Oatman’s Burros: They’re Like the Town Mascots!

Now, folks, if you’re lookin’ for a truly unique experience on Route 66, you gotta make a stop in Oatman, Arizona. This little town ain’t just about history and those old Wild West vibes; it’s also got a whole herd of four-legged residents that’ll steal your heart.

Oatman, Arizona, is a town that’ll steal your heart. Watch our video and experience the charm of this Route 66 gem, from its Wild West history to its friendly burros and haunted mine.

I’m talkin’ about the Oatman burros, of course. These furry fellas are descendants of the burros that were used by miners back in the gold rush days. When the mines closed down, the miners let their burros loose, and they’ve been roamin’ these hills ever since.

Now, these ain’t your average donkeys, mind you. They’re Oatman burros, and they’ve got personality plus. They’ll stroll right down the main street, poke their heads into shops, and maybe even try to snag a bite of your ice cream cone if you’re not lookin’.

Motorcycles on Historic Route 66

Ready for a Wild West adventure on Route 66? Join me in Oatman, Arizona, where the burros roam free, the ghosts whisper, and the history comes alive. Don’t miss our latest video!

But don’t worry, they’re friendly critters, and they love gettin’ a little attention from visitors. You can buy ’em some burro chow at the local stores, and they’ll happily munch away while you snap their picture.

I gotta say, I’ve got a real soft spot for these Oatman burros. They’re a reminder of the town’s history, its connection to the Wild West, and the resilience of nature. Plus, they’re just plain fun to watch, with their goofy antics and their knack for gettin’ into mischief.

So, if you’re ever in Oatman, be sure to spend some time with the burros. They’re a true Route 66 treasure, and they’ll make your visit to this quirky little town even more memorable.

As you roll into town, one of the first things you’ll spot is this classic old gas station. It’s a beauty, with those vintage pumps standin’ proud out front, just waitin’ to fuel up your imagination. You can practically picture those old-timers pullin’ up in their Model Ts and Ford flatbeds, fillin’ their tanks, and maybe even sharin’ a story or two with the fellas at the pumps.

Places to stay near Oatman Arizona

Kingman, Topock, Bullhead city and Laughlin Nevada all have Accommodations near Oatman

Now, folks, if you’ve ever dreamed of steppin’ back into those Wild West days, Oatman is the place to do it. Walkin’ around this town is like strollin’ right onto a movie set, with those wooden sidewalks creakin’ beneath your boots and those old-timey storefronts beckonin’ you to step inside.

I tell ya, when I was walkin’ on that wooden boardwalk, I half expected to see a tumbleweed roll by or a gunslinger swaggerin’ out of the saloon. It’s that kind of place, where history comes alive and you can almost hear the echoes of those Wild West tales.

And it ain’t just the looks, folks. Oatman’s got that Wild West spirit too. They even have mock gunfights in the streets, with those fellas in cowboy hats and boots firin’ off blanks and puttin’ on a show that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped right into a classic Western.

o, if you’re lookin’ for a taste of the Wild West, a place where you can let your imagination run wild and experience a bit of that frontier spirit, then Oatman is the place to be. It’s a town that’s frozen in time, a reminder of those days when cowboys and outlaws roamed the land and adventure was just around the corner.

Now, as you roll into Oatman, keep your eyes peeled for a special welcome sign. Right there in the middle of the road, you’ll find a classic Route 66 shield, painted bold and bright, just waitin’ to greet you with a smile. It’s a symbol of the town’s connection to the Mother Road, a reminder that you’re steppin’ into a place where history and adventure collide.

That sign’s been there for years, folks, welcomin’ travelers from all over the world. It’s a beacon of good times, a promise of those quirky Route 66 experiences that make this journey so darn special. So, when you see that sign, get ready to smile, folks, ’cause you’re about to step into a town that’s full of surprises and Wild West charm.

Well, folks, looks like I’ve landed myself in a bit of a predicament here in Oatman. Yep, that’s right, Big Mike’s behind bars! Now, don’t you worry, I ain’t done nothin’ too serious. My crime? Stealin’ the last piece of apple pie out of the fridge last night. I know, I know, it was a moment of weakness, but that pie was lookin’ mighty fine, and well, let’s just say my sweet tooth got the better of me.

But hey, even jail in Oatman is an adventure. This here jailhouse is a relic from the Wild West days, and they say it’s haunted by the ghosts of outlaws and gunslingers. Now, I ain’t seen no ghosts yet, but I have heard some strange noises comin’ from the cells. Maybe it’s just the wind howlin’ through the cracks, or maybe it’s somethin’ a bit more…spirited.

Now, folks, if you’re brave enough to venture beyond the sunshine and laughter of Oatman’s main street, there’s a spooky adventure waitin’ for you. I’m talkin’ about the Haunted Mine, a place where the spirits of the past linger and the echoes of long-forgotten miners whisper through the tunnels.

This ain’t no ordinary mine. It’s steeped in legend, where they say the ghosts of those who lost their lives in search of gold still roam the depths. Some folks say they’ve heard the clang of pickaxes, the rumble of unseen carts, and even whispers from the darkness.

