CITY SPOTLIGHT:

YOUR GUIDE TO Barstow

Know Before You Go: About Barstow

From shooting stars to historic routes, there's plenty to discover in Barstow. Start planning your vaction by knowing these helpful facts.

Head for Barstow via the old Route 66 or Interstate 15. Either way, it's an adventure. The desert landscape is minimalist, unless you drive through after a rainstorm. That little bit of moisture paints the landscape with budding flowers and shoots of green. Barstow is also a haven for train buffs and vintage car lovers. Ever seen a meteorite? This is your chance. The "Old Woman Meteorite" is waiting for you to come take a look. From shooting stars to historic routes, see what you’ll discover in the desert town of Barstow!

Dress For The Desert

Barstow sees hot, dry summers and mild winters. From June through early September, you'll find average temperatures are in the mid-80s, with some days topping the 100 degree mark. At night, it usually cools down to the 70s. Dress in light, breathable clothing; drink plenty of water and seek shade during the hottest part of the day. Your best chance of rain is from late December to March, but you’ll only see up to an inch per month. Even though daily highs average in the 50s and 60s during this time of year, the moisture and the resulting flowers don't last long.

Trains, Meteorites and Ghosts

Love trains? Check out the Western American Railroad Museum at the still operating Amtrak Station. You'll find a collection of full-size engines and cars from the old Santa Fe Line. Take a look at the Dog Tooth Mountain Railroad, an intricate model railway that takes up an entire room. Next door you'll find the Barstow Route 66 "Mother Road" Museum with memorabilia dating back to the mid-20th century. Test your will at the Barstow Harvey House, which some say is haunted. At the Desert Discovery Center, check out the "Old Woman Meteorite," weighing in at 6,070 pounds. It spent time at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., where the meteorite’s authenticity was confirmed. Drive out to Rainbow Basin, roughly 8 miles north of town, to see a multi-colored desert landscape.

Southern California's Transportation Hub

Barstow is one of California's major transportation hubs. It’s easy-on, easy-off location on the western end of Interstate 15 makes it a popular stopover for long-haul truckers. The rail yard, which sorts rail cars, is the largest facility west of Kansas City. All of this ties into the tourist trade. Whether you stop here during that long-awaited road trip or you pull into town on the Amtrak train, you're contributing to the tourism economy.

In Barstow, Road Trips Rule

One of the easiest, most scenic ways to get to Barstow is by car. Interstate 15 runs smack into the middle of town, and it passes through some of the most dramatic desert landscapes in California. Ontario International is the closest airport with regularly scheduled passenger service. Pick up a rental car and make the 75-mile drive into Barstow. If you prefer leaving the driving to others, you'll find a Greyhound bus station right on Main Street, and the Amtrak Station just down the road. To get around town, hop on a Barstow Area Transit bus.

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Things to do in Barstow

Barstow is the gateway to the Mojave National Preserve and Rainbow Basin. Find out what stunning desert adventures await you.