Things To Do
in Barstow
Barstow is a city located in the high desert region of San Bernardino County, California. Known for its historic Route 66 connection, Barstow serves as a transportation hub with major highways intersecting in the area. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Calico Ghost Town and the Mojave Desert.
The city offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and shopping options for travelers passing through.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Route 66 Museum to learn about the iconic highway's history. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner nearby.
Explore the Ghost Town at Calico Ghost Town and take a guided tour to experience the mining history. Don't forget to grab lunch at the Calico Saloon.
Wind down your day with a relaxing dinner at a bar and grill in Barstow. Take a stroll through the town to enjoy the cool evening air.
Begin with a sunrise hike in the Mojave Desert and enjoy the stunning desert landscape. Bring plenty of water and snacks for fuel.
Visit the Mojave National Preserve and explore the Kelso Dunes. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
Return to Barstow and dine at a cozy restaurant featuring local cuisine. Reflect on your adventures under the starry desert sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in California.
- Proximity to various outdoor recreational areas, such as the Mojave Desert and nearby national parks.
- Historical significance with attractions like Route 66 and the Route 66 Museum.
- Diverse community with various cultural influences.
- Strategic location for travel, being a central hub between Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Bernardino.
- Limited job opportunities and economic growth compared to urban centers.
- High temperatures during summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some residents.
- Limited access to high-quality healthcare facilities.
- Public transportation options may be insufficient for some residents.
- Higher crime rates compared to many other cities in California.
Best Activities in Barstow
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore a historic silver mining town and enjoy outdoor activities such as mine tours, train rides, and hiking trails.
Hike through unique and colorful rock formations, explore the desert scenery, and discover fossil beds.
Enjoy off-road vehicle adventures in the sandy dunes, perfect for off-roading enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Barstow with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Barstow
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of colorful rock formations and unique landscapes, perfect for photography.
Historic ghost town with dramatic desert views and photo opportunities of old western structures and landscapes.
Excellent spot for capturing the iconic vintage feel of a drive-in movie theater and the surrounding desert scenery.
Food in Barstow
Barstow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender grilled beef served in warm tortillas with fresh salsa and guacamole. A must-try dish that perfectly captures the flavors of the region. You can find excellent carne asada tacos at Tita's Taco House.
Must-Try!
A delicious hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of condiments. For an authentic experience, visit Rico's Tacos & Hot Dogs.
A local favorite, consisting of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried to perfection. Head to Rosita's Restaurant for their renowned chile rellenos.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Barstow better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a wide range of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Don't miss the opportunity to sample homemade tamales from the friendly vendors.
A bustling street food market where you can savor authentic Mexican street fare such as elote (grilled corn), tamales, and aguas frescas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Barstow, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
Using polite language and manners is valued in Barstow, so be sure to say 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions with others.
Barstow is a diverse community, so it's important to respect different cultures, traditions, and beliefs while interacting with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Barstow with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Barstow
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in the United States, including in Barstow. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants, bartenders, hotel staff, and other service providers. The typical tip amount is around 15-20% of the total bill.
In Barstow, as in the rest of the United States, cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted forms of payment. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly popular. It's important to note that some businesses may have minimum purchase requirements for using cards, so it's always good to have some cash on hand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Barstow.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a good time to visit Barstow, with mild temperatures and wildflowers blooming in the surrounding desert. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the nearby natural attractions.
Summer in Barstow can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (37.8°C). It's best to be prepared for the heat if visiting during this season and to seek indoor activities or cooler destinations during the day.
Fall is another pleasant season to visit Barstow, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. It's a good time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures, as long as you're prepared for the occasional gusty desert winds.
Winters in Barstow are generally mild, with daytime temperatures averaging in the 60s°F (15-20°C). It's a good time for exploring the nearby historic sites and enjoying the festive atmosphere in town.
Barstow at Night
Hiking in Barstow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast expanse of desert wilderness featuring unique geological formations, Joshua trees, and hiking trails such as the Kelso Dunes and the Mojave River.
An old mining town with numerous hiking trails that lead through the scenic San Bernardino Mountains, offering both history and beautiful desert landscapes.
Features several trails for hiking, showcasing the natural beauty of the High Desert and opportunity for wildlife viewing in a serene environment.
A popular moderate trail that offers panoramic views of the Mojave Desert as well as opportunities to explore diverse flora and fauna.
Offers unique hiking experiences through colorful rock formations and ancient geological features, making it a picturesque area to explore.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Barstow through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Barstow by plane.
Major international airport located in Los Angeles, California, approximately 120 miles southwest of Barstow.
International airport serving Ontario, California, located about 65 miles southwest of Barstow.
Airport serving Palm Springs, California, located approximately 90 miles southeast of Barstow.
Major international airport serving Las Vegas, Nevada, about 200 miles northeast of Barstow.
Also known as Hollywood Burbank Airport, located about 100 miles southwest of Barstow.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Barstow, often comprising both non-Hispanic and Hispanic individuals.
A significant portion of the population, encompassing a diverse range of backgrounds.
A notable demographic group contributing to the cultural fabric of Barstow.
A smaller yet growing demographic group within Barstow's community.
A historically significant group with connections to the land and history of the area.
Includes individuals identifying with mixed races or non-majority groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular pastime in Barstow, with local leagues and youth teams contributing to community engagement and support for the sport.
Basketball is widely played in Barstow, with school teams and recreational leagues drawing participation from all age groups.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Barstow, with youth programs and community leagues encouraging participation among children and teens.
Given Barstow's location near desert areas, motor sports, including off-roading and motocross, are popular activities, attracting enthusiasts and events.
American football is a favorite sport, particularly among high school students, with local high schools fielding competitive teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barstow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Southwestern cuisine leans heavily on meat, many restaurants in Barstow offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for dishes like veggie burritos, grilled vegetable fajitas, and bean tostadas.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can still indulge in the local cuisine. Many eateries offer gluten-free tortillas and can accommodate gluten-free requests for dishes like tacos, salads, and rice bowls.