Kingman
Kingman, AZ is located along Historic Route 66 in northwestern Arizona. From wagon wheels to neon signs, this city abounds with history and nostalgia. At the heart of it all rests a competitive spirit - one with roots all the way back to 1912, when J.W. Thompson and John Mulligan split the Hotel Brunswick down the middle following a feud - and continues to drive entrepreneurs, developers, and local sports teams to this day. The determination of this city can be seen in Downtown Kingman; where tenacity and purposeful persistence have resulted in a bustling strip of breweries, galleries, boutiques, and antique shops. Team sports for all ages thrive at the softball fields at Centennial Park, the recently renovated youth soccer fields, and the world-renowned rodeo grounds.
One cannot forget the importance of Kingman’s place at the Heart of Route 66. Once the main thoroughfare from West to East (or East to West), Route 66 now signifies a place where neon signs and classic cars meet unique dining experiences and photo ops for road-trippers from across the world. Stop at Mr. D’z for a milkshake, visit the Powerhouse Visitor Center where a brand new neon sign welcomes you upon arrival, and check out First Friday where there’s a good chance a few or an entire group of classic cars will be on display.
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Arts & Culture (Recommended up to 2)
Kingman’s art scene is fairly new, yet thriving. From murals peppered throughout downtown, to art galleries and the historic Beale Street Theater, an artist may easily find inspiration hidden within this community.
Named after the raspy-voiced actor who grew up in Kingman, the city’s largest street festival celebrates its unique history with a variety of activities like a parade, car show, street dance, drag races, and the main event - the rodeo!
Explore one-of-a-kind metal sculptures and paintings including Giganticus Headicus, a 14-foot tall Tiki-style head created by local artist Gregg Arnold in 2004.
Join Beale Street Theater’s group of local thespians for a variety of one-of-a-kind live plays and musicals that celebrate and appreciate the talent of Kingman.
On the third Saturday of each month, join classics, customs, creatives, motorcycles, EVs, and the Route 66 Cruizers for an energetic ride down to Beale Street in Historic Downtown Kingman for music, good food, and down home atmosphere.
Stroll down historic Beale Street and old Route 66 and explore a variety of locally-owned shops featuring the charming homemade bath treats, antique housewares, and turquoise jewelry that Kingman is famous for.
Dedicated to quality art instruction, events, and experiences to enrich artists and the community, the Kingman Center for the Arts is home to several programs like the ArtHub, a central meeting point for artists, and Beale Street Theater.
A genuine ‘street race’ with all of the safety equipment you would expect to find at a “purpose-built” track including a full timing system, with reaction times, 60’ times, 330’ times, 1/8-mile times, and speed. Plus, it’s legal!
History, Heritage & Tradition (Recommended up to 4)
Kingman’s Mohave Museum of History and Arts hosts one of the most complete archives of historical documents in the state. This community prides itself on its place in railroad, Route 66, and old west history and promotes this through a variety of museums, displays, and events like Andy Devine Days and the Route 66 Fun Run.
Operated by the Mohave Pioneers Historical Society, the House is an excellent example of architecture at the turn of the 20th century and a look into this special period of Southwest American history.
Located in the old train station, browse three different model train displays, check out the collection of old hand tools used in railroad construction, and monitor railway traffic across the U.S. and Canada on the Advanced Train Control System.
Climb aboard the famed 1928 Steam Engine No. 3759, presented to the City of Kingman as a historical monument in 1957, that traveled a total of 2,585,600 miles during its years of service and watch modern trains roll by on nearby tracks.
Travel through the history of northwestern Arizona with dioramas and murals illustrating prehistoric times, mining, and ranching, and a 1923 wooden railroad caboose. Don't miss the Andy Devine exhibit, a local boy turned 1930’s movie star.
Opened September 2001 and operated by the Mohave Pioneers Historical Society, the Arizona Route 66 Museum is located in Kingman’s Historic Powerhouse and depicts the historical evolution of travel along the 35th parallel that became Route 66.
A semi-permanent display from the Historic Electric Vehicle Foundation, this 3,600 square foot Museum includes twenty-nine (and counting) electric vehicles on loan from around the world only available at the Arizona Route 66 Museum.
Wine & Dine (Recommended up to 4)
Kingman prides itself on local fare and craft brews. With Route 66 staples like the Dambar Steakhouse and Mr. D’z, other unique dining experiences exist in places you may not expect. Visit the Hualapai Lodge and dine with the resident elk, or stroll downtown for a wood-fired pizza from Floyd’s or amazing mussels and pasta at Mattina’s.
Be sure to stop by this hidden gem just off of Route 66! Enjoy one of their famous burgers named after aircrafts. Located right beside the Kingman Airport, you can enjoy your meal while watching the planes take off and land.
This Kingman staple is loved by locals and visitors alike. Enjoy one of its notorious sub sandwiches and soup specials. Options range from Cowboy Bean Chili and even Cream of Potato soup to pair perfectly with a hot or cold sandwich.
Named after a local party spot that was popular during the founder’s upbringing, Black Bridge Brewery offers unique beers like Evil Red, Rival IPA, Blood Orange Wheat as well as home brewed ginger soda or cold brew coffee on tap.
