Hesperia, California is 8 miles south of
Victorville and 42 miles from Barstow on Interstate Highway 15, the major
thoroughfare between Los Angeles, California and Las Vegas, Nevada, which is 179
miles north. Hesperia enjoys a dry, desert climate not far from mountain ski
resorts such as Big Bear Mountain 28 miles "up the hill". George
Air Force Base is 7 miles from Hesperia and nearby Victorville includes parks,
San Bernardino County Fairgrounds and lots of things to see and do.
History of Hesperia
- Hesperia is possibly Greek for “Star of the West”. Evidence suggests that
tribal headquarters Mohahve or Mojave Indians were built close to the headwaters
of the Mojave River in what is known as Hesperia today. The first white man to
pass through Hesperia was most likely the Spanish Father Francisco Garces.
During 1826-27, a guide named Jebediah Smith pioneered the Morman Trail, a route
that extended across the desert from Needles, California. The Mormon Trail
passed through Hesperia and was the route that General John Fremont and Kit
Carson took in 1842, when they lead an Army party exploring the west. Fremont's
journal told of a camp at the headwaters of the Mojave River where hundreds of
Joshua trees and disappearing waters flowed apparently underground.
The first wood building in Hesperia was erected in 1857, and consisted of a
stable, bunk beds, watering troughs and a small general store. Operated by a
journeyman named Hanbrier, the use of the hostelry grew steadily as Easterners
continued to flock to the west. As water rights were established with the County
of San Bernardino, Hesperia grew steadily with its first store located near Main
Street and Santa Fe Road in 1887. Raisins were grown, processed and shipped East
and Junipers were grown and harvested for kiln fire wood, but the primary
industry for the city was tourism. A winding, hairpin road through Cajon Pass
lead throug Hesperia. This straighter section of Route 66 was realigned west of
the city in 1924. Today Hesperia claims affordable housing and an enjoyable
lifestyle for those who love desert living.
For dining and
accommodations, Hesperia enjoys a close proximity to Marie Callenders, Los
Toritos Mexican Restaurant, Pagano's Italian Restaurant and Golden Gate Chinese
Restaurant, plus Days Inn Suites, Econo Lodge, Holiday Inn Express and Super 8
Motel. Below are attraction of interest nearby.
Calico Ghost
Town is an ideal place to shop in a unique
atmosphere. This themed attraction
includes an historic town with a train ride, cowboys, piano players,
shoot-outs and shopping with stores that sell leather goods, music CDs,
crafts, candles and more. There are restaurants, a museum and special
events throughout the year. Do not be surprised to discover many
languages spoken there. Foreign travelers are especially interested in
the Old West and find Calico Ghost Town one of their favorite places to
take pictures. Calico Ghost Town is located at the intersection of
Calico and Ghost Town Roads that exit Interstate 15 north of Barstow.
Route 66 Mother Road Museum is located in
the historic Casa del Desierto, Harvey House, in Barstow, California. The Museum
displays a collection of historic photographs and artifacts relating to Route 66
and the Mojave Desert communities. Displays include development of Route 66 from
its beginning along early pioneer trails, to its genesis during the construction
and popularity of railroads. Finally the automobile brought Route 66 to
maturity. The museum covers the history of this famous route immortalized in
songs & movies and in popular culture. Address: 681 North First Ave,
Barstow, California. For information and hours, call: 760-255-1890.
Factory Merchants Barstow
is located at 2552 Mercantile Way, Lower Level Suite A, Barstow, CA
92311. Open seven days a week, you can call them at 760-253-7342. Stores
included in this discount outlet are listed below but are subject to
change. Always call first before going. Telephone: 760-253-7342.
Tanger Factory Outlet Center is
located at 2796 Tanger Way, Suite 106, Barstow CA 92311. This outlet
includes the California Welcome Center, a visitor information shop with
free brochures, guide books, maps and information and assistance
provided by a trained travel professional. Tanger Factory Outlet Center
is located directly across the street from the Factory Merchants Barstow
outlet. From Interstate Highway 15 in Barstow, exit Lenwood Road and
follow the signs to the outlet. Stores included in this discount outlet
are listed below but are subject to change. Always call first before
going. Call: 760-253-4813 or 800-409-3175.
