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Kingman, Arizona: Where Fun Never Sleeps – Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Kingman earns rather more of a stop than a highway town out in Arizona would ever really suggest right out there. Route 66 runs straight through the whole middle of it and the neon still sits along the street. Oatman keeps its dusty saloons and its wild burros only a short drive off out there. The Powerhouse stands on the whole of the register out there. Genuinely.

Planning a trip to Kingman, Arizona and after the best and most fun things to do? You have come to the right place. Kingman is a city with a long history, natural beauty and fun activities across the range for all ages. Working the city’s museums, taking the outdoors, or trying unusual food and drink, Kingman covers all three.

Historical Kingman is a strong place to start the adventure. The city is home to museums and historical sites that give a look into Kingman’s past. Visit the Mohave Museum of History and Arts to learn the area’s early settlers, or take a tour of the Route 66 Museum to see how the famous highway shaped Kingman. For Native American history, head to the Hualapai Mountain Park to see ancient petroglyphs and learn about the area’s indigenous peoples.

Key Takeaways

• Kingman, Arizona, is a city with a rich history, natural beauty, and a variety of fun activities for all ages.
• Explore Historical Kingman to learn about the city’s past and visit museums like the Mohave Museum of History and Arts and the Route 66 Museum.
• Enjoy Kingman’s natural beauty by visiting the Hualapai Mountain Park, the Grand Canyon, or the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Historical Kingman

History buffs will take to the historical side of Kingman, Arizona. Here are the spots that should not be skipped, because they carry you back in time.

Route 66 and Its Significance

Route 66. The Mother Road. The Main Street of America. This iconic highway runs right through Kingman, and it played a huge role in the town’s development. Kingman is known as the Heart of Historic Route 66.

Take a drive down this famous road and you see plenty of vintage signs, neon lights and classic cars. Stop by the Arizona Route 66 Museum to learn more about the history of the road and its impact on Kingman and the rest of the country.

Historic Downtown Kingman

Although much of Kingman’s modern business district is sprawled along Interstate 40, its heart lies in the historic downtown. Take a stroll down the wide streets and you feel like you have been carried back in time.

Park the car in one of the vertical spaces and work the shops, restaurants and galleries that line the streets. Do not miss the historic powerhouse building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Bonelli House Museum

Step inside the Bonelli House Museum and you feel like you have stepped back into the early 1900s. This restored home belonged to one of Kingman’s founding families, and it is filled with original furnishings and artifacts.

Take a guided tour to learn the history of the house and the family that lived there. You also get a look into what life was like in Kingman during the early 20th century.

Mohave Museum of History & Arts

The Mohave Museum of History & Arts should not be skipped by anybody interested in the history of Kingman and the area around it. The museum is run by the Mohave Pioneers Historical Society, and it is filled with exhibits showing the region’s long history.

Learn about the Native American tribes who once lived in the area, the mining boom that brought settlers to Kingman, and the growth of the town over the years. You also find exhibits on Route 66 and the 35th parallel, which runs right through Kingman.

So there you have it. History buff or simply somebody after an unusual way to take Kingman, these spots carry you back in time either way.

Kingman’s Natural Beauty

Nature lovers get a lot out of Kingman. Towering mountains through serene lakes, the chances to get outdoors and take the natural beauty of the area run plenty.

Hualapai Mountain Park

After a place to escape the heat? Head to Hualapai Mountain Park, where the temperatures are cool and the scenery is long. With over 10 miles of hiking trails, you can work the park’s rugged terrain and take panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for wildlife, deer and elk and even black bears among them.

Lake Havasu

After a place to cool off and have some fun in the water? Lake Havasu is the place. With over 400 miles of shoreline, this lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming. You can also work the lake’s many coves and beaches, or take a tour of the famous London Bridge, which was moved to Lake Havasu in the 1960s.

Joshua Tree Forest

Take a drive through the Joshua Tree Forest and take the unusual beauty of these otherworldly trees. Between their spiky branches and their twisted trunks, Joshua trees are a sight to behold. You can also work the forest’s many hiking trails, which carry long views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Wherever you go in Kingman, natural beauty and outdoor adventure follow. So pack the hiking boots, grab the fishing rod and get ready to work the outdoors.

