Founded in 1882 as a railroad siding, Kingman serves as the seat of Mohave County in northwestern Arizona. Named after a civil engineer, Lewis Kingman, it lies partway between Phoenix and Las Vegas and is a stop on the legendary Route 66.
Things to do in Kingman
Delve into the history of the most famous driving route in the United States at the Arizona Route 66 Museum, which is housed within Kingman’s historic Powerhouse. Learn about each of the groups that have travelled along the “Mother Road” while browsing the life-size dioramas depicting Native American traders and U.S. Army-led expeditions. In addition to classic cars, the museum exhibits more than 20 electric vehicles dating from the 19th century.
Also not to miss is the Mohave Museum of History and Arts, which preserves the cultural and social heritage of Arizona’s north-west. Its collection includes paintings, photographs and sculptures, as well as a full-size Hualapai brush shelter and pottery crafted by the area’s Native American people. On the grounds of the museum, you’ll find antique mining machinery and a 1923 rail caboose.
On the outskirts of Kingman is the Monolith Garden Trail, which winds its way through the Mohave Desert vegetation of the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area. It can be accessed by hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders and takes in several impressive rock formations that were created during ancient volcanic activity. For a shorter walk, follow the Badger and Castlerock Trail, which boasts magnificent views of the Sacramento Valley.
Getting around Kingman
Kingman is around three hours’ drive from Phoenix and 1.5 hours from Las Vegas. Harry Reid International Airport is also 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect from Los Angeles and Chicago to the Kingman railway station and buses travel throughout the city.