10 Best Things To Do In Kingman (Arizona)

Best Things To Do In Kingman (Arizona) – Route 66 has a long and illustrious history in the United States. Kingman, Arizona, is one of the cities you’ll pass through on your way from Chicago to Los Angeles, as the famous Bobby Troup song from 1946 goes.

It is the nearest city to the Grand Canyon and a wonderful spot to visit, thanks to its temperate climate and height of 3,300 feet (1.01 km). Kingman, the county seat of Mohave County, has a population of just under 30,000 people. It grew rapidly after the railway arrived in the late 1800s.

As a mining and ranching town, it gained in significance throughout time. Its museums have a history that you won’t find on the streets. There is plenty to keep you active during your time in Kingman, and it is probably that you will be sad when it is time to depart.

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Here are the 10 best things to do in Kingman (Arizona):

1. Historic Route 66 Museum

The Arizona Route 66 Museum chronicles the history of Route 66 and the various modes of transportation that have traversed it throughout the years.

When it first opened in 2001, the Historic Powerhouse was a big addition to Kingman’s attractions. Beautiful images and murals are on display, and you may learn more about Native American routes.

2. Lake Mohave

Between Hoover and Davis Dams, man-made Lake Mohave stretches over 67 kilometers. Because of the drought, its water quality is under jeopardy, yet it still provides plenty of recreational activities.

Fishing, both native and sport fish, is a popular activity on the lake. The shoreline stretches for about 200 miles (321.87 km), making it a popular camping spot.

Boat cruises up the Colorado River to Lake Mead are available from the north end. Jet skiing, water-skiing, and kayaking are some of the activities done in this beautiful water, while hiking is another fun way to spend your time.

3. Mohave Museum of History and Arts

The Mohave Museum of History & Arts was formed in 1961 in a chamber within the Chamber of Commerce by the Daughters of the Pioneers. It relocated to a new building within its parking lot six years later.

Due to the efforts of a local artist, Roy Purcell, the museum’s first director, the number of displays progressively rose, resulting in the floor space being doubled a decade later. In 2000, the Chamber relocated, allowing the museum to grow once more.

Two highlights are the Hualapai Indian Room and the Mohave History Room, while the library, which was established in 2005, contains a wealth of information. A ranching exhibit and mining machinery are among the other attractions, which include local film star Andy Devine.

4. Bonelli House

The Bonellis are one of Kingman’s most famous families. George Bonelli, a Swiss Mormon immigrant, married Effie, the daughter of the Kingman Santa Fe Railroad Station Master, in the late 1800s. They ran a 250,000-acre ranch in addition to four retail stores.

They had nine children and constructed their first home in 1895, which was later destroyed by fire in 1915. It was quickly rebuilt, and the children gradually migrated away over time. It stayed in the family until 1973, when it was purchased by the city and turned into a museum in 1978.

The Mohave Pioneers Historical Society is ecstatic to be able to offer guests an example of a wealthy local building and its belongings.

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5. Kingman Railroad Museum

With so much of Kingman’s history connected to the railroad, it was only natural to create a museum to commemorate those days. The Whistle Stop Railroad Club manages the museum, which is housed in the Amtrak Depot and spans 14,500 square feet.

Two vintage carts, one for ice and the other for luggage, are among the relics. This is a great place for both adults and children, with the model trains being a big draw. 

6. Kingman Visitor Center

This center, which is also located in Downtown Kingman’s Historic Powerhouse, provides free information about the area, its attractions, and travel assistance.

If you plan to spend some time in the area rather than just passing through, you should visit the center. The gift shop is an excellent spot to pick up Route 66 mementos.

7. Desert Diamond Distillery

This family owned and operated distillery is located near the Kingman Airport, right off Highway 66. Because few distilleries in Arizona are open to the public, this is your chance to observe how they work.

There is, of course, a sampling bar and the option to purchase the product. The bar was relocated from an old Las Vegas restaurant on the Strip.

The American Distilling Institute has recognized the four rums and a single vodka. Each is made entirely in Kingman, and if you want to try some cocktails, this is the place to go in Kingman. How about a Mohito? All you have to do is ask.

8. Stetson Winery

Stetson Winery, owned by Eric Glomski, allows visitors to enjoy the wines and friendliness of North West Arizona. His abilities have been honed through time, ever since he began creating hard cider from apples.

He was pleased with the results, but he did not open his winery until the soil quality had been thoroughly assessed. As a result of his subsequent success, his wine was chosen as the Official Wine of Arizona for the 2012 State Centennial Celebrations.

The environment is stunning, and it’s ideal for everything from a romantic day trip for two to a large celebration with good wines.

9. Cella Winery 

Carlos Cella retired from his business in California in 2006 intending to create a winery. He was an Argentinian who had worked at the family winery before moving to the United States. Two years later, he began planting vines, and the first wines were produced in 2010.

In 2014, he planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Syrah vines and opened his winery to the public. Within a few years of starting, Cella Winery received three trophies in competition with the greatest wineries in the state. Why not pay them a visit and try them for yourself?

10. Hualapai Mountain Park 

Hualapai Mountain Park is the place to go whether you want to get away from the summer heat or enjoy the winter snows. Elevations range from 5,000 to 8,400 feet with juniper and pine flourishing – a stark contrast to the Mojave Desert climate.

The Native American word Hualapai means “People of the Tall Pines.” There are various hiking and biking trails, as well as camping and cabin rental options. It’s a nice spot for a picnic, and there are also volleyball and softball courts.