Route 66 – Amboy, CA

Hello fellow wanderers!

During our stay in Laughlin back in March at the KOA, we spent a day out in California. Specifically Amboy and the Mojave National Preserve. We love all things Route 66 so when we get close to an old Route 66 town, we have to wander off and explore! 

Amboy is located on Route 66 just south of the Mojave National Preserve in California. It is home to the famous Roy’s Motel Cafe. Roy’s nastalgia is impressive. The cafe and motel office still has the retro 1940s-1950s furniture that can only be viewed through the motel office windows. The cafe offers pre-packaged foods and beverages along with a ton of history and Route 66 gifts. I believe the gas pump still works, although we didn’t use it.

We wandered around and explored the abandoned motel rooms and church across the street. We stopped at the post office and spoke to the post master general, who was kind enough to invite us in and tell us stories. He claims that only three people currently live in Amboy, him being one of them. 

There is the abandoned Amboy school that can be seen behind the fence along with other buildings in disrepair. Rumor has it, this town is coming back to life by the current entrepreneur who bought it. You will also find some curious “art work” and old abandoned retro cars throughout the town. 

This town was founded in 1858 not only as a stop for travelers but the railroad ran through here. If you love railroad history, this town has it. If you love Route 66 history, this town has it. If you love abandoned buildings, this town has it. If you love nostalgia, this town has it! 

Put Amboy on your list and make a stop if you are ever in the area! 

Please watch our video on our Wandered Off YouTube channel for the full tour of Amboy. You will not be disappointed. 

Thanks for wandering off down Route 66 with us!

Chris and Brandi