Las Vegas Ghost Town Tour and Historic Route 66

Taking a day to step away from the bright lights of Las Vegas and explore the quieter corners of the American Southwest can be surprisingly rewarding. The Las Vegas Ghost Town Tour and Historic Route 66 offers just that—an immersive journey through abandoned gold towns, quirky mountain towns, and iconic Americana landmarks, all comfortably guided and well-paced.

What we love about this trip? The expertly narrated stops at Nelson Ghost Town and Oatman, the chance to see classic Route 66 museums and vintage locomotives, and the small-group atmosphere that makes for a more personalized experience. The only thing to consider? The long day might be a tad tiring for those who prefer shorter excursions or are less interested in history and scenery.

This tour is perfect if you’re a history buff, a fan of classic Americana, or simply craving a different perspective on the Southwest beyond the usual Las Vegas attractions. It offers great value for those looking to pack a full day with authentic sights, expert insights, and memorable photo opportunities.

Good To Know

• Authentic Historic Stops: Visit Nelson Ghost Town and Oatman, two lively snapshots of Nevada and Arizona’s past.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Matthew make the history come alive with stories and personal touches.
• Comfortable Transportation: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a pleasant ride through desert landscapes.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 13 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more intimate, flexible atmosphere.
• Flexible Timing: Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour extends for roughly 9 to 11 hours, ideal for those wanting an in-depth day.
• Value-Added Inclusions: Bottled water and admission tickets to key sites are covered, making it straightforward to relax and enjoy.

A Full Day of Discoveries: What to Expect

Nelson Ghost Town: Nevada’s Wild West Remains

The day kicks off with a scenic drive through the Nevada desert, heading toward Nelson Ghost Town in Eldorado Canyon. This abandoned town gives you a tangible sense of Nevada’s gold rush era, with weathered buildings, vintage cars, and relics of mining past.

Travelers have found this spot to be both eerie and charming, a perfect location for photos and imagining life in Nevada’s heyday. One reviewer, Margaret, highlighted the guide’s attentiveness: “Matthew took lots of pictures for me, which is great for a solo traveler.” The hour spent here is enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed, and admission to the site is included in the tour price.

Oatman: Quirky Mountain Town & Burro Paradise

Leaving Nevada behind, the tour continues south into Arizona, crossing into the state along a scenic stretch of Historic Route 66. The next stop, Oatman, is a distinctive town famous for its wild donkeys wandering freely through the streets. This town’s Old West storefronts, combined with the playful burros, make for a fun, lively atmosphere.

Travelers mention the town’s unique charm and its photogenic appeal. The roughly 1.5-hour stop offers opportunities to explore local shops, snap photos of the colorful buildings, and maybe even feed a burro. The historical significance and quirky vibe are the highlights, making Oatman a standout along the route.

Kingman & the Route 66 Museum: Cars, Neon & Americana

From Oatman, the journey heads to Kingman, a classic Route 66 hub. Here, you’ll visit the Arizona Route 66 Museum, housed in the historic Powerhouse Visitor Center. The museum does a good job of showcasing the road’s legendary past, with exhibits including vintage cars, neon signs, and nostalgic memorabilia.

A short walk from the museum is Locomotive Park, home to the Santa Fe Steam Engine No. 3759. This massive locomotive, built in the 1940s, offers fantastic photo opportunities and a tangible link to America’s rail history. Visitors mention the park’s impressive size and the photo-worthy locomotive as highlights. Entrance here is free, giving you extra time to explore at your own pace.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which is a must for comfort during the lengthy drive through desert and mountain landscapes. The maximum group size of 13 ensures a more personalized experience, allowing guides like Matthew to share detailed insights and answer questions comfortably. Several reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which significantly enhances the value.

Duration & Timing

Starting at 7:00 am and lasting roughly 9 to 11 hours, this tour is designed for those who want a full, immersive day. The long hours might seem demanding, but the pace is relaxed with enough time at each stop to absorb the sights without feeling rushed.

Cost & Value

At $249 per person, the price includes transportation, admissions to Nelson Ghost Town, Oatman, the Route 66 Museum, and Locomotive Park, plus bottled water. Compared to booking each site individually, this package offers solid value, especially considering the expert narration and small group size.

Reviews & Guides

The standout aspect here is the knowledgeable guide, with reviewers like Margaret praising Matthew’s storytelling and willingness to take pictures. His familiarity with the area’s history and personal approach make the experience more engaging and memorable.

Potential Drawbacks

While the long day is generally well-received, some travelers might find it tiring, especially if they prefer shorter tours or aren’t as interested in history. Weather can also be a factor—hot desert days require sun protection, and occasional rain could affect the experience, though the tour is prepared to reschedule or refund.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, historical storytelling, and authentic Americana. If you’re curious about Nevada and Arizona’s gold rush past, love vintage cars and old towns, or simply want a day of exploring outside the Vegas strip, this is an excellent choice. The small-group setup and expert guides make it feel more intimate and tailored, perfect for travelers who enjoy learning through stories and personal interaction.

While it’s a full-day adventure, the comfort, variety of sights, and the opportunity for genuine photo moments make it worthwhile. Just be prepared for a long day on the road, and bring sunglasses, water, and a camera!

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transport arrangements.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 to 11 hours, starting at 7:00 am.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for lunch during the day.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 13, offering a more intimate experience.

Are tickets to the attractions included?
Yes, admissions to Nelson Ghost Town, Oatman, the Route 66 Museum, and Locomotive Park are included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day and walking at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a camera for all the photo-worthy moments.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternate date or a full refund.

Final Verdict

This Las Vegas Ghost Town and Route 66 tour offers a compelling blend of history, scenic views, and authentic Americana charm. It’s a fantastic option for those eager to see more than just the Las Vegas Strip and to connect with the stories that shaped the American Southwest. With expert guides, small groups, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it offers great value and memorable experiences that will linger long after the day ends.

Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a different kind of adventure, this tour is a genuine gem. It’s a chance to step back in time and witness the rugged beauty and quirky characters of Route 66’s lesser-known stops—an experience not to be missed.