Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Victorville, California

Situated in the high desert approximately 90 minutes northeast of Los Angeles, Victorville is a city with a population of nearly 120,000 residents, renowned for its proximity to the illustrious Route 66.

The city’s location in the Mojave Desert results in sweltering summers; however, the fall and winter seasons offer unexpectedly mild temperatures, making it a favored weekend getaway for visitors from Los Angeles.

Victorville boasts a wide range of historical sites and is conveniently near many of Southern California’s most prominent state and national parks, which showcase breathtaking natural landscapes and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities.

Below are 15 attractions to explore in and around Victorville, California.

1. The California Route 66 Museum

Founded nearly a century ago, Route 66 extended uninterrupted from Chicago to Los Angeles.

With a total length of almost 2,500 miles, it was the longest east-west highway in the United States. Although it has been eclipsed by the more modern interstate system, it continues to symbolize American history and culture, enchanting most visitors.

The Route 66 Museum is situated on D Street in Victorville and houses an extensive collection of historical memorabilia related to the highway’s development and the various states, cities, and towns it traverses.

This museum was established over two decades ago and features both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

2. Mojave Narrows Regional Park

Despite being less than two hours from Los Angeles, Victorville contrasts starkly with its bustling, chaotic, and sophisticated city neighbor to the south.

Mojave Narrows Regional Park is a favored site attracting nature enthusiasts, sportspeople, and recreational lovers from both near and far.

Surrounding the picturesque Horseshoe Lake, the park offers year-round activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing, and is regularly stocked with various game fish species, including bass and trout.

The park, located on Yates Road in Victorville, features numerous camping and RV sites, sheltered seating areas, and a disc golf course.

3. Green Tree Golf Club

The 18-hole, par-72 course at Green Tree Golf Club in Victorville spans over 6,500 yards through some of the most breathtaking desert landscapes.

This course has been operational since the early 1960s. While many competitors have emerged and faded over the years, Green Tree has sustained its popularity due to its reasonable green fees, well-maintained surfaces, and stunning surroundings.

Previous players observed that the course is moderately challenging, offering multiple tee box options suitable for women, seniors, and children, with the option for walking instead of using a cart a popular choice among those who prefer to walk.

4. High Desert Center for the Arts

While Victorville is primarily recognized for its natural and historical landmarks, the High Desert Center for the Arts provides an excellent venue for those wishing to engage with the local cultural scene.

Located on 8th Street in Victorville, near the downtown area, the center has offered high-quality theatrical and musical productions since its establishment a decade ago.

The center’s schedule includes year-round performances ranging from timeless classics such as Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to modern favorites like Rent and Grease.

Due to high demand, tickets for prominent shows tend to sell out quickly, so it is advisable to check their schedule and availability prior to planning a visit.

5. Restaurant Row

Victorville’s strategic location between Barstow and Los Angeles along Interstate 15 makes it a favored stop for travelers seeking dining options and refueling before continuing their journeys.

For a relatively small desert city, Victorville boasts a wide variety of dining establishments ranging from fast-food outlets and drive-thru coffee shops to family-style restaurants serving diverse cuisines, including gourmet burgers, pasta, sushi, and Hawaiian BBQ.

Restaurant Row runs through the heart of the city just a few blocks from the interstate, featuring close to two dozen eateries that cater to diverse tastes and budgets.

Popular options include Panera Bread, Starbucks, Johnny Carino’s Italian Restaurant, and The Habit Burger Grill.

6. The High Desert Farmers Market

In spite of its low annual rainfall and extreme summer heat, the high desert yields a remarkable assortment of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

The High Desert Farmers Market has been operating for nearly 30 years, originally initiated by two local college students aiming to connect local growers with consumers in ways traditional markets did not.

This year-round market provides fresh, healthy, reasonably priced, and locally produced foods to residents who prefer to support small growers and entrepreneurs over large national grocery chains.

Additionally, vendors at the market offer meat, dairy products, and ready-to-eat items such as salsa and honey.

7. Mojave Riverwalk

Although riverwalks are typically more common in regions with substantial rainfall, the Mojave Riverwalk has become a popular outdoor venue in Victorville for individuals seeking to embrace nature without traveling to remote national and state parks.

The riverwalk features multi-use trails open to walkers, runners, and cyclists. While the wash it runs along is generally dry, visitors can enjoy scenic views of Pelican Lake and its riparian habitats teeming with various bird and animal species.

