What are some things to do around Barstow for a family? It's just me and three kids. Wanna do it for like two days.

Direct answer

Barstow is great for a short family trip—mix kid-friendly museums, easy outdoor stops, Route 66 nostalgia, and a bit of desert scenery. Below is a compact 2-day plan plus extra options and practical tips.

2-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1: Local attractions and Route 66

• Route 66 ‘Mother Road’ stops: Take photos at the Route 66 sign and visit classic roadside kitsch along Main Street (vintage diners, neon signs). Great for quick, fun photo ops.
• Western America Railroad Museum (Barstow Station): Short, interesting exhibits about trains and the historic Harvey House. Good for kids who like engines.
• Mojave River Valley Museum: Local history displays, interactive for children.
• Rainbow Basin Natural Area (nearby): Scenic short drives and easy viewpoints—great for sunset photos and a quick easy walk.

Day 2: Hands-on and outdoor fun

• Calico Ghost Town (12–20 minutes east of Barstow): Restored silver mining town with mine tours, gem panning, stagecoach rides, a narrow-gauge train, and kid-friendly activities. Plan 2–4 hours.
• Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area (west of Barstow): Picnic, short shoreline walks, easy spots for kids to explore. Swimming is seasonal; check conditions.
• If time/energy remain: Route 66 Mother Road Museum (downtown) for more retro exhibits and quirky memorabilia.

Alternative/add-on activities

• Mojave National Preserve (drive time 45–60 minutes): Kelso Dunes (short hike option), Kelso Depot Visitor Center. Best if kids are okay with more driving and desert hiking.
• Victorville: California Route 66 Museum and the Scandia Family Fun Center (mini-golf, rides) if you want amusement-park style fun.
• Hesperia Lake Park: Fishing, playgrounds, paddle boats—good if kids need a low-key outdoor play day.

Practical tips

• Timing: Start mornings early (cooler temps and fewer crowds). Calico gets busy midday on weekends.
• Weather: Desert can be hot in summer and cool at night. Bring layers, sunscreen, hats, and water (ample supplies).
• Food: Pack snacks and a picnic for outdoor stops; Barstow has casual diners and fast-food options downtown if you prefer quick meals.
• Tickets & hours: Check current hours and buy Calico or train-tour tickets in advance if possible, especially on weekends or holidays.
• Accessibility & kids: Most attractions listed have short walks and family-friendly facilities; Kelso Dunes and longer Mojave hikes require more fitness and water.

Estimated pacing

• Day 1: 3–5 hours touring downtown and local museums + brief scenic stops.
• Day 2: 4–6 hours at Calico + Silverwood Lake or another short outdoor activity.

Safe travels and have fun exploring Barstow with the kids!