Stop in for a country-style dinner or a full breakfast buffet. The affordable and delicious options are truly endless with regular daily specials, so check their Facebook or call in to see what special is planned for your visit.
Good food, good wine, good friends can be enjoyed during every visit to Cella Winery. Chat with the owner Carlos Cella who has been making wine since he was a child in Argentina and learn about his artful wine-making process.
Get a true cowboy experience when you visit this Steakhouse and general store. While you might initially be attracted by the environment you will keep coming back for their delicious burgers and other delicious offerings.
One of a few Arizona distilleries open to the public, enjoy tastings and signature cocktails on its bar that was rescued from a famous, old Las Vegas strip French restaurant with notable regulars like the Rat Pack and other icons of that era.
Sample a variety of Arizona wines at Diana’s Cellar Door, and enjoy them in-house or carry out. A relaxed ambiance, combined with live entertainment creates an enjoyable evening for any age. Or learn canvas painting at the monthly Art Uncorked!
Located in a 100-year-old building on historic Route 66, this is Kingman’s go-to spot for Mexican food.
The welcoming environment and friendly staff will make you feel right at home while you enjoy sweet and sultry southern barbeque.
Visiting this local Kingman gem might take a little bit of extra planning due to their hours, but we assure you, it will not disappoint with a wide range of Italian food and a friendly staff that consistently enhance every experience.
While you might bring friends or family along for your Kingman adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to dine in the Hualapai Mountains surrounded by elk and other wildlife. And do not miss the opportunity to try their biscuits and gravy!
A grassroots, nonprofit effort to bring a real farmers market to Kingman, market-goers can browse a variety of local, handmade, handcrafted, or home baked on Saturdays March through October.
Located in a refurbished 113-year-old house, this popular upscale dining destination features the finest Italian cuisine in the Tri-State area in a setting that will make you feel as though it is Sunday afternoon at Nonna’s house.
This retro diner is a true nod to Kingman’s car culture. Enjoy classic diner food like burgers and shakes, including their famous root beer floats, listen to hit music from that era, and check out classic cars in the parking area.
This cozy brewery in downtown Kingman features 28 beers on tap along with a large list of cocktails and a full menu of pizza, burgers, salad, sandwiches, and even an outdoor seating area with coin-operated arcade games.
This family-friendly joint will leave you raving about its large menu, even larger portions of great food, and a nostalgic 60’s inspired feel that blends perfectly with a modern atmosphere.
With a lunch menu featuring soups, salads, and mouth-watering paninis, Siren’s is a popular spot for lighter fare.
Outdoor Sports & Recreation (Recommended up to 2)
Kingman touts world-renowned outdoor recreation, including bike trails like Monolith Gardens and hiking throughout the nearby Hualapai Mountain range. Only 30 minutes from the Colorado River, and in a more temperate climate than Phoenix or Lake Havasu, the outdoors are the place to be when visiting Kingman.
Pet and feed the alpacas, take pictures, learn about alpaca husbandry, and the alpaca lifestyle with kid-friendly tours and interactive experiences for the whole family. Don’t miss their Ranch Store’s sweaters, hats, handmade rugs, and more!
A historic trail used by Native Americans for centuries before Lt. Edward Beale traveled through the area in the 1850s, today you can still enjoy a picnic and a hike in the peaceful atmosphere.
There’s an activity for everyone at this 41-acre park including basketball, tennis, s, racquetball, soccer, softball fields, horseshoes, running trail, dog park, playgrounds, and a swimming pool complete with a water slide!
Since opening in 1973, Cerbat Cliffs Golf Course has been the hometown location for golf the whole family can enjoy. Each year golfers are tested by 18 challenging holes during leagues, tournaments, and golf outings.
For fun you can’t find just anywhere, check out Kingman’s disc golf courses including Firefighter’s Memorial Park, Kingman’s oldest disc golf course, Mohave Community College’s Cactus Flats course, and Deer Canyon, Kingman’s newest course.
6 miles of developed and 10 miles of undeveloped trails give hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians a chance to enjoy a variety of unique mountain habitats with stunning views. Did we mention the championship-style, 18-hole disc golf course?
A fantastic maze of towering rock formations on the outskirts of Kingman this multi-use facility operated by the Bureau of Land Management this admission-free destination is popular with hikers, non-motorized mountain bikers, and horses.
Now a popular activity destination, its storied history began as part of an old wagon route used in the late 1800s to bring ore from the mines to the railroad. Use began to slow in 1910 before halting completely in 1925 following a flood.
Local Lodging (Recommended up to 2)
Spending a few days in Kingman is always a good idea, plan on enhancing your getaway by booking a room with the local hotels, motels, and resorts. Take your choice of a peaceful getaway in the mountains, or check out Historic Route 66 options.
This historic and quirky hotel is almost impossible not to miss when exploring Kingman, add some more adventure to your trip by staying in this fun and nostalgic hotel with themed rooms and Route 66 murals.
While you might bring friends or family along for your Kingman adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to dine in the Hualapai Mountains surrounded by elk and other wildlife. And do not miss the opportunity to try their biscuits and gravy!