Things To Do
in Barstow
Barstow sits at the eastern edge of the Mojave Desert along historic Route 66, serving as a practical gateway for travelers between Southern California and the desert Southwest. The town blends classic American roadside charm with outlet shopping, diners, and railroad heritage. It’s a desert crossroads with wide streets, colorful murals, and nearby ghost towns and preserved mining heritage.
Expect hot summers, mild winters, and dramatic desert skies that spark vibrant sunsets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Barstow and check into your hotel or historic motel near the downtown area. Unpack and get oriented with a leisurely stroll along Main Street. Pop into a local café for a strong cup of coffee and some freshly baked pastries.
Explore the Western America Railroad Museum and learn about the town’s railroad heritage with interactive exhibits. Walk next door to the Harvey House for a guided tour of the Art Deco architecture. Stop at the Route 66 Mother Road Museum for a deep dive into classic roadside Americana.
Dine at a classic steakhouse or burger joint frequented by locals and travelers alike. Catch a sunset view from the historic Western Motel’s neon sign backdrop. Finish the night with live music at a nearby bar or enjoy a quiet drink under the desert sky.
Begin at the Route 66 Mother Road Museum to immerse yourself in the golden age of American road travel. Marvel at vintage signs, historical photos, and restored vehicles that define this legendary highway. Chat with museum volunteers to uncover hidden stories about the motels and diners that once dotted this iconic route.
Drive east along the historic roadway towards Amboy for a classic lunch stop at Roy’s Motel & Café, where the neon sign is a photographer’s dream. Explore the ghost town storefronts and imagine life as it was during Route 66’s heyday. Continue on to Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch and wander through the whimsical tree sculptures made entirely of recycled glass and metal.
Return to Barstow just in time for a relaxed dinner at a local pizzeria or family-run Mexican restaurant. Stroll through the evening-lit streets of downtown and soak up the small-town ambiance. Cap off the night with a cold craft beer at a downtown taproom.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ⛽Gasoline per gallon | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-150 |
| 🛍️Clothing item | $20-60 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $9-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to desert landscapes and outdoor adventures
- Value-friendly shopping at outlets and a retro Route 66 vibe
- Limited nightlife and dining variety compared with bigger cities
- Very hot summers; long drives to major metro areas
Places to Visit in Barstow
Visit one of these nice places.
Retro rail hub with colorful signage and trains, a classic desert travel backdrop.
Bright murals and vintage storefronts that celebrate the highway’s heritage.
Photogenic old mining town with wooden sidewalks, mine shafts, and desert vistas.
Expansive sand dunes offering sweeping desert horizons and dramatic sunset silhouettes.
Food in Barstow
Barstow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled steak tacos served with onion, cilantro, lime, and salsa, a staple at many taquerias.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised meat in tortillas with rich consommé for dipping, a growing favorite at local taquerias.
Burrito with pork or beef and green chiles, common in Southwestern-style eateries.
Refreshing homemade lemonade with a citrus twist, perfect for hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Food court options from familiar chains and quick bites ideal for travelers between stops.
Casual street-food stalls and small restaurants offering Mexican favorites and comfort foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful of quiet spaces, avoid loud gatherings in residential areas, and practice Leave No Trace when hiking.
Ask permission when photographing people; be mindful of private property and tribal lands.
Safety
Tipping in Barstow
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; $1-2 for quick service at coffee stands; tip bartenders and drivers similarly.
Most venues accept cash and major credit/debit cards; some small establishments may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming desert flora; comfortable for outdoor exploring and day trips.
Very hot daytime temperatures; plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening and stay hydrated.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; great for outdoor hikes and sightseeing.
Milder daytime temperatures with chilly nights; occasional desert frost; layer clothing.
Barstow at Night
Hiking in Barstow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert trails near Calico Ghost Town offering panoramic desert views.
Expansive sand dunes in Mojave National Preserve ideal for sunrise photography.
Rugged ridges and desert plain routes with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Barstow by plane.
Major regional airport about 70 miles west; multiple domestic flights and rental cars.
Smaller regional airport about 60 miles west; limited flights and services.
Large international airport about 170 miles north; extensive flight options and car rentals.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A plurality of residents with a growing mix of other backgrounds.
A significant and vibrant community contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Small but diverse groups including African American, Asian, Native American communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Barstow and the surrounding Mohave Desert region host off-road events and are popular for ATV/UTV adventures.
Community sports and youth leagues prevalent in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barstow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most taquerias and diners offer cheese quesadillas, bean-based dishes, and salads; ask to omit lard or choose vegetable fillings and rice.