Looking for desert scenery, Route 66 nostalgia, and small-town charm? Head to Victorville! Nestled in the High Desert between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Victorville offers historic attractions, scenic hikes, and vintage Americana. It's a great pit stop or weekend getaway with a dose of desert history.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Victorville is in spring and fall (March–May and September–November) when temperatures are mild and ideal for exploring. Summers can be very hot, while winters are cooler and quiet.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Located along I-15, Victorville is about 90 minutes from Los Angeles and 2 hours from Las Vegas, making it a popular stop for road trippers.
- By Train: Amtrak's Southwest Chief stops in Victorville, with service between Los Angeles and Chicago.
- By Air: Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the closest major airport, about 1 hour away by car.
Where I like to stay
- Hilton Garden Inn Victorville – Comfortable, full-service hotel near shopping and dining options.
- Green Tree Inn – Budget-friendly lodging with a golf course view and an on-site restaurant.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton – Modern, extended-stay hotel with kitchenettes and family-friendly amenities.
Top Attractions
1. Cruise Through Nostalgia at the California Route 66 Museum
Address: 16825 D St, Victorville, CA 92395
Recommended For: History buffs, Route 66 fans, road trippers, and lovers of vintage Americana
What I Love: ♥ “A nostalgic journey through America’s Mother Road—full of quirky charm and cool photo ops.”
- Step inside the Red Rooster Café, the former diner featured in Neil Diamond’s The Jazz Singer.
- Wander through 4,500 square feet of classic exhibits about the evolution of Route 66 and American car culture.
- Strike a pose with interactive displays, like retro vehicles and vintage roadside signs.
- Explore three themed rooms with ever-changing exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.
Cost: Free admission (donations appreciated)
Best time to go: Afternoon visit while exploring Victorville’s Old Town district
Local tips: The museum is small but packed with character—give yourself about an hour, and don’t forget your camera.
2. Wander Wild Trails and Lakeside Views at Mojave Narrows Regional Park
Address: 18000 Yates Rd, Victorville, CA 92392
Recommended For: Campers, families, anglers, nature lovers, and anyone who loves the great outdoors
What I Love: ♥ “Lakeside camping with stunning desert views, peaceful trails, and great fishing year-round.”
- Fish Horseshoe Lake for catfish, trout, and bass—bring your pole and catch dinner!
- Stay overnight at one of nearly 70 campsites or hook up your RV. Group sites are also available.
- Let the kids play at the water park or playground while you relax nearby.
- Hit the trails for walking, biking, or horseback riding through scenic desert landscapes.
- Host a picnic or party under one of the rentable group shelters—perfect for family gatherings.
Cost: Day use fee required; camping rates vary by site
Best time to go: Spring and fall for mild weather, but it's open year-round
Local tips: Arrive early on weekends—this hidden gem is popular with locals!
Recommended Activities for Families
3. Level Up the Laughs at Scandia Family Fun Center
Address: 12627 Mariposa Rd, Victorville, CA 92395
Recommended For: Families with kids, thrill-seekers, mini-golf fans, and anyone looking for a fun day out
What I Love: ♥ “Scandinavian charm meets classic amusement park thrills—something for every age group!”
- Ride the Crow’s Nest if you dare—it’s a heart-pounding thrill ride with amazing views.
- Cool off on the Baltic Sea Bumper Boats or speed through twists at the Stockholm Raceway go-kart track.
- Play a round of mini-golf on the fantasy-themed course with whimsical Scandinavian touches.
- Test your swing at one of eight batting cages—great for baseball or softball practice.
- Win big in the arcade with video games and redemption prizes for all ages.
Cost: Pay-per-ride and attraction; combo packages available
Best time to go: Weekdays for smaller crowds; evenings are great for cool weather and lights
Local tips: Check for seasonal specials and weekday deals online before you go!
4. Shop Local at the High Desert Farmers' Market
Address: 18422 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville, CA 92395
Recommended For: Local food lovers, budget-conscious shoppers, families, and community supporters
What I Love: ♥ “A vibrant, community-centered market with farm-fresh goodness and friendly vibes!”
- Support local farmers and artisans by shopping seasonal produce, meats, and handmade goods.
- Get your grocery staples like eggs, bread, cheese, and pantry items at affordable prices.
- Stretch your budget with SNAP, EBT, and WIC benefits accepted for healthy food access.
- Stroll the lively market atmosphere on the Victor Valley College campus—perfect for a morning outing.
- Meet the growers and learn where your food comes from—it's a community experience!
Cost: Free to attend; vendor prices vary
Best time to go: Thursday mornings for the freshest selection and the best community vibe
Local tips: Bring your own bags and cash for faster checkout with some vendors
5. Have Fun at the Holiday Skate Center
Address: 14950 Palmdale Rd, Victorville, CA 92392
Recommended For: Families, birthday parties, roller skating fans, and local youth groups
What I Love: ♥ “Skating fun for all ages, with lights, music, and a welcoming vibe!”
- Glide around the rink during open skate times with family-friendly music and fun lighting.
- Take a lesson—weekly classes and private sessions are perfect for beginners and pros alike.
- Celebrate birthdays on wheels with party packages that make planning a breeze.
- Gear up at the skate shop, offering rentals and gear for every level of skater.
- Catch a match with the Dirt City Roller Rats—the center’s resident roller derby team.
