Must See

Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch

Oro Grande, California

CaliforniaRoadside Attraction

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Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California, is one of the most unusual sights on Route 66. This roadside attraction began with Elmer Long, who inherited a massive collection of discarded bottles after years of combing the desert with his father. In 2000, Elmer used that collection to build his first “bottle tree,” a metal frame decorated with colorful glass bottles. What began as a single tree grew steadily into an entire grove.

Today, more than 200 bottle trees stand on the property, creating a forest of glass for travelers to walk through. Sunlight shines through the bottles in every color, while the wind creates soft melodies as it moves across the glass. Alongside the bottle trees are other curiosities Elmer added over the years, including street signs, typewriters, lanterns, traffic signals, sewing machines, and car parts.

Elmer Long passed away in 2019, but his Bottle Tree Ranch remains open along Route 66. The site is now cared for by his son, Elliot, and continues to welcome visitors who stop to admire the artistry, take photos, and experience one of California’s most memorable roadside attractions.

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Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66

Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch

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Address:

24266 National Trails Hwy, Oro Grande, CA 92368

Hours:

6am-10pm

Cost:

Free (Donations Accepted)

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Photos Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California

Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California Roadside Attraction on Route 66

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California, here are some things to know before you go.

Does Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch charge an admission fee?

There is no admission fee. A “Wishing Well” donation box is located on the property for visitors who wish to contribute.

What are the opening hours?

The site is generally open from sunrise to sunset. If the gates are closed you can still enjoy this Route 66 roadside attraction from the road.

Where can you park?

There’s plenty of room to pull over. Parking is available along the side of the road and on a dirt patch to the right of the gate.

How long does a visit take?

Most visitors spend about 15 to 30 minutes walking through the property. Those interested in photography or folk art may stay longer.

Is it suitable for children?

Children are welcome, but parents should supervise closely. Broken glass and uneven ground may be present, so closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Is this a popular Route 66 roadside attraction?

Yes! With its glistening glass bottles making for beautiful souvenir photos, Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is a popular stop for Route 66 road trippers. It is one of our picks for the Top 10 California Route 66 Roadside Attractions, 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For, and 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66.

Where to Stay Near Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these California Route 66 motels. Bottle Tree Ranch is located about halfway between Victorville and Barstow, so look for accommodation in one of those towns.

California Inn

California Inn is a contemporary hotel in Barstow that offers fine service with a variety of amenities. Find an outdoor swimming pool and on-site fitness center, and be sure to stop for a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast before you hit the road.

Route 66 Motel

The Route 66 Motel in Barstow is a retro 1922 motel best recognized for its classic neon sign. The budget motel features simple rooms with free WiFi, satellite TV, microwaves, and mini-fridges. Select rooms even have round beds! Outside look for Instagram worthy photo ops with murals and antique cars.

Attractions Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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