Oatman Mining Village: Burros/Route 66 Scenic Mountain Tour

Nestled in the rugged mountains of Arizona, the Oatman Mining Village offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s storied past. Visitors can interact with the iconic burros that roam the historic town, explore quaint shops, and savor a meal at the renowned Oatman Hotel. But the true highlight of this experience is the scenic drive along the legendary Route 66, where breathtaking vistas and opportunities for photography immerse guests in the splendor of the American Southwest. As you explore this unique destination, you’ll uncover the stories that have shaped this enchanting corner of the world.

Key Points

Explore the historic Oatman Mining Village, famous for its free-roaming burros that visitors can interact with and feed.
Set out on a scenic Route 66 drive through the rugged mountain terrain, capturing breathtaking vistas along the way.
Visit the Cool Springs Station, a historic site that inspired the movie Cars’ fictional Radiator Springs.
Enjoy a guided tour of the legendary Route 66 highway, learning about its colorful past and notable landmarks.
Marvel at the panoramic views from the Sitgreaves Pass, showcasing the stunning beauty of the American Southwest.

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Powerhouse Visitor Center Experience

The Powerhouse Visitor Center, the first stop on the tour, provides visitors with a photo opportunity, a chance to browse the gift shop, and a self-guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this landmark along Historic Route 66.

Visitors can explore the exhibits and displays that highlight the importance of the Powerhouse in the region’s mining and transportation history. The 40-minute stop allows guests to stretch their legs, capture memorable photos, and gain insights into the area’s past before continuing their scenic journey along the legendary Route 66.

With its perfect blend of history and modern conveniences, the Powerhouse Visitor Center sets the stage for an engaging and informative experience.

Route 66 Scenic Drive

Along the iconic Route 66, travelers embark on a captivating 30-minute scenic drive filled with historical landmarks and breathtaking vistas.

Winding through the rugged terrain, this portion of the journey offers a glimpse into the region’s storied past and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Adrenaline-seekers marvel at the dramatic cliffs and curves, while nature enthusiasts delight in:

Towering pines that frame the road
Sweeping panoramas of distant mountain ranges
Glimpses of the iconic two-lane highway in the distance
Opportunities to capture the perfect photograph at every turn

This immersive experience on Route 66 sets the stage for the exciting exploration of Oatman’s historic mining village just ahead.

Cool Springs Station Sightseeing

Travelers pause briefly at Cool Springs Station, an optional stop offering opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and capturing scenic views.

This historic site, which inspired the fictional ‘Radiator Springs‘ in the Pixar film Cars, invites visitors to step back in time.

They can browse the quaint shops, soak in the stunning mountain vistas, and imagine the route’s storied past.

Though only a 20-minute stop, Cool Springs provides a chance to stretch one’s legs and immerse in the spirit of Route 66.

With its charming ambiance and natural splendor, this detour enhances the overall experience of the Oatman Mining Village tour.

Guided Tour of Route 66

After the optional stop at Cool Springs Station, the tour continues with a guided exploration of the historic Route 66. Visitors gain deeper insights into the legendary ‘Mother Road’ as the knowledgeable guide shares captivating stories and points out notable landmarks along the way.

Through this immersive experience, they can better appreciate the rich history and enduring significance of this iconic American highway.

The guided Route 66 tour offers:

Fascinating anecdotes about the road’s colorful past
Glimpses of vintage roadside attractions and architecture
Opportunities to capture breathtaking vistas and photo-worthy moments
A heightened sense of connection to the pioneering spirit that defined this legendary route.

Sitgreaves Pass Scenic Views

As the tour winds its way up the mountainous terrain, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas from Sitgreaves Pass.

The scenic drive offers panoramic views of the rugged, sun-dappled landscape, with opportunities to capture postcard-worthy photographs.

The route climbs steadily, offering stunning perspectives of the surrounding peaks and canyons.

Travelers can gaze out over vast expanses, marveling at the natural beauty that defines this region.

The winding road provides ample chances to admire the sweeping landscapes, from distant mountains to vibrant desert flora.

This portion of the journey is a highlight for many, allowing them to fully enjoy the splendor of the American Southwest.

Oatman: Burros and Lunch

The highlight of the tour comes in the historic mining town of Oatman, where visitors can interact with the famous burros that roam the streets. Locals and travelers alike delight in feeding and petting the gentle, long-eared creatures that have become an integral part of Oatman’s character.

After a scenic drive up Sitgreaves Pass, the group enjoys ample time to explore the town, browse the quaint shops, and savor a delicious lunch at the iconic Oatman Hotel.

Oatman’s rustic charm enchants, with:

Burros grazing peacefully along the sidewalks
Charming western-themed storefronts and saloons
Stunning mountain vistas framing the historic town
Friendly locals eager to share stories of Oatman’s mining past

Kingman Powerhouse and Museums

Situated within the Kingman Powerhouse, visitors can explore two engaging museums – the Route 66 Museum and the Electric Vehicle Museum – which offer a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and technological advancements.

The Route 66 Museum chronicles the iconic highway’s evolution, showcasing vintage vehicles, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that transport guests back in time.

Meanwhile, the Electric Vehicle Museum traces the development of electric mobility, featuring an impressive collection of vintage and contemporary EVs.

Both museums provide a fascinating educational experience, allowing visitors to explore the past while gaining insights into the future of transportation. With knowledgeable guides on hand, this stop offers a well-rounded cultural and historical exploration.

Tour Inclusions and Important Information

This tour includes several key elements to enhance the experience, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, admission and fees, a knowledgeable tour guide, transportation, and bottled water.

Lunch at the Oatman Hotel is optional for those interested in sampling local fare. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and note that certain items, like weapons, sharp objects, pets (excluding service animals), smoking, littering, and alcoholic drinks, are prohibited in the vehicle.

Customer reviews suggest this is an enjoyable and informative trip with an expert local guide providing valuable insights throughout the journey.

The tour offers:

Stunning mountain views
Opportunities for memorable photos
Fascinating historical insights
A chance to experience the famous Oatman Burros

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Explore the Oatman Mining Village on Our Own?

Yes, the tour includes a self-guided exploration of Oatman Mining Village, allowing visitors to explore the historic town and interact with the famous Oatman burros at their own pace during the 1.5-hour stop.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

While the tour includes bottled water, participants can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy during the 1.5-hour stop in Oatman. However, consuming alcoholic beverages in the vehicle is not permitted.

Is the Guided Tour of Route 66 Available in Multiple Languages?

The guided Route 66 tour is offered in English. While other languages may not be available, the knowledgeable local guide provides an informative experience highlighting the scenic highlights and historic significance of this iconic American road.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but the activity may not be suitable for very young children. Participants of all ages are welcome, though parents should consider their child’s abilities and comfort level.

Is There a Way to Extend the Time Spent in Oatman Beyond the Scheduled 1.5 Hours?

Yes, the tour company may be able to extend the time spent in Oatman beyond the scheduled 1.5 hours, if requested in advance. Guests can inquire about this option when booking the tour.

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