Introduction
Welcome to Kingman, Arizona—a gem of the historic Route 66 that doubles as a convenient electric vehicle (EV) hub. At its heart stands the iconic Powerhouse Visitor Center, a sprawling structure that first lit up the town and nearby mines back in 1907. Today, this building has been reborn as a vibrant visitor center, showcasing Route 66 history and offering essential EV charging. Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast or a sustainability advocate, this guide will help you make the most of your stop in Kingman and set you up for a seamless EV adventure along the Mother Road.
What You Need
- Electric vehicle with a fully charged battery (or at least enough range to reach Kingman).
- Charging cable and any necessary adapters (e.g., J1772, CCS, CHAdeMO, or Tesla connector).
- Smartphone with route planning apps (like PlugShare, A Better Routeplanner, or ChargePoint) for checking station availability.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the Powerhouse and downtown Kingman.
- Camera or smartphone to capture historic Route 66 signs, murals, and the Powerhouse itself.
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, water) since Arizona sun can be intense.
- Optional: A small notebook or digital guide to note local tips and driving conditions.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Arrive and Charge at the Powerhouse Visitor Center
Your first task upon rolling into Kingman is to locate the Powerhouse Visitor Center at 120 W Andy Devine Ave. The building’s massive red-brick facade is impossible to miss. Park in the lot and look for EV charging stations—typically Level 2 chargers are available (and sometimes a Level 3 DC fast charger). Tip: Use your charging network app to confirm the stall status, especially during peak travel seasons. While your car tops up, you can enter the visitor center (free admission) and grab a map of local attractions.
Step 2: Explore the Route 66 Museum Inside the Powerhouse
Once you’ve plugged in, head inside the Powerhouse. The main hall houses the Route 66 Museum, which chronicles the highway’s heyday from the 1920s to its decommissioning. You’ll see vintage cars, neon signs, and interactive displays that bring the Mother Road to life. Allow at least 45 minutes to wander the exhibits. Look for the section dedicated to Kingman’s mining and railroad history—these industries were the reason the Powerhouse was built in the first place.
Step 3: Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Kingman
With your car charging and your museum appetite satisfied, step outside and explore downtown. The Powerhouse sits along Route 66, and within a few blocks you’ll find:
- Historic hotels like the El Trovatore Motel (circa 1938).
- Colorful murals depicting Route 66 scenes and local lore.
- Antique shops and diners where you can grab a bite. Try the classic Kingman Diner for a retro meal.
- The Mohave Museum of History and Arts (optional stop) for deeper local insight.
This walk takes about 30–60 minutes depending on how many photo stops you make. Keep an eye on your charging progress via the app—most Level 2 sessions need 2–3 hours for a full recharge, so plan accordingly.
Step 4: Check Your Vehicle’s Charge and Plan Your Next Leg
Return to the Powerhouse after your walk. Check your EV’s battery level and plan onward travel. Kingman is an ideal gateway because it sits at the intersection of two prime Route 66 segments:
- East toward Seligman (about 80 miles) – a scenic stretch passing through Peach Springs and the Hualapai Indian Reservation. This route offers dramatic desert landscapes and the possibility to see wild burros.
- West toward Oatman (about 30 miles) – a shorter but twisty section that climbs the Black Mountains. Oatman is a former gold mining town where wild donkeys wander the streets. Note: the hill can be steep; if you have low range, charge fully before heading west.
If you need extra range, the Powerhouse is also within a mile of other charging stations (e.g., a fast charger at a nearby gas station). Use your route planner to ensure the next destination has compatible charging.
Step 5: Enjoy Local Food and Sunset Views
Before departing, treat yourself to Kingman’s local flavor. For a quick bite try Dambar & Steakhouse (known for hearty meals) or Floyd’s of Kingman for a classic burger. If time allows, drive a few minutes to Hualapai Mountain Park (about 12 miles southeast) for a sunset hike amid pine forests—a stark contrast to the desert below. Remember to have enough battery for the round trip (about 25 miles total) plus your onward Route 66 leg.
Tips for a Smooth EV Adventure
- Charge before you think you need it. Deserts can have long stretches with no services. Use a reliable EV trip planner to identify charging gaps.
- Download offline maps. Cell service can be spotty along parts of Route 66, especially west of Kingman. Have offline maps on your phone or a physical map as backup.
- Check hours and charger availability. The Powerhouse is open daily 9 am–5 pm, but charging stations are accessible 24/7. However, during events or holidays, stalls may be occupied. Call ahead if you’re on a tight schedule.
- Pack snacks and water. Even in Kingman, options are limited late at night. Carry extra water, especially if you plan to hike or detour to remote areas.
- Embrace the journey. Route 66 is about the experience, not speed. Give yourself extra time to stop at roadside attractions, take photos, and talk to locals. The Powerhouse’s staff are incredibly knowledgeable—ask them for hidden gems.
- Consider a membership or charging network subscription. Many Level 2 chargers in Kingman are part of networks like ChargePoint or EVgo. Signing up in advance can save you time and money.
By following these steps, you’ll not only recharge your EV but also immerse yourself in the history and charm of one of Route 66’s most iconic stops. Kingman is more than a charging point—it’s a portal to the open road. Safe travels!