Step Back in Time at the Historic Oatman Hotel on Route 66
The Oatman Hotel: A Route 66 Time Capsule
Deep in the heart of Arizona’s Black Mountains, the Oatman Hotel stands as a living relic of the Wild West. Located along historic Route 66, this legendary stop is more than just an old building—it’s a place where history, Hollywood glamour, and ghostly encounters collide.
From its role in the mining boom to its claim to fame as the honeymoon hideaway of Clark Gable and Carole Lombard, the Oatman Hotel is a must-visit for anyone road-tripping through Arizona’s most famous ghost town.
A Storied Past: The History of the Oatman Hotel
Born from the Gold Rush
The Oatman Hotel was built in 1902, during the height of the gold mining boom that turned Oatman into a bustling town. Originally known as the Drulin Hotel, it catered to miners, cowboys, and weary travelers seeking shelter from the rugged desert landscape.
By the 1920s, the town had produced over $10 million in gold, but like many boomtowns, Oatman’s fortune faded as the mines dried up. However, the hotel found a new lease on life when Route 66 was established in 1926, bringing road trippers and adventurers to its doorstep.
Hollywood Comes to Oatman
In 1939, Hollywood royalty Clark Gable and Carole Lombard stopped at the Oatman Hotel after their wedding in Kingman, Arizona. The couple reportedly spent their first night as newlyweds in one of the hotel’s rooms, enjoying the rustic charm of the Wild West before heading to Los Angeles.
Though they stayed only one night, the legend of their honeymoon remains one of the hotel’s biggest attractions. The Clark Gable and Carole Lombard honeymoon suite is preserved in their honor, complete with vintage furnishings and photos of the famous couple.
Ghostly Legends and Paranormal Encounters
The Oatman Hotel isn’t just known for its Hollywood ties—it’s also one of Arizona’s most haunted hotels. Many visitors and staff report eerie encounters, from phantom footsteps in the halls to objects moving on their own.
Some say the spirits of old miners still linger, while others claim Clark Gable himself has been spotted wandering near the honeymoon suite. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the Oatman Hotel’s supernatural reputation only adds to its mystique.
Why the Oatman Hotel is a Must-See on Route 66
As one of the last remaining authentic Route 66 stops, the Oatman Hotel captures the nostalgia and rugged charm of a bygone era. Here’s why you should add it to your Route 66 bucket list:
- Step inside history: The Clark Gable and Carole Lombard room remains largely untouched, offering a glimpse into 1930s Hollywood romance.
- Feel the Wild West vibes: With its creaky wooden floors, antique décor, and walls covered in dollar bills left by visitors, the hotel feels like a time capsule.
- Try the famous chili: The Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon serves up legendary dishes, including its award-winning chili and juicy buffalo burgers.
- Meet the wild burros: Just outside the hotel, Oatman’s famous wild burros roam the streets, greeting visitors with their quirky charm.
Dining at the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon
No trip to the Oatman Hotel is complete without a stop at its historic restaurant and bar. The old saloon atmosphere makes it the perfect place to grab a drink, enjoy a meal, and soak in the Old West.
Menu Highlights:
✔ Famous Oatman Chili – A hearty, spicy dish beloved by locals and travelers.
✔ Buffalo Burgers – A true Wild West specialty.
✔ Sarsaparilla Soda – Step back in time with this classic cowboy refreshment.
✔ Peach Cobbler – The perfect sweet treat to end your meal.
💡 Pro Tip: The restaurant is decorated with thousands of dollar bills signed by visitors. If you want to leave your mark, bring a $1 bill and a pen!
Customers sign the dollar bills and staple them to the walls and ceilings of the hotel restaurant.
Plan Your Visit to the Oatman Hotel
- Location: 181 Main St, Oatman, AZ 86433
- Hours: Typically 10 AM – 5 PM (check seasonal hours)
- Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring offers the most comfortable weather.
- Getting There: The Oatman Hotel is located along Route 66, about 30 miles from Kingman, AZ.
Final Thoughts: Experience the Magic of the Oatman Hotel
The Oatman Hotel isn’t just another stop on Route 66—it’s a living piece of history where ghosts of the past meet modern-day adventurers. Whether you’re here for the Hollywood lore, the haunted history, or just a great bowl of chili, this legendary hotel is a must-visit destination.
So next time you’re cruising down Route 66, step inside, take a seat at the old saloon, and experience the Wild West—Oatman-style.
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