Fun Things to Do in Barstow | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Barstow Travel Guide
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Welcome to Barstow, a hidden gem in the heart of the United States! Located in the Mojave Desert of California, Barstow offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. As you explore this beautiful city, you'll be captivated by its stunning landscapes, including the nearby Rainbow Basin Natural Area and the iconic Route 66. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Barstow by visiting the Mojave River Valley Museum or the Western America Railroad Museum. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, which ranges from mouthwatering barbecue to authentic Mexican dishes. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, Barstow has something for everyone.
Barstow Travel Videos
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![Rodo-Ferroviaria Barstow STATION - BARSTOW - California - Route 66 [ Nomad Travel USA ]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mDfjuH785cU/hqdefault.jpg)
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Things To Do In Barstow
Barstow is a city located in the Mojave Desert of California. It offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Barstow:
1. Visit the Mojave National Preserve: Explore the stunning desert landscapes, sand dunes, and Joshua trees in this vast national preserve. Enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting in this natural oasis.
2. Explore the Route 66 Museum: Barstow is known as a historic stop along the iconic Route 66. The Route 66 Mother Road Museum showcases the history and culture of this famous highway, featuring vintage cars, memorabilia, and exhibits.
3. Discover the Calico Ghost Town: Just a short drive from Barstow, the Calico Ghost Town is a preserved mining town from the 1880s. Take a step back in time as you wander through the old buildings, mines, and learn about the town's history.
4. Shop at the Tanger Outlets: Barstow is a popular shopping destination, thanks to the Tanger Outlets. This outdoor mall offers a wide range of brand-name stores, where you can find great deals on clothing, accessories, and more.
5. Visit the Western America Railroad Museum: Train enthusiasts will enjoy exploring this museum, which showcases the history of railroads in the western United States. Admire the collection of vintage locomotives, cabooses, and other railroad artifacts.
6. Go off-roading in the Dumont Dunes: Adventure seekers can head to the Dumont Dunes, located just outside of Barstow. This popular off-roading area offers thrilling experiences for ATV riders, sandboarders, and dune buggy enthusiasts.
7. Experience the Barstow Harvey House: Step into the past at the Barstow Harvey House, a historic railroad depot and hotel. Learn about the Harvey Girls, who were waitresses known for their excellent service during the early 1900s.
8. Enjoy outdoor activities at Rainbow Basin: Located near Barstow, Rainbow Basin is a geological wonder with colorful rock formations. Hike the trails, take photographs, and marvel at the unique beauty of this natural area.
9. Visit the Mojave River Valley Museum: Learn about the natural and cultural history of the Mojave Desert at this informative museum.
Tours And Activities In Barstow
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Best Time To Visit Barstow
The best time to visit Barstow is during the spring and fall seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions in the area. Summers in Barstow can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters can be chilly, with occasional rain and wind. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid visiting Barstow during the summer and winter months.
Flight Calendar For Barstow
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Best Areas To Stay In Barstow
Barstow is a city located in San Bernardino County, California. It is known for its convenient location along Interstate 15, making it a popular stop for travelers. When it comes to finding accommodation in Barstow, there are a few areas that stand out as the best options.
Downtown Barstow is the heart of the city and offers a range of accommodation options. Here, you will find hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts that cater to both business and leisure travelers. The area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues within walking distance.
Lenwood is another area in Barstow that is worth considering for accommodation. It is located just off the interstate and is home to several budget-friendly hotels and motels. This area is ideal for those who are passing through Barstow and need a convenient place to stay for the night.
If you prefer a more peaceful and scenic setting, Skyline North is a great choice. This residential area is located on the northern outskirts of Barstow and offers a range of vacation rentals and guesthouses. It is surrounded by beautiful desert landscapes and provides a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Lastly, Newberry Springs is a small community located about 20 miles east of Barstow. While it is not directly in Barstow, it is worth mentioning as it offers unique accommodation options such as ranches and desert retreats. This area is perfect for those seeking a secluded and immersive desert experience.
In conclusion, when it comes to finding accommodation in Barstow, the best areas to consider are Downtown Barstow, Lenwood, Skyline North, and Newberry Springs. Each area offers its own unique advantages, whether it be convenience, affordability, tranquility, or a desert getaway.
Hotels Map Of Barstow
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Transportation To Barstow
There are several transportation options to Barstow, California.
1. By Car: Barstow is located at the intersection of Interstate 15 and Interstate 40, making it easily accessible by car. You can drive to Barstow from nearby cities such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or San Bernardino.
2. By Bus: Greyhound and FlixBus operate bus services to Barstow from various cities in California and neighboring states. You can check their websites for schedules and fares.
3. By Train: Amtrak's Southwest Chief route stops in Barstow. This train service connects Barstow to cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Albuquerque. You can visit the Amtrak website for more information on schedules and ticket prices.
4. By Air: The nearest major airports to Barstow are LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT) and McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach Barstow.
5. By Motorcycle: Barstow is a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially during events like the Barstow to Vegas race. If you own a motorcycle, you can ride to Barstow and enjoy the scenic routes in the area.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options before planning your trip to Barstow.
Nearby Destination From Barstow
1. Victorville: A bustling city known for its shopping centers and outdoor recreational activities.
2. Apple Valley: A charming town surrounded by picturesque landscapes and home to numerous apple orchards.
3. Hesperia: A growing community offering a variety of outdoor adventures, including hiking and off-roading.
4. Adelanto: A small city with a rich aviation history and a popular destination for air shows.
5. Helendale: A peaceful village located near the beautiful Silver Lakes, perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
6. Daggett: A historic town known for its well-preserved buildings from the Old West era.
7. Yermo: A quaint village near the famous Calico Ghost Town, offering a glimpse into the region's mining past.
8. Newberry Springs: A desert oasis with natural hot springs and a popular stop along Route 66.
9. Lenwood: A small community with convenient access to shopping centers and major highways.
10. Oro Grande: A scenic village nestled in the Mojave Desert, known for its stunning rock formations and hiking trails.