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Bullhead City, Arizona: Where the Fun Never Stops! Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

Start with the Colorado River, because everything else in this city runs off it. You can fish it for catfish, bass and trout over a single morning. You can rent a boat, a jet ski, a kayak or a canoe on the water. The Riverwalk gives you the same river without getting wet at all. And Lake Mohave sits just upstream of every bit of it.

You are planning a trip to Bullhead City, Arizona, and you want to know what to do while you are there. You are in luck, because Bullhead City covers a lot of ground. History buff, outdoor enthusiast, someone who eats well, or just after some family time, Bullhead City has you covered.

One of the busier things to do in Bullhead City is to take the Colorado River. You can take a boat tour, go fishing, or try your hand at water sports like jet skiing or wakeboarding. And for something more laid back, you can take a walk along the riverwalk and take the scenery with it.

History people have plenty of museums to work through in Bullhead City. The Colorado River Museum is one to see for anyone interested in the history of the region. You can also take the Davis Dam, which played a serious part in the construction of Lake Mohave. And there is plenty of outdoor ground here as well, hiking, camping, and the many parks and recreation areas in the area.

Key Takeaways

• Bullhead City, Arizona, has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to museums and history.
• Experience the Colorado River with a boat tour, fishing, or water sports like jet skiing or wakeboarding.
• Visit the Colorado River Museum and Davis Dam to learn about the history of the region.

The Colorado River Experience

For some wet and wild time, the Colorado River is the place. With its clear waters and its scenery, it is no wonder the river pulls in fishing, boating, kayaking and other water sports. So grab the sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and get ready to take the Colorado River properly.

Fishing Fun

Fishing enthusiasts will get on well with the Colorado River. With its run of fish species, catfish, bass and trout among them, you are likely to land a good catch. So grab the fishing gear and head out to the river for a slow day on the water.

Boating Bliss

For a good way to work the Colorado River, renting a boat is the answer. A slow cruise or something with more pace, there is a boat rental for both. So hop aboard and get ready for a day of boating.

Jet Ski Joyride

For some high-speed time, renting a jet ski is the way to go. With its powerful engine and clean design, a jet ski suits working the Colorado River. So put on the life jacket and get ready for a joyride that stays with you.

Kayaking and Canoeing Capers

For a lower-key way to work the Colorado River, kayaking or canoeing is the answer. With its calm waters and its scenery, kayaking or canoeing on the river makes for a quiet and slow day. So grab the paddle and get ready for some capers on the water.

Water Sports Wonders

For some water sports, the Colorado River has it all. From wakeboarding to tubing, there is a water sport here for everyone. So grab the gear and get ready for some wet and wild time.

Riverwalk Ramble

For a slower way to take the Colorado River, walk along the Riverwalk. With its wide views and its small shops and restaurants, the Riverwalk gives you the river without getting wet. So put on the walking shoes and get ready for a ramble along the water.

Museums and History

History people have some strong museums in Bullhead City that are worth the time during a visit. Here are two museums that will hold your interest:

Colorado River Museum Visit

The Colorado River Museum is one to see for anyone interested in the history of Bullhead City and the surrounding area. The museum holds a serious collection of artifacts and exhibits that show the history of the Colorado River region, the mining industry, the riverboat era, and the construction of the Hoover Dam among them.

One of the stronger parts of the museum is the collection of vintage photographs that show what life was like in the early days of Bullhead City. You will also find a strong selection of books about the history of the area, so you can pick up more of this region while you are in there.

Route 66 Reminiscence

Anyone who takes to the Mother Road will not want to miss the Route 66 Reminiscence museum. This museum works to preserve the history of Route 66, which was once the main highway that connected Chicago to Los Angeles.

The museum holds a strong collection of artifacts and exhibits that show the history of Route 66, vintage cars, gas pumps and signs from the heyday of the highway among them. You will also find a strong selection of books and souvenirs that celebrate the history of this road.

History buff or just after something to do in Bullhead City, these museums will hold you and teach you something. So grab the camera and your sense of adventure, and get ready to work through the history of this region.

Outdoor Adventures

For some outdoor time, Bullhead City has you covered. From desert hikes to river expeditions, there is a version of each. Here are the outdoor options you can take in Bullhead City:

Desert Hiking Delights

Bullhead City is surrounded by desert country that is waiting to be worked through. Strap on the hiking boots and head out to the trails. Some strong options include:

• Hualapai Mountain Park

• Grapevine Canyon

• Spirit Mountain

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and watch out for rattlesnakes.

