Endangered relics are found all along Route 66. Each of these tarnished gems is a tangible link to the iconic highways history. They are the haunting photo ops that fill the Instagram feed of adventuresome travelers.

Every year a few succumb to time, to vandals, to urban renewal and to the elements. A few are given a new lease on life. And some slide closer to oblivion.

One of these endangered relics is the Arcadia Lodge in Kingman, Arizona. A few days ago the utilities were turned off and residents with few options were given notice to vacate the property. And now the historic Arcadia Lodge slides closer to becoming an endangered relic facing a very uncertain future.

Nestled along Route 66 in Kingman are historic motels and hotels that are tangible links to every era in the highways history. As historic motels are listed among the most endangered commercial properties on Route 66 the survivors that line the highway make Kingman unique.

These establishments not only offer a glimpse into the golden era of American road trips but also stand as testaments to the city’s vibrant past. Many of these landmarks are featured in the Kingman Tours, a narrated self-guided historic district walking tour developed by Kingman Main Street in collaboration with Talisman Magic Marketing.​

Brunswick Hotel

Constructed in 1909 by partners John Mulligan and John Thompson, the Brunswick Hotel was the first three-story building in Kingman, utilizing locally quarried Tufa stone from the Metcalf quarry. In July 1915, Edsel Ford, son of Henry Ford, stayed at the Brunswick Hotel during his cross-country journey with friends to the Panama Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco. In March 1939, after marrying in Kingman an impromptu wedding reception was held at the hote for Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. ​jimhinckleysamerica.com+1Wikipedia+1thebee.news+6Old Cars Weekly+6jimhinckleysamerica.com+6

Hotel Beale

Established in 1900 and acquired in 1906 by Tom Devine, father of actor Andy Devine, the Hotel Beale has hosted numerous celebrities. Buster Keaton and his film crew were guests at the hotel while filming Go West at Tap Duncan’s Lake Valley Ranch in 1925. Notably, Additionally, Charles Lindbergh was a regular guest during the construction of the airfield for his pioneering T.A.T. airline, and Amelia Earhart stayed at the Beale when she participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for that airfield in July 1929. ​Route 66 News+1Wikipedia+1KSNVTumblr+1KSNV+1

Siesta Motel

Dating back to 1929, the Siesta Motel showcases a distinctive stonework that was used for several buildings in Kingman. This unique masonry can also be observed in other period structures, such as Scoops on 66, reflecting the architectural trends of the time.​

Ramblin’ Rose Motel

Opened in 1959 as a Travelodge Motel, the Ramblin’ Rose has been a staple for travelers seeking comfort along Route 66. Surprisingly the motel retains most original architectural elements including railings adorned with “TL.”

Hilltop Motel

The Hilltop Motel, established in 1954, has been a notable landmark in Kingman. In the early 1990s, Timothy McVeigh, later convicted for the Oklahoma City bombing, stayed at the Hilltop Motel during his travels. This association adds a complex chapter to the motel’s history.​ Recently renovated the motel with original neon signage is again providing travelers with a restful nights sleep and million dollar views of the Hualapai Mountains.

White Rock Court

Now a private residence White Rock Court built in the mid 1930s stands as a testament to the evolution of motor courts along Route 66. As it retains the original auto court configuration with garages between the rooms it is a rarity. Additionally, it was listed in the “Negro Motorist Green Book,” serving as a safe haven for African American travelers during the era of segregation.​ And that magnifies the properties historic importance as few motels listed in this guide have survived into the 21st century.

Arcadia Lodge

Dating to 1938 the Arcadia Lodge opened as Arcadia Court. It was given a favorable review as one of Kingman most luxurious motels in the Directory of Motor Courts and Cottages publsihed by AAA in 1940. In March 2025, city officials deemed the motel uninhabitable after utility issues led to the cessation of electricity.

As an historic footnote the Arcadia Lodge sign, the tallest in Kingman at the time, was installed in 1962 in attempt to give the dated motel a more modern appearance.

Kingman Tours

To delve deeper into the stories behind these establishments and other historic sites, the Kingman Tours offer an immersive experience. This interactive, self-guided tour features narration by local historian Jim Hinckley and utilizes QR code technology to provide insights into significant locations along Route 66 and downtown Kingman. The tour begins with a life-sized bronze sculpture of Mr. Hinckley himself, setting the stage for a journey through time. ​kingman.tours

For those looking to commemorate their experience or find unique gifts, the Kingman Tours online gift shop offers a curated selection of memorabilia celebrating the rich history of Kingman and Route 66, including Route 66 centennial items.​

Embarking on this tour not only enriches one’s understanding of Kingman’s heritage but also supports the preservation of these cherished landmarks for future generations. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your smartphone, and prepare for a journey through the heart of Kingman.

Jim Hinckley’s America is all about shared adventures. Become a follower and come along for the ride.

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