The nearly four-mile trail begins on the Victor Valley College campus and links to the previously mentioned Mojave Narrows Regional Park.

8. Organic Fusion Teahouse

While coffee remains dominant in many areas across the USA, there has been a notable shift in recent years as health-conscious consumers increasingly incorporate tea into their diets.

Despite being a relatively new establishment, Organic Fusion Teahouse on Monarch Boulevard in Victorville has garnered a devoted clientele.

The menu is replete with healthy beverages crafted from minimally processed organic ingredients. In addition to a selection of teas, they offer a variety of fresh juices and smoothies that prove popular during the hot summer months.

For patrons seeking heartier fare, they also provide salads, seafood, and entrees with international influences such as curry.

9. Creative Arts Theater

Established more than a decade ago by a local couple with a passion for the performing arts, the Creative Arts Theater had an uncertain future in its infancy.

Although Victorville already boasted a popular theater, it quickly became apparent that this emerging company was destined for success. It has since evolved into one of the most cherished live performance venues in the high desert region.

Featuring talented mentors and promising local performers, the theater hosts a diverse array of productions that consistently receive positive feedback.

In addition to posting upcoming performances on their website, they welcome auditions and encourage volunteers for behind-the-scenes work.

Their location can be found on 8th Street in Victorville.

10. The Galley Fish Tacos

Whether enjoying the view by the ocean in San Diego or amidst the desert landscape in Victorville, fish tacos present a delightful culinary option.

These tacos are relatively healthy, bursting with vibrant flavors, and are far lighter than heavier options such as ribs or greasy burgers.

The Galley Fish Tacos is a locally-owned family establishment located on Amargosa Road in Victorville. They utilize wild cod and traditional recipes to prepare delectable tacos reminiscent of those available in coastal Mexico.

Patrons can select from a variety of taco options served with corn or flour tortillas, as well as a selection of fresh red and green salsas.

11. The Victor Valley Museum

Located just five kilometers west of Victorville, the town of Apple Valley is home to the Victor Valley Museum, which can be found on Apple Valley Road.

This museum features one of the region’s most distinctive collections of natural and historical artifacts.

It is particularly suitable for families traveling with children, as many exhibits promote interactive engagement rather than passive observation.

Displayed items cover various topics such as biology, botany, Native American culture, fossils, and geology, contributing to its appeal as a highly engaging attraction.

12. Big Bear Lake

Located about 70 kilometers southeast of Victorville, Big Bear Lake is a spectacular natural attraction worth visiting for those looking to escape the desert environment.

The high elevation of Big Bear, situated in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, yields pleasant year-round temperatures that differ greatly from its lowland counterparts.

This area offers a multitude of outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking, with summer temperatures typically remaining below the mid-80s.

It is advisable to carry warmer clothing regardless of the visit, as nighttime temperatures often drop into the 40s.

13. Oak Hills Brewing Company

With a popular taproom located on Poplar Street in Hesperia, just 10 kilometers south of Victorville, Oak Hills Brewing Company has been a favorite destination for beer enthusiasts since its inception in 2012.

The majority of the brewery’s offerings are available for tasting in their taproom, featuring a diverse range of colors and flavor profiles, including traditional IPAs, Irish Reds, Hefeweizens, and various ales.

Additionally, they provide non-alcoholic homemade beverages such as cream soda and ginger ale, frequently joined by local food trucks serving gourmet dishes.

14. San Bernardino County Museum

Despite its somewhat subdued reputation in Victorville, San Bernardino County ranks as one of the most populous counties in the United States. Spanning over 50,000 square kilometers, it also holds the title of the largest by land area.

The region has a fascinating history dating back nearly two centuries, and the San Bernardino County Museum serves as an excellent venue for those interested in learning about it, albeit with a scenic drive through the desert to reach its location on Orange Tree Lane in Redlands, approximately 45 kilometers south of Victorville.

15. Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area stands as one of the region’s largest and most esteemed natural attractions, located just a few kilometers southeast of Victorville on Sawpit Canyon Road in Hesperia.

At the heart of the park lies Silverwood Lake, primarily nourished by spring snowmelt originating from the distant Oroville Dam.

During the summer months, Silverwood Lake attracts large crowds each weekend as outdoor enthusiasts from Los Angeles seek to escape the urban hustle and engage in activities such as hiking, swimming, fishing, and mountain biking.

The park also offers amenities, including various camping settings, boat ramps, and restroom facilities.