Lake Mohave Escapades

Lake Mohave is a busy destination for boating, fishing and water sports. Rent a kayak, go fishing, or just sit on the beach. Some activities to try out include:

• Jet skiing

• Wakeboarding

• Stand-up paddleboarding

And do not forget to bring the sunscreen and a life jacket.

Grapevine Canyon Exploration

Grapevine Canyon is strong ground for hiking and working through. Take the ancient petroglyphs, and keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. Some things to do in Grapevine Canyon include:

• Hiking to the petroglyphs

• Picnicking by the creek

• Birdwatching

Bring sturdy shoes and a camera for this one.

Lower Colorado River Expedition

The Lower Colorado River is a good place for a scenic float trip. Rent a raft or kayak and take the scenery with it. Some things to see on the Lower Colorado River include:

• Davis Dam

• Laughlin, Nevada

• Topock Gorge

Make sure to bring plenty of water and a camera.

Black Canyon Excursion

The Black Canyon is strong ground for a day trip. Take the hot springs, and keep an eye out for wildlife. Some things to do in the Black Canyon include:

• Soaking in the hot springs

• Hiking to the Hoover Dam

• Taking a scenic drive

Bring a swimsuit and some snacks for this one.

Topock Gorge Adventure

Topock Gorge is strong ground for kayaking and working through. Take the wildlife, and take the scenery with it. Some things to do in Topock Gorge include:

• Kayaking through the gorge

• Hiking to the petroglyphs

• Fishing for bass and catfish

Make sure to bring plenty of water and a camera.

Hiking, boating or just sitting out in the country, Bullhead City has a version of each. So get out there and work through it.

Parks and Recreation

After a good way to spend the day in Bullhead City? The many parks and recreation areas in the city are the answer. Here are the spots to take:

Bullhead City Community Park

For a park that covers everything, Bullhead City Community Park is the place. This park runs everything from playgrounds and picnic areas to sports fields and a skate park. And with plenty of shade trees and benches, it suits sitting down and taking the outdoors.

Veterans Memorial Park Visit

For a park that carries some weight to it, head over to Veterans Memorial Park. This park is home to a memorial that honors the sacrifices of the veterans of our nation. But that is not all. The park also runs a playground, picnic tables, and a walking path that suits a slow stroll.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

For outdoor ground, Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the answer. This massive park holds over 1.5 million acres of land and water, which makes it strong ground for boating, fishing, hiking or camping. And with wide views over the surrounding mountains and desert country, it is a good place to take the natural side of the area.

Pet-Friendly Fun at the Dog Park

If you are traveling with your dog, take the dog park at Rotary Park. This park runs separate areas for small and large dogs, alongside plenty of shade and water stations to keep your pup cool and comfortable. And with plenty of benches and picnic tables, it suits sitting down and talking with other dog owners.

So for somewhere to play, sit down or work through, the parks and recreation areas of Bullhead City have a version of each.

Food and Dining

Culinary Tour of Bullhead City

You may not think of Bullhead City as a place to eat well, but the spread of food options here will surprise you. Start at one of the many restaurants in town. Italian, Mexican, or good old American burgers and fries, something here will land. And do not forget to try the local specialty, a Sonoran-style hot dog, topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, and a spread of sauces.

For something more low-key, take one of the many snack bars in town. Grab a quick bite to eat before heading back out to work through the city. Try a classic corn dog or a bag of freshly popped popcorn.

Picnic Spots in Bullhead City

When the weather holds, there is nothing better than a picnic in the park. Bullhead City runs plenty of picnic areas to choose from. Head to Community Park for a picnic with a view over the Colorado River. Or, for something more secluded, take Rotary Park. With plenty of shaded areas and picnic tables, it suits a quiet picnic for two.

Do not feel like packing your own picnic? No problem. Stop by one of the local grocery stores and pick up some pre-made sandwiches and snacks. Or, if you are feeling bold, head to one of the many food trucks in town. You never know what you will turn up.

So for a dressier dinner or a casual picnic, Bullhead City runs plenty of food options to choose from. Bon appétit.

Golfing in Bullhead City

Bullhead City suits golfers, and with several golf courses in the area, you can tee off as long as you like. Seasoned pro or beginner, there is a course here for you. So grab the clubs, put on the golf attire, and let us hit the links.

Tee Off at Laughlin Ranch

For a course with some challenge in it, Laughlin Ranch is the place. This 18-hole championship golf course runs dramatic elevation changes, wide views, and greens that ask something of you. But do not let that put you off, because the course also plays for golfers of all skill levels. And when you are done, head over to the Laughlin Ranch Clubhouse for a bite to eat and a spa treatment.

Miniature Golf Mania

If you are not quite ready for the big leagues, head over to Scooters Family Fun Center for a round of miniature golf. This 18-hole course suits families, couples, or anyone who wants a lighter hour on the greens. And if you are feeling competitive, challenge your friends to a game of laser tag or go-kart racing.

So whether you want a proper round of golf or just some time with the family, Bullhead City has you covered. With its courses and its attractions, the day will hold up.

Laughlin, Nevada sits just across the Colorado River from the middle of this city. Needles, California sits across the same river on the other side of it. Kingman, Arizona is the road trip inland along the old line of Route 66. Lake Mead National Recreation Area covers over 1.5 million acres of land and water. And the Grand Canyon is a manageable drive from here for a day trip.

Family Fun Activities

After some good old-fashioned family time in Bullhead City? These three options are the answer:

Go-Kart Galore

Get the heart going with a visit to one of the many go-kart tracks in Bullhead City. With options for all ages and skill levels, you will find a track that suits. Speed demon or after a slower ride, go-karting is a good way to spend an afternoon with the family.

Batting Cages Bonanza

For a lower-key activity, why not try your hand at batting cages? Bullhead City runs plenty of options for baseball and softball enthusiasts of all ages. Seasoned pro or just starting out, you will have a ball (pun intended) at one of these batting cages.

Scooters Family Fun Center

For a one-stop-shop of family time, Scooters Family Fun Center is the answer. This indoor entertainment center covers it all: go-karts, batting cages, laser tag, mini golf, an arcade, and more. And with options for both kids and adults, everyone in the family gets something.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start on some family time.

Water Activities at Lake Mohave

For some time in the sun, Lake Mohave has you covered. With its clear waters and sandy beaches, you will not run out of things to do. Here are the water activities you can take at Lake Mohave.

Scuba Diving Delights

Dive into the depths of Lake Mohave and turn up a whole new world. With over 200 species of fish and a spread of underwater habitats, scuba diving at Lake Mohave stands on its own. Seasoned pro or first-timer, there are plenty of dive sites to work through. Take the submerged wreckage of the “Gregory” or the “Princess” for a dive out of the ordinary.

Wakeboarding Wonders

For something with more pace, wakeboarding at Lake Mohave is the way to go. With its calm waters and its scenery, Lake Mohave suits trying out this water sport. Beginner or pro, you will find plenty of wakeboarding at Lake Mohave. Rent a wakeboard and hit the waves for a day that stays with you.

Paddle Boarding Pleasures

For a more laid-back day on the water, try paddle boarding at Lake Mohave. With its calm waters and its scenery, Lake Mohave suits paddle boarding. A quiet paddle or a hard workout, paddle boarding at Lake Mohave takes both. Rent a paddle board and work the shoreline for a slow and easy day.

So for swimming, scuba diving, wakeboarding or paddle boarding, Lake Mohave has a version of each. Pack the sunscreen, grab the swimsuit, and head to Lake Mohave for a day in the sun.

Tours and Trips

For a good way to work through Bullhead City, Arizona, there are plenty of tours and trips available. A guided river trip, your own gear for a self-guided tour, or a multi-day tour, there is a version of each.

Guided River Trips

One of the stronger ways to take Bullhead City is a guided river trip. There are several tour companies that run guided river trips down the Colorado River. You can choose from a spread of options, half-day trips, full-day trips, and even overnight trips. During the trip, you get the scenery of the Colorado River, the towering cliffs and the waterfalls among it.

Gear Rentals for Self-Guided Tours

If you prefer to work through Bullhead City at your own pace, you can rent your own gear for a self-guided tour. There are several companies that run gear rentals, kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards among them. You can take your gear out on the Colorado River and work the area on your own. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Multi-Day Tours Experience

For anyone who wants to get right into the country around Bullhead City, a multi-day tour is the way to go. There are several companies that run multi-day tours, hiking tours, camping tours, and even off-road vehicle tours. During the tour, you get to work through some of the more remote ground around Bullhead City, quiet waterfalls and wide vistas among it.

Whatever type of tour or trip you choose, the trip will stay with you in Bullhead City. So grab the gear, hop on a tour, and get ready to work through this city.

Accommodation in Bullhead City

Ah, accommodation. The place you rest your head after a long day working through Bullhead City. There are plenty of options to choose from.

For a luxurious stay, take the Laughlin hotels just across the river. They run all the amenities you could want, casinos, spas and dressier restaurants among them. But if you want to stay in Bullhead City, do not worry. There are still some strong options.

Motel 6 is a reliable choice for budget-friendly accommodations. They have a location right in Bullhead City, and their rooms are clean and comfortable. And they are pet-friendly, so you can bring your dog along for the trip.

