Things to do in Barstow

The historic highway Route 66 is peppered with old relics of American road culture—and the town of Barstow is certainly one of them. Named after the president of the Santa Fe Railroad, William Barstow Strong, this small town serves as an ode to transportation—both its grand old rail line and the "Mother Road" Museum, which is dedicated to all things Route 66. Barstow offers more than just kitschy appeal; it's also the gateway to the Mojave National Preserve and Rainbow Basin— where stunning desert adventures await.

Museums and Ghosts at Barstow Harvey House

You can explore the area's transportation history at the Harvey House Railroad Depot. The railroad depot, also known as the "Casa del Desierto," was part of the first restaurant chain in America, the iconic Harvey Houses, a series of restaurants that serviced travelers on the Santa Fe Transcontinental line. Today, the restored Spanish building serves as the town's Greyhound Bus and Amtrak stop—and houses several local museums. For more Americana, visit the Barstow Route 66 "Mother Road" Museum, which celebrates America's love of road trips, while the Western America Railroad Museum traces the area's rail history.

The Old Woman Meteorite

Check out the Desert Discovery Center to see everything from a Crazy Cactus art exhibit to the second-largest meteorite found in the United States. Pronounced as the "real deal" by Dr. Roy Clarke from the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, the rock was dubbed the Old Woman. After spending nearly 15 years in D.C. and on tour, the meteorite was sent back to Barstow, minus a chunk the scientists kept for study. Even with the trim, the Old Woman still weighs in at nearly 6,000 pounds.

Painted Deserts and Native Wildlife

Roughly 8 miles north of Barstow, you'll find the Rainbow Basin Natural Area, named for its multicolored rock base. That color is enhanced after a rare desert rainstorm, when many desert plants start to flower. Hike through the painted landscape, a combination of weather-worn hills, canyons and washes. Go early in the morning or in the evening when the temperatures are more manageable. Keep an eye out for the desert tortoise, a native species. You may even find some fossils, but unless you have a special permit, you'll have to settle for a picture. Cars are allowed on Fossil Bed Road and on the one-way Loop Road, but usually not beyond that point.

Burgers, Quesadillas and Mini-Pizzas

Head for the Pit Stop (560 Victor St., Barstow), where the decor is pure diner—like something right out of "Happy Days," with an automotive twist. Dine on a Cuban or Frisco burger, the latter on the spicy side, and play a game of pool at the same time. Lola's Kitchen (1244 East Main St., Barstow) is the go-to place for homemade Mexican food. Dine on chili rellenos, tacos made with shredded beef or pork, or even a bacon quesadilla. If you're in the mood for pizza, the Route 66 Pizza Palace (2046 West Maine St., Barstow) has everything from giant party-size pizzas to a mini 8-inch kids' pizza.