The Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Barstow, California to San Luis Obispo, California

Are you planning to take a road trip from Barstow to San Luis Obispo in California? This beautiful drive will take you through stunning landscapes, unique landmarks, and quaint towns. With so much to see and do along the way, it might be hard to decide where to stop and what to see.

Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog post, we've highlighted the top places to visit when driving from Barstow to San Luis Obispo. So buckle up, grab some snacks, and let's get started!

1. Calico Ghost Town (Barstow)

The first stop on your drive from Barstow to San Luis Obispo should be the Calico Ghost Town. This old mining town has been beautifully preserved, making you feel like you've stepped back in time. You can wander around the streets, visit the old mine, and check out the historic buildings.

A must-see attraction in Calico Ghost Town is the Maggie Mine tour. The tour takes you into an old mine and shows you how miners extracted silver ore. You'll get to see some of the old equipment they used and learn about the lives of the miners.

2. Mojave National Preserve

Continuing your drive, you'll come across the Mojave National Preserve. This stunning preserve spans over 1.6 million acres and offers visitors an array of landscapes, ranging from sand dunes to volcanic cinder cones. It's an outdoor lover's paradise, with opportunities for hiking, camping, horseback riding, and stargazing.

One of the must-visit spots in the Mojave National Preserve is the Kelso Dunes. These towering sand dunes are over 600 feet tall and make for an awe-inspiring sight. Hike to the top of the dunes and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding desert.

3. Historic Route 66 (Barstow to Victorville)

As you head out of Barstow and towards Victorville, you'll have the chance to drive along historic Route 66. This iconic road spans over 2,400 miles and stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica. Driving on Route 66 will make you feel like you're on a quintessential American road trip.

Be sure to stop at Peggy Sue's 50s Diner in Victorville. The diner has been serving up classic American style fare like burgers, shakes, and fries for over 30 years. The kitschy decor and friendly vibe make this a great spot to grab a bite to eat.

4. Santa Barbara

Next on our list is Santa Barbara, a charming coastal town that is well worth a stop. Santa Barbara boasts beautiful white sand beaches, a bustling pier, and a vibrant downtown.

One of the must-visit spots in Santa Barbara is the Santa Barbara Mission. This stunning mission was founded in 1786 and is still operational today. You can take a tour of the grounds and learn about the history of the mission, as well as the role it has played in the development of the area.

5. Morro Bay

The final stop on our drive from Barstow to San Luis Obispo is Morro Bay. This picturesque fishing town is located on the coast and boasts a stunning backdrop of Morro Rock, a rocky volcanic peak.

One of the top things to do in Morro Bay is to take a scenic boat tour. You'll have the chance to see seals, sea otters, and a variety of birds. If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak and explore the bay on your own.

Conclusion

From historic mining towns to stunning coastal vistas, the drive from Barstow to San Luis Obispo offers something for everyone. We hope this list has given you some inspiration for your road trip. Don't forget to take it slow, appreciate the sights, and enjoy the journey!