If you’re looking for a unique and exciting day trip from Laughlin, Nevada, look no further than Oatman, Arizona. This historic mining town turned tourist attraction is just a short drive away and offers a one-of-a-kind experience. From casinos to wild burros, here’s everything you need to know about the journey from Laughlin to Oatman.
The Drive
The drive from Laughlin to Oatman is approximately 45 miles and takes about an hour. The route takes you through the beautiful desert landscape of the Mojave Desert, with stunning views of the Black Mountains and abandoned mines. Be sure to fill up your gas tank before heading out, as there are no gas stations along the way. Opt for a tour with Desert Wonder Tours if you’re not planning on driving.
Oatman’s History
Oatman was once a bustling mining town in the early 1900s, with a population of over 10,000 people. However, after the gold mines closed in the 1940s, the town was nearly abandoned. In the 1960s, Oatman was revived as a tourist attraction, with its historic buildings and wild burros drawing in visitors from all over.
Wild Burros
One of the main attractions in Oatman is the wild burros that roam the streets. These burros are descendants of the pack animals used by miners in the early 1900s. Today, they are protected by the Bureau of Land Management and are a beloved part of the town’s charm. Visitors can purchase bags of alfalfa cubes and feed the burros, but be warned, they can be quite persistent!
Main Street
Oatman’s main street is lined with historic buildings, including the Oatman Hotel, which was built in 1902 and is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of Ray, nicknamed Oatie. The street is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, offering everything from souvenirs to homemade fudge. Be sure to stop by one of Oatman’s boutique shops, where you can purchase a bag of alfalfa cubes for the burros and a souvenir to remember your trip.
Gunfights and Ghosts
Every day at noon & 1:30 pm, visitors can witness a reenactment of a Wild West gunfight on Oatman’s main street. The show is free and features actors dressed in period costumes, adding to the town’s old-timey charm.
The Return Trip
After exploring Oatman, you can either head back to Laughlin or continue on to Kingman, Arizona, which is about 30 miles away.
Oatman package by Desert Wonder Tours provides a variety of experiences with stops in Kingman and features attractions such as the Electric Vehicle and Route 66 Museums, Cool Springs Station, Sit Greaves Pass, Route 66 Rock Shop, and an early 1900 Sears catalog house. The “Sidewinder” stretch of Route 66 in the Black Mountains will leave you in awe with its stunning scenery.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day trip, the journey from Laughlin to Oatman is sure to be a memorable experience with Desert Wonder Tours. So pack your bags, purchase some alfalfa cubes, and get ready for an adventure!
