Victorville Travel Guide

Your comprehensive guide to exploring Victorville, California including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to Victorville

Welcome to Victorville, a vibrant city located in the Desert region of San Bernardino County, California. The city is known for its stunning natural surroundings and outdoor recreation opportunities. Here in this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best attractions, activities, and must-tries of Victorville.

List of Places to Visit in Victorville

Victorville has something for everyone with its diverse attractions that cater to people of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Victorville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mojave River Valley Museum: Learn about the local history and geology of the Mojave Desert.
  • California Route 66 Museum: Take a trip down memory lane and explore the history of the iconic Route 66.
  • George AFB Museum: Discover the fascinating history of this former Air Force Base.

Natural Attractions of Victorville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mojave Narrows Regional Park: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, and hiking.
  • Spring Valley Lake: Relax on a sandy beach or take a dip in the refreshing waters of this popular lake.
  • Mount Baldy: Take a scenic drive to the summit and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountain range.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Victorville

Victorville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of hiking and biking opportunities. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area are:

  • Mojave Riverwalk Trail: Enjoy a scenic hike along the Mojave River with stunning views of wildlife and desert flora.
  • Pit-to-Pavement Trail: A popular hiking route that starts at the bottom of a quarry and ends at the top of a mountain.
  • Victorville Bike Trail: A 5.5-mile path ideal for biking enthusiasts that connects to other trails in the area.

Best Things to Do in Victorville: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re travelling solo, with your family or friends, Victorville offers unique activities and tours that will create unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Victorville:

  • Skydive Elsinore: Experience the breathtaking views of the High Desert while freefalling towards the earth.
  • High Desert Farmer’s Market: Enjoy a wide range of fresh, locally grown produce, artisan foods, and handmade crafts.
  • California Poppies Reserve: Take a scenic drive or hike through the colorful fields of native wildflowers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Victorville

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Victorville, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to this charming city:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Mojave River Valley Museum and take a hike along the Mojave Riverwalk Trail.
Day 2 Visit the California Route 66 Museum and take the Pit-to-Pavement Trail.
Day 3 Take a day trip to the San Bernardino National Forest and enjoy a scenic hike.
Day 4 Relax by the Spring Valley Lake or try your hand at fishing.
Day 5 Enjoy a tour of the George AFB Museum and the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association.
Day 6 Get your adrenaline pumping with a skydiving adventure at Skydive Elsinore.
Day 7 Take a leisurely drive to the California Poppies Reserve and enjoy the colorful fields of wildflowers.

Food and Drink Scene of Victorville

Victorville’s food scene is as diverse as its attractions, offering something for everyone. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgers at Apollo Restaurant: A family-owned establishment that serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, and freshly-made fries.
  • Mexican cuisine at Ramiros: Authentic Mexican cuisine with a wide range of dishes that cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians.
  • Fried chicken at Krispy Krunchy Chicken: Juicy, crispy, and delicious chicken that’s worth every penny.

Local Beverages

  • Brew Crew Coffee House: Enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, boba teas, and smoothies in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Khalifah Coffee: A great place to taste specialty coffee drinks and artisanal teas.
  • Vitamina Juices & Blends: A juice bar that serves fresh, organic juices, smoothies, and bowls.

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

Victorville offers a variety of lodging options that cater to all budgets. Here are some of the top places to stay in Victorville:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Victorville: A modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • Hotel Extended Studio: A budget-friendly hotel that offers fully-equipped kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool.
  • Green Tree Inn: A guesthouse that offers cozy rooms, a swimming pool, and free breakfast.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, Victorville has a lot to offer. Some of the best things to buy in Victorville are:

  • Route 66 memorabilia: Take home a piece of history with various Route 66 memorabilia that can be found in the many gift shops around the area.
  • Local honeys: Victorville is known for its honey production, with several unique flavors to choose from.
  • Native artwork: Discover unique native pottery, jewelry, and textiles at local art galleries and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Victorville

The culture and customs of Victorville are deeply influenced by the Native American culture and the rich history of the area. Visitors are expected to respect the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Victorville

Victorville enjoys a year-round warm climate, with the summer months being the busiest time of the year. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is milder, and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Victorville

When traveling to Victorville, keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of the many outdoor activities and tours available.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property or protected natural areas.
  • Leave trash behind or damage the environment.
  • Choose not to wear protective clothing and sunscreen when out in the desert heat.

Safety and Health

Victorville is a safe destination with a relatively low crime rate. Visitors must take precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Victorville

  • Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and locked in your vehicle.
  • Follow local traffic laws and avoid reckless driving.

Health in Victorville

  • Plan your outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
  • Wear protective clothing and sunscreen to avoid sunburn and dehydration.
  • Check for ticks after spending time outdoors to avoid tick-borne illnesses.

Getting to Victorville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Victorville is easily accessible by car, bus, or airplane. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Victorville

  • LA/Ontario International Airport: Located approximately 45 miles from Victorville and has direct flights to several major cities.
  • San Bernardino International Airport: Located 28 miles from Victorville and has limited flights.

Bus Stations Near Victorville

  • Victorville Transportation Center: A bus station that offers Greyhound and Victor Valley Transit Authority bus services.
  • Barstow Station: A transportation hub that offers bus and train services and connects to several major cities.

Other Options

  • Rental cars: Several rental car companies operate out of the airports and provide a convenient option to explore the area.
  • Taxi services: Several taxi companies offer transportation services in and around Victorville.

How to Get Around in Victorville

The best options for getting around Victorville are by car or bike. Several rental car companies operate in the area, and there are also bike rental services available. Some areas also offer public transportation services.

Where to Go Next from Victorville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to explore the surrounding areas, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Calico Ghost Town: A nearby ghost town that offers a glimpse into the wild west.
  • Joshua Tree National Park: A popular national park that is home to a unique ecosystem of Joshua Trees.
  • Lake Arrowhead: A beautiful mountain lake area that offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Victorville offers a mix of history, nature, and adventure that is sure to delight visitors of all ages. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan your next trip to this beautiful city and its surroundings.

Route 66 Museum Route 66 Museum