Fun Activities in Kingman

Ready to have some fun in Kingman? Plenty of activities run here to keep you entertained and make the trip stick. Here are the best fun activities in Kingman not to be missed:

Kingman Railroad Museum

Train and history lovers should not skip the Kingman Railroad Museum. This museum is home to a vast collection of railroad artifacts, locomotives and cabooses and passenger cars among them. You can also learn the history of the railroad in Kingman and the role it played in the city’s development. And take the model trains and the Andy Devine exhibit.

Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum

A fan of electric vehicles? Then take the Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum. This museum works on the history of electric vehicles and their impact on the environment. You can see electric vehicles across the range on display, cars and motorcycles and bicycles among them. You can also learn the history of electric vehicles and their future.

Desert Wonder Tours

To work the beauty of the desert around Kingman, book a tour with Desert Wonder Tours. These guided tours take you on an adventure through the landscapes of the Mojave Desert. You can choose from tours across the range, hiking and off-roading and stargazing among them. The knowledgeable guides give you interesting information about the desert’s flora, fauna and geology.

So train enthusiast, electric vehicle fan or outdoor adventurer, Kingman covers all three. Do not miss out on these fun activities during the visit to Kingman.

Food and Drink

After a good time in Kingman? You will not have to look far. The city runs options across the range on food and drink. In the mood for a cold beer or a fancy mixed drink, Kingman covers both.

Downtown Kingman Bars

Downtown Kingman is the place for a good bar. Several options run here, the historic Brunswick Hotel Bar and the quirky Black Bridge Brewery among them. And feeling adventurous? Try the famous pickleback shot at the Cellar Door.

Stetson Winery

Wine lovers should not miss the Stetson Winery. Sitting a short way outside of Kingman, the winery runs wines across the range to taste and buy. You can even take a tour of the vineyard and learn the winemaking process.

Desert Diamond Distillery

For something a little stronger, take the Desert Diamond Distillery. This family-owned distillery runs spirits across the range, vodka and whiskey and rum among them. You can take a tour of the distillery and even sample some of the spirits in the tasting room.

Whatever the mood, Kingman runs it. Microbreweries through family-owned distilleries, something will satisfy the thirst. So go ahead and work some of the best food and drink Kingman runs.

Unique Stays in Kingman

After an unusual place to stay in Kingman? Here are two options that make the trip stick.

Cabins in Hualapai Mountain Park

After a rustic getaway? The cabins in Hualapai Mountain Park are the pick. These cabins run a strong escape from the noise of everyday life. They suit a weekend getaway or a longer stay. The cabins carry everything you need to make the stay comfortable. The views of the mountains and the peaceful surroundings do the rest.

Caboose BnB

After something genuinely unusual? You have to take the Caboose BnB. Yes, you read that right, a caboose. This renovated train car is the place for a one-of-a-kind stay. The caboose has been restored and carries all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The cozy atmosphere and the unusual decor do the rest.

Whichever option you choose, a strong time follows. So pack the bags, grab the friends and get ready for a trip to Kingman, Arizona that sticks. And book the stay at one of these unusual accommodations.

Day Trips from Kingman

After a fun day trip from Kingman? Then you are in luck. Plenty of exciting destinations run within driving distance, the Hoover Dam and Las Vegas among them.

Visit to Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a marvel of modern engineering and should not be skipped by anybody visiting Kingman. You can take a guided tour, work the visitor center, or simply take the dam’s size and scale. And feeling adventurous? You can even walk across the top of the dam and take the long views of the Colorado River below.

Trip to Las Vegas

After a little more excitement? Why not take a day trip to Las Vegas? The city sits a short drive from Kingman and runs endless entertainment options, major casinos and shows through high-end shopping and dining. And of course, no trip to Vegas is complete without a stroll down the famous Las Vegas Strip, where you see all the glitz and glamour of Sin City up close.

So in the mood for a scenic drive or an action-packed adventure, a day trip from Kingman covers both. Just bring plenty of snacks and water, and do not forget to buckle up.

