Old Town Barstow - Image 1
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Old Town Barstow

4.2
·142 reviews·Barstow, United States

A nostalgic stretch of Route 66 featuring classic car displays and vibrant murals, perfect for a quick photo stop.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best for photos & safety

CrowdLow
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Old Town Barstow - Image 1

Old Town Barstow

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best for photos & safety

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A nostalgic stretch of Route 66 featuring classic car displays and vibrant murals, perfect for a quick photo stop.

4.2
(142 reviews)

"Worth a drive through to see. Very unique attraction."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Quick Photo Stop

Perfect for a brief stop on your road trip. Grab those classic Route 66 photos!

🚗 Drive-Through Experience

It's more of a scenic drive than a destination. Enjoy the views as you pass through.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.2 · 142 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Route 66 Photo Op

Route 66 Photo Op

Main Street

Capture the essence of the Mother Road with iconic brick columns topped with classic cars.

Vibrant Murals

Vibrant Murals

Various buildings along the street

Discover colorful murals depicting local history and the spirit of the open road.

Train Museum

Train Museum

Near the main street

Explore the rich railway heritage of Barstow at this fascinating local museum.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Roadside Charm

Old Town Barstow is a unique stretch of Route 66, perfect for a quick photo op or a nostalgic drive-through. It's less of a traditional 'town' and more of a collection of roadside attractions and murals celebrating the Mother Road's history. Plan for a brief stop to soak in the vintage vibes.

Safety & Stops

While Barstow has a reputation, Old Town Barstow itself is generally considered safe for a brief visit, especially during daylight hours. Travelers suggest stopping at the Barstow Station McDonald's or the outlets for amenities. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if traveling with children.

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
Best for photos & safety
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
More lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Calico camping trip #ghosttown #family #camping #oldtownbarstow
reviewswith.sarah
29 likes • 670 views

📸 Quick Photo Stop

Perfect for a brief stop on your road trip. Grab those classic Route 66 photos! Reddit

🚗 Drive-Through Experience

It's more of a scenic drive than a destination. Enjoy the views as you pass through. Reddit

I go back from time to time, pass that old Ghost Town sign, sometimes I wonder why’d I go. Stream Ghost Town Road for Halloween!! #smalltown #barstow #highdesert #newberrysprings #applevalley #daggett #yermo #hesperia #ghosttown
ryanbodine.music
11 likes • 249 views
reddit.com

What parts of Barstow should be avoided?

I’m planning a road trip from Las Vegas to LA and I’m looking for a safe place to stop with my kids in Barstow. I’ve heard Barstow isn’t the best place, but I’m from NYC and I don’t know where the bad parts are. I was thinking of stopping at the Barstow Station McDonald’s and…

📍 Family-Friendly Amenities

Barstow Station McDonald's is a good spot for a break with kids. Reddit

🗺️ Easy Detour

Barely deviates from the main route, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

reddit.com

Thoughts on Barstow CA and the Route 66 Motel?

I'm planning mine and my fiancée's first Route 66 trip and have been getting some mixed messages about Barstow and the Route 66 Motel. I've seen some comments about the area saying to only pass through during the day or only stay over night in certain parts of town. For the…

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Quick Photo Stop

Perfect for a brief stop on your road trip. Grab those classic Route 66 photos! Reddit

🚗 Drive-Through Experience

It's more of a scenic drive than a destination. Enjoy the views as you pass through. Reddit

📍 Family-Friendly Amenities

Barstow Station McDonald's is a good spot for a break with kids. Reddit

🗺️ Easy Detour

Barely deviates from the main route, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(142 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Old Town Barstow to be a unique and charming stretch of Route 66, perfect for quick photo opportunities with its classic car displays and colorful murals. While not a destination for extensive exploration, it's a highly recommended and convenient stop for road trippers seeking a nostalgic glimpse of the Mother Road's history.

"Fun portion of Route 66 with brick columns lining some of the street corners that display a classic car on top. Very unique attraction. Worth a drive through to see."

Roberta Peek

"While there are many murals and car cutouts to look out, this is more of a road with a nice view than one specific destination. Parking may be a bit odd if you're looking to "tour" the place, but it's definitely worth stopping by for photos."

Daniel

"Route 66 and Barstow. History meets new ages."

Mawat

What People Like

Iconic Route 66 charm
Classic car displays
Vibrant murals

What People Dislike

More of a drive-through

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Town Barstow is conveniently located right off the main highway, making it an easy detour for travelers on Route 66. It's a short drive from the Barstow Station McDonald's and the outlets, which are often cited as safe stopping points. Reddit

Yes, it's well-marked as a Route 66 attraction. Look for the classic car displays on brick columns. Reddit

Public transport options are limited in Barstow. It's best accessed by car, especially if you're on a road trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Old Town Barstow is an open-air attraction. You can drive through and stop for photos freely. Reddit

As it's a public street, it's accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety. Reddit

There is no admission fee to explore Old Town Barstow. It's a free roadside attraction. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The brick columns topped with classic cars are iconic photo opportunities. Don't miss the vibrant murals scattered along the street. Reddit

Absolutely! The murals are a key part of the Old Town Barstow experience and are perfect for capturing the town's character. Reddit

No, photography is generally welcomed. Just be mindful of any private property if you venture off the main street. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Barstow Station McDonald's is a popular and safe stop for food. You'll also find other fast-food options and diners in the vicinity. Reddit

While Old Town Barstow itself is more about the visual experience, the surrounding area offers classic American diner fare and fast-food chains. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Old Town Barstow is primarily a visual experience focused on Route 66 nostalgia. Enjoy the murals, classic car displays, and the historic train museum. Reddit

Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour here, perfect for a quick stop and photos during a road trip. Reddit

Yes, children often enjoy the colorful murals and the novelty of the classic cars. The Barstow Station McDonald's offers a good break point. Reddit

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