Route 66

Biking on Oatman Hwy

Bikers going up Oatman, Arizona

Biking on Route 66 to Seligman

Biker on Route 66 going to Seligman

Hackberry General Store Billboard

The Hackberry Billboard, an old tin can, is located just a few hundred feet west of the Hackberry General Store

Giganticus Headicus at Antares Point

Cool Springs

Cool Springs is a former gas station turned museum / gift shop. Cool Springs is a 30 minute drive (20 miles, 32 km) west of Kingman on Historic Route 66.

Hwy 66 Sign to Oatman

Previous Next

Embarking on the iconic journey along Route 66 is not just a road trip; it's a thrilling expedition through the heart of the American narrative. Enthusiastic travelers from around the globe seek the authentic pulse of Americana, and there's no better place to capture it than on the legendary Mother Road.

Now, when it comes to planning your adventure on this fabled highway, the burning question is, "Where can you truly immerse yourself in the essence of Route 66?" Spanning over 2,000 miles, this historic route weaves through communities and attractions as diverse as the tapestry of the United States itself. For those of us without the luxury of time for a cross-country road trip from Chicago to LA, the answer lies in the vibrant state of Arizona.

Picture this: Route 66 in Arizona unfolds amidst pine-filled mountains, sprawling desert landscapes, ghost towns, quirky roadside attractions, and majestic National parks. This southwestern wonderland boasts the longest remaining stretch of Route 66, making it the ultimate destination for an enriching journey. And where should you kick off this exhilarating road adventure? None other than the Heart of Historic Route 66 – Kingman, Arizona.

Founded in 1882 as a mining and railroad town, Kingman reached its zenith during the mid-20th century heydays of Highway 66. Today, it stands as a living testament to the bygone era with its historic downtown, eclectic museums, inviting breweries, wineries, and a myriad of attractions sprinkled along Route 66.

Kingman is home to the famed Route 66 Drive-Thru, where you can immortalize your adventure while being framed under the classic shield. Delve into the rich history of the Mother Road at the Arizona Route 66 Museum, a captivating chronicle from prehistory to the present day. Wander through the historic downtown adorned with vibrant murals, and embark on an augmented self-guided walking tour where QR codes unveil the fascinating stories of the town's many points of interest.

But Kingman isn't just about the past; it's a hub for celebrating American Car Culture with several classic car shows throughout the year. Venture beyond the town, and you'll encounter attractions like the Keepers of the Wild animal sanctuary, the living ghost town of Oatman with daily gunfight reenactments, and the Chloride rock murals painted by the legendary western artist Roy Purcell in the psychedelic summer of 1966.

Arizona proudly boasts not only the longest remaining stretch of Historic Route 66, but also its birthplace. Enter Angel Delgadillo, the barber from Seligman, AZ, who sparked the 1980s movement to revive Route 66 after his town was bypassed. At 96 years young (as of 2023), Angel is a living legend, retired but still thriving. Visitors eager to connect with this iconic figure can do so at the Guardian Angel of Route 66 Experience within the Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman. Engage with a Virtual Angel who answers questions about everything from growing up in Seligman through the Great Depression to the sheer joy he finds in witnessing the revitalization over the last four decades.

So, don't just read about it – get ready for an unforgettable journey and truly get your kicks on Arizona's Route 66! For more information, quench your curiosity by clicking here to have a Kingman Visitor Guide mailed directly to you or visit the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona. Adventure awaits!