Kingman is a city located in northwestern Arizona, approximately 90 miles southeast of Las Vegas and 180 miles northwest of Phoenix. Nicknamed “The Heart of Historic Route 66,” Kingman offers visitors a glimpse into classic Americana as well as stunning desert scenery.
From quirky roadside attractions to Old West history, outdoor adventures and more, this guide covers 12 of the top attractions in and around Kingman that you won’t want to miss!
Exploring the Route 66 Museum
In a location befitting of its name, the Historic Route 66 Museum sits right along Kingman’s stretch of the iconic Mother Road. Step inside to view an impressive display of artifacts from the heyday of Route 66. Peruse vintage road signs and gas pumps, classic cars suspended from the ceiling, old photos, and an eclectic assortment of highway memorabilia.
Guided tours provide illuminating background on the history of Route 66 and its significance, both for Kingman and the U.S. at large. Don’t miss the gift shop stocked with Route 66 souvenirs to commemorate your visit. History buffs, road trip enthusiasts, and anyone who loves Americana will find something to love at this captivating attraction.
Standing on the Corner Park
One of the quirkiest attractions in Kingman can be found at Standing on the Corner Park. Recreating a scene from the hit song “Take It Easy,” as performed by the Eagles, this public spot features two life-size bronze statues of a muralist and a subject leaning nonchalantly against a lamppost.
It pays tribute to the Railroad Days and glory years of Route 66, both so significant for Kingman’s growth. In addition to snapping photos with the sculptures, music lovers will enjoy a playlist of classic rock tunes including the song that inspired it all. The park is conveniently located downtown, so you can easily check it out during a walking tour of the area. Admission is free.
Hualapai Mountain Park
Escape the desert heat by heading up to Hualapai Mountain Park, situated at an altitude of 6,300 feet. Only a 15-minute drive from downtown Kingman, this recreational getaway offers several months of cooler temperatures thanks to its higher elevation. Hike, bike or ride horses along 25 miles of trails traversing evergreen woodlands and lofty granite peaks.
Anglers can wet their lines fishing for trout, bass and catfish in several lakes and streams. Other facilities include overnight cabins, RV camping, a lodge and rustic stone picnic areas. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, turkeys, quail and other wildlife while breathing in fresh mountain air. Day use entry is $5 per vehicle.
Goldroad Mine Tour
Step back to a bygone era in Goldroad, Arizona by going underground on a guided tour of the historic Gold Road gold mine. Learn how greedy prospectors and greedy corporations fought for control here, then ride about 1,000 feet into the main tunnel aboard a mine train.
Listen as your tour guide describes what life was like for a turn-of-the-century miner – the struggles, the danger and the occasional bright spots too. Kids will enjoy panning for real gold after the tour. Visitors say this educational and unusual excursion is entertaining for all ages. Ticket prices start at $15 for ages 5 and up.
Hualapai Mountain Park
Explore the living history of the Old West at Mohave Museum of History and Arts in Kingman. This regional museum complex houses expansive exhibits and artifacts chronicling the early pioneers, miners, ranchers, railroads and more who shaped Mohave County history. Wander through a late 1800s general store, historic saloon and jail cells while learning how characters like Al Capone played a role in Kingman’s past.
Other displays feature an extensive firearm collection, Native American basketry, painted pottery, sculptures and rotating pieces from regional artists. From settling the Wild West to the heyday of Route 66, the intriguing exhibits here truly bring Kingman’s heritage to life. Adult admission is $4.
Andy Devine Days Festival
Taking place over the second weekend each September, Andy Devine Days pays tribute to Kingman’s most famous hometown celebrity. Actor Andy Devine starred in over 400 films, played sidekick to John Wayne and won fans over with his distinctive raspy voice. Festival highlights span a pickleball tournament, car show, carnival rides, food vendors, live music and more.
Don’t miss the hilarious Tortoise Race or hearty Hatch Chile Cook-Off! And on Saturday night, a honorary ceremony for one lucky Kingman resident awarded the coveted “Andy Award” is followed by impressive fireworks lighting up the sky above Lewis Kingman Park. This annual event celebrates the city’s Western hospitality and storied roots along Route 66.
