Oatman on Two Wheels: A Day Trip Back in Time from Vegas to the Wild West

Wild Burros in Oatman, AZ

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      Hitting the open road out of Las Vegas on a warm desert morning, I felt the thrill of the unknown ahead. Today’s destination: Oatman, Arizona, a small mining town seemingly untouched by time, ideal for a day trip.

      Leaving behind the city lights, We navigated southeast, riding the quiet vastness of the desert. Nothing but blue skies and open roads stretched before us, and the journey felt as much a part of the destination as Oatman itself.

      A Ghostly Stop at Nelson Ghost Town

      Before diving into the heart of Arizona, we made a detour to Nelson, a ghost town with its eerie allure. Known as Nelson Ghost Town, this historic spot whispers of Nevada’s wild past, with abandoned buildings, old mining equipment, and remnants of a once-bustling town scattered across the landscape.

      The old structures creak in the desert breeze, carrying traces of lives long gone. Wandering through the deserted streets, I felt as if I’d stumbled into a different time, where each weathered sign and forgotten piece of machinery told stories of miners and settlers who once called this place home. It’s a quick stop but sets the tone for what’s to come – a world away from the modern day, filled with echoes of history.

      Nelson Ghost Town - Nelson Landing, NV
      Nelson Ghost Town – Nelson Landing, NV

      Passing Through Laughlin: A Riverside Oasis

      After leaving Nelson landing, we continued south and passed through Laughlin, a small Nevada town perched along the Colorado River. It’s a lively spot with casinos and riverside restaurants, a little oasis of lights and activity that contrasts sharply with the quiet roads leading up to it.

      Laughlin is a scenic waypoint with the shimmering river on one side and the rugged desert hills on the other. It offers a chance to refuel, grab a quick bite, or take in the views before returning to the road. It’s a lively break that refreshes the spirit before the final stretch to Oatman.

      Welcome to Oatman: Burros, Boardwalks, and a Slice of History

      Riding into Oatman is like stepping into a time machine; the wooden boardwalks and weathered storefronts make me feel like a cowboy in the Old West. But the true greeters of Oatman are the wild burros, descendants of the mining donkeys left here decades ago. They roam the streets freely, nuzzling visitors for treats with a gentle persistence that’s hard to resist. Feeding the burros a few carrots, I felt a genuine connection to this place – a small, rugged town with a surprisingly warm spirit. The kids will love this experience, and those looking for unique finds will definitely find something for their home, man cave, or backyard.

      Wild Burros in Oatman, AZ
      Wild Burros in Oatman, AZ

      The Oatman Hotel: Dollar Bills, Tall Tales, and Wild Western Charm

      Our next stop was the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Bar, a piece of living history and one of the town’s most famous landmarks. Stepping inside, I was greeted by dollar bills blanketing the walls, each one left by a visitor over the years.

      The effect is incredible, like being inside a tapestry woven from travelers’ memories. I found a spot to add my dollar, carefully tucking it among thousands of others. This bar isn’t just a place for drinks; it’s a living guestbook, a tribute to everyone drawn to Oatman. I stayed for a while, chatting with a few other travelers and soaking in the old-timey atmosphere.

      Oatman Hotel Restaurant and Bar - Main Entrance
      Oatman Hotel Restaurant and Bar – Main Entrance

      Although its name might be confusing, The Oatman Hotel Restaurant and Bar only functions as this; the hotel is not operational.

      Antique Treasures and Desert Finds: Shopping in Oatman’s Unique Stores

      Exploring the town further, I couldn’t resist poking around the antique shops, each one packed with treasures from another era. From cowboy hats to old mining tools, these stores are a trove of relics, offering pieces of history for those willing to look.

      Every corner had something to discover, whether it was a vintage piece of Western wear or a peculiar trinket that seemed to carry its own story. Shopping here feels like an adventure, and I couldn’t leave without a small keepsake to remind me of the journey.

      The Classy Ass Storefront Sign in Oatman, AZ
      The Classy Ass Storefront Sign in Oatman, AZ

      If you know yourself as a picker/shopper, consider an empty trunk or a truck because you will need the space 🙂

      Heading Back as the Sun Sets: Reflections from the Road

      An unknown hidden gem in Oatman is actually 10 minutes east of town. If you came through I95 and finished your walk around town, continue heading east on Route 10 towards Kingman, Arizona.

      The road will take you up the mountain on a beautiful drive, where you can stop and admire the view. It’s remote, quiet, and beautiful! You can head back home from there or continue your road trip to Arizona.

      View from Mountain Top in Oatman, AZ - Beautiful Stop
      View from Mountain Top in Oatman, AZ – Beautiful Stop.
      Road Heading north from oatman towards Kingman AZ
      Road Heading north from Oatman towards Kingman, AZ

      As the afternoon wore on, I reluctantly saddled for the ride back. The desert sun dipped low, casting long shadows and painting the landscape in golden hues. There’s something reflective about the ride back – maybe the quiet roads or the echo of Oatman’s history lingering in my mind. The journey had been more than a day trip; it was a dive into another time, a chance to experience the old West on two wheels. The open road back to Las Vegas felt bittersweet, but I knew I’d be back.

      Extend the Adventure: Linking to a Longer Road Trip

      For those who can’t get enough of the open road, Oatman is just the beginning. If you’re ready for more, consider a longer road trip from Vegas through Arizona, including a stunning route to the Grand Canyon. Oatman might be a day trip, but it’s also a perfect waypoint for a much larger adventure.


      Oatman reminds me that sometimes the best travel experiences are those that take you off the beaten path. With the roar of my bike and the wild donkeys trotting beside me, I felt a part of something timeless, a day trip that I won’t soon forget.

      • Motty Osher

        Chief Executive Officer

        Vegas Local Since 2012

        Motty Osher is the Founder and CEO of Everyday.Vegas Magazine, and a Partner at K2 Analytics INC., a Las Vegas digital marketing agency. Motty is passionate about spotlighting the vibrant culture and community of Las Vegas through innovative media and marketing strategies.

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