Main Street Oatman Arizona - Image 1
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Main Street Oatman Arizona

4.7
·24 reviews·Oatman, United States

A quirky ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam Main Street, offering a genuine Old West experience.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Main Street Oatman Arizona - Image 1

Main Street Oatman Arizona

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A quirky ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam Main Street, offering a genuine Old West experience.

4.7
(24 reviews)

"Oatman is an absolute must stop spot with its burros walking down Main Street, saloon doors, and ghost town history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥕 Feed the Burros

Bring carrots or special burro feed for a memorable interaction! They love a snack.

🤠 Dress for the West

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and a hat for sun protection. It's a dusty, authentic experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roaming Wild Burros

Roaming Wild Burros

Friendly burros wander Main Street, often greeting visitors and accepting treats. A truly unique wildlife encounter!

Historic Route 66 Charm

Historic Route 66 Charm

Step back in time with classic wooden storefronts, saloons, and a genuine Old West atmosphere.

Oatman Ghost Town Experience

Oatman Ghost Town Experience

Explore the remnants of a gold mining boomtown, complete with tales of its past.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild West Charm

Oatman is a living ghost town on Route 66 where wild burros roam freely. Prepare for a unique, dusty experience with a strong Old West vibe. It's a fantastic family day trip or a memorable stop on a road trip.

Donkey Etiquette & Essentials

The town's famous burros are friendly but can be persistent. Bring carrots or special feed to interact with them, but be mindful of their space. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring and a hat for sun protection.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Live reenactments
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🤠 Oatman, Arizona on Route 66 is an absolute must stop spot. With its 🫏 burros walking down Main Street, saloon doors, and ghost town history, it is straight out of a Wild West classic. Oatman is one of the most special and eccentric stops during this portion of the southwestern route. (additional 📸 Getty) Of note: the Oatman Hotel was once the Durlin Hotel, and it is where Clark Gable and Carol...
amazingamericatv
156 likes • 3.5K views

🥕 Feed the Burros

Bring carrots or special burro feed for a memorable interaction! They love a snack. Instagram+1

🤠 Dress for the West

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and a hat for sun protection. It's a dusty, authentic experience. Instagram

There is a town about two hours away from Las Vegas, where you can feed wild donkeys! This is Oatman, Arizona — It’s a perfect day trip from Las Vegas or a fun stop on your way home from Lake Havasu. Have you ever stopped there?
local.livin
6.2K likes • 129K views
Just past the California border is the ghost town of Oatman, Arizona—a historic stop on Route 66 that keeps the memory of the Old West alive. Wild donkeys roam the main street, pushing their way into curio shops and eating carrots right out of tourists’ hands. Be sure to wear a hat if you visit—and bring along a ready-to-pour bottle of Black’s Route 66 Old Fashioned to enjoy at the end of your jou...
blacks.cocktails
185 likes • 3.5K views

💰 Support Local Shops

Browse unique souvenirs and vintage items. Your purchases help keep this historic town alive. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Don't forget your camera! The burros and historic buildings make for fantastic photos. Instagram

Pulled off Route 66 for an unexpected adventure in Oatman! 🌵 This quirky little ghost town is a total hidden gem! 💎 From the moment we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by friendly donkeys strolling down the main street. 🤠 This historic Route 66 gem is filled with charm, friendly donkeys, and a glimpse into the Wild West. Don’t miss it! #Oatman #Route66 #Arizona #GhostTown #Donkeys #Wester...
papillon.goes.nomad
10 likes • 450 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥕 Feed the Burros

Bring carrots or special burro feed for a memorable interaction! They love a snack. Instagram+1

🤠 Dress for the West

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and a hat for sun protection. It's a dusty, authentic experience. Instagram

💰 Support Local Shops

Browse unique souvenirs and vintage items. Your purchases help keep this historic town alive. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Don't forget your camera! The burros and historic buildings make for fantastic photos. Instagram

🚗 Scenic Drive

The drive to Oatman offers breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Oatman is widely praised as a charming and unique stop on Route 66, with visitors loving the free-roaming burros and authentic Old West atmosphere. While some find the burros a bit too persistent, the overall experience is considered a delightful step back in time and a worthwhile detour for families and road trippers.

