Kingman

Kingman is a city in northwestern Arizona, serving as the county seat of Mohave County and a key stop along historic Route 66 and Interstate 40. With a population of approximately 30,000, it's one of the larger communities in the region and functions as a commercial hub for the surrounding desert and mountain areas. The town's Route 66 heritage is celebrated throughout its downtown district, with vintage motels, diners, and memorabilia.

Kingman sits at an elevation of about 3,300 feet in the Hualapai Valley, surrounded by desert landscapes and mountain ranges. The climate is hot and arid, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F (38°C). Winters are mild and pleasant, making fall through spring the ideal visiting season. The area receives minimal rainfall, mostly during summer monsoon season (July-September).

The city is strategically located between Las Vegas (100 miles northwest) and the Grand Canyon (60 miles north), making it a convenient base for exploring the region. Kingman also serves as a gateway to the historic Route 66 corridor stretching to the California border at Topock.

By Plane

The nearest commercial airport is Kingman Municipal Airport (IGM), which has limited service. Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport (IFP) in Bullhead City, about 30 miles west, offers more commercial flights. Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) is approximately 100 miles northwest, about a 1.5-hour drive.

By Car / Road

Kingman is located at the intersection of Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 93. From Las Vegas, drive south on U.S. 93 approximately 100 miles. From Phoenix, take I-17 north to I-40 west, about 200 miles. From the Grand Canyon South Rim, drive south on AZ 64 to I-40, approximately 60 miles. Route 66 passes through downtown Kingman for a scenic historic drive.

Kingman is a spread-out Western town where a car is essential for getting around. The downtown area along Andy Devine Avenue (Route 66) is walkable, with shops, restaurants, and attractions concentrated there. No public transportation system exists. Ride-hailing services are limited but available.

• Mohave Museum of History and Arts – Features exhibits on regional history, including Route 66 heritage, mining, and Native American culture. Small admission fee.

• Powerhouse Visitor Center – Housed in a historic 1907 power building, offering Route 66 memorabilia, local history exhibits, and visitor information.

• Route 66 Museum – Located in the Arizona Route 66 Museum, featuring vintage cars, photographs, and memorabilia from the highway's heyday.

• Hualapai Mountain Park – 12 miles south of Kingman, offering hiking trails, camping, and a rustic stone lodge at 6,800 feet elevation.

• Bonelli House Museum – Victorian-era home showcasing life in early Kingman.

• Route 66 Heritage Drive – Cruise the historic highway through Kingman and continue to Oatman and the California border.

• Hualapai Mountain Hiking – Multiple trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging mountain hikes.

• Metcalfe Park – Central park with picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths.

• Gold King Mine Ghost Town – Tour a recreated mining town with old buildings, mining equipment, and pan for gold.

• Arizona Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum – Showcases the history of electric vehicles along Route 66.

• Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner – Classic Route 66 diner with burgers, shakes, and nostalgic décor. Budget-friendly.
• Dambar & Steakhouse – Steakhouse known for Western-style grilled meats and hearty portions. Dinner $15-40.
• Rickot's Restaurant – Family-friendly Mexican and American fare with generous portions.
• Mattina Ristorante – Italian restaurant offering pasta, pizza, and wine in a more upscale setting. Dinner $20-40.
• Rutherford's 66 Diner – Another Route 66-themed diner with classic American comfort food.

• Floyd & Company Pretty Good Coffee – Specialty coffee and pastries in a casual setting.
• Dambar & Steakhouse Bar – Cocktails, beer, and wine in a Western saloon atmosphere.
• Local Breweries – Kingman has a growing craft beer scene with several local breweries.

Budget

• KOA Kingman – RV and tent camping with full hookups, pool, and amenities. $30-50/night.
• Budget Host Motel – Basic, clean rooms near I-40. $50-70/night.

Mid-range

• Best Western Plus A Way Inn – Modern amenities, pool, and complimentary breakfast. $100-140/night.
• Ramada by Wyndham Kingman – Comfortable rooms with pool and restaurant on-site. $90-130/night.

Upscale / heritage

• Hualapai Mountain Resort – Rustic stone lodge in the mountains above Kingman, offering a retreat from the desert heat. $150-250/night.
• El Trovatore Motel – Historic Route 66 motel with vintage décor and modern comforts. $80-120/night.

• Historic Downtown Shopping – Browse antique shops, boutiques, and Route 66 souvenir stores along Andy Devine Avenue.
• Kingman Farmers Market – Seasonal market offering local produce, crafts, and baked goods.
• Walmart and Safeway – Full-service stores for groceries and general merchandise.

• Grand Canyon South Rim (60 mi/1 hr north) – One of the world's most spectacular natural wonders.
• Las Vegas (100 mi/1.5 hr northwest) – Entertainment capital with casinos, shows, and dining.
• Oatman (30 mi/30 min west) – Wild West ghost town with burros roaming the streets.
• Lake Havasu City (70 mi/1 hr south) – Home to the London Bridge and water recreation on Lake Havasu.
• Hoover Dam (100 mi/1.5 hr northwest) – Engineering marvel on the Colorado River between Arizona and Nevada.