For another dose of Route 66 history, check out Barstow's Route 66 'Mother Road' Museum. This hidden gem of a stop is chock full of info and artifacts that interpret the history of Route 66 and the Mojave Desert. You'll find compelling photography and history detailing the Route's rise from pioneer trails and railroad lines to its automotive heyday and present-day state. It's free to visit and run entirely by volunteers, who are eager to share their passion for the history of Route 66 with visitors. Plus, it's located in another historic Harvey House building (like the El Garces) and it has an awesome gift shop packed with classic Route 66 souvenirs.
Route 66 passes right by the famed Calico Ghost Town in Yermo. Calico was a Silver Rush town that flourished between 1881 and the 1890s, when silver prices plummeted. Today, it's a living ghost town, considering that it was purchased by Walter Knott in the 1950s and most of the old buildings were restored, replaced, or had gingerbread facades added. Some of the original buildings include the town office, the main museum (which was originally the town's post office and courthouse), Smitty's Gallery, and the general store. You can also visit the original cemetery. Other attractions have been added to the ghost town-themed park, making the experience super interactive. You can pan for gold, ride on the narrow gauge railroad, witness a re-enacted gunfight, visit the mystery shack, shop, eat, and even camp out.
The humble Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs might look like your average Route 66 roadhouse, but it's got a secret Hollywood past. It served as the inspiration and filming location for a 1988 comedy, also called "Bagdad Cafe," that was a bona fide cult hit in Europe, particularly France. Come in and grab a burger or a malt, and admire the decor while you wait. The walls and ceiling are covered in flags, letters, and pictures from international visitors, as well as Route 66 memorabilia.
For that "middle of nowhere, USA" photo op, your best bet is Roy's in Amboy. Once a cafe, motel, and gas station, it now serves as a little souvenir shop and convenience store. The fact that it's quite out of the way is kind of beneficial, as people seem to love taking pictures of Roy's giant vintage sign surrounded by complete nothingness. Definitely take the chance to stock up on cold drinks and use the public bathroom during a stop at Roy's. The rest of the town is sort of abandoned, so if you're interested in creepy, modern-day ghost towns, take some time to explore.
Whatever sights are your style, roadside kitsch, gorgeous architecture, ghost town parks, or beaches, California's short leg of Route 66 has them. It's all about keeping your eyes open and not being afraid to go a little off the beaten path to experience those unique wonders that make travel so worth the effort.
