Travel with Terri Guthrie

Arizona’s

PLAYGROUND

by Terri Guthrie | photos courtesy of Terri Guthrie

Oatman, Arizona is a tiny town nestled in the Black Mountains at an elevation of 2,700 right on Historic Route 66. It’s narrow and very winding with lots of switchbacks, making it a white-knuckle experience. But the trip is definitely worth it!

Not only is Oatman one of the most unusual Route 66 stops, but surprisingly, this town has more wild burros than residents! And at the Oatman Hotel, you can see where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard honeymooned.

Oatman has a big Wild West personality, down to the wooden sidewalks and staged shootouts. And you can even adopt a wild burro and take it home. You’ve just got to see Oatman to believe it! Just south is Lake Havasu City, a true desert oasis! Just incorporated in 1978, it offers a range of recreational activities. And the lake views are spectacular with turquoise water surrounded by rugged mountains.

Sunset Charter Tour Company is a perfect way to tour Lake Havasu! They have a great variety of tours to pick from. As you cruise, the guide shares fascinating stories about the area.

This place is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts! We had an absolute blast with Red Star Adventures on a jeep and side-by-side tour. Besides the beautiful desert landscape, it’s also fun to discover old mines.

Another adrenaline rush is Hangin’ Over Havasu, a one-of-a-kind discovery flight as you hover above Lake Havasu. You can see how this area has earned the name Arizona’s Playground!

And…did you know that Lake Havasu City is home to the London Bridge? Here are some facts: • 1968 - Robert McCulloch purchased the London Bridge for $2.4 million.

• Shipping the bridge and assembly cost $7 million.

• 1971 - The bridge was completed.

• 2021 - A 50th Anniversary Celebration takes place in October.

Thousands of sightseers go to Lake Havasu City annually to see the London Bridge. The English Village Visitor’s Center offers fascinating tours about this historic bridge!

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