Oatman Arizona: Route 66 Wild West Ghost Town & Burros

As the sun set behind the Black Mountains near Oatman Arizona, I felt awe. Gloaming sunlight painted the Northwestern Arizona Town of Oatman in warm hues. This small town is a vivid relic of the Wild West. The first time I saw its wild burros, I was hooked on its charm. They wander alongside the famous wooden sidewalks.¹

Oatman Arizona is a town, which tells a vivid story, painted into the middle of nowhere town’s old buildings. It’s a fun place to visit. From rich gold mining operations in the early 1900s, this town once shined.² Later, when the mines closed in the 1940s, it faced almost-empty streets. Yet, in the 1960s, it revived as a place for visitors. A place where burros roam the streets. Today, Oatman Arizona stands proud, showing the true grit of the American West.

Walking down the main street felt like a step back in time of an old western. Shops and the famous Oatman Hotel line the road. During the day, Oatman’s Ghost Rider Gunfighters stage thrilling shows. And the town’s burros, linked to the miners’ days, await treats. It’s a timeless scene that echoes the Wild West. For many, it’s an experience that lingers long after leaving.

Exploring the old mining sites, I was struck by the miners’ endurance. The abandoned mines and buildings reveal a tough past.² Although nearly forgotten, Oatman Arizona was lucky. It had people who saw its worth and worked to keep its story alive.

Leaving Oatman, I’m filled with thanks for this unique town. It truly captures the Wild West’s heart. Oatman blends past and present in a magical way. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in history, nature, or seeking adventure. Oatman’s charm is unforgettable.¹²

Key Takeaways for The Historic Route 66 Ghost Town of Oatman Arizona

Oatman, Arizona is a historic mining town that experienced a resurgence as a tourist destination in the 1960s.
The town is home to more wild burros than people, with the friendly animals roaming the streets freely.
Oatman, began as a small mining town, features a vibrant Wild West atmosphere, with staged shootouts, old-fashioned saloons, and a storied hotel.
Visitors can explore the town’s abandoned gold mines surrounding Oatman and the town structures that gave Oatman all the characters, offering a glimpse into the hardscrabble life of the early 20th century.
Oatman is located on a scenic stretch of the historic Route 66, making it an ideal day trip destination in Western Arizona.

The Legendary Wild Oatman Burros of Oatman AZ

Oatman Arizona is known for its roaming wild burros. These donkeys are the direct³ descendants of the burros used by miners in the early 1900s. They have become a key part of what makes Oatman special.⁴

There are about a dozen burros in the town. They look for food and often munch on alfalfa fed by visitors. You can buy bags of alfalfa chunks to feed them. The burros can be seen putting their heads through the fence, seeking treats from passersby.⁴

Meet the Friendly Descendants of Miners’ Beasts

The wild burros are direct descendants of the mining burros of yesterday, in Oatman Arizona. are tied to the region’s gold mining past.³ There are more burros than people in Oatman. They are the ancestors of the ones used as pack animals by miners⁴. They were set free to roam Oatman and the surrounding area. The Bureau of Land Management takes care of about 1,500 wild burros around Oatman’s Black Mountains.⁴

Feeding and Interacting with the Oatman Burros

Many visitors enjoy feeding the burros in Oatman Arizona.⁴ They are given small bags of alfalfa to feed the burros. The animals often approach the rails of the sidewalks, looking for snacks from tourists.⁴

But, the Bureau of Land Management now advises against feeding the burros. This is because letting them eat natural vegetation in the hills is better for their health. It’s also safer for the tourists.⁴

Regulations on Feeding the Wild Burros

Although feeding burros is a tradition in Oatman Arizona, new regulations are in place.⁴ There are special reminders not to feed baby burros, as they’re still nursing. Buying alfalfa to feed the burros is okay. But, it’s encouraged to let them find their own food in the hills.³ This is better for the burros’ well-being.⁴

Oatman Arizona: A Window into an Old Mining Town Wild West

Oatman sits right along Route 66. This historic road was a lifeline from the 1920s to the 1950s. It crosses the United States.⁵ You can walk the town’s iconic main street. It’s got old buildings and a classic saloon. Plus, see the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters reenact a Wild West heist with loud, blank gunshots.⁶

Getting to Oatman Arizona: Historic Route 66 and Main Street

Oatman’s main street is a time machine to the Old West. It has old buildings and a real saloon.⁶ Walking on its wooden sidewalks, you can feel the town’s past excitement. Imagine the life that once thrived here.⁵

Oatman Arizona Ghost Rider Gunfighters’ Shows

The Gunfighters at Oatman are a big draw. They do shows daily with real gun blanks.⁶ It feels like the true Wild West, complete with sudden gun sounds. These shows don’t cost anything, but donations help local charities.⁶

Exploring Abandoned Mines and Remnants

Oatman also shows its mining past.⁵ You can see old mines and buildings from the town’s gold rush era. It gives a peek into the tough life back then.⁵ Exploring these places lets you really feel Oatman’s history. It’s a journey back in time.⁶⁵