Cost: Varies by session or party package; rentals available
Best time to go: Friday or Saturday nights for lively skating or Saturday mornings for lessons
Local tips: Check their Facebook page for special themed nights and event updates
Where to Eat
6. Bite Into Legendary Burgers at Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Cafe
Address: 17143 N D St, Victorville, CA 92394
Recommended For: Road-trippers, Route 66 fans, and anyone craving hearty, old-school American diner fare
What I Love: ♥ “A slice of Route 66 history with big breakfasts and famous steak sandwiches!”
- Start your morning right with fluffy pancakes, French toast, or a classic omelet.
- Sink your teeth into the Trucker Special—tri-tip steak stacked high on a hearty sandwich.
- Taste nostalgia with dishes like chicken fried steak, pork chops, and griddle burgers.
- Watch for fame—this iconic diner was featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
- Soak up the vibe in this no-frills, friendly spot that's been fueling locals and travelers since 1947.
Cost: $$ – Generous portions at fair prices
Best time to go: Weekday mornings for a quieter breakfast; weekends can get busy
Local tips: Bring cash—some visitors report limited card use; check their hours before heading over
7. Fuel Up with Hearty Flavor at Molly Brown’s Country Cafe
Address: 13778 Hesperia Rd, Victorville, CA 92392
Recommended For: Fans of classic country cooking, and breakfast lovers
What I Love: ♥ “Big plates, friendly faces, and a cozy country vibe that feels like home.”
- Wake up to comfort with omelets, skillet breakfasts, and stuffed French toast loaded with blueberries and cream cheese.
- Dig into down-home classics like meatloaf, chicken fried chicken, and liver and onions.
- Craving a burger? The full burger menu delivers with juicy patties and all the fixings.
- Feel like family at this longtime favorite known for fast, friendly service and generous portions.
- Choose your location—two Victorville spots and more around SoCal make it easy to get your fix.
Cost: $$ – Reasonable prices for large, satisfying meals
Best time to go: Mid-morning or early afternoon; weekends can be busy with locals
Local tips: Portions are big—consider splitting or coming hungry. Don't miss their daily specials board!
8. Spice Up Your Plate at Pancho Villa's Mexican Restaurant
Address: 11620 Amargosa Rd, Victorville, CA 92392
Recommended For: Lovers of lively Mexican cuisine, mariachi music fans, and anyone craving bold, flavorful meals in a fun atmosphere
What I Love: ♥ “The music, the margaritas, the mouthwatering chile rellenos—this place is a fiesta every weekend.”
- Catch live mariachi every weekend with performances by the iconic "Mariachi Internacional de Mexico."
- Start your day right with hearty breakfast and brunch favorites like huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos.
- Dig into classics like enchiladas, tamales, chile rellenos, and sizzling fajita platters.
- Try something bold from the land and sea entrée specials packed with rich, savory flavors.
- Family-friendly and festive with large portions, strong drinks, and a welcoming vibe.
Cost: $$ – Great value for authentic Mexican cuisine and live entertainment
Best time to go: Weekend evenings to enjoy live mariachi and a vibrant crowd
Local tips: Come hungry—portions are generous! Reservations recommended for weekend nights if you want a seat close to the music.
For Golfers
9. Tee Off at Green Tree Golf Course
Address: 14144 Green Tree Blvd, Victorville, CA 92395
Recommended For: Golfers of all skill levels looking for a scenic, affordable, and walkable 18-hole course in the High Desert
What I Love: ♥ “A laid-back round on well-kept bluegrass fairways with that vintage ‘60s SoCal vibe—perfect for an easy day out.”
- Opened in 1963 and designed by legendary architect William F. Bell, known for Torrey Pines.
- Par-72, 18-hole layout spans over 6,600 yards with a 127 slope rating for a fair challenge.
- Bluegrass fairways and greens keep things lush and player-friendly year-round.
- Four tee boxes accommodate everyone from beginners to seasoned golfers.
- Easy to walk and enjoy without needing a cart, making it great for casual rounds.
Cost: $ – Affordable green fees make it a solid option for frequent play
Best time to go: Weekday mornings for peaceful play and cooler temps
Local tips: Book a tee time online to secure a good slot, especially on weekends. Don't forget to stop by the clubhouse for post-round snacks and drinks.
More Places to Eat
- Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Café – Iconic Route 66 diner serving burgers and shakes since the 1940s.
- Paulina’s Mexican Grill – Upscale twist on traditional Mexican fare with a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Local Events
- Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion (September) – Vintage car show and celebration of Route 66 culture.
- Victorville Fall Festival (October) – Family fun with live music, food trucks, and seasonal activities.
- Holiday Tree Lighting (December) – Festive community event with lights, music, and holiday cheer.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Victorville, California
- Hesperia Lake Park (15–20 min) – Fish for catfish or trout, picnic under shade trees, or camp in this quiet desert park.
- Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area (25–30 min) – Swim, boat, or hike scenic trails with mountain and lake views in the San Bernardino National Forest.
- Victor Valley Museum (Apple Valley) (15–20 min) – Learn about local history, Native culture, and natural science in a family-friendly setting.
- Desert Discovery Center (5–10 min) – Visit Victorville’s giant mammoth sculpture, interactive geology exhibits, and native plant gardens.
- Sunset Ridge Park (10–15 min) – Enjoy panoramic views, sports fields, and family play areas in nearby Apple Valley.
- Spring Valley Lake (15–20 min) – Relax by the private lakeside community’s beaches, golf course, and marina (limited public access for some activities).
- Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch (25–30 min) – Snap photos at this funky forest of metal and glass art installations along Route 66 in Oro Grande.
Plan Your Trip