"One of the best tourist attractions in route 66. Very quaint. Definitely worth 👌 the drive and the stop. Kudos to the people who still keep this town the way it was. It is great for the family for a weekend 🚗 drive, the scenery going there is pretty and breathtakjng. Burros everywhere just hanging out. There are places to eat and feel that old western lifestyle."

Anna C

"This review is of Oatman as a whole. Amazing place where you get; wild donkeys running the streets, boiling eggs on the sidewalk on fourth of July weekend, wild west shootouts, you get to post your dollar bills on the walls of the saloon, meet amazing desert people, drive the mother road, find amazing deals on vintage items, stimulate the small town economy, bed racing, motorcycle club hangouts, ghosts, world's smallest post office(I'm not certain about that), surviving gold mining town, tasty burgers and great down to earth people. Everybody going to Laughlin needs to make a stop at this wonderful blast from the past. Keep Oatman alive."

Carlos Garcia

"Fantastic place, real old cowboy town place with donkeys roaming the streets. Would highly recommend to anyone on route 66 to go to."

Mathew Binns

What People Like

Wild burros roaming streets
Authentic Old West charm
Historic Route 66 stop

What People Dislike

Burros can be persistent

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oatman is about a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, making it a popular day trip. Take US-93 South and then follow signs for Oatman via the historic Route 66. The drive itself is scenic! Instagram+1

Yes, Oatman is a well-preserved historic stop directly on the iconic Route 66. It's a key part of the 'Mother Road' experience. Instagram+2

The drive to Oatman is incredibly scenic, winding through the Black Mountains. Be prepared for sharp turns and stunning desert vistas. Reddit

Absolutely! Oatman is a relatively short drive from Lake Havasu City, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. InstagramReddit

Oatman is best accessed by car. Public transportation options are very limited, so a personal vehicle or rental car is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Oatman. The town is open to the public, and you can wander freely. Reddit

Oatman is an outdoor attraction and is generally accessible at all times. However, individual shops and saloons have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. Reddit

You do not need tickets to see the wild burros; they roam freely throughout the town. You may choose to purchase feed from local vendors to interact with them. Instagram+1

Oatman sometimes hosts events like wild west reenactments and motorcycle club meetups. Check local listings or ask around when you visit. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available in Oatman, though it can get busy, especially on weekends. Be prepared to walk a bit from your parking spot. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the historic buildings, visit the saloons, browse curio shops for unique souvenirs, and experience the Old West atmosphere. You might even catch a wild west reenactment! InstagramReddit

The burros are generally tame and accustomed to people, but they are still wild animals. It's best to observe them from a safe distance and avoid startling them. InstagramReddit

While many visitors do interact closely with the burros, it's advisable to be gentle and respectful. They can be quite persistent if they know you have food. Instagram+1

Oatman features a variety of curio shops selling Route 66 memorabilia, Native American crafts, vintage items, and unique gifts. Reddit

As a historic mining town, Oatman has its share of ghost stories and legends, adding to its mysterious allure. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Oatman has a few dining options, including saloons and diners that serve classic American fare like burgers and sandwiches. It's a great place to experience a taste of the Old West. InstagramReddit

You'll find typical diner and saloon food, such as burgers, fries, and sandwiches. It's hearty, classic road trip fare. Reddit

Options might be limited, but you can usually find salads or sides. It's best to inquire directly with the establishments. Reddit

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to feed the burros. There are also picnic areas nearby. Reddit

While there's a post office in Oatman, its claim to being the 'world's smallest' is often debated, but it's a charming spot to visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The roaming burros are a prime subject! Also, capture the historic wooden storefronts, the Route 66 signs, and the dramatic mountain scenery. Instagram+1

The burros are quite accustomed to cameras, but they can be active. Be patient and ready to snap photos as they interact with visitors or wander the street. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Instagram

Don't miss the Oatman Hotel, the historic saloons, and the iconic Route 66 signage. The entire street is a photo-worthy scene. Instagram