The Oatman Hotel: Haunted Gem of the Desert

The Oatman Hotel stands in the heart of Oatman Arizona, once called the Durlin Hotel.¹ It was constructed in 1902 and rebuilt in 1924 following a fire. This two-story adobe building is unique in Mohave County.² The hotel welcomed famous guests like Clark Gable and Carole Lombard on their 1939 honeymoon.¹

Historic Two-Story Adobe Building

Many say the Oatman Hotel is haunted. People hear ghostly voices and see strange figures.¹ Since the early 1900s, visitors have left one-dollar bills all over the walls and ceilings. It became a local tradition.¹

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard’s Honeymoon Suite

Although staying overnight isn’t possible now, the hotel serves as a bar, restaurant, and museum. This setup lets visitors enjoy a bit of Oatman’s colorful past.¹

Dining and Museum at the Oatman Hotel

The Oatman Hotel is a special place, known for its one-of-a-kind design. It’s filled with history and some believe it’s filled with ghosts. Everyone should check it out when in the old mining town of Oatman Arizona.²

Visit Oatman: Authentic Wild West Things to Do in Oatman

Oatman is more than just wild burros and old buildings. It’s a place where you can step into the wild west. The town’s street is full of shops offering souvenirs. You can find mining stuff and donkey toys. There’s also a place for old-style sweets, including a unique prickly pear gummy candy.¹

Sampling Local Treats and Souvenirs

Walking down Oatman’s historic Route 66, you’ll find interesting shops. They have Oatman Arizona souvenirs that really show off the town’s wild west feel. You can buy things related to mining or cute burro models. It’s a perfect way to remember your Oatman wild west visit.¹

Annual Events and Festivals

Oatman is known for its annual events and festivals that nod to its history. The Oatman Burro Biscuit Toss and the Oatman Sidewalk Egg Fry are main highlights. They allow visitors to really feel part of the authentic wild west. These events share the town’s fun and quirky sides.¹

Scenic Desert Landscapes Surrounding Oatman

Outside the town, Oatman Arizona is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes of the Black Mountains. Places like Thimble Mountain and Elephant’s Tooth offer amazing views. You can see the rugged Route 66 scenery along with Oatman’s scenic views. Exploring these places lets you dive into Oatman’s unique western charm. It’s an experience you won’t forget.¹

Conclusion to a Historic Route 66 Ghost Town And Wild Burros

Oatman, Arizona is a top pick for people wanting a real taste of the Wild West. You’ll see over 2,000 friendly wild burros in this famous ghost town. They share their space with a small population of 128 people.⁷ Every year, more than 500,000 folks come to Oatman and are charmed by its old-time feel.⁷

There’s lots to do here. You can check out old mines that once gave up over 1.8 million ounces of gold.² Or, shop for unique items in the town’s many stores. Then, kick back and enjoy the beautiful desert views. The historic Oatman Hotel is a key spot to visit. It was built in 1902 and is famous for hosting Clark Gable and Carole Lombard’s honeymoon in 1939.⁷

Oatman is special because of its unique history, charm, and as a stop along Route 66. People love the daily gunfights held by the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters, the oldest group of their kind in Arizona.⁷ You can also try special local treats, like prickly pear gummy candy from the Gold Rush Candy Shoppe. These experiences make Oatman a place you won’t forget.²

FAQ

What is the history of Oatman, Arizona?

Oatman kicked off as a tiny mining spot in the early 1900s. It soon swelled into a thriving mining town, outing out over 1.8 million ounces of gold. When the mines shut in the 1940s, the place was close to ghosting. But by the ’60s, it came back to life, buzzing with tourists attracted to its vintage touch and the wild burros.

What are the wild burros of Oatman?

The wild burros of Oatman are the successors of those who worked for the miners. They’re more like town mascots now. Visitors love to feed and hang out with these approachable donkeys. Yet, it’s now advised not to feed them, to keep these animals safe and sound by the Bureau of Land Management.

What can visitors experience in Oatman, Arizona? Tourists Love It Here

At Oatman, guests can soak up the vibes of historic Route 66. They can stroll main street, packed with old-timey buildings and cool souvenirs. There’s also the chance to see gunfights and visit abandoned mines. Plus, exploring the haunted Oatman Hotel is a spine-tingling must-do.

What is the significance of the Oatman Hotel?

The Oatman Hotel truly stands as a living piece of history. It was put up in 1902, rebuilt in 1924 after a blaze. This adobe building is unique in Mohave County. It has seen quite a lot, like Clark Gable and Carole Lombard’s honeymoon. Now, it’s reputed to be home to a few spirits. You can grab a drink, a meal, and check out the museum there.

What other experiences can visitors enjoy in Oatman?

Besides the burros, Oatman provides a Wild West adventure. There are neat souvenir and candy shops. Don’t miss events like the Burro Biscuit Toss and Sidewalk Egg Fry, they’re fun! Don’t forget the wild west shoot-out. And all around, the desert offers grand views and a chance to explore nature.