The quaint, historic town of Victorville is located in the Victor Valley of western San Bernardino County, in the U.S. state of California. Its position on the southern edge of the Mojave Desert means that it is the perfect base for exploration of this unique desert wonderland.
Victorville is situated just 81 miles north-east of Los Angeles, which means that you can pick up your rental car here, than take the relatively short drive towards a town that will reward you with friendliness and open arms. The Mojave River runs through the city itself, creating a pleasant ambience that makes this place unique and beautiful.
This "Key City of the High Desert" is bordered by the Apple Valley, Hesperia and Adelanto. These are interesting and unique towns, and as they are all within a short drive of Victorville, it will be convenient for you to drive out and explore them. Victorville is also just north of the San Bernardino Mountains, which will allow you to take out your hiking skills and breathe in some fresh mountain air. Victorville is a great getaway from the crowded cities, making it the ideal destination for that holiday you have been longing to take.
1. California Route 66 Museum
Most Californians have at least heard of Route 66, but how many have actually driven it? For all those out there who haven't heard of it or driven it, it doesn't matter, because while in Victorville you will get your chance.
The highlight of the Route is no doubt the California Route 66 Museum, which is, as the name suggests, located on Route 66. The museum is home to constantly changing exhibits, with many permanent fixtures popular among the locals. The displays tell the story of the early pioneers and the cultural and economic impact that the route had on them. Historic photographs and artefacts explore the impact of the highway upon the local economy and culture. All in all, this is an interesting museum which will inform, educate and surprise you on everything there is to known about one of California's most famous routes.
2. Mojave National Preserve
Mojave is a 1.6 million acre park that is situated between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. This stunning park is consumed with sand dunes, volcanic cinder cones, Joshua Forest Trees, wildflowers and canyons. Nestled in the park you will find mountains and mesas with long abandoned mines, homesteads and rock walled military outposts.
The National Preserve is home to the Mojave, Great Basin and Sonoran Deserts, some of the most notable deserts in the country. Visitors to these dry wonderlands can enjoy hunting, camping, horseback riding, backpacking and driving your rental car as much as your heart desires.
3. Calico Ghost Town
The town of Calico was founded in March of 1881 and was originally home to over 500 mines. Here, silver was King and this is precisely what make Calico one of the richest mining towns in California. The town was abandoned after the price of silver fell and is now one of the few remaining original mining towns of the western U.S.
Calico Ghost Town is located just north-west of Barstow. Driving your rental car, take a turn down Ghost Town Road, just of Interstate 15, and you will enter a whole other world. In this world you will find the Maggie Mine, the Calico/ Odessa Railroad, Mystery Shack, a museum and plenty of places to try your luck at gold panning. These activities will take you back in time and will provide you with hours of enjoyment that the whole family can enjoy.
4. Mojave River Valley Museum
Victorville sure is not lacking in museums, and another one to add to your itinerary would have to be the Mojave River Valley Museum. This museum houses a series of displays and exhibits that portray the history of the Mojave River Valley. This institution is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the scientific, historic, and cultural heritage of the valley.
The museum will be easy to find in your rental car as is located at the intersection of Barstow Road and Virginia Way.
For history, outdoor fun and desert adventure, you simply cannot go past Victorville. Although it is somewhat of an acquired taste, it really is worth the time to visit to see what is on offer!
Christine Barton
