Oatman Ghost Town, Oatman, Arizona.
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Oatman Arizona

4.6
·491k reviews·Oatman, United States

Step back in time in Oatman, Arizona, a historic Route 66 gold mining town famous for its friendly wild burros roaming Main Street.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and crowds.

CrowdLow
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Oatman Ghost Town, Oatman, Arizona.

Oatman Arizona

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and crowds.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Oatman, Arizona, a historic Route 66 gold mining town famous for its friendly wild burros roaming Main Street.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Oatman is a living piece of Route 66 history, where wild burros are the main attraction!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Donkey Treats! :carrot:

Feed the burros! They love carrots or special pellets. Never chase or corner them.

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wild Burros of Oatman

Wild Burros of Oatman

Main Street

Meet the friendly, free-roaming burros that are the heart and soul of this unique town. They're a guaranteed delight!

Historic Route 66 Main Street

Historic Route 66 Main Street

Main Street

Step back in time exploring authentic Wild West buildings, saloons, and shops that line this iconic stretch of road.

Oatman Hotel

Oatman Hotel

Main Street

Once a honeymoon spot for Clark Gable, this historic hotel is steeped in stories and a must-see for history buffs.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Burros!

Oatman's wild burros are the stars! They roam freely, so be prepared for them to approach you. Bring small, donkey-safe treats (like carrots or special pellets) to feed them, but never chase or corner them. Remember, they are wild animals and deserve respect. TikTokInstagram+1

Historic Route 66 Charm

This former gold mining town is a living piece of Route 66 history. Explore the old buildings, saloons, and shops that transport you back to the Wild West. Allow time to wander and soak in the unique atmosphere. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds.
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Im having too much fun in oatman 😂😂❤️ #oatmanarizona #oatman #fyp
@cassandramarin_
71.1K likes • 467.8K views

Bring Donkey Treats! :carrot:

Feed the burros! They love carrots or special pellets. Never chase or corner them. TikTokInstagram+1

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. TikTok

Oatman, Arizona on Route 66 🫏 one of most memorable visits!! Loved the town itself but obviously the donkeys made it!! Absolute cuties 🤩#america #americanroadtrip #route66 #oatman #oatmandonkeys #donkeytown
@whereinthewhurld
929 likes • 13K views
We headed to Oatman Arizona today to see the wild burros. Just outside of town our phones started going off with flash flood warnings. We escaped the flood by seconds literally! It was a crazy experience for sure. Luckily we ran into a small herd outside of town and @endoremily got to make some new friends.
vonelrodoriginal
34 likes • 3.2K views

Watch for Flash Floods :warning:

The desert weather can change quickly. Be aware of flash flood warnings, especially when driving to Oatman. Instagram

Capture the Wild West :camera_with_flash:

Oatman is incredibly photogenic! Don't forget your camera to capture the burros and historic buildings. TikTokInstagram

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 • 129.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Donkey Treats! :carrot:

Feed the burros! They love carrots or special pellets. Never chase or corner them. TikTokInstagram+1

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. TikTok

Watch for Flash Floods :warning:

The desert weather can change quickly. Be aware of flash flood warnings, especially when driving to Oatman. Instagram

Capture the Wild West :camera_with_flash:

Oatman is incredibly photogenic! Don't forget your camera to capture the burros and historic buildings. TikTokInstagram

Embrace the Quirky Vibe :sparkles:

Oatman is a unique, eccentric town. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the unexpected! TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Oatman, Arizona, is a beloved stop for its unique charm, primarily the free-roaming wild burros and its authentic Route 66 atmosphere. Visitors rave about the novelty of interacting with the donkeys and stepping back in time. However, some find the town can be crowded and parking challenging, and the winding mountain roads require cautious driving.

What People Like

Wild burros roaming freely
Historic Route 66 charm
Unique Wild West atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Winding mountain roads
Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oatman is located on historic Route 66, west of Kingman and east of Laughlin. Many visitors arrive via a scenic drive from Kingman, which involves a winding mountain road. It's also a popular day trip from Las Vegas, about a two-hour drive. TikTokInstagram+2

The drive to Oatman, especially from Kingman, involves steep grades and sharp curves as it navigates the Black Mountains. It's a beautiful but challenging drive, often recommended for experienced drivers and motorcyclists. TikTokInstagram

The most common route from Las Vegas to Oatman is to take US-93 South towards Kingman, then take the historic Route 66 exit towards Oatman. The drive is approximately two hours and offers stunning desert scenery. Instagram+1

Yes, Oatman is accessible from Bullhead City and Laughlin. The drive typically involves taking State Route 68 East towards Kingman, then connecting to Route 66. This route is generally less winding than the Kingman approach. Instagram

Parking can be limited in Oatman, especially during peak times. Street parking is available, but it can fill up quickly. Be prepared to walk a bit from where you park to the main attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to visit Oatman, Arizona. The town is a public historic site, and you can wander freely. Any costs would be for shopping, dining, or specific attractions within the town. TikTok

Oatman is an open town, so you can visit at any time. However, individual shops and attractions have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check with specific businesses if you have a particular place in mind. TikTok

While there aren't formal guided tours in the traditional sense, you can explore the town at your own pace. Many visitors enjoy the self-guided experience of walking Main Street and interacting with the locals and burros. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Oatman has several shops selling a variety of souvenirs, from Route 66 memorabilia to local crafts and t-shirts. It's a great place to pick up a memento of your visit. TikTokInstagram

Oatman is often referred to as a 'ghost town' due to its historical significance as a former gold mining camp. While it's not entirely abandoned, it retains a strong sense of its past with many original buildings still standing. TikTokInstagram+1

ℹ️ ❓ General Information

Oatman is most famous for its wild burros that roam freely through the town and its status as a historic Route 66 stop. It's a preserved gold mining town with a distinct Wild West atmosphere. TikTokInstagram+2

The burros are generally docile and accustomed to people, but they are still wild animals. It's important to approach them with respect, avoid cornering them, and supervise children closely. They can be curious and may try to snatch food. TikTokInstagram+1

You can feed and interact with the wild burros, explore historic Route 66 buildings, visit the Oatman Hotel, browse souvenir shops, and experience the unique Wild West atmosphere. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Oatman is an excellent day trip from Las Vegas. It offers a unique historical and quirky experience that's a refreshing change from the city, and it's conveniently located on the way to or from other Arizona attractions. Instagram+1

Oatman, Arizona, is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,700 feet (about 823 meters) above sea level. This elevation contributes to its desert climate. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Oatman is a fantastic destination for families! The wild burros are a huge hit with children, offering a unique opportunity for interaction and fun. Make sure to bring some approved treats for them to feed. TikTok+1 The historic Route 66 setting also sparks imagination, with its old-timey buildings and Wild West atmosphere. Encourage kids to explore the shops and imagine life in a bygone era. Remember to keep a close eye on children around the burros and on the sometimes-busy streets. TikTok+1

🚗 Road Trippers & Route 66 Enthusiasts

For anyone traveling Historic Route 66, Oatman is an absolute must-stop. It's one of the best-preserved towns along the Mother Road, offering an authentic glimpse into its past. TikTokInstagram Take your time to drive the winding mountain roads, explore the shops and saloons, and soak in the unique atmosphere. It's a perfect place to break up a longer journey and experience a true piece of Americana. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

Oatman is a photographer's dream, with its iconic burros, historic architecture, and dramatic desert landscapes. TikTokInstagram+1 History buffs will be captivated by the town's gold mining past and its well-preserved Route 66 heritage. Don't miss the Oatman Hotel and other vintage buildings that tell the story of this fascinating town. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Wild Burros: Oatman's Beloved Residents

The most iconic feature of Oatman, Arizona, is undoubtedly its population of wild burros. These descendants of pack animals used by miners in the late 1800s now roam freely through the town, becoming a major draw for visitors. TikTokInstagram+1 They are a living testament to the town's mining past and have become accustomed to human interaction. Visitors are encouraged to feed them small, approved treats like carrots or special donkey pellets, but it's crucial to remember they are wild animals. Never chase, corner, or provoke them, and always supervise children. Their presence adds an unparalleled charm and a touch of the wild to the Oatman experience. TikTokInstagram

These burros are more than just a tourist attraction; they are an integral part of Oatman's identity. Their antics and friendly demeanor have been captured in countless videos and photos, solidifying their status as the town's unofficial mascots. Seeing them amble down Main Street, interacting with shops and visitors, is a truly unique sight that sets Oatman apart from other Route 66 towns. TikTokInstagram

A Journey Through Oatman's Historic Route 66

Oatman, Arizona, is a perfectly preserved slice of Historic Route 66, offering a tangible connection to America's classic road trip era. The town's Main Street is lined with authentic buildings from the early 1900s, many of which have been repurposed into quirky shops, saloons, and eateries. Walking down this street feels like stepping onto a movie set for a Wild West film. TikTokInstagram+1

The history of Oatman, Arizona, is deeply rooted in its gold mining past. It was once a bustling mining camp, and remnants of this era can still be seen. The Oatman Hotel, for instance, is a significant landmark, famously hosting Clark Gable and Carole Lombard for their honeymoon in 1936. TikTokInstagram Exploring these historic structures and imagining life in the early 20th century is a key part of the Oatman experience. The town's preservation efforts ensure that this piece of American history remains accessible and engaging for visitors. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Scenic Drive to Oatman

The journey to Oatman, Arizona, is often as memorable as the destination itself. The most popular route, especially from Kingman, takes you along a winding stretch of Historic Route 66 that climbs through the Black Mountains. This drive is renowned for its dramatic scenery, steep grades, and hairpin turns, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert landscape. TikTokInstagram

While incredibly scenic, this road requires careful driving. It's often recommended for those comfortable with mountain driving, and motorcyclists particularly enjoy the challenging curves. Be prepared for a slower pace as you navigate the twists and turns. TikTokInstagram It's also wise to be aware of potential weather changes, as flash flood warnings can occur in this desert environment. Instagram The drive from Las Vegas or Bullhead City offers a slightly less demanding route but still provides beautiful desert views. Instagram+1

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