Scenic Desert Wine Distillery Brewery Route 66 Tour

Planning a day trip that combines the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert, a splash of history, and local wine and spirits? This Scenic Desert Wine, Distillery, Brewery Route 66 Tour from Kingman promises just that. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-reviewed experience that appeals to those who love a mix of scenic rides, cultural stops, and tastings—perfect for travelers wanting a laid-back but enriching outing.

What really catches our attention? First, the knowledgeable guides who keep things engaging and informative, and the variety of stops that give a good taste of local Arizona culture, wine, and history. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the length of the drive—it’s around 2.5 hours from Vegas, so be ready for a bit of a journey if you’re coming from afar. But if you’re into exploring off the beaten path, this trip could be exactly what you’re looking for.

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy local wines, spirits, and a touch of historic flair, especially those who appreciate scenic drives and small-group experiences. If you’re curious about Route 66, enjoy learning about local lore, and want to taste regional wines and beers, this could be a worthwhile day out.

Key Points

• Variety of Stops: Combines museums, wineries, a distillery, and a brewery, making the day diverse and interesting.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 13 travelers, the tour feels more personal and relaxed.
• Included Tastings and Lunch: Enjoy up to seven wine tastings, spirits, beer, and a hearty lunch—all included in the price.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight guides like Sue and Mike as friendly, well-informed, and attentive.
• Scenic & Cultural: From the iconic Route 66 Museum to desert wineries, the journey offers both landscape and history.
• Good Value: At $159 per person, including transport, tastings, and meals, most feel this tour offers solid value.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Off in Kingman

Your day kicks off at the Kingman Visitor Center, where you’ll get a quick but insightful intro to the area’s history. The Route 66 Museum is housed in the historic Powerhouse Building, and it’s a real treat for anyone interested in Americana nostalgia. Murals, photos, and dioramas tell stories of travelers along what’s called the “Mother Road.” This stop isn’t just about the past; it sets a warm tone for the entire trip, providing good context for the places to come.

Most reviews praise this museum as well worth the 45-minute visit, with some mentioning it as a highlight—especially if you love American history or vintage road trip culture. It’s a nice way to get your bearings before hitting the road.

Wineries and Spirit Tastings

Next, the tour ventures out to Little Old Wine Drinkers Winery, a fresh new vineyard that’s still in its early stages but already generating buzz. Here, you’ll see the process firsthand—planting vines, harvesting grapes—and enjoy a sampling of wines that reflect the desert’s unique terroir. Travelers seem to love this stop for its authenticity and the chance to try wines from a winery literally starting from scratch.

A bit later, you’ll visit Desert Diamond Distillery, which offers spirits in a setting with a historic train car and caboose—an evocative backdrop for tasting local spirits. This stop is especially appreciated for its unique vibe and the stories shared by guides, making the spirits tasting more engaging than just a sip and move on.

One guest stated, “The winery and distillery were all great experiences,” highlighting how these stops complement each other. The tasting sessions are an integral part of the tour, giving you a real taste of the local craft spirit scene.

The Heart of the Tour: Local Food and Drinks

Lunchtime is included, and most travelers rave about the charcuterie board at Red Cellar or a meal from a local restaurant if the scheduled stop is unavailable. The Black Bridge Brewery often takes the place of the distillery or bistro when needed, serving up local beers in a cozy setting that’s appreciated for its relaxed atmosphere.

Guests have shared that the owners create a warm, welcoming environment perfect for lingering and conversations. The beer sampling complements the wine experience nicely, offering a broader taste of Arizona’s craft beverage scene.

Exploring Route 66 & Small-Town Charm

One of the tour’s standout features for many is the visit to the Arizona Route 66 Museum and the Powerhouse Visitor Center. These stops are packed with murals, photos, and exhibits that evoke the spirit of America’s most legendary highway. For those who love Americana, nostalgia, or just want to see a piece of iconic history, this is a highlight.

Coupled with stops at local gift and antique shops, the tour feels like a mini road trip through history and culture. As one reviewer noted, “The Route 66 museum in Kingman is well worth the visit,” which rings true for anyone interested in classic Americana.

Transportation & Group Size

The entire experience is comfortably paced, with air-conditioned transport and a driver who keeps things smooth. The small group size (up to 13 travelers) makes it easier to ask questions, share laughs, and really connect with guides like Sue, Brandon, or Mike, who are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Duration & Price

At around 5 to 7 hours, the tour is long enough to cover lots of ground but not so extended that you feel exhausted. The $159 price tag covers a lot: the transport, all tastings and samples, lunch, and entrance fees. Many reviews agree that this is fair for what you get—especially considering the variety of stops and experiences packed into one day.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration? The drive from Vegas to Kingman is about 2.5 hours each way, which some might find lengthy. One reviewer labeled it a “skip,” citing the travel time and a less-than-ideal wine tasting experience, but most find the journey worthwhile given the stops and scenery. Also, some stops like the distillery or bistro may be unavailable on certain days, so it’s good to check ahead.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love discovering local wines, spirits, and small museums, and enjoy scenic desert drives, this tour suits you well. It’s ideal for adults who appreciate history, Americana, and craft beverages. While not explicitly tailored for families, it’s a great choice for those interested in a relaxed, engaging day that mixes culture with tasting. Travelers from Las Vegas or nearby areas will also find this a memorable side trip.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour begins at 8:00 am, making it easy to plan your day.

How long is the drive from Vegas?
The trip from Vegas is approximately 2.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a longer day if you’re coming from there.

What’s included in the price?
Price includes transport, a guided experience, all tastings (wine, spirits, beer), lunch, and all fees and taxes.

Are all the stops open year-round?
Most stops are generally available, but some, like the distillery or bistro, may be unavailable at certain times. It’s good to confirm before booking.

What’s the group size?
The tour is capped at 13 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Scenic Desert Wine, Distillery, Brewery Route 66 Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Arizona’s rich desert landscape, history, and local beverage scene. It’s a thoughtfully crafted experience with friendly guides, interesting stops, and included tastings that make the price seem fair. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic day out, this trip provides meaningful memories without feeling rushed.

It’s especially suited for curious adults who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic views, and good company. If you’re after a more relaxed, educational experience that combines the best of Arizona’s small-town charm and history, this tour could be just right.

Happy travels, and don’t forget to bring your curiosity—and maybe a bigger suitcase for all those local wines and spirits!