Exploring Route 66 in Arizona offers a unique glimpse into a legendary highway that shaped American travel. This 8-hour tour from Las Vegas takes travelers along the longest section of the famous route, packed with photo opportunities, roadside signs, and memorable stops like the historic Oatman town. The tour is ideal for those interested in classic Americana, scenic drives, and cultural highlights, although it involves some time on winding, steep roads. Expect a well-organized day that balances sightseeing with fun, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate history, landscapes, and a touch of Wild West charm.

Since this tour includes a variety of engaging stops and an experienced guide, it offers solid value for anyone looking to step away from the bright lights of Las Vegas for a day. The tour’s focus on iconic landmarks, such as the Powerhouse Visitor Center, the Route 66 Museum, and the lively town of Oatman, makes it a good pick for photo enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Keep in mind that the tour is a private group, and comfortable shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Key Points

8-hour guided day trip from Las Vegas exploring the historic Route 66 in Arizona
Visits Powerhouse Visitor Center and Route 66 Museum in Kingman
Drives through Black Mountains along Sitgreaves Pass to Oatman, famous for its wild donkeys and Wild West atmosphere
Watch a Wild West shootout and explore a former mining town transformed into a lively tourist spot
Enjoy lunch at the historic Oatman Hotel, where Hollywood stars Carole Lombard and Clark Gable spent their wedding night
Includes scenic views, roadside attractions, signs, sculptures, and murals along the highway

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Pickup Details in Las Vegas

This day trip departs from Las Vegas, with pickup included from any hotel on the Strip or Downtown. Guests are advised to wait outside the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. The tour is conducted in a private group, ensuring a more personalized experience, and the guide speaks both Portuguese and English.

The round-trip journey begins with 80 minutes of scenic views as the vehicle heads toward Arizona, setting the tone with striking desert landscapes and winding mountain roads. The organized pickup and drop-off make this tour accessible for a range of travelers staying in central Las Vegas.

While in Las Vegas, here are other experiences we've covered

Exploring Kingman’s Route 66 Museum and Powerhouse Visitor Center

The journey starts with a visit to Kingman, a town deeply connected to the history of Route 66. At the Powerhouse Visitor Center, visitors gain insight into the highway’s significance. Upstairs, the Route 66 Museum showcases exhibits, photographs, and memorabilia that capture the highway’s heyday.

This stop offers a compact yet immersive look into the past, perfect for those interested in the evolution of American road travel. The museum’s location adds historical context before heading into the scenic drive through Arizona’s desert and mountain scenery.

The Drive Through Black Mountains and Sitgreaves Pass

Following the museum visit, the tour continues with a drive through the Black Mountains, a highlight for lovers of mountain vistas and winding roads. The route passes through Sitgreaves Pass, a steep and scenic segment that offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape.

This part of the journey emphasizes Arizona’s rugged terrain, with the winding road providing a thrilling experience for drivers and passengers alike. The views are a major photo opportunity, capturing the essence of the Southwest’s rugged beauty.

The Charm and Wild West Atmosphere of Oatman

Arriving at Oatman, the tour immerses travelers in a town famous for its wild donkeys, who roam freely and often stand in the middle of the road, giving the town a lively, authentic Wild West feel. Oatman has been transformed from a historic mining town into a lively tourist destination with shops, saloons, and street performances.

Visitors can watch a shootout reenactment, reminiscent of old western movies, offering entertainment and a sense of history. The town’s main street is lined with colorful murals and signs, making it a prime location for photos that capture the spirit of Route 66’s heyday.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch at the Historic Oatman Hotel

A highlight of the tour is lunch at the Oatman Hotel, a building dating from around 1902. This historic site is celebrated for being the place where Hollywood stars Carole Lombard and Clark Gable spent their wedding night in 1939. The restaurant retains its vintage charm, providing a sense of stepping back into classic Americana.

The meal offers a chance to relax and enjoy the Wild West ambiance amid a setting steeped in history. This spot combines cultural significance with a memorable dining experience, making it a key part of the tour.

While you're exploring Las Vegas, here are other experiences we've looked into

Scenic Return to Las Vegas with Roadside Attractions

After lunch, the tour begins its return to Las Vegas, with a few more opportunities for photos and roadside attractions along the way. Dozens of signs, sculptures, and murals decorate the route, reflecting the colorful character of Route 66.

The scenery includes desert vistas, mountain views, and roadside Americana, providing many moments for capturing memories. The return trip offers a relaxed pace, allowing travelers to absorb the landscape and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Practical Details: Group Size, Booking, and What to Bring

This tour is offered as a private group, ensuring a more tailored experience. Guests can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple start times depending on availability.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and closed-toe shoes. The tour is unsuitable for children under 4 years and babies under 1 year, due to the nature of the drive and outdoor stops.

Final Thoughts on the Route 66 Arizona Day Trip

This 8-hour day trip offers an excellent way to experience a legendary stretch of Route 66 without the need to plan multiple stops or drives. The combination of museum visits, mountain drives, Wild West towns, and historic landmarks makes it a rewarding choice for fans of history, Americana, and scenic landscapes.

While the journey involves winding mountain roads and outdoor stops, the well-organized schedule and engaging guide make it an enjoyable experience. Perfect for those wanting a mix of culture, scenery, and fun without sacrificing comfort or convenience, this tour highlights the best of Arizona’s Route 66.

✨ Book This Experience

ROUTE 66 ARIZONA: An unforgettable day trip from Las Vegas

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or babies under 1 year due to outdoor activities and driving conditions.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is offered as a private group, providing a more personalized and flexible trip.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Kingman’s Powerhouse Visitor Center, Route 66 Museum, the drive through the Black Mountains, the town of Oatman with its wild donkeys, and the historic Oatman Hotel for lunch.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is served at the Oatman Hotel, a historic building from 1902.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of scenery can I expect?
Expect desert vistas, mountain views, and colorful roadside signs, sculptures, and murals along the route.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with flexibility—book now, pay later, and cancel easily if needed.