Nestled in the heart of historic Route 66, Kingman, Arizona, offers a unique blend of old-school charm and a gateway to some of the American Southwest’s most iconic landscapes. For those looking to experience the romance of train travel, the Kingman Amtrak station serves as a vital stop on a legendary route.
Whether you’re planning to visit Kingman, use it as a launching point for adventures, or simply curious about this desert rail hub, this complete guide will cover everything you need to know.
The Kingman Amtrak Station: A Glimpse into History
The Kingman Amtrak station isn’t your typical bustling metropolitan terminal. Instead, it offers a more intimate and historic experience, befitting its Route 66 location.
- Location: The station is centrally located in downtown Kingman, at 401 E Andy Devine Ave, Kingman, AZ 86401. It’s easily accessible and often just a short walk from local hotels, diners, and the city’s historic attractions.
- Station Type: Kingman’s Amtrak stop is an unstaffed platform. This means there are no Amtrak personnel on site to assist with tickets or baggage.
- Amenities: You’ll find a covered shelter with benches, providing protection from the elements. Restrooms may be available nearby in the historic Powerhouse Visitor Center/Route 66 Museum, but are not directly part of the platform.
- Baggage: As an unstaffed station, there is no checked baggage service. Passengers must handle their own luggage according to Amtrak’s carry-on policies.
- Historic Significance: While the platform itself is modern, it sits adjacent to the historic Kingman Powerhouse, which now houses the Arizona Route 66 Museum and the Kingman Visitor Center. It’s a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in local history before or after your journey.
- Parking: Free, open-air parking is generally available in the vicinity of the station, making it convenient for those driving to pick up or drop off passengers, or to leave a vehicle for a short trip.
The Train: The Legendary Southwest Chief
The Kingman Amtrak station is served exclusively by the Southwest Chief (Routes 3 & 4). This iconic train carves a scenic path between Chicago and Los Angeles, offering stunning views of the American West.
- Route: The Southwest Chief travels daily, connecting major cities like Chicago, Kansas City, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, and Los Angeles.
- Schedule: Trains typically arrive in Kingman once eastbound and once westbound each day. Due to the nature of long-distance rail travel, schedules can sometimes fluctuate, so always check Amtrak’s official website or app for real-time status updates before your departure or arrival.
- Experience: Riding the Southwest Chief is an experience in itself, with sleeper cars, a dining car, and observation cars offering panoramic views of deserts, mountains, and historic towns.
Why Kingman? Beyond the Station
Kingman is more than just a train stop; it’s a destination and a fantastic base for exploring the region.
- Route 66 History: Immerse yourself in the “Mother Road” with museums, classic diners, and preserved stretches of the highway.
- Grand Canyon West: Home to the famous Skywalk, Grand Canyon West is a popular day trip.
- Lake Havasu City: Known for the historic London Bridge and lake recreation, it’s less than an hour’s drive away.
- Oatman Ghost Town: A true Wild West experience, with wild burros roaming the streets.
- Hiking & Outdoor Activities: Explore the surrounding desert landscapes, including the Cerbat Mountains.
Distances to Key Cities and Airports from Kingman (by Road)
One of Kingman’s strategic advantages is its central location, offering relatively easy access to several major cities and airports. Keep in mind that for most of these destinations, you will need to arrange for ground transportation (rental car, shuttle, taxi, or rideshare) upon your arrival at the Kingman station.
Major Cities:
- Las Vegas, Nevada:
- Distance: Approximately 105 miles
- Driving Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Notes: A very popular direct drive on US-93 N. Many visitors use Kingman as a stopover to/from Vegas.
- Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim):
- Distance: Approximately 170 miles
- Driving Time: 3 – 3.5 hours
- Notes: A scenic drive, often via I-40 E to Williams, then AZ-64 N. Essential for anyone wanting to experience the iconic views.
- Flagstaff, Arizona:
- Distance: Approximately 150 miles
- Driving Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Notes: A straightforward drive east on I-40. Flagstaff offers a cooler climate, access to the San Francisco Peaks, and another Amtrak stop (though less direct to the Grand Canyon).
- Phoenix, Arizona:
- Distance: Approximately 165 miles
- Driving Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Notes: Primarily via US-93 S. Phoenix is a major metropolitan area with diverse attractions.
- Los Angeles, California:
- Distance: Approximately 300 miles
- Driving Time: 4.5 – 5 hours
- Notes: A longer drive on I-40 W and I-15 S. Many Amtrak passengers continue their journey to LA by rail.
- Lake Havasu City, Arizona:
- Distance: Approximately 60 miles
- Driving Time: 1 hour
- Notes: A short, easy drive via AZ-95 S. Perfect for a day trip or water-based activities.
- Oatman, Arizona:
- Distance: Approximately 30 miles
- Driving Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Notes: A winding but scenic drive on historic Route 66. A must-see for its wild burros and old mining town feel.
Key Airports:
- Kingman Airport (IGM):
- Distance: Approximately 5 miles
- Driving Time: 10-15 minutes
- Notes: A regional airport with very limited commercial service (often just one or two carriers for specific routes). Primarily used for general aviation.
- McCarran International Airport (LAS) – Las Vegas, NV:
- Distance: Approximately 105 miles
- Driving Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Notes: The most accessible major international airport for Kingman. Many travelers fly into or out of LAS and then drive or shuttle to/from Kingman.
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – Phoenix, AZ:
- Distance: Approximately 165 miles
- Driving Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Notes: Another major international airport option, offering a wide range of flights.
- Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) – Flagstaff, AZ:
- Distance: Approximately 150 miles
- Driving Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Notes: A smaller regional airport with connections to major hubs like Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Los Angeles, CA:
- Distance: Approximately 300 miles
- Driving Time: 4.5 – 5 hours
- Notes: The primary international gateway for Southern California. While further, it’s a direct connection for those traveling to/from the West Coast by train.
Getting Around Kingman
Once you arrive by train, how do you explore Kingman and its surroundings?
- Rental Cars: Highly recommended if you plan to explore beyond the immediate downtown area or visit any of the surrounding attractions like the Grand Canyon or Lake Havasu. Several rental agencies operate in Kingman.
- Taxis & Rideshares: Services like Uber and Lyft are available but may have limited drivers, especially during off-peak hours.
- Kingman Area Transit System (KATS): The local public bus system serves various routes within Kingman. Check their schedules for coverage and operating hours.
- Walking: The historic downtown area, including the Route 66 Museum, is quite walkable from the Amtrak station.
Practical Tips for Your Kingman Amtrak Journey
- Book in Advance: Especially for sleeper cars or during peak travel seasons, tickets on the Southwest Chief can sell out.
- Check Train Status: Amtrak trains, especially long-distance routes, can experience delays. Use the Amtrak app or website to track your train’s real-time status.
- Arrive Early: Even at an unstaffed station, it’s wise to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to find parking, get your bearings, and be ready when the train pulls in.
- Be Prepared for Unstaffed Station: Have your e-ticket ready (on your phone or printed), know your baggage limits, and be self-sufficient. Conductors will check tickets on board.
- Accessibility: Kingman’s platform is designed to be accessible, but it’s always recommended to contact Amtrak’s accessibility services if you have specific needs.
Kingman’s Amtrak station offers a charming and convenient connection to the spirit of the American West. Whether you’re chasing the history of Route 66, venturing to the majestic Grand Canyon, or simply enjoying the journey itself, this historic stop is a fantastic starting point for your Arizona adventure. All aboard!
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