Kingman’s Wildlife

Wildlife fans get plenty out of Kingman. Foxes and mountain lions through birds and alpacas, everybody is covered.

Foxes and Mountain Lions

Kingman is home to both foxes and mountain lions, so keep the eyes peeled for these elusive creatures. Foxes are generally harmless, but mountain lions can be dangerous if provoked. So if you do spot one, keep the distance.

Birds of Kingman

Kingman suits a birdwatcher, with species across the range in the area. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, peregrine falcons and golden eagles, along with smaller birds like hummingbirds and finches.

Alpacas of the Southwest

For an unusual wildlife experience, head to Alpacas of the Southwest. This family-owned farm is home to over 200 alpacas, along with llamas, goats and other animals. You can take a tour of the farm, learn the animals, and even feed them.

Beyond these creatures, you may also spot elk wandering through the area. Just always respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance.

Neon on the street out there and vintage signs down the whole of the old road. Steam engine 3579 sits parked right in the middle of Locomotive Park out there. Burros walk loose in the streets at Oatman a short drive up the road. Stop and photograph the whole lot of it out there.

Events and Festivals

Kingman is known for its lively events and festivals across the year. You find something exciting to do every month, local or visitor.

On Sundays, head down to the Kingman Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal goods and live music. You can also find food trucks and other vendors selling tasty treats. The market runs in the morning, so wake up early and grab a cup of coffee before you go.

Mondays in Kingman mean Movie Night at the Park. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and settle in for a family-friendly film under the stars. The event is free and starts at dusk, so do not forget the popcorn.

In town in February? Do not miss the Kingman Gem and Mineral Show. You find rocks, gems and fossils from all over the world, along with jewelry and other handmade crafts. The event runs over President’s Day weekend and is a strong way to spend a day with the family.

In April, Kingman hosts the Chillin’ on Beale Street Car Show. You see classic cars, hot rods and other vintage vehicles lining the street, along with food vendors and live music. It is a fun event for car enthusiasts and anybody who loves a good time.

Through the summer months, you can catch the Kingman Concert Band playing in the park. Bring a picnic dinner and take the music as the sun sets. The band plays everything from classic marches to modern pop hits, so something will land.

Finally, in October, Kingman hosts the annual Andy Devine Days Rodeo. You see cowboys and cowgirls competing in events across the range, bull riding and barrel racing among them. Carnival rides, food vendors and live music run too. It is a strong way to take the Wild West in modern times.

Whenever you visit Kingman, something fun and exciting is going on. Check the local events calendar to see what is happening during the stay.

Shopping in Kingman

After some retail therapy? Kingman covers you. Quirky gift shops through shops selling memorabilia, everybody is covered.

One of the places not to be skipped is the Kingman Visitor Center. You can pick up some souvenirs to take back home, and you can also get strong recommendations from the friendly staff on things to do and places to eat in the area.

After something unusual? Head over to The Farmhouse. This charming shop sells vintage items, handmade crafts and even some local honey. It is a strong place to find a one-of-a-kind gift for that special somebody.

For anybody interested in Route 66 memorabilia, the Antares Point Route 66 Gift Shop should not be skipped. The shop runs a vast collection of Route 66-themed items, t-shirts and mugs and even license plates among them. You can also grab a bite to eat at the attached diner.

Antiques fans should take the Antique Marketplace. With over 30 vendors, something will catch the eye. Vintage clothing through furniture, everybody is covered.

So after an unusual gift or simply some retail therapy, Kingman covers both. Happy shopping.

Getting Around Kingman

Kingman is a small town, but that does not mean you cannot get lost. Well, you can, but that is not the point. The point is that you need to know how to get around this town to make the most of the trip. You can walk, drive or bike around Kingman. But let us be real, because walking is not ideal in the Arizona heat.

On a road trip? Then you are probably driving. Kingman sits on the Mother Road, also known as Route 66. So driving on this historic road, you pass right through Kingman. Just stop and take a picture with the giant Route 66 sign. It is practically mandatory.

