Route 66, often called the “Mother Road,” carries with it the stories of migration, hope, and adventure that shaped the American West. While some stretches of this legendary highway are well known, California’s desert holds treasures that many travelers overlook. These historic landmarks, tucked away among the barren landscapes, capture both the resilience of desert communities and the spirit of mid-century road culture. From quirky roadside stops to geological wonders, these places showcase the charm, history, and mystery that make Route 66 unforgettable.
1. Amboy Crater
Amboy Crater stands as one of the most striking natural wonders along Route 66. This extinct cinder cone volcano rises from the stark Mojave Desert floor, offering hikers the chance to explore its rugged trails and climb to the rim for panoramic views. Its dramatic presence highlights the volcanic history of the region while serving as a reminder of the isolation faced by travelers decades ago. Today, Amboy Crater is a popular stop for adventurers, photographers, and geology enthusiasts who want to connect with the desert’s raw beauty.
2. Roy’s Motel and Cafe
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Amboy, Roy’s Motel and Café, is an enduring symbol of Route 66’s golden era. Built in the 1930s, it provided weary travelers with a place to rest, eat, and refuel as they crossed the harsh desert. Its towering neon sign remains one of the most photographed images along the route, representing both nostalgia and survival. While the motel rooms no longer host overnight guests, the site has been partially restored, welcoming visitors who want to step into the spirit of America’s roadside history.
3. Bagdad Cafe
In Newberry Springs lies Bagdad Café, a small roadside diner that gained international fame after its appearance in the 1987 cult film of the same name. The café’s rustic charm, colorful décor, and welcoming atmosphere draw visitors from around the world who come to experience a piece of living Route 66 culture. Inside, walls are filled with memorabilia left behind by travelers, creating a sense of global community in the middle of the desert. Beyond its cinematic fame, Bagdad Café remains a place where history, hospitality, and Americana meet.
4. Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch
Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, near Oro Grande, is one of the most imaginative roadside attractions on Route 66. Created by artist Elmer Long, the ranch features hundreds of metal poles adorned with glass bottles, tools, and vintage objects that shimmer in the desert sunlight. The result is a folk art wonderland that celebrates creativity and eccentricity. Visitors can wander among the bottle trees, listen to the wind clinking through the glass, and marvel at the way one man transformed discarded objects into a desert landmark beloved by travelers worldwide.
5. Kelso Depot
Although slightly off the main Route 66 path, Kelso Depot in the Mojave National Preserve remains a significant landmark for travelers exploring California’s desert highways. Built in the 1920s by the Union Pacific Railroad, the depot once bustled with workers, miners, and desert residents. Its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture has been carefully restored, and today it functions as a museum and visitor center. Exhibits highlight the railroad’s role in shaping the region, while its location offers travelers a chance to reflect on the challenges of life in the desert.
6. Calico Ghost Town
Calico Ghost Town, near Barstow, is a restored silver mining town that ties directly into the history of Route 66 travelers. Founded in the late 1800s, Calico boomed with miners before falling into decline when the silver dried up. Today, it has been preserved as a historic park where visitors can explore old mine shafts, wooden storefronts, and recreated saloons. The town celebrates events, reenactments, and festivals that bring its Wild West character to life, making it a stop that blends both entertainment and authentic desert history.
7. Wigwam Motel, San Bernardino
The Wigwam Motel is one of the most iconic and playful stops on Route 66. Built in the 1940s, this roadside motel offered guests the unique experience of sleeping in individual concrete teepees, a novelty that attracted curious travelers. Its whimsical design reflects the era’s love of themed architecture and quirky roadside attractions. Still in operation today, the Wigwam Motel provides both comfort and nostalgia, letting modern visitors experience the same roadside fun that families enjoyed during the height of the American road trip.
8. Harvey House, Barstow
Known as Casa del Desierto, the Harvey House in Barstow is a historic train depot and hotel that served travelers in the early 20th century. Built in 1911, its grand Spanish Renaissance architecture made it a luxurious stop in the desert. While no longer a hotel, the building houses museums dedicated to Route 66, railroads, and local history. Its preserved beauty and cultural exhibits make it a vital landmark for understanding the role of travel, hospitality, and community along Route 66 in California’s desert landscape.
