Route 66 Mother Road Museum

Barstow, California

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Housed inside the city’s historic Harvey House, the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California, tells the story of the highway that shaped America and the communities that grew along its path.

The Harvey House was built in 1911 by the Fred Harvey Company to serve as a bustling stop for Santa Fe Railroad passengers, offering food and lodging. Later, as Route 66 rose to prominence, it became a key stop for travelers heading west before the freeway system shifted traffic away from town.

The Route 66 Mother Road Museum first opened its doors on July 4, 2000, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that celebrate the golden age of American road travel. Visitors could explore exhibits that traced the development of Route 66 from early pioneer trails and railroads to the businesses, cars, and roadside attractions that made the Mother Road legendary.

After welcoming travelers for nearly 25 years, the museum announced it would close in June 2024 due to building issues and water damage. But thanks to the efforts of local historians and supporters who recognized its importance, the museum reopened in 2025.

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Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California

Route 66 Mother Road Museum

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Address:

681 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA 92311

Hours:

11:00am - 2:00pm (Daily)

Cost:

Free

Phone Number:

(831) 247-0546

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Photos of the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California

Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California
Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California
Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California, here are some things to know before you go.

When is the Route 66 Mother Road Museum open?

This Route 66 museum is open seven days a week, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. It’s wise to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm hours before your visit.

How much does admission cost?

Admission is free. The museum welcomes donations to support its operations, and also encourages purchases from its gift shop

Where is the museum located?

It’s located at 681 N. First Avenue inside Barstow’s Harvey House (Casa del Desierto), just north of Route 66. From Main Street (Route 66), turn north onto First Avenue (formerly Route 91), cross the old steel railroad bridge, and then turn into the Harvey House parking lot.

Is parking available?

Yes, there is free parking. Spots are available at the east entrance door, with access to the museum inside the Harvey House.

Where to Stay Near the Route 66 Mother Road Museum

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these hotels near Route 66.

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 Near the Route 66 Mother Road Museum

Plan Your California Route 66 Road Trip

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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!

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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