Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the best of Sonoma County, wine optional.

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Fun things to do in Sonoma

Somona is a town in Sonoma County that has many interesting and historical places to visit. This is just one of the fun small, unique towns that you will find in Sonoma County.

Explore Sonoma Plaza

Wandering around the plaza is a wonderful way to begin your visit to the city. Fringed by shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and historic sights, the square is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. A National Historic Landmark, the plaza was built in 1835 by General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo. General Vallejo founded the Pueblo de Sonoma, and you can see a bronze statue of him at the plaza. The square is especially beautiful when the rose garden is in bloom, and in the fall, when trees in the plaza change color and form a bright contrast to the dark green of the evergreen topiary.

*Fun tip: From May until September, the Tuesday Night Sonoma Farmers’ Market occurs at Sonoma Plaza, between 5.00 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Shop at Sonoma Plaza

Along the sides of Sonoma Plaza, you will find lots of shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and cafes. The shops and galleries extend into little alleys off the square, and along streets that fan out from the square, so if you enjoy shopping or browsing, you will want to allow lots of time.

Sonoma State Historic Park Sites

Unlike most parks with a single plot of land and a continuous boundary, Sonoma State Historic Park is a scattering of historical sites consisting of six midtown locations near Sonoma’s Plaza. Open Daily 10:00am – 5:00pm Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, & New Years Day. Fee Info: For $3, you can visit all the Sonoma State Historic Park sites. California State Parks 4^th Grade Adventure Passes accepted here. Here’s a closer look at these historic sites:

Mission San Francisco de Solano – The last of the missions built in California by the Spanish, Mission San Francisco de Solano was built after Mexico gained independence from Spain. Father Jose Altimira established it in 1823, hoping for a better climate than San Francisco.  Today the Sonoma Mission, located on the north side of Sonoma Plaza, is part of Sonoma State Historic Park. The chapel, built in 1841 under General Vallejo, is not active. In front of the building is a bell frame, where you can view the sole bell that survived. The Sonoma Mission Indian Memorial honors Native Americans who died while they lived and worked at the mission.

Blue Wing Inn – The long, low adobe building just across from the mission was the first hotel in Sonoma. Blue Wing Inn had guest rooms, a gambling room and saloon during the gold rush era. It is thought that portions of the building were originally constructed to house soldiers assigned to the Sonoma Mission and that those structures were joined together and a second story added later.

Sonoma Barracks –The Sonoma Barracks, facing Sonoma’s central plaza, was built to house Mexican army troops under the command of General Vallejo. Sonoma Barracks now houses additional historic exhibits, several museum rooms, and the park’s bookstore and gift shop.

Toscano Hotel -This site offers a glimpse of early Italian American business practices and lifestyles.  The Toscano Hotel building dates from the mid-19th century, but it became a hotel in 1886. The family-owned operation ran all the way until 1955.

Servant’s Quarters – The two-story Servants’ Quarters adobe is part of La Casa Grande, General Vallejo’s first home in Sonoma. The family moved to a new estate in the early 1850s. The main home was unfortunately destroyed in a fire in 1867.

General Vallejo’s Home – General Vallejo’s home is also referred to as Lachryma Montis and is less than a mile west of the Plaza. The Vallejo Home has furnishings of the Vallejo family, historic and serene gardens, a reservoir, and a museum in the adjacent “Chalet”.

Vallejo’s Petaluma Adobe Rancho – The Petaluma Adobe, a National Historic Landmark, is the largest domestic adobe building remaining in the United States. It was constructed from 1836-1846 by General Mariano G. Vallejo, commandant of the Sonoma pueblo as well as the founder of the towns of Santa Rosa and Petaluma. The adobe, known historically as El Palacio, or “the palace,” was constructed using Native-American labor. The adobe closes at 4:30, so plan accordingly. The address for the Rancho is 3325 Adobe Road, Petaluma CA 94954. 

