Are you planning a road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles or vice versa? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with the best spots to stop along the way that will make your journey a memorable one.
First up, Seven Magic Mountains. This vibrant art installation, located just a few miles outside of Las Vegas, is sure to take your breath away. The seven towering totems, which stand up to 30 feet tall, are a colorful contrast against the desert landscape. It’s a great spot to snap some Instagram-worthy photos. Beware when the weather is windy, as this is the desert, and the dust can be fairly aggressive!
Next, head towards Goodsprings, just 35 minutes away from Seven Magic Mountains, and explore the historic former mining town. You can drive around the area and get a look at the buildings that appear to be right out of a Wild West film set. Las Vegas ATV Tours also operates desert adventures that take you off-road. Stop into the Pioneer Saloon for a bite and a side of haunted history.
After Goodsprings, make a stop at Primm Mall right before the California state line, where you can indulge in some great shopping and deals. Don’t forget to grab some sweet treats at Pinkbox Doughnuts, located right outside the mall entrance. If you love street art, check out the collection of over 100 murals in the Mural Oasis, which contains over 90,000 square feet of wall art.
As you continue your journey, be sure to drop by Baker to visit the World’s Tallest Thermometer, which sits 134 feet high, and the Alien Fresh Jerky store. Full of kitsch and camp, the store features alien theming inside and out and a vast selection of jerky, candy, and snacks. It’s also the perfect place to take a quick break to stretch your legs before continuing on your journey.
Stop at EddieWorld in Yermo for a huge selection of road trip goodies—you can’t miss it; the building is shaped like a giant ice cream sundae. Further down the road is a classic road trip stop. If you’re looking for a blast from the past, Peggy Sue’s is the perfect spot to reel in the nostalgia. A vintage diner offering classic American dishes like burgers, shakes, and fries, it’s a great place to stop and stretch your legs. Make sure to walk around the back of the restaurant, too, to see the Diner-saur park.
Another must-visit spot is Calico Ghost Town, located in the nearby hills of Barstow. The former 1881 silver mining town now serves as an open-air museum, offering exciting activities like gold panning, a train ride, and a ghost tour. You may even catch a live reenactment of a Wild West shootout!
Finally, cap off your trip with some retail therapy at the Outlets at Barstow, featuring shops and outlets from popular brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Levi’s. It’s a great place to stock up on anything you might have forgotten along the way. This part of Barstow is also filled with restaurants and gas stations and is the perfect stopping point for your trip before you continue through the Cajon Pass, where the weather can be oddly unpredictable.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, nostalgia, or shopping, these stops make for a fun and fulfilling road trip. So buckle up and hit the road; the journey is just as exciting as the destination.
