Best Day Trips from Lake Havasu, Arizona
Lake Havasu is in the Sonoran Desert on the Colorado River border with Nevada and California. The region is vast and sparsely populated with historic mining towns, desert landscapes, and Route 66 attractions. Most destinations are accessible but require understanding that “nearby” in Arizona means greater distances than back east. The nearest actual cities are Laughlin, Nevada (60 minutes) and Kingman, Arizona (60 minutes). Summer heat exceeds 110°F; spring and fall are ideal.
Oatman, Arizona — 60 miles / 70 minutes
An old mining ghost town now a tourist destination with wooden storefronts, gold panning, and museums. The town is built on a hillside with old buildings preserved. Burros (wild donkeys) roam Main Street begging for carrots and posing for photos. The Oatman Hotel serves as a museum and offers rooms if you want to stay. The drive passes through desert with occasional Joshua trees. The town itself is walkable, with shops selling souvenirs and collectibles. Plan 2–3 hours in town plus drive time. Summer heat is brutal; go in March–May or October–November. Avoid midday if visiting in summer.
Laughlin, Nevada — 60 miles / 65 minutes
A casino town on the Colorado River across from Arizona. The casinos are the draw (Tropicana, Golden Nugget, Harrah’s). The town has restaurants, bars, and live entertainment. Laughlin Reservoir is adjacent for boating and fishing. No major attractions beyond gaming. This is more of a quick casino outing than a scenic day trip. Plan 3–4 hours for gaming and eating. The drive is straightforward via Highway 95.
Kingman, Arizona — 60 miles / 65 minutes
A Route 66 town with the Kingman Automotive Museum (classic cars), Andy Devine Avenue (the historic Route 66 main street), and the Powerhouse Museum (local history). The town is a refueling stop on Route 66 between Las Vegas and Williams. Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner is a kitschy classic. Historic downtown is walkable. Not a major destination but convenient for Route 66 history enthusiasts. Plan 2–3 hours in town.
Parker, Arizona — 40 miles / 45 minutes
A small desert town on the Colorado River known for water sports (boating, fishing, jet skiing). The river here is wider and more developed than at Lake Havasu. The Parker Dam creates a reservoir good for boating. The town has basic amenities and casual restaurants. Less touristy than Oatman. Best for water enthusiasts. Plan 2–3 hours.
Needles, California — 40 miles / 45 minutes
A small town on the Colorado River with the Needles Regional Museum and old Route 66 buildings. The town sits on the edge of the Mojave Desert. The river crossing at Needles is dramatic. The town is a Route 66 checkpoint. Not a major destination but historically interesting. Plan 1–2 hours.
Bullhead City, Arizona — 65 miles / 75 minutes
A river town on the Colorado River border with Nevada. The Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort in Laughlin (Nevada, across the river) dominates, but Bullhead City has some casinos and restaurants. The drive is an extension toward Laughlin. Less developed than Laughlin or Kingman. Plan 2–3 hours for a quick visit.
Route 66 Scenic Drive
Historic Route 66 runs through this region. The drive from Kingman west to Oatman follows the old highway through desert with historic towns and abandoned buildings. The route is scenic rather than destination-focused. Allow 2 hours for the drive with stops for photos. Towns like Seligman (Arizona, 60 miles from Lake Havasu) have quirky Route 66 museums and diners.
Desert Hot Springs and Natural Hot Springs
Several natural hot spring areas exist in the surrounding desert, though some require permits or private access. Oasis Hot Spring (near Oatman) and other geothermal areas can be explored, but access varies. Ask locally for current conditions and access. Spring water temperature is hot (100°F+); not for casual swimming but appealing if you seek thermal bathing. Research ahead; some areas are restricted.