 Hop on a Train at Traintown

If you love train rides, then Sonoma TrainTown Railroad is for you! It is conveniently located just about one mile from Sonoma Plaza. The 10-acre amusement park features a quarter scale railroad and four miles of track. The founder, Stanley Frank, reportedly built much of the railroad himself.  TrainTown is considered one of the best miniature railroads in the USA. Take the 20-minute train ride which winds through tunnels, past waterfalls and homes, and over bridges, and makes a stop at Lakeview, a miniature town where you will also find a petting zoo, home to many rescued animals. The park also features a lovely carousel, a Ferris wheel, and three other rides, mainly suitable for kids. Sonoma TrainTown Railroad is generally open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. everyday in the summer and from Friday through Sunday at other times of the year. The park is closed when it’s raining. General admission to the park is free, and you pay for the train ride and other rides individually. At the time of writing, the train ride costs $9.75 per person, per ride. Amusement Rides cost $4.25 per ticket or 5 tickets for $18.75

Tour the Depot Park Museum

Managed by the Sonoma Valley Historical Society, the Depot Park Museum is a fascinating glimpse into Sonoma’s past. The museum is located less than 0.5 mile from Sonoma Plaza, and you can even stroll to it if it’s a nice weather day. The site of the museum is the former location of the Northwestern Pacific rail depot. The depot sadly burned down in a fire in 1975, after which it was rebuilt to house a museum. Depot Park Museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. It is free to visit, but donations are welcome.

Step Inside the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art

Located just off Sonoma Plaza, the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art offers exhibitions by local, national, and international artists, an extensive art library, and art workshops. Sonoma Valley Museum of Art is typically open Wednesdays through Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. General adult admission, at the time of writing, is $10.00 per person.

Explore Cornerstone

Cornerstone is a complex that contains several beautifully designed gardens, plus a few boutique stores (mainly home and garden), wine tasting rooms, and restaurants. Located just 6.5 miles from Sonoma Plaza, Cornerstone makes for an easy and fun visit, whether you want to spend an hour or half a day. The gardens at Cornerstone are open daily between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and are free to tour.

Enjoy Wine at Local Wineries

Sonoma County is the largest wine producing region in the renowned wine country of Northern California. While you will find beautiful wineries and vineyards all over Sonoma Valley and along the Sonoma Coast, there are some gems that are very close to the town of Sonoma, super easy to visit if you plan to limit your visit to the town. Plus, you will find tasting rooms along Sonoma Plaza and in other parts of town as well, such as at the Cornerstone Gardens complex.

Take a Sonoma Wine Country Tour

Sonoma County is one of the country’s premier wine destinations, and an extremely scenic place to go on a wine-tasting tour. You can put together a self-guided tour of wineries you want to visit, which gives you the greatest flexibility or if you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the experience, you can opt for a guided tour. Here are some options:

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley Tour -This tour takes you on a narrated trip through scenic Sonoma Valley, with stops at three wineries along the way. Lunch is included. The wine trolley is modeled after San Francisco’s famous cable cars. The tour departs from downtown Sonoma and takes about 5 hours.

Sonoma Valley Electric Trike Tour– On this guided tour not only will you enjoy the scenery but you will visit local landmarks and a couple of wineries. The three-hour tour departs from downtown Sonoma.

Private Sonoma Tour with Concierge Service– This is a great way to design a wine tasting experience. It is perfect for one or two couples and allows you to have input into your itinerary.

Investigate Santa Rosa

Surrounded by various state parks and wineries, Santa Rosa attracts both nature lovers and wine lovers. The diverse culture and local cuisine attract art/history lovers as well as foodies.

Tour Downtown Santa Rosa Here you’ll find lots of coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries. This area is also a haven for antique, thrift, and vintage shoppers. While you’re here, pay attention to the Historic Railroad Square, located in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa. The buildings in and surrounding the square were restored and preserved to serve as a reminder of the impact that the railroad had on Santa Rosa.

Visit the Charles Schulz Museum

Charles M. Schulz Museum is a unique place dedicated to celebrating the life and work of an incredibly talented artist named Charles Schulz. You know, the creator of Snoopy and the Peanuts gang! As soon as you walk into this bright and colorful museum, and you’re immediately greeted by larger-than-life sculptures of Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the gang! Yes, they are really life-sized! There is lots to explore here, so give yourself some time. Open weekdays 11 AM to 5 PM and weekends 10 Am to 5 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays.

