Westworld fans listen up… 

Have you ever imagined what it was like to relive the feels of the Old West? Well, you actually can. 

Introducing Pioneertown, California — a town founded in 1946 by a group of investors out of Hollywood who dreamed of creating a Western movie set that could be visited by the public.

And sure enough, they succeeded…

As Trevor and I were driving through the San Bernardino Desert from LA to Joshua Tree for our Anniversary Trip, we saw a sign for Pioneertown. I had heard a bit about it before, so we decided to check it out. 

A long, winding road takes you from the main highway up through the hills to a hidden community set away from the rest of the operating world. 

As you arrive, you’ll see facades that mirror exactly you’d see in a Western film set in the 1880s. Frontier stables, saloons, a bank, a jail, motels, ice cream parlors… and what’s even more shocking is you can actually go into them to find people! At least we did in the saddle shop…

 

Though we visited during the quiet weekday, you can usually catch a mock gunfight on “Mane Street” (hehe). But supposedly the most popular attraction during your visit to Pioneertown is the famous “Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace” — home to some amazing live music performances, BBQ ribs and celeb hangouts. 

More than 50 films and television shows were filmed in Pioneertown in the 1940s and ‘50s. Now it’s a place for people like you and I to pop our heads in for some pics, a show and a little dance. 

Add this place to your list of things to do while visiting Joshua Tree — it’s definitely a sight you won’t want to miss!

Pioneertown Travel Guide

STAY

Pioneertown Motel

Make your visit to Pioneertown a unique experience by staying at this hotel to completely unwind and detach. It’s also located in the high desert near Joshua Tree National Park if you’re interested in a motel vs camping under the stars or staying in an Airbnb. Newly renovated rooms with rustic comfort and access to the town’s offerings makes this a great place to stay! And fun fact —  the motel was established in 1946, by Roy Rogers & named after the Sons of the Pioneers.

EAT 

La Copine Kitchen

Your go-to restaurant in the hi-desert for amazing food and a lively brunch. Try the Fried Chicken, La Copine Salad or the Golden Milk Turmeric Chai Latte.  

DRINK

Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace

Put on your dancing shoes and keep your eyes peeled for famous folk — this place is guaranteed night time fun. With a killer live music calendar and a buzzing scene for clinging beers with new friends — this watering hole is one you can’t miss. Hell, almost every Coachella act plays there!

PLAY

Mane Street Stampede

Plan your trip around the next show and see how the West was won! Cowboys, cowgirls, town folks, horses and lots of yeehaw. Might as well get in the spirit!

Y’all go visit now, ya hear!

Happy trails, 

// cb ✌????

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