Technically, we didn't stay in Needles. We ventured north for Amy's birthday and stayed the night in Laughlin NV. However, this is where our Route 66 trip stopped for the evening.
The route leaving Needles parallels Interstate 40 for several miles before it branches off and begins its desolate path into the Mohave desert. Today was definitely more about the scenery and not the stops.
It's not the destination... it's the adventure... and sometimes that adventure throws you a curveball. When it does?? Just hop back on the Interstate for a bit.
Amboy CA
A small oasis of a town in the middle of the Mohave desert, Amboy is a shell of its former self. When Route 66 was booming, Roy's Motel was a popular stop in an otherwise desolate road. Now... it's vacant, but slowing being brought back to life by investors.
Across the street from Roy's was a utility pole that people have nailed items to as "proof" they were there. A ladies' bra, one flip-flop, beer cans, bottles... numerous different items. Nails and a large rock are even available to those that want to add to "monument".
Not to be left out, Delia and I dodged a brief dust storm to add our "mark". All we had available in the car was an almost empty Pringles can, but beggars can't be choosy. We signed it and nailed it to the post.
Just west of Amboy and visible from Route 66 is the Amboy Crater. A registered Natural Landmark, sitting in its lava field, it is a 250 ft tall volcanic cinder cone that is 1500 ft. in diameter.
Newberry Springs CA
Another spot in the middle of nowhere. The Bagdad Cafe, made somewhat famous by the 1987 German movie of the same name is a popular spot for a photo, especially among the Europeans. Quirky... not so clean, but tolerable... that is if you don't mind the flies (After all, it DID receive a "B" Rating from the health board). I CAN say that as of this writing, I have survived eating a grilled cheese sandwich and fries at The Bagdad Cafe.
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