Calico Ghost Town
Step back in time at Calico Ghost Town, a restored 1880s silver mining town in the Mojave Desert. Explore historic buildings, shops, and attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Calico Ghost Town
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Calico Ghost Town, a restored 1880s silver mining town in the Mojave Desert. Explore historic buildings, shops, and attractions.
"A fun and affordable glimpse into the Old West, perfect for a road trip stop!"
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The Mojave Desert is hot. Bring extra water, especially in summer. Refills might be limited.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Street Exploration
Historic Main Street
Wander through restored 1880s buildings, imagining life as a silver miner. A true step back in time!
Calico & Odessa Railroad
Depot near Main Street
Enjoy a scenic ride through the desert, offering unique views of the ghost town and surrounding landscape.
Haggle at the Shops
Various shops along Main Street
Browse unique souvenirs, Western wear, and local crafts. Many shops offer a glimpse into the town's past.
Mine Tour Adventure
Entrance near Main Street
Descend into the depths of a real silver mine and learn about the challenging work of early prospectors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Visit Around Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The Mojave Desert is hot. Bring extra water, especially in summer. Refills might be limited.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring.
💰 Budget for Extras
Admission is affordable, but mine tours, train rides, and souvenirs add up.
📸 Capture the Old West
Plenty of photo ops! The restored buildings and desert landscape are incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The Mojave Desert is hot. Bring extra water, especially in summer. Refills might be limited.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring.
💰 Budget for Extras
Admission is affordable, but mine tours, train rides, and souvenirs add up.
📸 Capture the Old West
Plenty of photo ops! The restored buildings and desert landscape are incredibly photogenic.
🚗 Easy Access from I-15
Located right off the freeway, making it a convenient stop on a road trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Calico Ghost Town to be an affordable and interesting glimpse into the Old West. The restored buildings and historical atmosphere are highlights, though some note that it can feel a bit commercialized and the desert heat is a significant factor. It's a popular stop for road trips and families looking for a unique historical experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calico Ghost Town is conveniently located off Interstate 15 in Yermo, California, about 2 hours from Los Angeles and 3 hours from Las Vegas. Take exit 182 for Ghost Town Road. +1
Yes, Calico Ghost Town is a historic stop along the legendary Route 66, making it a popular destination for road trippers.
From I-15 North or South, take exit 182 for Ghost Town Road. Follow the signs directly to the entrance.
Yes, parking is available and typically included with your admission fee.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from both cities, offering a unique historical experience. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally around $8 for adults and $5 for children (ages 4-11). Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead. +1
Calico Ghost Town is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can change seasonally. Always verify current hours before your visit.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military, or group bookings. Check their website for current offers.
General admission usually grants access to walk through the historic town and browse the shops. Special attractions like the mine tour or train ride often have separate fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic buildings, take a mine tour, ride the Calico & Odessa Railroad, pan for gold, visit unique shops, and enjoy the desert scenery.
Many of the restored buildings on Main Street are open for visitors to explore, offering a glimpse into the past.
Yes, it's a great family-friendly destination with activities like the train ride and gold panning that kids enjoy.
While the town has a 'ghost town' name, specific organized ghost tours might be seasonal or require separate booking. It's best to check their schedule.
It's a scenic train ride that circles a portion of the ghost town and surrounding desert, offering a different perspective.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are typically a few casual dining options available within the town, offering snacks, sandwiches, and drinks.
Outside food and drinks are generally permitted, which is a good way to save money and stay hydrated.
Expect typical casual fare like hot dogs, burgers, ice cream, and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Main Street, the old mine entrances, the train depot, and the surrounding desert landscape offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in most public areas and inside the accessible buildings, but always be respectful of any posted signs.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as desert heat can be intense. Comfortable shoes are essential for little feet that will be doing a lot of walking. The affordable admission price makes it an accessible outing for families looking for a unique day trip.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's a great way to break up a long drive and experience something different from typical roadside attractions. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harshest desert sun. The historic atmosphere and unique photo opportunities make it a memorable detour.
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of Calico Ghost Town
In the 1950s, Walter Knott, the founder of Knott's Berry Farm, recognized the historical significance and potential of Calico. He purchased the town and undertook a significant restoration project, preserving and rebuilding many of its original structures. This effort transformed Calico into the popular tourist attraction it is today, offering visitors a tangible connection to California's mining past.
Today, visitors can walk the dusty streets and explore the meticulously restored buildings, gaining insight into the lives of the prospectors and pioneers who once called Calico home. The town's history is a testament to the boom-and-bust cycles of the American West and the enduring appeal of its rugged frontier spirit.
Exploring Calico: What to Expect
Beyond the shops, several paid attractions offer deeper dives into the town's history and the mining experience. These include the Calico Mine Tour, where you can descend into an actual silver mine, and the Calico & Odessa Railroad, which provides a scenic loop around the town and desert.
It's important to note that Calico is located in a desert environment. Temperatures can be extreme, especially during summer months. Visitors are strongly advised to bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and opt for comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be traversing dusty, uneven terrain.
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