Needles Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and tips on traveling to Needles, California. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Needles

Welcome to Needles, a small desert town in San Bernardino County, California. Located along Route 66, Needles is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique and authentic desert experience. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and thriving cultural scene, Needles has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, places to visit, and food to try in Needles.

List of Places to Visit in Needles

Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s rich history, discovering its natural beauty, or simply relaxing in the sun, Needles has plenty of attractions to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Needles:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Needles Regional Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history, with exhibits on Native American culture, the Old West, and Route 66.
  • El Garces Intermodal Transportation Facility: Originally built in 1908 as a train station, this beautifully restored building now serves as a community center and museum, showcasing the history of transportation in the area.
  • The Old Trails Museum: Located in nearby Kingman, Arizona, this museum offers a fascinating look into the history of Route 66 and its impact on the region.

Natural Attractions of Needles: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Havasu: Just a short drive from Needles, Lake Havasu is a popular destination for water sports, hiking, and camping.
  • Colorado River: The Colorado River flows through Needles, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic river tours.
  • Mojave National Preserve: This stunning desert wilderness boasts stunning vistas, unique rock formations, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Needles

For those looking to explore the natural beauty of Needles on foot or by bike, there are plenty of hiking and biking routes to choose from. Here are some of the best:

  • Ironwood Loop Trail: This 4.5-mile trail winds through the desert landscape, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Split Mountain Trail: This challenging 10-mile trail features steep ascents and descents, but rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Colorado River.
  • Riverfront Trail: This easy 2.5-mile trail follows the Colorado River, offering scenic views of the water and the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Needles: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the river or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Needles has plenty of activities to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Needles:

  • Colorado River Tours: Take a scenic tour of the Colorado River, with options for sightseeing, dinner cruises, and more.
  • Skydiving: Experience the thrill of freefalling from 10,000 feet with Skydive Needles.
  • Water Sports: From kayaking to wakeboarding, there are plenty of opportunities for water sports on the Colorado River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Needles

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Needles, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Explore the town of Needles, including the Needles Regional Museum and El Garces Intermodal Transportation Facility.

Day 2: Take a scenic river tour of the Colorado River.

Day 3: Hike the Ironwood Loop Trail or Split Mountain Trail.

Day 4: Visit Lake Havasu for a day of water sports and relaxation.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the Mojave National Preserve for more hiking and exploration.

Day 6: Go skydiving with Skydive Needles.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Colorado River.

Food and Drink Scene of Needles

No trip to Needles is complete without sampling the local food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sourdough Cafe’s Pancakes: This local diner is famous for its fluffy, delicious pancakes.
  • Chili Cheese Fries from In-N-Out Burger: This popular fast-food chain is a California classic, and the chili cheese fries are a must-try.
  • Pizza from The Locker Room: This local pizza joint serves up delicious pies with unique toppings, like jalapeno poppers and BBQ chicken.

Local Beverages

  • Mojave Red: This local beer is brewed in nearby Kingman and is the perfect accompaniment to a day spent exploring the desert.
  • Margaritas at Casa Serrano: This Mexican restaurant serves up delicious margaritas made with top-quality tequila and fresh-squeezed lime juice.

Where to Stay in Needles: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy guesthouse, Needles has plenty of options for accommodations.

  • Best Western Colorado River Inn: This hotel offers stunning views of the Colorado River and is located just minutes from downtown Needles.
  • Travelodge by Wyndham Needles: This budget-friendly option offers comfortable accommodations and a convenient location.
  • El Rancho: Needles Historic Hotel: This charming guesthouse is a historic landmark and offers cozy, comfortable rooms with unique, vintage decor.

What to Buy in Needles: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to Needles? Here are some local products to consider:

  • Grapes: The Needles area is known for its delicious grapes, which are available for purchase at local farmers’ markets.
  • Route 66 Memorabilia: Needles is located along Route 66, and there are plenty of shops selling vintage signs, postcards, and other memorabilia from the famous highway.
  • Handmade Pottery: The nearby town of Lake Havasu is known for its handmade pottery, which makes a great souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Needles

Needles is a small town with a rich history and unique culture. Some local customs to be aware of include:

  • The Importance of Route 66: Needles is located along Route 66, and the town takes great pride in its history as a stop on the famous highway.
  • Respect for the Desert Environment: Needles is located in the Mojave Desert, and locals take great care to preserve and protect the fragile ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit Needles

The best time to visit Needles is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Needles

Do:

  • Do bring plenty of sunscreen and water when exploring the desert.
  • Do take the time to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
  • Do try the local food and drink scene.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the desert environment.
  • Don’t underestimate the heat in the summer months.
  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking and exploring.

Safety and Health

Safety in Needles

While crime rates in Needles are relatively low, visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and to lock doors and windows when leaving your accommodation.

Health in Needles

The extreme heat in the summer months can be dangerous, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest parts of the day, and wearing light, breathable clothing.

Getting to Needles: Transportation Options and Logistics

Needles is located along Route 66, with easy access to major highways and airports. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Needles

  • Lake Havasu City Airport
  • Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport
  • McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)

Bus Stations Near Needles

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • Amtrak Station (located in nearby Kingman, Arizona)

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the area at their own pace.
  • Private Transportation: There are several private transportation companies that offer shuttle and taxi services to and from Needles and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Needles

While a car is the most convenient way to get around Needles and the surrounding areas, there are other options for transportation, including:

  • Bike Rentals: Several businesses in the area offer bike rentals for exploring downtown or the nearby Riverfront Trail.
  • Walking: Needles is a small town, so walking is a great option for those who want to explore the downtown area on foot.
  • Uber/Lyft: These ridesharing services are available in Needles and can be a convenient option for getting around town without a car.

Where to Go Next from Needles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip and explore more of the area, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Lake Havasu City: This popular destination is just a short drive from Needles and offers more opportunities for water sports and outdoor adventure.
  • Grand Canyon: The Grand Canyon is a must-see destination and is located just a few hours’ drive from Needles.
  • Joshua Tree National Park: This stunning national park is located about two hours’ drive from Needles and offers unique rock formations and incredible desert scenery.

Conclusion

Needles may be a small town, but it’s packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s rich history, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in the sun, Needles has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this unique desert destination.