Planning on a get-away over Labor Day weekend? You might want to consider a stop-over at Calico Ghost Town in California. Located on I-15 Calico is an ideal place to put down if you’re on your way to or from Las Vegas, Los Angeles or headed up toward the Arizona border along Lake Havasu.
Calico is notorious for its old West mining history and kitschy appeal enhanced by Walter Knott when he purchased the town and surrounding property in the early 1950’s. Come up to the town and explore Maggie’s Mine – a replica of what things looked like during the real mining days of the 1880’s. Bring the kids to the Mystery Shack and let them experience a crooked house where water runs uphill and items suspend in mid-air. Pan for a little gold while you’re at it! Visit the Lane House Museum and get a real sense of the history that was made during the largest silver strike in California. You’ll enjoy a ride around the perimeter on the Calico and Odessa Railway and you’ll get a good look at the real mines, the old school house, and other parts of the town. There are fourteen shops and three restaurants to explore, too.
On Saturday night, September 4th, Calico is pulling out all the stops to wave goodbye to summer. Beginning at 5:30 p.m. there will be a lip-lickin’ chicken dinner special served at the Calico House Restaurant. If you like more than just chicken, the buffet will be available, too! The Texas House Party take to the streets playing their cowboy boogie meets Western swing musical style. Want an idea of what life was like in the old West? Gunslingers will demonstrate their pistol prowess.
As night falls, get ready for a movie experience like no other. Calico Ghost Town is presenting Movies on the Rocks. Kids and families are invited to watch a series of animated and live-action shorts projected right on the rocks! Never before has a movie been shown like this!! In addition, Calico will be showing the film “3:10 to Yuma” with Russell Crowe and Christian Bale under the stars, out in the wide open on a jumbo screen.
If you’re looking for a great end to your summer, pull in to Calico Ghost Town during September 4th and the Labor Day weekend. Reservations may be booked online at sbcountyparks.com. For additional information about Calico Ghost Town, visit calicotown.com or call (800) 86-CALICO.
To view the Woodall’s listing of Calico Ghost Town Campground visit Calico Ghost Town Campground (San Bernardino County Park).