Things To Do
in Kingman
Kingman, Arizona sits along Historic Route 66 in Mohave County, offering a blend of desert scenery and Western heritage. The town is known for Route 66 museums, vintage diners, and accessible outdoor adventures. It sits as a gateway to the Mojave Desert and nearby Grand Canyon West, with scenic drives and canyon overlooks within reach.
Visitors enjoy a relaxed, sun-soaked Western ambiance with museums, outdoor trails, and retro charm in the historic downtown.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the famous Dambar Steakhouse, known for its classic American fare. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along Route 66 to soak in the vintage Americana vibe and explore the local shops. Be sure to snap photos of the iconic Route 66 landmarks, including the Route 66 Museum to learn about the history of this legendary highway.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Mohave Museum of History and Arts, where you can discover the rich heritage of the Kingman area through fascinating exhibits. Afterward, grab lunch at a local diner and enjoy a slice of homemade pie, a local favorite. Conclude your afternoon by exploring the nearby Locomotive Park, home to a historic steam engine and a lovely picnic area.
As the sun sets, head to the historic downtown area for a charming dinner at a local steakhouse. Explore the nightlife on Route 66, where you can find live music and entertainment at various venues. Wind down your evening by enjoying a sunset stroll through the beautifully lit streets, taking in the unique architecture of the area.
After breakfast, head to Hualapai Mountain Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature amidst tall pines and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a refreshing hike on one of the many trails, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the park is home to various birds and animals.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's scenic picnic areas, surrounded by the beauty of nature. After lunch, consider exploring more trails or visiting the park's visitor center to learn about the local flora and fauna. For those seeking adventure, try your hand at mountain biking on the park's rugged trails.
As evening approaches, make your way back to Kingman and treat yourself to dinner at a cozy local restaurant. Afterward, unwind with a visit to one of the local breweries for a taste of craft beer made right in the heart of the city. End your day with a relaxing evening under the stars, perhaps with a nightcap at your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $2-5 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Route 66 heritage and museums
- Proximity to outdoor adventures and scenic drives
- Limited nightlife and large-city amenities
- Very hot summers and long distances between some sights
Places to Visit in Kingman
Visit one of these nice places.
The neon signs, vintage storefronts, and retro murals lining the Route 66 corridor make for classic Americana photography, especially at golden-hour.
A high-elevation vista with sweeping desert panoramas, ideal for sunset shots and wide landscape photography.
Gravel streets, donkeys, and old mining cabins provide character-filled photo opportunities along the historic highway near Kingman.
Food in Kingman
Kingman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional favorite—a hot dog wrapped in bacon, topped with pinto beans, onions, jalapeños, and salsa, often found at street vendors and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A refreshing salad featuring prickly pear cactus paddles or juice, often combined with lime, cilantro, and citrus dressings.
A hearty burger served with classic sides, capturing the nostalgia of the highway’s era.
Slow-simmered chili with beef and spices; widely available in local diners and roadhouse eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local snacks in the historic downtown area.
A rotating lineup of food trucks along Historic Route 66, serving Mexican snacks, burgers, and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, casual greetings are common in stores and eateries; a brief chat about the day is appreciated.
Be mindful of historic sites and photo-taking, especially in smaller towns around Kingman.
Light clothing with sun protection; sunscreen and hats are recommended.
Follow local regulations on campfires and waste; pack out trash and respect wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Kingman
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the bill before tax; at bars, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab; rounding up at casual spots is common.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common in downtown and near hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot, often above 100°F (38°C). Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and wear sun protection; check for monsoon thunderstorms in late summer.
Mild to cool days and cool nights; occasional chilly spells. Layered clothing is best; many outdoor trails are comfortable for hiking with proper gear.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming desert flora; great for outdoor tours and photography; carry water and sunscreen.
Warm days and cooler evenings; great for road trips along Route 66 and outdoor exploration before winter.
Kingman at Night
Hiking in Kingman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several easy to moderate trails with pine forests, wildlife, and panoramic views.
Historic road with canyon vistas and opportunities for donkey-spotting in the old mining town of Oatman nearby.
Airports
How to reach Kingman by plane.
A small regional airport close to downtown, with general aviation and some charter services.
A larger nearby airport across the river offering domestic flights and connections; about a 1- to 1.5-hour drive from Kingman.
Major hub with extensive domestic and international flights; about a 3.5- to 4-hour drive depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Travelers visiting for classic cars, retro motels, and Route 66 nostalgia.
A mix of young families and retirees drawn to outdoor recreation and history.
Indigenous communities nearby with a shared cultural presence in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Desert racing and ATV/UTV riding are popular in the Kingman area.
Lake Mead and nearby reservoirs attract anglers and boaters.
Desert terrain around Hualapai Mountain Park supports trail running and day hikes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kingman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie burgers, salads, burrito bowls, and sides like baked potatoes and grilled vegetables; ask for egg-free and dairy-free options, and specify no lard or animal fats where applicable.