Not driving? You can always rent a car. A few car rental places run in Kingman, so finding a ride is no trouble. But to be a little more adventurous, you can rent a bike. Yes, you read that right. You can rent a bike in Kingman and work the town on a bike. It is a strong way to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time.

Feeling really adventurous? You can even take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. Yes, you have to leave Kingman for this one, but it is worth it. You get a bird’s-eye view of one of the finest natural wonders in the world. And you get to cross something off the list.

In summary, on a road trip or simply visiting Kingman, plenty of ways to get around run either way. Just stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and do not forget to take a picture with the Route 66 sign.

Art in Kingman

Art lovers are in for a treat in Kingman. The city is home to art galleries and museums that show the work of local and regional artists.

One of the must-visit places is the Mohave Museum of History & Arts (source). Established by the Daughters of the Pioneers in 1961, the museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s history and culture. The museum also has a dedicated art gallery that showcases the work of local artists.

Another great place to check out is the ArtHub Gallery (source). Located in the heart of downtown Kingman, the gallery features the work of local artists and hosts regular art exhibitions and events. The gallery also offers art classes and workshops for both adults and children.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unconventional, head to The Farmhouse (source). This quirky art gallery and gift shop is housed in a historic farmhouse and features the work of local artists and artisans. You can find everything from handmade jewelry and pottery to paintings and sculptures.

Finally, if you’re interested in street art, take a stroll around downtown Kingman and keep your eyes peeled for the city’s many murals (source). From colorful abstract designs to realistic depictions of local landmarks, the murals add a vibrant and unique touch to the city’s streetscape.

Kingman’s Green Spaces

Kingman may be known for its desert landscapes, but that does not mean you cannot find some greenery in this city. Plenty of parks and green spaces run here where you can slow down and soak up some Vitamin D. Here are the best green spaces in Kingman to take:

Hualapai Mountain County Park

After a place to hike, camp and take the outdoors? Hualapai Mountain County Park is the place. With over 10 miles of hiking trails, several campgrounds and picnic areas, this park suits outdoor enthusiasts. And the park is home to wildlife across the range, deer and elk and even black bears among them. Just keep the distance and do not feed the animals.

Locomotive Park

Locomotive Park is a small park sitting in the heart of downtown Kingman. It is best known for its iconic steam engine #3579, which has been retired and is now on display in the park. But that is not all this park runs. It also carries green spaces, picnic areas and a playground for the kids. So pack a picnic lunch and spend a slow afternoon in Locomotive Park.

Cecil Davis Park

Cecil Davis Park is a neighborhood park sitting in the southern part of Kingman. It runs a basketball court, a playground and plenty of open space for picnics and other outdoor activities. But the best part about this park? It is named after a local legend, Cecil Davis, who was known for his love of basketball and his dedication to the Kingman community.

Metcalfe Park

Metcalfe Park is another small park sitting in downtown Kingman. It is a popular spot for events and festivals, the annual Andy Devine Days celebration among them. But even with no festival on, this park is a strong place to slow down and take the sunshine. And it sits right next to the historic Route 66, so you can snap some photos and take a stroll down memory lane.

So there you have it, some of the best green spaces in Kingman. After a place to hike, camp or simply slow down, these parks cover all three. Just bring sunscreen and plenty of water, because it gets pretty hot out there.

Kingman’s Native American Heritage

Kingman carries a Native American heritage that goes back thousands of years. The Hualapai and Havasupai tribes have lived in the area for centuries. They have left their mark on the land.

One of the strongest ways to take this heritage is a visit to the Hualapai Mountain Park. This park is home to the Hualapai Mountain Resort, which runs activities and events that mark the Hualapai culture. You can attend a traditional powwow, learn the tribe’s history and traditions, or try your hand at traditional Hualapai crafts.

To learn more about the Havasupai tribe, visit the Havasu Canyon. This canyon is home to the Havasupai people, who have lived in the area for over 800 years. You can take a guided tour of the canyon and learn the tribe’s history, traditions and way of life.

Another way to take Kingman’s Native American heritage is a visit to the Mohave Museum of History and Arts. The museum holds a collection of artifacts and exhibits showing the history and culture of the Hualapai and other Native American tribes who have lived in the area.