Explore Snoopy’s Home Ice

Built in 1969 by Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz, Snoopy’s Home Ice has been called the world’s most beautiful ice arena. Don’t want to skate? Settle in by the crackling fire and enjoy a Hot Cocoa or meal at the Warm Puppy Cafe, conveniently located inside the arena. Access to the Ice Arena and cafe is free. An admission fee applies for skating.

Go On Safari in the Sonoma Serengeti

No, we’re not kidding there is a Safari in Santa Rosa! At Safari West, your adventure begins as you journey out in search of herds of wildebeest, romping rhinos, and towering giraffes. There are nearly 900 animals from over 90 unique species roaming through the 400-acre preserve. Don’t forget your camera!

Check Out the Rugged Sonoma Coast

Head to Bodega Bay and stroll along the rugged Sonoma Coast and watch the waves crash in. Sonoma Coast highlights include Bodega Bay, Jenner, and Sonoma Coast State Park, all of which offer rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, hidden coves, and stunning views of the Pacific coast! Bodega Bay is jam-packed with hiking and biking trails that offer those stunning Pacific Coast views. It’s also one of the West Coast’s premier whale-watching spots. The whales can be spotted almost all year long, but the best chances will be during primary migrations (October through April).

Explore Guerneville

Tour Korbel Winery

Korbel Winery, near Guerneville, CA, has been a staple of Sonoma County since 1882 when the winery was founded by the Korbel brothers. All the sparkling wines are made in the traditional method and range from dry to sweet. And even if you don’t want to taste wine, stop by to enjoy the lush grounds as they are really beautiful!  Winery tours last around fifty minutes and include a peek at the history museum and historic champagne cellars, followed by a tasting.

Visit Austin Creek State Recreation Area

Austin Creek State Recreation Area shares a common passageway with Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. These 6,000 acres of land feature open woodlands, meadows, and rolling hills. Austin Creek Recreational Area has twenty miles of hiking trails you can explore. Austin Creek recreational area also houses the Bullfrog Pond Campground with twenty-three campsites.

Explore Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve

Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve is located just a short drive from Guerneville but will immediately transport you to your forest dreams. There are various hiking trails that wind through majestic sequoia trees that are over 500 years old and over 200 feet tall! While visitors can drive through Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve, walking through the park is the best way to experience the massive, towering redwoods. If you’re limited on time, take the Armstrong Redwoods Grove Loop Trail to experience a 1.6- mile self-guided walk in old-growth redwoods.

Wine and Dine in Geyserville

Situated on the Russian River and surrounded by distant mountains, the small town of Geyserville will surprise you with a robust offering of tasting rooms, dining and shopping. In Geyserville’s surrounding countryside, you’ll also find many award-winning wineries, plus excellent B&Bs and inns, opportunities for outdoor adventure, and a modern casino.

Step Back in Time at the Geyserville Historic District

Here you’ll find a charming collection of buildings that have retained their historical charm. Take a stroll down Geyserville Avenue, lined with Victorian-era structures, and admire the architectural beauty. Make a stop at the Geyserville Museum, where you can learn about the town’s rich heritage and its early settlers. The historic district provides a glimpse into the past and showcases Geyserville’s commitment to preserving its unique history.

Discover the World of Wine at Award-Winning Vineyards

 Start your wine adventure by visiting Francis Ford Coppola Winery, where you can indulge in wine tasting, enjoy exquisite cuisine, and even take a dip in their inviting pool. For a more intimate and traditional experience, head to the family-owned and operated Trione Vineyards & Winery, known for its exceptional Bordeaux-style wines. If you’re a fan of sparkling wines, you won’t be disappointed with Mazzocco Sonoma. These are just a few of the wineries that Geyserville has to offer, so take your time and immerse yourself in the rich wine culture of this charming town.

Lake Sonoma Recreational Area

Lake Sonoma is one of the most revered bodies of water in Sonoma County. With secluded coves, fishing piers, watersport rentals, an archery field, camping (both drive-in and boat-in), a public boat ramp, and more than 40 miles of trails (for hikers, cyclists and equestrians) you’re sure to find your adventure.