It's generally polite to ask permission before taking photos inside private businesses. Many shop owners are happy to oblige if you're respectful. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Oatman is a fantastic destination for families, primarily due to the wild burros. Kids are usually thrilled to see and interact with these friendly animals. Bring carrots or special feed for a memorable experience! The town's Old West theme also sparks imagination, making it feel like an adventure. TikTokInstagramReddit

Keep in mind that Oatman is a dusty, historic town. Comfortable shoes are a must for little ones, and a hat is recommended for sun protection. While the burros are tame, always supervise children closely during interactions. The shops offer fun souvenirs, and the casual dining options are generally kid-friendly. InstagramReddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Route 66 Enthusiasts

For anyone traveling Historic Route 66, Oatman is an absolute must-stop. It's one of the best-preserved sections, offering an authentic glimpse into the past. The scenic drive through the Black Mountains to reach Oatman is an adventure in itself, with breathtaking views. Instagram+2

Beyond the burros, Oatman provides a genuine Old West atmosphere with its historic buildings and saloons. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite at a classic diner, and soak in the nostalgia. Don't miss the chance to explore the curio shops for unique Route 66 memorabilia. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Oatman offers a wealth of unique photographic opportunities. The roaming burros are a prime subject, providing dynamic and often humorous shots. Capture them interacting with visitors or simply lounging on the street. Instagram+1

The historic architecture of Main Street, with its wooden storefronts and vintage signage, creates a perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of the Old West. Golden hour light can enhance the rustic charm. Look for interesting details in the buildings and the surrounding desert landscape. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legendary Oatman Burros

The most iconic residents of Oatman are its wild burros, descendants of pack animals used by miners in the late 19th century. When the mining boom ended, these hardy animals were left to roam the surrounding desert. Today, they've become accustomed to human presence and often wander down Main Street, interacting with visitors. They are a living testament to Oatman's rugged past and a major draw for tourists. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors are encouraged to feed the burros, with special feed often available for purchase in town. It's a unique opportunity to get up close with these gentle creatures. However, it's important to remember they are still wild animals. While generally friendly, they can be persistent, especially if they sense food. Always supervise children and maintain a respectful distance. Instagram+1

The presence of the burros adds an undeniable charm and authenticity to Oatman. They are a constant reminder of the town's history and its enduring spirit. Seeing them casually stroll down the street, past the historic saloons and shops, is an experience you won't find anywhere else on Route 66. InstagramReddit

A Glimpse into Old West History

Oatman is more than just a stop with burros; it's a genuine ghost town that has remarkably preserved its Old West character. Founded during a gold rush in the late 1800s, it once bustled with miners and prospectors. The town's historic buildings, including saloons and the famous Oatman Hotel, stand as silent witnesses to its vibrant past. Walking down Main Street feels like stepping onto a movie set, with its wooden boardwalks and rustic facades. TikTokInstagram

The town actively maintains its historic ambiance, with many businesses operating out of original structures. You can visit saloons where miners once gathered, browse curio shops filled with Route 66 memorabilia and vintage finds, and even learn about the town's gold mining heritage. The wild west reenactments that sometimes take place add an extra layer of authenticity, bringing the town's history to life. Reddit

Oatman's commitment to preserving its past makes it a significant stop for anyone interested in American history, particularly the era of the Wild West and the iconic Route 66. It offers a tangible connection to a bygone era, making it a truly memorable destination. InstagramReddit

Navigating Oatman and Route 66

Oatman's location on Historic Route 66 makes it a perfect stop for road trippers. The drive itself is a significant part of the experience, offering dramatic desert landscapes and mountain passes. Be prepared for winding roads and stunning vistas as you approach the town. InstagramReddit

Once in Oatman, the main street is easily walkable. Parking can be found along the street or in designated areas, though it can fill up quickly on busy days. The town is compact, so exploring its shops, saloons, and interacting with the burros can be done at a leisurely pace. Reddit

For those traveling from Las Vegas or heading towards Southern California, Oatman is a logical and highly recommended detour. It breaks up the journey with a unique cultural and historical experience that stands out from the typical roadside attractions. Instagram+1