Climb Cerbat Cliffs
Adventure seekers driving along historic Route 66 should stop to tackle the impressive climbing area at Cerbat Cliffs. Located on Bureau of Land Management territory just 5 miles west of Kingman, this remote spot is well worth the quick detour. Choose from over 150 established routes up sandstone escarpments and towering cliffs named for their pink hue, courtesy of high iron content.
Bolted sport routes range from 5.7 to 5.12, enough to challenge climbers of every skill level. But be prepared with plenty of water and triple-check directions, as cell service is non-existent out here. Off the grid and boasting stunning high desert vistas, Cerbat Cliffs provides a top-notch climbing escape less than an hour from Kingman proper.
Walk the Kingman Railroad Depot
History isn’t relegated to museums in Kingman – downtown also offers a taste via the century-old Santa Fe Railroad Depot. Still in operation to this day, Amtrak’s Southwest Chief makes a daily stop here on trips between Chicago and Los Angeles.
Take time before your train leaves to explore the grounds and exterior Craftsman-style architecture, clearly reminiscent of Kingman’s railroad roots. Inside, browse historic exhibits with artifacts, photos, timetables and mod displays while imagining the vital role trains played in transporting miners or fresh produce. The Kingman Visitor Center at the north end of the depot also provides helpful travel information and recommendations.
Hike Hualapai Peak
While scenic Hualapai Mountain Park tops out at 8,417 feet elevation, the tallest point around Kingman is Hualapai Peak at 8,690 feet. A strenuous day hike rewards those who summit with far-reaching panoramas of surrounding mountain ranges, canyons and basins. The 6.4-mile round trip packs over 2,300 feet of elevation gain following switchbacks to the pine tree-lined peak.
Ambitious trekkers should start early before the high-altitude heat intensifies and bring plenty of water. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the stone lookout once on top, where panoramic views stretch for over 100 miles on a clear day. Just off Route 66 and an hour drive north of Kingman, it’s amazing what stepping up less than 300 vertical feet can do!
Tour Grand Canyon Caverns
Venture underground into the largest dry caverns in America at Grand Canyon Caverns, 25 miles northeast of Kingman. These eerie limestone caves were hewn over millennia by acidic groundwater penetrating the region’s limestone bedrock. Today, you can take guided walking tours into chambers dropping over 200 feet into the Earth.
See delicate stalactites dangling from above and marvel at the rustic elevator cleverly incorporated into the natural rock walls. Those willing to pay extra can even stay overnight in the Cavern Suite 60 feet below ground. Back above, don’t miss the quirky curiosities in the owner’s eccentric personal museum. From a mummified bobcat to a piece of the Titanic, it houses oddities and artifacts collected over 50 years.
Visit Keepers of the Wild
Get a closer look at exotic wildlife just outside downtown Kingman at Keepers of the Wild. This nonprofit animal sanctuary spans over 13 acres, home to rescued big cats, bears, primates and more unable to survive in the wild. Daily educational shows let visitors observe feedings and training sessions while learning about the rescued residents.
Unlike zoos with small enclosures, you’ll see these magnificent creatures roaming spacious habitats designed to mimic their natural environments as closely as possible. It’s an amazing opportunity to safely view impressive wildlife that would normally only be seen in faraway places. General admission starts at $16 for adults and $8 for kids ages 4-12.
Conclusion
From its deep roots along the fabled Route 66 to amazing natural attractions and Old West history, Kingman serves up no shortage of sights to see for visitors. Learn about bygone eras at the Route 66 Museum and see Standing on the Corner Park come alive. Beat the desert heat amid cooler mountain elevations on trails leading to pine forests and the pinnacle of Hualapai Peak.
Tap into your sense of adventure climbing the sandstone cliffs at Cerbat or by going underground at Grand Canyon Caverns. Culture vultures will love the Mohave Museum of History and Arts while animal lovers shouldn’t miss a chance to spot exotic creatures up-close at Keepers of the Wild. And that’s only scratching the surface of all there is to experience in and around this Route 66 town. Whether traveling solo, with family or friends, Kingman promises memorable adventures and quintessential slices of Americana at every turn.