Located in the heart of the Mojave Desert, Barstow, California, is a city that often gets overlooked by travelers heading to more popular destinations in the state. However, this desert city has a lot to offer, from its rich history and cultural attractions to its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. In this article, we will delve into the details of Barstow, exploring its history, attractions, and activities to help you decide if it is worth visiting.
Introduction to Barstow
Barstow is a city situated in San Bernardino County, California, with a population of around 25,000 people. The city has a unique history, dating back to the late 19th century when it was a major railroad town. Today, Barstow is a thriving community that offers a mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Visitors to Barstow can experience the city’s rich history, explore its cultural attractions, and enjoy the great outdoors.
History of Barstow
Barstow’s history is closely tied to the railroad industry. The city was founded in 1886 as a railroad town, and it quickly grew into a major transportation hub. The city’s strategic location made it an ideal stopping point for trains traveling between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. During the early 20th century, Barstow experienced significant growth, with the establishment of the Santa Fe Railway and the development of the city’s downtown area.
Historic Landmarks
Barstow is home to several historic landmarks that showcase the city’s rich history. The Harvey House Railroad Museum is a must-visit attraction, offering insight into the city’s railroad heritage. The museum is housed in the historic Casa del Desierto, a beautiful mission-style building that dates back to 1911. Other historic landmarks in Barstow include the Barstow Station, a historic railroad station that now serves as a tourist information center, and the Calico Ghost Town, a former mining town that has been preserved to showcase the city’s mining history.
Attractions in Barstow
Barstow has a wide range of attractions that cater to different interests and ages. From outdoor recreational activities to cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in this desert city.
Cultural Attractions
Barstow is home to several cultural attractions that showcase the city’s rich history and heritage. The Barstow Community College Art Gallery features a collection of local and regional art, while the Barstow Historical Society Museum offers insight into the city’s history and development. The Calico Ghost Town is another popular attraction, offering a glimpse into the city’s mining past.
Natural Attractions
Barstow is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Mojave National Preserve is a must-visit attraction, offering hiking trails, camping sites, and stunning views of the Mojave Desert. The Calico Mountains are another popular destination, offering hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Outdoor Activities in Barstow
Barstow is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and skill levels. From hiking and camping to off-roading and rock climbing, there is something for everyone in this desert city.
Hiking and Camping
The Mojave National Preserve and the Calico Mountains offer several hiking trails and camping sites, ranging from easy to challenging. The Ring Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Mojave Desert, while the Calico Campground is a great spot for camping and stargazing.
Off-Roading and Rock Climbing
Barstow is a popular destination for off-roading and rock climbing enthusiasts. The Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area offers a range of trails for off-roading, while the Calico Mountains offer several rock climbing routes for all skill levels.
Events and Festivals in Barstow
Barstow hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the city’s rich culture and heritage. The Barstow Big Bear Lake Festival is a popular event, featuring live music, food vendors, and craft booths. The Calico Days Festival is another popular event, celebrating the city’s mining history with live music, food vendors, and historical reenactments.
Annual Events
Barstow hosts several annual events, including the Barstow Film Festival, the Barstow Music Festival, and the Barstow Christmas Parade. These events offer a great opportunity to experience the city’s culture and community.
Seasonal Events
Barstow also hosts several seasonal events, including the Barstow Summer Concert Series and the Barstow Winter Festival. These events offer a great way to experience the city’s culture and community during different times of the year.
In conclusion, Barstow, California, is a hidden gem that is definitely worth visiting. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone in this desert city. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, Barstow has a lot to offer. So why not plan a trip to Barstow today and discover the charm and beauty of this desert city?
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Harvey House Railroad Museum | A museum showcasing the city’s railroad heritage |
| Calico Ghost Town | A former mining town that has been preserved to showcase the city’s mining history |
| Mojave National Preserve | A national preserve offering hiking trails, camping sites, and stunning views of the Mojave Desert |
| Calico Mountains | A mountain range offering hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape |
- Barstow Community College Art Gallery
- Barstow Historical Society Museum
- Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area
- Barstow Big Bear Lake Festival
- Calico Days Festival
What are the top attractions to visit in Barstow, California?
Barstow, California, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreational activities. The top attractions to visit in Barstow include the Calico Ghost Town, a historic mining town that dates back to the 19th century, and the Mojave National Preserve, a vast protected area that features stunning landscapes, sand dunes, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the Route 66 Museum, which showcases the history and significance of the iconic Mother Road, and the Barstow Station, a historic train depot that now serves as a visitor center and museum.
In addition to these attractions, Barstow is also a great base for exploring the surrounding desert landscape. The city is close to several state and national parks, including the San Bernardino National Forest and the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and off-roading, in these areas. Barstow is also a great spot for stargazing, with its dark skies and minimal light pollution. Overall, Barstow offers a unique and rewarding experience for visitors, with its rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
What is the best time to visit Barstow, California?
The best time to visit Barstow, California, depends on your personal preferences and interests. The city experiences a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. If you prefer warm weather, the best time to visit Barstow is from September to November or from March to May, when the temperatures are mild and pleasant. These periods are ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and exploring the surrounding desert landscape. On the other hand, if you prefer cooler weather, the winter months from December to February are a great time to visit Barstow, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s.
