Barstow Station
A historic Route 66 landmark and travel center, famous for its train-themed McDonald's and diverse food options.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Barstow Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Route 66 landmark and travel center, famous for its train-themed McDonald's and diverse food options.
"A unique and iconic stop on the LA to Vegas drive, offering great food and a blast of Route 66 nostalgia."
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking available, but can fill up during busy periods.
⏳ Beat the McDonald's Line
Expect long waits for McDonald's; consider other food options if time is tight.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
McDonald's in Train Cars
Inside Barstow Station
Dine inside vintage Pullman train cars at this unique McDonald's. A truly memorable road trip stop!
Route 66 Nostalgia
Barstow Station grounds
Experience the charm of historic Route 66 with the station's western-themed architecture and train decor.
Diverse Food Options
Various outlets within the station
From Subway and McDonald's to Alien Food and Boba, satisfy any craving here.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pit Stop Paradise
Trainspotting & Snack Stops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking available, but can fill up during busy periods.
⏳ Beat the McDonald's Line
Expect long waits for McDonald's; consider other food options if time is tight.
🧼 Clean Restrooms
Restrooms have been noted as clean and well-maintained. Great job!
🛍️ Unique Shops
Explore various mini-mall style gift shops for souvenirs and snacks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking available, but can fill up during busy periods.
⏳ Beat the McDonald's Line
Expect long waits for McDonald's; consider other food options if time is tight.
🧼 Clean Restrooms
Restrooms have been noted as clean and well-maintained. Great job!
🛍️ Unique Shops
Explore various mini-mall style gift shops for souvenirs and snacks.
🎶 Road Trip Soundtrack
Check out the original songs inspired by Barstow Station!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Barstow Station is a beloved and convenient stop for travelers on the LA-Vegas route, praised for its unique train-themed atmosphere and diverse food options. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities and the nostalgic Route 66 charm, though long waits at popular eateries like McDonald's can be a drawback.
"Love coming here on the way to Las Vegas. It’s great rest area with a great selection of food to go. There’s food, clothing, bathrooms and gas stations near by. It has plenty of parking and it looks like you’re getting on a train and it’s an iconic spot to visit."
Sandy Herrera
"All these years driving down the 15 to vegas, I never took thr time to stop here. What a surprise. Subway, McDonald's, Alien Boba/food, and so many mini shops. I would definitely make the time to stop here again. Just prepare to wait a while if your gonna get McDonald's. Long wait for food on a Tuesday."
Melystikal
"We always love stopping here. I must say, it’s cleaner than in past experiences, even the restroom! Great job to the maintenance crew!"
Arlene Aninion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barstow Station is located at 1611 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311. From Los Angeles, take I-15 North. It's a common stop for road trips between LA and Las Vegas.
Yes, Barstow Station serves as an Amtrak stop, making it a convenient point for train travelers as well as road trippers.
The address is 1611 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311.
Barstow Station is a popular travel center and a common stop for bus tours and travelers heading to Las Vegas.
From Las Vegas, take I-15 South towards Southern California. Barstow Station will be a convenient stop along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Barstow Station is a public travel center and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the shops and common areas.
While specific hours can vary by individual shops, the station itself is generally accessible during daylight hours as a travel stop. It's best to check individual food vendors for their specific operating times.
There is no admission fee to enter Barstow Station. You only pay for food, drinks, or merchandise you purchase.
Yes, Barstow Station is an Amtrak stop, and you can typically purchase tickets or manage your travel plans there.
Barstow Station is primarily a travel stop, but its unique atmosphere and location on Route 66 make it a point of interest for road trip enthusiasts and occasional local events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Barstow Station features a variety of shops, including candy stores, snack shops, liquor stores, and general gift shops selling souvenirs and travel essentials.
Recent reviews indicate that the restrooms at Barstow Station are clean and well-maintained, a positive improvement noted by visitors.
The station is themed around trains, with vintage Pullman train cars used for seating at the McDonald's and other western-style architecture throughout the complex.
Absolutely! The unique train car McDonald's and the overall western theme make Barstow Station a very photogenic spot for road trip memories.
Barstow Station is a historic Route 66 landmark, originally serving as a Santa Fe Railroad depot. It has been repurposed into a unique travel center.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a range of options including Subway, McDonald's, Wetzel's Pretzels, Alien Food (Chinese), Boba Drinks, and Tacos. Jed's Beef Jerky is also available.
Yes, the McDonald's is famous for its unique setting inside vintage Pullman train cars, offering a dining experience unlike any other.
While options like Subway offer healthier choices, many of the offerings are typical fast food. Boba drinks and pretzels are also available.
Alien Food is a Chinese fast-food vendor located within Barstow Station, known for offering bacon-wrapped hot dogs among other items.
Wait times can be significant, especially for McDonald's, even on weekdays. It's advisable to factor in extra time for meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The McDonald's interior with its train car seating is a must-capture. The exterior architecture and Route 66 signage also make for great shots.
Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos inside the train cars while dining or visiting the McDonald's at Barstow Station.
Daylight hours are best for capturing the details of the station. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and staff.
Its unique blend of Route 66 Americana, vintage train cars, and diverse food stalls creates a visually interesting and nostalgic backdrop for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the McDonald's, the station offers a variety of food options to please picky eaters, and the open spaces allow kids to stretch their legs. The train theme throughout the station also provides visual interest and can spark imaginative play. It’s a great place to break up a long drive and keep everyone entertained.
🚗 Road Trippers
Its location on historic Route 66 adds a layer of nostalgia, making it more than just a functional rest area. The unique train-themed architecture and the famous McDonald's provide a memorable experience that breaks up the monotony of a long drive. It’s a place to grab a quick bite, stretch your legs, and snap some classic road trip photos.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
While there are shops selling souvenirs, you can easily enjoy the atmosphere and grab a meal without spending a lot. The clean restrooms and ample parking are also a plus for those watching their expenses on a long journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Route 66 Icon
+1Visitors often remark on the unique atmosphere, which feels like stepping back in time. The station's design, with its old-town style buildings and train decor, provides a picturesque backdrop that resonates with the spirit of the Mother Road. It’s a place where travelers can pause, reflect, and capture the essence of classic American travel.
+1Culinary Crossroads
Beyond McDonald's, the station boasts other popular vendors like Subway for quick sandwiches, Wetzel's Pretzels for a sweet or savory snack, and even more eclectic options such as 'Alien Food' (Chinese cuisine) and Boba drinks. This variety ensures that whether you're looking for a full meal or just a quick bite, Barstow Station has something to satisfy everyone on their journey.
+1The Train Experience
For train enthusiasts, Barstow Station also serves as an active Amtrak stop, providing opportunities to see trains arriving and departing. This dual nature—a historical landmark and a functional transport hub—adds another layer of interest for visitors. The presence of trains, combined with the station's architecture, creates a captivating environment for both travelers and railfans.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit