Top 9 Things To Do In This Funky Little Town + 5 Insider Tips To Make The Most Of Your Trip

Tucked along a lonely stretch of I-15, this weird little desert stop packs way more character than you’d expect from a dot on the map. It’s where UFOs meet beef jerky, thermometers scrape the sky, and the Mojave serves up wide-open silence with a side of neon.

Strange? Absolutely. But that’s exactly the charm. If you’re rolling through, don’t just top off the tank—stick around and see what makes this place so oddly unforgettable.

1. Explore The World’s Tallest Thermometer

Standing 134 feet tall, this giant roadside attraction commemorates the hottest temperature ever recorded in the area. Baker’s iconic landmark lights up with the current temperature, visible from miles away on the highway.

Stop by the gift shop at its base for quirky temperature-themed souvenirs and to learn about its interesting history as a monument to desert heat.

2. Visit The Alien Fresh Jerky Store

Green extraterrestrial mannequins welcome travelers to this otherworldly snack shop. Baker’s most peculiar store offers dozens of flavored jerky varieties alongside alien-themed merchandise and quirky photo opportunities.

Sample exotic flavors like ghost pepper or teriyaki beef while browsing the selection of space-themed souvenirs and posing with the UFO displays outside.

3. Check Out The Local Art And Murals

Vibrant desert-inspired paintings brighten several buildings throughout town. These colorful works showcase the area’s unique landscape, wildlife, and roadtrip culture.

Wander around Baker’s main strip to discover these artistic gems, which make perfect backdrops for memorable photos. Local artists have transformed ordinary walls into celebrations of this distinctive desert community.

4. Hike In The Mojave National Preserve

Just a short drive from town lies a pristine desert wilderness waiting to be explored. Morning hikes through Kelso Dunes or Cima Dome offer stunning views and glimpses of desert wildlife.

Baker serves as the perfect gateway to this natural wonderland. Remember to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes—the desert terrain can be challenging but rewarding.

5. Discover The History At The Baker Heritage Museum

Housed in a modest building, this museum tells fascinating stories of desert pioneers and Interstate 15 development. Visitors can examine artifacts from early settlers, mining operations, and the construction of vital desert highways.

Baker’s historical significance comes alive through old photographs and personal accounts. The friendly volunteer staff often share additional tales not found on the informative displays.

6. Try Local Eateries And Roadside Diners

Mad Greek Café serves authentic Mediterranean dishes alongside classic American fare in an unexpected desert location. Their gyros and strawberry shakes have achieved legendary status among regular Interstate travelers.

Baker’s dining scene offers surprising variety for a small town. Don’t miss the homemade date shakes at the Country Store or the enormous breakfast platters at Denny’s that fuel road-trippers heading in both directions.

7. Shop For Quirky Souvenirs

Unusual treasures await in the town’s eclectic gift shops. From alien-themed t-shirts to desert-inspired artwork, Baker’s retailers offer memorabilia you won’t find anywhere else.

Look for locally-made jerky, handcrafted jewelry featuring desert materials, and Route 66 collectibles. The Bun Boy gift emporium houses an especially diverse collection of desert oddities and road trip necessities.

8. Snap Photos At The Iconic Route 66 Spots

Vintage signage and retro buildings create perfect Instagram moments throughout town. The faded charm of America’s historic highway lives on in Baker’s weathered facades and classic roadside architecture.

Capture the enormous baker boy statue or the sun-bleached motel signs. These nostalgic landmarks transport visitors back to the golden age of American road trips, when driving cross-country was an adventure itself.

9. Experience A Desert Sunset

Fiery oranges and purples paint the sky as daylight fades over the Mojave. Head to the western edge of town around 30 minutes before sunset for unobstructed views of this natural light show.

Baker’s elevated position provides spectacular vantage points. Bring a camera, a chair, and perhaps a beverage to fully appreciate one of nature’s most breathtaking daily performances against the stark desert landscape.

10. Best Times To Visit

October through April offers comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring outdoor attractions. Summer months regularly exceed 100°F, making morning activities essential if you’re visiting between May and September.

Winter brings mild days and cool nights to Baker. Weekdays typically see fewer travelers than weekends, meaning shorter lines at popular eateries and less crowded photo opportunities at the famous landmarks.

11. What To Pack For The Desert

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat form your essential desert survival kit. Temperature swings can be dramatic, so layerable clothing works best even in summer months.

Bring more water than you think you’ll need when exploring Baker and surroundings. Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for the unique photo ops, and cash for smaller establishments will ensure you’re prepared for all the town offers.

12. Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

Behind the gas station row lies a charming community park with shaded picnic tables. This quiet spot offers a peaceful break from highway noise and a chance to stretch your legs without crowds.

Baker residents recommend the homemade fudge at the Country Store’s back counter. Another insider tip: visit the post office’s bulletin board to find announcements about seasonal desert wildflower blooms nearby.

13. How To Beat The Heat

Early mornings transform the desert experience, offering comfortable temperatures before the scorching midday sun. Many visitors plan their Baker activities before 11am or after 4pm during summer months.

The Mad Greek’s air conditioning provides blessed relief alongside their famous milkshakes. Another cooling tip: the library offers both air conditioning and free wifi—perfect for a midday break from the heat.

14. Photograph The Night Sky

Far from city lights, the Mojave reveals a dazzling celestial display after dark. Amateur astronomers and photographers gather at designated spots just outside town to capture stunning starscapes.

The Milky Way appears with remarkable clarity on moonless nights in Baker. Bring a tripod and camera with manual settings to capture long exposures. Local motels can recommend the safest and most accessible stargazing locations nearby.