If you’re feelin’ adventurous, take a guided tour. They’ll tell you all about its history, the stories of the miners who worked here, and the legends of those who never left. Who knows, maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of somethin’ unexplainable!

But even if you don’t encounter any ghosts, the Haunted Mine is a fascinating glimpse into Oatman’s past, a reminder of the hard work and sacrifice that built this town. So, if you’re brave enough to face the darkness, the Haunted Mine is waitin’ for you.

Well, folks, there you have it. Oatman, Arizona: a town that’s full of surprises, Wild West charm, and a whole lotta heart. From those friendly burros to the gunfights in the streets, from the historic hotels to the haunted mine, Oatman’s got somethin’ for everyone.

It’s a place where you can step back in time, experience a bit of the Wild West, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime. So, if you’re ever cruising down Route 66, be sure to make a stop in Oatman. It’s a town that’ll steal your heart and leave you wanting

East of Oatman, Arizona on Route 66

Gold Road, Arizona

Just before you roll into Oatman from the east, you’ll pass through the old Gold Road mining district. This ghost town was once a bustling gold camp, and though most of it is closed to the public, the crumbling buildings and deep cuts into the mountain still tell the story. There’s a small pull-off with a great overlook where you can snap a few photos and imagine what this place looked like when gold fever ran wild.

Ed’s Camp, Arizona

A little farther east along old 66 is Ed’s Camp, a classic roadside stop founded in the 1920s. While it’s no longer open, the property still has vintage structures, hand-painted signs, and an unmistakable aura of early Route 66 history. Travelers often pull over here to photograph the weathered gas pumps and desert relics left behind.

Cool Springs Station

Just before the climb into the Black Mountains, Cool Springs Station offers a beautifully restored 1920s gas station that once served thirsty radiators and hungry tourists. Today, it operates as a gift shop and photo stop, with vintage cars out front and panoramic views of the mountains you’re about to tackle.

Kingman, Arizona

Further east, Kingman is a major Route 66 town loaded with attractions. Don’t miss the Arizona Route 66 Museum inside the Powerhouse Visitor Center, or the classic Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner for a bite and a milkshake. The town is full of murals, old motels, and neon signs that bring the golden age of the highway back to life.

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Oatman, Arizona on Route 66

Oatman, Arizona – Wild Burros & Western History

Oatman is pure Old West, with wooden sidewalks, staged gunfights, and wild burros wandering the streets. Once a booming gold mining town, today it draws travelers from all over for its quirky personality and historic charm. The Oatman Hotel, where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard reportedly honeymooned, is still open for a cold drink or a bite to eat.

Shops are filled with Route 66 souvenirs, and the sound of donkeys braying is just part of the experience. Whether you’re rolling in on a bike or coming through in a classic car, Oatman is one of the most memorable stops on the Mother Road.

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West of Oatman, Arizona on Route 66

Sitgreaves Pass – Arizona Sidewinder

Leaving Oatman westbound, you’ll immediately head into Sitgreaves Pass, one of the most thrilling drives on the entire highway. With 191 curves in just 8 miles, it’s a winding climb with stunning views of the Black Mountains. There are pull-offs along the way with memorials, mines, and incredible overlooks.

Topock, Arizona

At the base of the mountains, you’ll come to Topock, a small river town where Route 66 once crossed into California. Today, it’s a laid-back place with access to the Colorado River and a few roadside businesses that still welcome travelers passing through.

Old Trails Bridge

Just west of Topock sits the Old Trails Arch Bridge, which once carried Route 66 traffic over the Colorado River. Though now retired, the bridge still stands alongside the newer I-40 crossing. It’s a striking structure and a must-stop for anyone documenting the full Route 66 journey. At sunrise or sunset, it’s one of the best photo ops on the western stretch of Arizona’s Route 66.

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Route 66 Attractions in Oatman, Arizona

1. Oatman Historic District: Explore the town’s well-preserved historic district, featuring vintage buildings, old-time saloons, and unique shops. Oatman was once a Gold Mining Town.
2. Oatman Staged Shootouts: Witness thrilling staged gunfights that harken back to the Wild West era, complete with actors in period costumes.
3. Oatman Burros: Encounter the friendly and free-roaming burros that have become a symbol of Oatman. You can feed and interact with them on the streets.
4. Oatman Jail Museum: Visit the historic Oatman Jail, which now serves as a museum, to learn about the town’s colorful past and notorious characters.
5. HAUNTED MINE: Explore a Haunted Mine in Oatman Arizona
6. Route 66 Memorabilia: Browse through shops offering Route 66 memorabilia, antique cars, and unique gifts, perfect for souvenir hunting.
7. THE ARIZONA SIDWINDER: over 191 curves over 8 miles the Ultimate motorcycle ride coming on Historic Route 66 into Oatman.
8. Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Discover the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness with hiking trails and opportunities for off-roading and camping.
9. Oatman Hotel: Visit the historic Oatman Hotel, which claims to be the oldest two-story adobe building in Mohave County. It has a colorful history and a renowned restaurant.
10. Cool Springs Station: A short drive away, Cool Springs Station offers a glimpse into the past with a restored service station and gift shop.
11. Eds Camp Old camp on Arizona Sidewinder