Desert Discovery Center Old Woman Meteorite
Discover the colossal Old Woman Meteorite and the resilient wildlife of the Mojave Desert.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More activities and lively atmosphere
Desert Discovery Center Old Woman Meteorite
Best Time
More activities and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the colossal Old Woman Meteorite and the resilient wildlife of the Mojave Desert.
"A must-see for families and road-trippers, featuring the second-largest meteorite in the US!"
👋 Say hello to the tortoises!
Don't forget to visit the outdoor pond for a chance to see the resident desert tortoises. :turtle:
Touch the Meteorite!
You can actually touch the Old Woman Meteorite – a truly unique experience! :rock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Woman Meteorite
Touch and marvel at the second-largest meteorite in the US, a colossal space rock.
Live Tortoise Pen
Outdoor area
Observe desert tortoises in their natural habitat – a delightful surprise for all ages.
Desert Exhibits
Learn about the unique flora, fauna, and geology of the Mojave Desert.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Meteorite!
Explore the Desert Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👋 Say hello to the tortoises!
Don't forget to visit the outdoor pond for a chance to see the resident desert tortoises. :turtle:
Touch the Meteorite!
You can actually touch the Old Woman Meteorite – a truly unique experience! :rock:
Great for Kids
This spot is highly recommended for families; kids are fascinated by the meteorite and animals. :child:
Plan for a quick stop
Perfect for a brief, educational stop if you're passing through Barstow. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
👋 Say hello to the tortoises!
Don't forget to visit the outdoor pond for a chance to see the resident desert tortoises. :turtle:
Touch the Meteorite!
You can actually touch the Old Woman Meteorite – a truly unique experience! :rock:
Great for Kids
This spot is highly recommended for families; kids are fascinated by the meteorite and animals. :child:
Plan for a quick stop
Perfect for a brief, educational stop if you're passing through Barstow. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Desert Discovery Center for its impressive Old Woman Meteorite and the charming live tortoise exhibit. It's highlighted as a great, educational stop for families and road-trippers passing through Barstow. While not a sprawling museum, its unique attractions offer a memorable and worthwhile experience for its modest size and admission fee.
"I was in Barstow for a weekend for work and since there isn’t much to do I stopped by all the museums in town this is a Pretty cool little museum they have the second biggest meteorite found in the United States. They also have some turtles in a pond in the back and some tortoises as well highly recommend if your passing through great for kids."
Dan Roman
"1st time pass by visitor on our way to Vegas with the family. We all enjoyed seeing amd touching the Meteorite, seeing tortoises, and learning about rocks. My kids are fasinated by rock types. Next time we will alott more time to fully enjoy."
veronica quintero
"The main attraction in my opinion is California’s second largest meteorite. It’s known as the old woman meteorite. It was found in the old woman mountains Back in 1975. It’s 38 inches long 24 inches high and 30 inches wide and it it originally weighed 6070 pounds. At some .177 pounds of the media was cut off to be studied. The discovery center also has a lot of desert exhibits including A live tortoise pen."
bartellj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Desert Discovery Center is located in Barstow, California. It's easily accessible by car, often visited by those traveling along major routes like I-15 or I-40. Parking is generally available on-site.
Yes, it's typically well-signposted in Barstow. Many visitors stop by when passing through the area on their way to or from destinations like Las Vegas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally affordable, making it a great value. Check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing details, as fees can change.
Hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to confirm the current opening and closing times before your visit to avoid disappointment. Weekends tend to be busier.
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you're planning for a group visit or a special program, it's wise to inquire about reservations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The undisputed star is the Old Woman Meteorite, California's second-largest meteorite ever found. Visitors are often amazed by its sheer size and can even touch it.
Yes! Outside, you'll find a charming pond with live desert tortoises. It's a highlight for many visitors, especially families with children.
The center features educational displays on desert life, geology, and the history of the region. You'll learn about the unique plants and animals that thrive in this arid environment.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for kids, offering interactive elements and fascinating exhibits like the meteorite and live animals that capture their attention.
Most visitors find 1-2 hours sufficient to see the meteorite, explore the exhibits, and visit the tortoises. Some families may wish to spend a bit longer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, the center itself does not have a full-service restaurant. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at nearby establishments in Barstow.
Picnicking is often allowed in designated outdoor areas. Check with the center staff upon arrival for specific guidelines regarding outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibit areas to protect the displays. Always be mindful of signage.
The Old Woman Meteorite itself is a prime photo opportunity. The outdoor tortoise enclosure also offers charming shots, especially with the desert landscape as a backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star of the Show: Old Woman Meteorite
Many visitors express awe at its sheer size and the story of its discovery. It's not just a rock; it's a piece of history that has traveled millions of miles through space before landing in the Mojave Desert. The center provides educational context about meteorites, their composition, and how they are identified, making the viewing experience both exciting and informative. It’s a powerful reminder of the vastness of the universe and our place within it.
Discovering Mojave Desert Wildlife
The center also features various desert exhibits that delve into the unique flora and fauna adapted to survive in this arid environment. You can learn about drought-resistant plants, the adaptations of desert animals, and the delicate balance of this ecosystem. These displays provide valuable insights into the challenges and beauty of desert living, making the visit both educational and engaging. It’s a chance to appreciate the often-overlooked biodiversity of the desert landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit