman faced becoming a ghost town. However, its preservation along Route 66 and the unique appeal of its wild burros helped revive its tourism potential. TikTokInstagram Today, visitors can explore historic buildings like the Oatman Hotel, which once hosted Clark Gable and Carole Lombard, and imagine life in its heyday. TikTok The town actively preserves its Old West heritage, offering a tangible connection to the past for those who visit. TikTokInstagram