For a hotel with a bit more character, take the Best Western Colorado River Inn. Their rooms are spacious and decorated with a Southwestern flair. And they run a pool and hot tub for you to sit in after a long day of hiking or boating.

For something out of the ordinary, take the Pioneer Hotel and Gambling Hall. It sits right on the Colorado River and runs a casino, restaurant and bar. And their rooms have balconies over the river, so you can take the view with a cup of coffee in the morning.

Wherever you choose to stay, book early. Bullhead City gets busy during peak season, and you do not want to end up sleeping in the car.

Visiting Nearby Locations

Bullhead City is worth the trip, but sometimes you want to head out and work through the areas nearby. There are plenty of locations within driving distance that repay the time. Here are a few options to consider:

Laughlin, Nevada Excursion

Just across the Colorado River, you will find Laughlin, Nevada. This small town is known for its casinos and resorts, which makes it a busy destination for anyone looking to try their luck at the slot machines. But even if gambling is not your thing, there is plenty else to do in Laughlin. You can take a walk along the riverwalk, catch a show at the Laughlin Event Center, or go on a riverboat tour. And the views over the mountains and river hold up.

Kingman, Arizona Trip

If you are in the mood for a road trip, head to Kingman, Arizona. This historic town sits along Route 66, which makes it strong ground for anyone who takes to Americana. You can take the Route 66 Museum, work through the historic downtown area, or take a tour of the local gold mine. And if you are feeling bold, you can take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Kingman.

Needles, California Visit

For a change of scenery, head to Needles, California. This small town sits just across the Colorado River from Bullhead City and is known for its desert country. You can take a hike in the nearby Mojave Desert, work through the historic Route 66 sites, or take a dip in the Colorado River. And the town has a character of its own that will get you.

Whichever nearby location you choose, the day will hold up. So pack the bags, hit the road, and get ready for the drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Lazy Harry’s in Bullhead City?

Well, let us just say Lazy Harry’s is not for the faint of heart. This place is a local favorite for a reason. You can find everything from live music to karaoke to bull riding here. And yes, you read that right, bull riding. So if you are feeling bold and want something out of the ordinary, Lazy Harry’s is the place.

Are there any hidden gems for shopping in Bullhead City?

Absolutely. For something different from the usual mall run, take the Bullhead City Farmers Market. Here you will find a spread of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It suits finding an unusual souvenir to take home with you.

What’s the craziest event happening in Bullhead City in the next 3 days?

Well, it is hard to say since there is always something going on in Bullhead City. But for a good time, take the Laughlin River Run. This annual motorcycle rally is one to see, with thousands of bikers taking over the town. Even if you are not a motorcycle enthusiast, it is worth the trip for the people-watching alone.

What’s the most scenic day trip from Bullhead City, AZ?

Without a doubt, the answer is the Grand Canyon. It is a straightforward drive from Bullhead City, and the views hold up against anything. Hiking, biking or just taking the scenery, the Grand Canyon is one to see.

Is Bullhead City worth visiting or should I just go to Laughlin?

We may be biased, but we think Bullhead City is worth the visit. Laughlin pulls the bigger crowd, but Bullhead City has a character of its own. From the Colorado River to the Davis Dam, there is plenty to see and do in Bullhead City.

What’s the best place to grab a bite in Bullhead City?

That is a hard one since there are so many strong options. But if we had to choose, we would point you at the Black Bear Diner. This family-friendly restaurant serves classic American comfort food in a warm room. And the portions are huge, so you will not leave hungry.

Frequently asked questions about Bullhead City, Arizona

Which Bullhead City canyon is worth the hike out?

Grapevine Canyon, and it is not close. The canyon holds ancient petroglyphs, and there are bighorn sheep on the walls above it if you keep your eyes turned up while you are walking through it. Black Canyon is the other one worth a full day instead. That one has hot springs and wildlife rather than rock art on the walls. Bring sturdy shoes for Grapevine and a swimsuit for Black Canyon.

Which Bullhead City lake suits a full day of water sports?

Lake Mohave, comfortably. The lake runs clear water and sandy beaches, and it takes scuba diving, wakeboarding and paddle boarding without any of them getting in the way of each other. There are over 200 species of fish under the surface as well. Divers can find the submerged wreckage of the “Gregory” or the “Princess” down there. The Colorado River handles the faster jet skiing instead of this one.

Which Bullhead City museum should you take on first?

The Colorado River Museum. It covers the mining industry, the riverboat era and the construction of the Hoover Dam, and its collection of vintage photographs shows what the early days here actually looked like. Route 66 Reminiscence is the second stop rather than the first one. That one keeps vintage cars, gas pumps and old highway signs from the road. Give the river museum the longer half of the morning.

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