In terms of specific events and festivals, Barstow hosts a range of activities throughout the year. The city’s annual Calico Days festival, which takes place in October, is a popular event that features live music, food vendors, and historical reenactments. The Barstow Film Festival, which takes place in June, showcases independent films and attracts visitors from across the region. Additionally, the city’s Christmas parade and tree-lighting ceremony, which takes place in December, is a fun and festive event that gets you in the holiday spirit. Overall, the best time to visit Barstow depends on your interests and preferences, but the city has something to offer throughout the year.
How do I get to Barstow, California?
Barstow, California, is located in the Mojave Desert, approximately 130 miles northeast of Los Angeles. The city is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the area, including Interstate 15 and Interstate 40. Visitors can also fly into the Barstow-Daggett Airport, which offers limited commercial flights, or into the nearby Ontario International Airport or Los Angeles International Airport, which offer a wider range of flights and connections. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to Barstow.
In addition to driving or flying, visitors can also take the train or bus to Barstow. The city is served by Amtrak’s Southwest Chief train, which runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, and by several bus companies, including Greyhound and FlixBus. The Barstow Station, a historic train depot, serves as a transportation hub and offers convenient connections to other modes of transportation. Once you arrive in Barstow, you can get around the city using public transportation, such as the Barstow Transit System, or by renting a car or taking a taxi. Overall, Barstow is easily accessible by car, plane, train, or bus, making it a convenient destination for visitors from across the region.
What are the best things to do in Barstow, California, for outdoor enthusiasts?
Barstow, California, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning desert landscapes, sand dunes, and mountain ranges. One of the best things to do in Barstow for outdoor enthusiasts is to explore the Mojave National Preserve, which offers a range of hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can also head to the San Bernardino National Forest, which features scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and horseback riding. For those who enjoy off-roading, the nearby Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area offers miles of trails and scenic routes to explore.
In addition to these activities, Barstow is also a great spot for stargazing, with its dark skies and minimal light pollution. Visitors can attend a stargazing event at the Mojave National Preserve or simply find a secluded spot to gaze up at the stars. For those who enjoy water sports, the nearby Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Barstow is also a great base for exploring the surrounding desert landscape, with its unique rock formations, sand dunes, and historic mining sites. Overall, Barstow offers a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and camping to off-roading and stargazing.
What are the best places to eat in Barstow, California?
Barstow, California, may be a small desert town, but it has a surprisingly vibrant food scene, with a range of restaurants serving everything from classic American comfort food to Mexican and Asian cuisine. One of the best places to eat in Barstow is the Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner, a retro-style diner that serves up burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes. Another popular spot is the Barstow Station, which offers a range of eateries, including a deli, a cafe, and a restaurant serving American and Mexican cuisine. Visitors can also head to the nearby Lenwood Road, which features a range of restaurants, including Chinese, Italian, and Mexican options.
In addition to these restaurants, Barstow is also home to a range of casual eateries and fast-food chains, making it easy to grab a quick bite on the go. For those who want to try some local flavors, the Barstow Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Thursday, offers a range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. Visitors can also head to the nearby Fort Irwin National Training Center, which has a range of dining options, including a food court and a restaurant serving American and international cuisine. Overall, Barstow has a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene, with something to suit every taste and budget.
Is Barstow, California, a good place to visit with kids?
Barstow, California, is a great place to visit with kids, with its range of outdoor activities, historical attractions, and family-friendly events. One of the top attractions for kids is the Calico Ghost Town, which offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities, including a mine tour, a train ride, and a chance to pan for gold. The Mojave National Preserve is also a great place to explore with kids, with its scenic hiking trails, sand dunes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can also head to the nearby Barstow Station, which has a range of kid-friendly activities, including a play area, a train simulator, and a museum with interactive exhibits.
In addition to these attractions, Barstow is also a great base for exploring the surrounding desert landscape, with its unique rock formations, sand dunes, and historic mining sites. Kids can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and off-roading, and parents can appreciate the city’s relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. Barstow also hosts a range of family-friendly events throughout the year, including the annual Calico Days festival, which features live music, food vendors, and historical reenactments. Overall, Barstow is a great place to visit with kids, with its range of outdoor activities, historical attractions, and family-friendly events and amenities.
Can I visit Barstow, California, on a budget?
Yes, it is possible to visit Barstow, California, on a budget, with its range of affordable accommodations, dining options, and free or low-cost attractions. One of the best ways to save money is to stay at one of the city’s many budget-friendly hotels or motels, which offer comfortable rooms and amenities at an affordable price. Visitors can also save money by eating at casual eateries or fast-food chains, or by preparing their own meals at a campground or vacation rental. Barstow is also home to a range of free or low-cost attractions, including the Mojave National Preserve, the Calico Ghost Town, and the Route 66 Museum.
In addition to these budget-friendly options, Barstow also offers a range of free or low-cost activities, such as hiking, camping, and stargazing. Visitors can explore the surrounding desert landscape, with its unique rock formations, sand dunes, and historic mining sites, without spending a lot of money. The city also hosts a range of free or low-cost events throughout the year, including the annual Calico Days festival, which features live music, food vendors, and historical reenactments. Overall, Barstow is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers, with its range of affordable accommodations, dining options, and free or low-cost attractions and activities.