Oatman Mining Camp Burros Museums Scenic RT66 Tour

If you’re dreaming of following in the footsteps of American explorers and craving an authentic slice of the Old West, this Oatman Mining Camp, Burros, Museums, and Scenic Route 66 Tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a well-rated experience packed with history, stunning scenery, and some unexpected surprises. Whether you’re into old mining towns, iconic highways, or just looking for a change of pace from Las Vegas, this tour offers a compelling way to spend a day outside the city.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational stops like the Arizona Route 66 Museum with fantastically scenic drives through the Black Mountains, plus the chance to wander in the lively, burro-populated streets of Oatman. The fact that it’s a small group tour — max 13 travelers — adds a nice personal touch, making it easier to ask questions and really enjoy the stops. One thing to consider: the trip is a bit lengthy, with a total duration of around 5 to 7 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day on the road. This tour works brilliantly for those eager for a mix of history, nature, and some good old Western charm.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.
• Multiple stops offer a well-rounded glimpse into Route 66, old mining towns, and scenic mountain views.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often highlighted as a tour’s best feature.
• The trip is quite long, so it’s better suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing and driving.
• Price point offers good value when you factor in all the included stops, transportation, and expert commentary.
• The tour is family-friendly and especially appealing to those interested in American history, old towns, and outdoor scenery.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This guided tour from Kingman to Oatman and beyond hits many of the notes travelers appreciate when exploring the American Southwest. It’s not just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about experiencing stories, landscapes, and local culture firsthand. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary ensures you get a taste of the past and present in a relaxed, manageable format.

You start your day at the Powerhouse Visitors Center/Arizona Route 66 Museum. Here, the displays of vehicles, photographs, and artifacts give you an immediate sense of how significant Route 66 was to America’s development. As one reviewer said, “The electric vehicle room was a surprising highlight,” which goes to show how much thought is put into making this a memorable visit, even for history buffs.

Next up is Cool Springs Station, a service stop built in the 1920s that’s connected with the early days of Route 66. This gives travelers a tangible connection to the classic road trip era. You’ll even get a themed shirt, which can be a fun souvenir. The connection to the larger story of Americana makes this stop particularly meaningful.

Exploring Oatman: More Than Just a Tourist Stop

The highlight for many is Oatman, a former gold-mining town turned lively roadside attraction. The town’s streets are filled with shops, saloons, and roaming burros — those adorable donkeys that have become Oatman’s signature. Reviews consistently mention how the burros are a real crowd favorite, with visitors excited to pet, feed, or simply admire them. “Absolutely loved seeing the donkeys everywhere,” one guest shared.

The town also features periodic gunfights that are surprisingly well-acted and fun. Don’t expect Hollywood-level professionalism, but these street shows add a festive Western flavor that many find entertaining. The Dakota Leather & Gift Shop is another highlight — it’s part gift shop, part museum, with authentic Western artifacts, old-fashioned bottles, and vintage telephones for sale.

If you’re hungry, there are options, but some reviews noted a limited selection, suggesting you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick bite. The local saloons offer reasonable prices, with a pint of beer costing around $4 — definitely an affordable way to soak in some Old West atmosphere.

Scenic Drives and Panoramic Views

From Oatman, the tour continues through Sitgreaves Pass, offering spectacular vistas of the Black Mountains and the surrounding desert. As one reviewer put it, “The views at Sitgreaves Pass are incredible, especially from the top at 3,550 ft elevation.” It’s a prime spot for photos and taking in the expansive landscape.

Further along, the Route 66 Rock Shop in Golden Valley is a treasure trove for rock collectors and geology enthusiasts. The shop features stones like fire agate, dinosaur bones, and mineral specimens mined locally. Many guests appreciated the chance to learn about the area’s natural resources from passionate local vendors.

The drive back passes through interesting towns like Laughlin, with the whole journey carefully planned to showcase the Southwest’s unique geology, history, and scenery.

The Experience and Guides

What truly elevates this tour are the guides, who are consistently praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge. Guest reviews mention guides like Brandon, Susan, Mike, and Joy as being engaging, informative, and personable. One guest noted, “Our guide Mike was amazing — answered all questions and was super friendly,” and others appreciated guides who tailored the itinerary based on guest comfort, such as adjusting for a guest afraid of heights.

The tour’s small group size (up to 13 travelers) ensures plenty of interaction and flexibility. This approach allows for longer stops, more personalized commentary, and an overall more relaxed pace.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $129 per person, this tour offers a lot — multiple stops, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and tours led by local experts. Given the length and variety of experiences packed into the day, many guests find it to be very good value. It’s a comprehensive way to explore areas outside Vegas without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple trips.

Some reviews point out that the trip is quite long and involves a significant drive from Las Vegas (about an hour and a half each way), but the scenic views, interesting stops, and personal stories more than compensate. The fact that most travelers book around 25 days in advance indicates how popular this tour is.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits history buffs, road trip enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a combination of cultural, scenic, and outdoor activities. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small group settings and want a guide to bring stories and context to each spot. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the road and enjoy scenic drives with interesting stops, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

While families may find it engaging, it’s not specifically designed as a children’s activity, so consider your kids’ patience for long drives and walking. The emphasis on heritage and scenery makes it ideal for curious adults and older kids.

Final Thoughts

In all, this Oatman Mining Camp, Burros, Museums, and Scenic Route 66 Tour offers a genuine taste of the Old West, combined with stunning views and expert guiding. It’s a well-paced, small-group experience that balances history, nature, and local culture. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful scenery, and the overall value for money.

If you’re in the Kingman area or passing through Las Vegas and craving an authentic adventure away from the city’s neon, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s the kind of trip that leaves you with memorable stories, great photos, and a deeper appreciation for American highways and mining towns.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, making it a full-day experience that covers multiple stops and scenic drives.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Kingman are included in the price, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 13 travelers, which helps create a more intimate and personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes is recommended. Snacks or lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guests frequently praise guides like Brandon, Susan, Mike, and Joy for their friendliness and informative commentary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, older children and teenagers who enjoy history and scenic drives tend to enjoy it. The trip is quite long, so consider your child’s patience.

How is the scenery?
Expect spectacular views of the Black Mountains, the desert landscape, and panoramic vistas from Sitgreaves Pass. The scenery is a highlight for many guests.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 25 days in advance, indicating high demand. Early reservations are recommended, especially in peak seasons.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours beforehand. Less than 24 hours, and the fee is non-refundable.

Is there any extra cost?
All fees and taxes are included in the price. Lunch, snacks, and gratuities are not included but are optional.

This tour is a wonderful way to get out of the city, see iconic American sights, and learn some local stories. Whether you’re into history, scenic views, or just want a fun day exploring the West, it’s worth considering.