Old Town Barstow
A nostalgic stretch of Route 66 featuring classic car displays and vibrant murals, perfect for a quick photo stop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for photos & safety
Old Town Barstow
Best Time
Best for photos & safety
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nostalgic stretch of Route 66 featuring classic car displays and vibrant murals, perfect for a quick photo stop.
"Worth a drive through to see. Very unique attraction."
📸 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Route 66 Photo Op
Main Street
Capture the essence of the Mother Road with iconic brick columns topped with classic cars.
Vibrant Murals
Various buildings along the street
Discover colorful murals depicting local history and the spirit of the open road.
Train Museum
Near the main street
Explore the rich railway heritage of Barstow at this fascinating local museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Roadside Charm
Safety & Stops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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.
What parts of Barstow should be avoided?
📍 Family-Friendly Amenities
Barstow Station McDonald's is a good spot for a break with kids.
🗺️ Easy Detour
Barely deviates from the main route, making it a convenient stop.
Thoughts on Barstow CA and the Route 66 Motel?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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.
📍 Family-Friendly Amenities
Barstow Station McDonald's is a good spot for a break with kids.
🗺️ Easy Detour
Barely deviates from the main route, making it a convenient stop.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, it's well-marked as a Route 66 attraction. Look for the classic car displays on brick columns.
Public transport options are limited in Barstow. It's best accessed by car, especially if you're on a road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Town Barstow is an open-air attraction. You can drive through and stop for photos freely.
As it's a public street, it's accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
There is no admission fee to explore Old Town Barstow. It's a free roadside attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
The brick columns topped with classic cars are iconic photo opportunities. Don't miss the vibrant murals scattered along the street.
Absolutely! The murals are a key part of the Old Town Barstow experience and are perfect for capturing the town's character.
No, photography is generally welcomed. Just be mindful of any private property if you venture off the main street.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
While Old Town Barstow itself is more about the visual experience, the surrounding area offers classic American diner fare and fast-food chains.
🎫 📍 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.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour here, perfect for a quick stop and photos during a road trip.
Yes, children often enjoy the colorful murals and the novelty of the classic cars. The Barstow Station McDonald's offers a good break point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a brief visit to the Barstow Railroad Museum if your children have an interest in trains. It provides an educational and entertaining diversion. Overall, Old Town Barstow is a low-stress, high-visual-impact stop that can add a memorable touch to a family's journey without requiring a significant time commitment.
🚗 Road Trippers
Don't plan for an extended stay; think of it as a scenic pit stop. It's ideal for breaking up long drives between major destinations like Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The ease of access and minimal deviation from the main route make it a highly practical addition to any road trip itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Route 66 Nostalgia
Beyond the car displays, the area features colorful murals that tell stories of Barstow's past and its connection to the legendary highway. These artistic expressions add depth and character to the drive-through experience. For those interested in the region's history, the nearby Barstow Railroad Museum offers a deeper dive into the town's significant role in railway transportation, complementing the automotive history of Route 66.
While Old Town Barstow is a destination in itself for its unique roadside charm, it's also a practical stop for those traveling between major cities. Its proximity to amenities like the Barstow Station McDonald's makes it a convenient place to stretch your legs and grab a bite before continuing your journey.
Navigating Barstow: Safety and Practicalities
It's always wise to remain aware of your surroundings when stopping in any unfamiliar town. For those driving through, Old Town Barstow offers a quick and easy detour that doesn't significantly impact travel time. The main attractions are visible from the road, making it ideal for a short photo stop.
If you're looking for a more substantial break, the Barstow Railroad Museum provides an indoor activity that can be a good option, particularly if traveling with children. Remember to check its operating hours before your visit.
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