 Try your luck at River Rock Casino

Open all day, every day, this casino offers spectacular views of the Alexander Valley, live entertainment, and four restaurants, from a full-scale buffet to quick snacks. River Rock Casino is also home to more than 1,100 slot machines and 20 gaming tables, as well as a high-limit room and a penny-slot lounge. You can’t go wrong with all the fun that awaits you here.

Final Thoughts: Sonoma County is More Than Just Wine

Sonoma County may have built its reputation on wine, but its soul runs much deeper. It’s a place where history comes alive in charming plazas and mission buildings, where redwoods tower over peaceful trails, and where the Pacific Ocean puts on a show every evening. You can taste your way through world-class cuisine, visit quirky museums, go on a safari, or simply relax in a picturesque town with a glass of bubbly and a view.

This guide just scratches the surface, there’s always something new to discover in Sonoma. Whether you’re sipping wine in Healdsburg, hiking beneath ancient trees in Armstrong Redwoods, or trying your luck at River Rock Casino, one thing’s for sure: a trip to Sonoma County will leave you refreshed, inspired, and already planning your next visit. We try to give you as much information we can to help you plan your next vacation or weekend getaway. If you want some new ideas for a road trip or help planning a trip, check out roadtrippers.com and use code BTR5QTP for $5 off. We hope to inspire you to find your adventure, have fun and make some awesome memories!

The post Beyond the Vine: Unforgettable Things to Do in Sonoma County, California appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Step Back in Time at Peggy Sue’s 50s Diner

You can’t drive through Yermo without spotting the billboards for Peggy Sue’s Diner and trust us, this place is worth the hype. Originally built in 1954 with just nine counter stools and three booths, the diner was restored in the 1980s and transformed into a full-fledged roadside attraction.

Beyond serving up classic American comfort food with recipes passed down from Grandma, Peggy Sue’s is packed with nostalgia. The walls are lined with Hollywood memorabilia, and there’s even a “Dinersaur” Park featuring giant dinosaur sculptures, waterfalls, and shady spots to snap some fun photos. Plus, the adjacent 50s-style 5 & Dime Store sells old-school candies, quirky souvenirs, and unique collectibles. With an old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream shop.

Eddie’s World: The Ultimate Road Trip Pit Stop

As you head down Interstate 15, driving towards Las Vegas, after you pass the dinosaurs of Peggy Sue’s, one exit later, at the Calico off ramp, you’ll see a giant ice cream sundae hanging out, off to the right in the desert. Yes, that’s correct, a giant ice cream sundae, just sitting there in the emptiness of the desert. Inside you’ll find California’s largest selection of candy, homemade ice cream, gourmet popcorn, premium jerky, and a massive collection of plush toys.

With three fast-casual restaurants, a Peet’s Coffee shop, and some of the cleanest restrooms on I-15, Eddie’s World is a road tripper’s dream stop.

Liberty Sculpture Park: Art with a Message

Just off I-15, Liberty Sculpture Park stands as a thought-provoking display of anti-communist art. Created by sculptor Chen Weiming, the park features massive metal sculptures, including the striking “64” monument, a tribute to the victims of the Tiananmen Square Massacre on 6/4/1989. This can be seen from I-15.

While the desert might seem like an unusual setting for political art, this collection of sculptures makes a powerful statement and offers a unique contrast to the kitschy roadside stops nearby.

The Yermo Cross: A Roadside Testament

Visible from the freeway, the Yermo Cross is part of the “No Greater Love” Memorial, which includes the Ten Commandments signs placed along the I-15 corridor. This faith-based roadside landmark also features a Star of David replica, making it a unique and reflective stop for travelers.

Explore the Old West at Calico Ghost Town

A short drive from Yermo, Calico Ghost Town transports visitors back to the days of the silver rush. Once a bustling mining hub in the late 1800s, Calico has been restored and preserved as a historic attraction. Wander through original buildings, visit the general store, and even take a mine tour to get a taste of what life was like for the miners who once called this place home.

Don’t miss the chance to pan for gold, check out the town’s museum, or grab a drink at an old-fashioned saloon. With reenactments, shops, and breathtaking desert views, Calico is an unforgettable stop for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

More Adventures Near Yermo

The California Route 66 Museum

This is a treasure trove of nostalgia located in Victorville. This museum celebrates the iconic highway known as the “Mother Road,” showcasing its history and impact on American culture. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits that highlight the road’s significance. The museum features vintage cars, memorabilia, and photographs that illustrate the spirit of adventure associated with Route 66.

Hike the Trails at Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve is a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Located just a short drive from Yermo, this preserve offers stunning desert landscapes and a variety of hiking trails. With its unique rock formations, Joshua trees, and diverse wildlife, there’s much to explore.

Explore Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is a fun and artistic destination located near Yermo, CA. This unique art installation features a vibrant collection of bottle trees created by local artist Elmer Long. Each colorful tree is adorned with a variety of glass bottles, creating a whimsical sight against the desert landscape.

Final Thoughts

We stumbled upon Yermo by accident while driving back from Palm Springs, and we’re so glad we did! Whether you’re drawn in by nostalgia, fascinated by history, or just love a good roadside attraction, this quirky desert town has something to offer. From dinosaur parks to ghost towns and giant ice cream cones, Yermo is proof that the best road trip stops are often the ones you least expect.

You never know what you might find when you’re on a road trip if you take the time and explore the off the beaten path roadways and take the exits with the tourist trap billboards. You’re sure to find a fun stop like Yermo. If you need help planning your road trips, try roadtrippers.com for great ideas. Use code BTR5QTP for $5 off.

We want to give you information and tips that we learn while we travel to help you make informed decisions when planning your getaways. We hope to inspire you to find your own adventure far away or close to home. So go out have fun and make some great memories.

The post Yermo, California: Roadside Attractions and Hidden Gems appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Gateway to Death Valley: The Rise and Fall of Baker, California

Deep in the heart of the Mojave Desert lies Baker, a desolate little town along the I-15 freeway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Best known as home to The World’s Tallest Thermometer, Baker has become infamous for its many abandoned businesses, yet it remains a fascinating stop for travelers.

Baker began in 1908 as a station of the Tonopah and Tidewater Railroad. It later developed into a town named after Richard C. Baker, a borax and railroad magnate. Located at the southern end of Death Valley, Baker is nicknamed “The Gateway to Death Valley”

The World’s Largest Thermometer: A Monument of Persistence

The World’s Largest Thermometer was created by Willis Herron, who owned many businesses in Baker and, at one point, was said to have employed half of Baker’s population. Hoping to draw more visitors into Baker, Herron partnered with Young Electric Sign Co. in 1991 to build the 134-foot monument. Why 134 feet? It’s to commemorate the hottest day ever recorded, July 10, 1913, which reached a scorching 134 degrees Fahrenheit in nearby Death Valley.

Willis Herron suffered health problems and sold several of his business endeavors to Matt Pike in 2005 before passing away in 2007. In 2012, Pike turned off the thermometer, citing a high electric bill and inaccurate temperature readings. When Willis Herron’s widow Barbara learned that the beloved landmark was being considered for demolition, she repurchased and refurbished it. On July 10, 2014, the official re-lighting was held.

Bun Boy Restaurant and Motel: A Desert Relic

Next to the thermometer sits the abandoned Bun Boy Restaurant and Bun Boy Motel.

The restaurant originally opened in 1926, and Herron became an investor in 1950. Matt Pike bought Bun Boy restaurant in 2005 and turned it into Bob’s Big Boy franchise. The restaurant closed in May 2013 after Pike faced legal trouble for not paying franchise fees.

Bun Boy now sits abandoned with a weathered Bun Boy sign out front. Beside the Bun Boy Restaurant sits the abandoned Bun Boy Motel, which appears to have closed around the same time as the restaurant. They are remnants of a busier era.

Arne’s Royal Hawaiian Motel: A Tiki-Themed Time Capsule

A block or two down Baker Blvd stand the remains of another abandoned motel, Arne’s Royal Hawaiian Motel. The Tiki-themed establishment opened in 1957 and catered to desert travelers before shutting down in 2009. Increased competition from Nevada’s casino hotels contributed to its decline.

Baker’s Present Role: Gateway to Mojave National Preserve

While Baker has lost much of its former traffic, it still serves as a key entry point to the Mojave National Preserve, a sprawling 1.6-million acre protected area. State Route (SR) 127, also called Death Valley Road, begins here leading travelers north toward Death Valley National Park. It also still serves as a great stop for tourist attractions and a pit stop for those traveling on I-15.

Must See Attractions in Baker

The World’s Largest Thermometer

The Thermometer still stands and can be seen from the highway. As of now, the thermometer is not working but there is a gift shop in the parking lot which is open. The proceeds from the gift shop are going to the refurbishing of the thermometer to get it working once again! If you love visiting unique roadside attractions, this one is a must stop. If you stand at the bottom and look up, you’ll be amazed at how tall it really is. I always love stopping at quirky roadside attractions and this didn’t disappoint.

Alien Fresh Jerky

Luis Ramallo first opened this meat shop with his wife and eldest son in 2000, in Crystal Springs, Nevada, a few miles down the road from its current location in Baker. Alien Fresh Jerky successfully lures hundreds of thousands of travelers a year, thanks to its wide variety of snacks and a kitschy theme.

The store itself looks like an alien road vehicle ready to explore an alien planet, complete with treads, guns, gears, etc. A flying saucer has landed in the parking lot along with an alien rocket. There’s even an alien car and alien land rover type car complete with alien passengers.  The lights in the parking lot are supported by tall, lanky, green aliens. The building and other structures completely light up at night, with multiple colors, twinkling and blinking lights, and alien lasers putting on quite a display. The garbage cans all have Alien 51 stencils. Inside, there are dozens of different flavors of jerky, an assortment of alien candy and many souvenirs. Aliens watch over the customers, several trying to blend in by wearing cowboy hats.  Three different alien fortune telling machines are on display, one being an Alien Trump spouting various Trumpisms. An alien also sits on a bench with arms stretched out ready for his photo op. Behind the main building sits an Alien Pretzel Stand in a time machine building. Aliens sit on top watching the parking lot. Behind the Alien Pretzel stand, construction is currently underway on an upcoming alien themed hotel! We had a lot of fun here and took many pictures, including with the Alien on the bench! Even if you don’t like jerky, there is something for everyone here plus spending time with aliens is lots of fun!

Outdoor Adventures Near Baker

 Hollow Hills Wilderness

This is a Bureau of Land Management administered wilderness area that was designated as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1994. Located five miles north of Baker, this 22,046-acre wilderness area features rugged hills, open plains and ancient archaeological remains. It’s great for outdoor enthusiasts, though there are no designated trails or water sources in the area.

Death Valley National Park

Baker serves as a southern entry point to Death Valley National Park, known for its extreme temperatures, salt flats, and stunning desert landscapes. The nearest entrance is about 113 miles via Furnace Creek. This park is the hottest and driest National Park in the nation.

Mojave National Preserve

This national preserve is a 1.6-million-acre park abutting Baker to the park’s north. The preserve is topographically diverse, and visitors can expect to see sand dunes, canyons, mountains, mesas, Joshua tree forests, and woodlands. The preserve is home to mountain lions, bighorn sheep, coyotes and bats. Within its canyons mountains and mesas are long-abandoned mines, homesteads, and rock-walled military outposts.

Final Thoughts: Is Baker worth a Stop?

Like many small towns, Baker thrived before highway expansion and faster travel times changed the landscape. While its abandoned buildings tell a story of decline, its quirky attractions and role as a gateway to Death Valley still make it worth a stop.

If you love visiting roadside oddities, unique history and desert landscapes, Baker has just enough charm to justify a visit. Whether you’re snapping a photo at the World’s Largest Thermometer, grabbing snacks and visiting Aliens at Alien Fresh Jerky, or heading into the Mojave National Preserve, this little town still has stories to tell.

We love to share the knowledge and tips that we have learned on our travels with you so that you can make informed decisions when planning your trip. If you need help planning a road trip, roadtrippers.com is a great site. Use code BTR5QTP for $5 off. We hope to inspire you to find your adventure even if it’s close to home. Go out have fun and make awesome memories!

The post Baker, California: A Lost Town with Stories to Tell appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.