So the Hualapai, the Havasupai, or other Native American tribes, Kingman runs plenty of chances to learn all three. Show respect for their traditions and way of life.

The Quirky Side of Kingman

After an unusual and offbeat experience in Kingman? Then you are in luck. The city runs a quirky side that will surprise you. Here are the best things to do and places to visit for something a little different:

Nostalgia

Kingman is steeped in nostalgia, and plenty of ways to take it run here. The strongest is a stroll through the historic downtown area. Here you find old-fashioned storefronts, classic neon signs and vintage architecture that carry you back in time.

Wild West

The Wild West is alive and well in Kingman, and you can take it for yourself at the historic Oatman Ghost Town. This former mining town is now a popular tourist destination, and it is easy to see why. Between its dusty streets, its wild burros and its old-time saloons, Oatman is a step back into the days of the Old West.

Humorous

In the mood for a good laugh? Kingman runs plenty of options. The strongest is Mr D’s Route 66 Diner, a classic roadside eatery serving burgers and shakes since 1951. The diner is decked out in retro decor, and the menu runs items with playful names like the Fatty Patty and the Greasy Spoon.

Another fun option is the Chloride Ghost Town, where you find quirky junk art installations across the range. A giant metal scorpion through a UFO made out of old car parts, the art here makes you smile.

Whatever your tastes, Kingman runs it. So why not take the city’s quirky side and see where it goes?

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to explore Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman?

The strongest way to work the Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman is walking through it with the eyes open. Seriously though, take the time and soak up all the history and memorabilia on display. The museum runs from 9 in the morning through 5 in the afternoon, and getting in costs 4 dollars for adults and 3 dollars for seniors and children.

Where can I find the best free things to do in Kingman, AZ?

Who does not love free stuff? Lucky for you, Kingman runs plenty of free things to do. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, visit the Bonelli House, or take the murals around town. And feeling adventurous? Hike up to the top of Hualapai Mountain for some long views.

What are some unique date ideas in Kingman, AZ?

Looking to impress the date with something a little out of the ordinary? Take a sunset drive along Route 66, go stargazing in the desert, or rent a tandem bike and work the town together. And feeling really daring? Take a hot air balloon ride and see Kingman from a whole new angle.

Are there any fun zones to visit in Kingman, AZ?

Fun zones? You mean like a Chuck E. Cheese? Sorry, we do not have one of those. But we do run plenty of fun things to do, visiting the Kingman Powerhouse Visitor Center and Museum, taking a tour of the historic Bonelli House, or catching a movie at the historic Beale Theater.

What are some interesting facts about the history of Kingman?

Kingman was founded in 1882 and named after Lewis Kingman, a civil engineer who helped build the railroad through the area. During World War II, Kingman was home to a German prisoner of war camp. And Kingman was a popular stop on the historic Route 66, drawing tourists from all over the world.

Where can I find the best restaurants in Kingman, AZ?

That depends on the mood. After classic American fare? Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner or Sirens’ Cafe & Custom Catering will do. For Italian food, try Vito’s Pizza or Dora’s Beale Street Deli. And craving Mexican? El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina or Tacos Los Altos are both strong options.

Frequently asked questions about Kingman, Arizona

What exactly does the whole of the Arizona Route 66 Museum actually hold out there, then, really now, in the end?

It sits inside the old Powerhouse building, which stands on the National Register out there. The road itself came through Kingman and made the whole of the town what it is. Photographs and memorabilia trace the Mother Road from one end to the other. Documented.

Who exactly was the whole of the town of Kingman actually named after out there, then, really now, in the end?

It took the name of Lewis Kingman, a civil engineer on the railroad out there. The town was founded in 1882 and the rail line explains the whole of it. A German prisoner of war camp stood here through World War II out there. On record.

What exactly is the whole of Oatman Ghost Town, the old mining town, actually left over from out there, then, really now?

It was a mining town first and the whole of the street still shows it out there. Wild burros walk loose between the old-time saloons and the dusty storefronts out there. Nothing there was built for tourists, which is exactly why it works. Original.

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