Want to experience a glimpse of what life was like back in the Wild West? If you head to this old desert town in Southern California located in the Inland Empire, you’ll be transported back to a time when gunslingers, horseback riding, and saloons were part of the daily routine. Here’s a look at this unique destination in an unexpected corner of SoCal.

Howdy partner. Welcome to Pioneertown.

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One look at Pioneertown and you’d think you were walking through an old ghost town from the 1800s that’s been left behind for decades.

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But Pioneertown isn’t your typical ghost town. It’s actually an old movie set that was developed in the 1940s to resemble the wild west of the 1800s.

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Countless numbers of Westerns and TV shows were filmed here. And you can see why – it definitely looks like the kind of place where cowboys might hang out.

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And today, Pioneer Town is still standing. It may not be a movie set any longer, but it remains an entertaining destination where visitors can explore this dusty desert town in Yucca Valley while feeling like they’ve gone back in time to another century.

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Ready for a tour of this town? Let’s saddle up!

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Along Mane Street you’ll find many of the original buildings, like this old hotel, that were all part of the movie set that was created in 1946.

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Next door to the hotel is an old-time bank that looks like the real thing.

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And take a look at this post office!! If you want proof you were here, you might want to have your mail postmarked here with a Pioneertown stamp.

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The Likker Barn is always a great spot for a photo opportunity. Looks like someone forgot to use spellcheck.

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Or stop here at the Livery or the town jail and admire just how much this spot captures a different place in time.

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There’s even a Motel – the original motel where actors stayed when they were in town working on a movie. It’s still an operating motel, so you can actually rent a room here if you want to.

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But everyone’s favorite stop while in Pioneertown is no doubt Pappy and Harriet’s. This restaurant/music venue captures the spirit of the wild west while remaining a modern destination for those visiting Pioneertown and nearby Joshua Tree.

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Doesn’t this place look like quite the adventure?

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I’m ready to hit the town and take a day trip. How about you? You can find Pioneertown in Southern California at 5040 Curtis Road in Pioneertown, CA. For another memorable day trip, take a look at this charming SoCal destination.

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