Cacti, classic cars, and neon signs give Kingman, Arizona, its retro vibes, making it a top pick for travelers looking to experience Route 66 and its unique history. With plenty of things to do in Kingman, such as the Arizona Route 66 Museum, Locomotive Park, vintage diners, breweries, distilleries, and antique shops, the city serves as a great stay before or after a bigger trip to the Grand Canyon or as a stop on the scenic drive down the Route 66 tourist route.
If you want to beat Arizona's intense summer, avoid visiting then. If you visit Kingman in fall, it’ll be a lot cooler—and a lot more enjoyable—to explore, and you’ll avoid the chance of snowfall that winter can bring. However, some of the cool classic car events in Kingman take place in the summer, so if you’re looking to catch one of those, you may decide to brave the heat.
The best way to get around Kingman and to its nearby attractions, such as Route 66 and Grand Canyon National Park, is to drive. The Grand Canyon’s West Rim is about a 90-minute drive from the town. The Kingman Area Regional Transit (KART) system can get you around the desert city without a car, but if you don’t have a vehicle and want to see Route 66 or the Grand Canyon, it’s best to book tours that include transport.
A visit to Kingman—no matter how short or long—wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner, a 4-minute walk from the Arizona Route 66 Museum on East Andy Devine Avenue. The diner is decked out in vintage Americana decor and serves up American fare, such as burgers, fries, and root beer floats. It's a blast from the past worth checking out.
