10 Best Architectural Buildings in Victorville, California: A Local Guide

Victorville, California, offers a rich tapestry of architectural marvels that reflect both historical significance and modern design.

Each building tells a unique story, contributing to the city’s charm and cultural heritage.

For those looking to explore Victorville’s unique architectural landscape, it’s essential to know which structures stand out the most.

What are the architectural masterpieces that best represent the city’s blend of history and innovation?

This article will guide you through the ten best buildings, each highlighting Victorville’s distinctive architectural style.

1. California Route 66 Museum

The California Route 66 Museum in Victorville is dedicated to preserving the history of the famous highway. It’s an interactive museum with over 4500 square feet of exhibits.

Visitors can see settings like a 1950s diner and a VW Love Bus.

This museum is located at 16825 D Street in Victorville, California.

It offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural impact of Route 66.

The displays include photo opportunities and various artifacts, making it a fascinating stop for everyone.

2. Mojave Narrows Regional Park

Mojave Narrows Regional Park, located near Victorville, spans 886 acres. The park features a 50-acre fishing lake and scenic hiking trails.

It is known for its unique positioning where the Mojave River flows above ground.

The park offers year-round opportunities for fishing catfish, trout, and bass.

Restroom facilities and Shelter 6 are under renovation but temporary facilities are available.

In addition to outdoor activities, the park is perfect for camping.

Activities like picnicking and horseback riding add to the appeal of this versatile recreational area.

3. Victorville Old Town

Victorville Old Town is the heart of history in Victorville.

The area is characterized by its vintage buildings and streets that tell the story of the town’s past.

It began on the far side of the Santa Fe tracks and grew into a lively center.

Visitors can explore charming architecture, shop at local boutiques, and dine at historic eateries.

Victorville Old Town offers a unique glimpse into the early days of the town.

4. Grady Trammel Park

Grady Trammel Park is a key attraction in Victorville, California.

It offers a peaceful environment with plenty of green space for visitors. Families often come here for picnics and outdoor activities.

The park is located near the historic Route 66 and lies close to the California Route 66 Museum.

This makes it a convenient stop for those exploring local history.

Visiting Grady Trammel Park is highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and local culture in Victorville.

5. San Bernardino County Library Victorville

The San Bernardino County Library in Victorville serves as a central hub for the community.

It offers a variety of resources and services, including books, digital media, and educational programs.

The library features a modern design with ample space for reading and studying.

It also hosts events such as the Summer Reading Program, which runs from June 3 to July 28, 2024.

In addition to its extensive collection, the library provides classes in their Animaker Space.

This hands-on learning environment helps individuals explore new technologies and develop creative skills.

The library is a key resource for residents of all ages.

6. Green Tree Golf Course

Green Tree Golf Course, designed by William F. Bell, opened in October 1963.

It features a par-72 layout that spans over 6,600 yards.

This well-established course is nestled against the stunning backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains.

The course layout offers both challenge and enjoyment for players of all skill levels.

Golfers appreciate the modern, quick golf carts which add to the enjoyment of the game at Green Tree Golf Course.

7. Victor Valley College Performing Arts Center

The Victor Valley College Performing Arts Center is a key cultural landmark.

It features a proscenium theatre that seats 473 people and a flexible Black Box theatre with seating for up to 120.

This venue is home to the Communications, Theatre Arts, and Performing Arts Center departments.

Various performances and events are held throughout the year.

For more details, visit Victor Valley College’s Performing Arts Center.

8. Spring Valley Lake

Spring Valley Lake is a standout location in Victorville.

This man-made lake, located in the Mojave Desert, offers a tranquil setting amid natural beauty.

The lake is ideal for water activities like boating and fishing.

It’s surrounded by scenic views that attract both residents and visitors.

Nearby, there are landmarks such as the Santa Fe and Salt Lake Trail Monument.

This makes the area rich in history and a perfect spot for enthusiasts.

9. Mojave Riverwalk

The Mojave Riverwalk is a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail in Victorville.

It offers an easy route that takes around 1 hour and 19 minutes to complete.

This trail is popular for road biking, running, and walking, providing a mix of activity options.

Even though it’s well-visited, there are quieter times during the day when one can enjoy solitude.

Accessible year-round, the Mojave Riverwalk highlights Victorville’s natural beauty and provides a serene escape from the city.

10. Desert Valley Hospital

Desert Valley Hospital is an important landmark in Victorville, California.

It’s a 148-bed acute care facility providing state-of-the-art medical services. The hospital serves the Victor Valley region and is known for its quality healthcare.

Located on Bear Valley Road, the building’s modern architecture stands out in the city.

The hospital is owned and operated by Prime Healthcare Services, Inc., a well-known hospital management company.

For more information, visit the Desert Valley Hospital page.

Historical Significance

Victorville, California, boasts a rich history marked by early developments and several notable architectural periods that have shaped its landscape.

Early Development of Victorville

The early development of Victorville began in the late 1800s, primarily driven by the expansion of the Santa Fe Railroad. This railway construction attracted settlers and businesses, leading to the establishment of the town.

The Victor Valley Museum offers insights into this period, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the town’s origins.

Key structures from this era include early commercial buildings and residences that reflect the architectural styles popular at the time, such as Victorian and Craftsman influences.

The town’s first schools, churches, and civic buildings were also constructed during this formative period, each contributing to the town’s historical fabric.

Notable Architectural Eras

Several architectural eras have left their mark on Victorville.

The early 20th century saw the rise of Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, characterized by stucco facades, red-tiled roofs, and arched corridors.

These styles are well-represented in buildings like the Route 66 Museum, which captures the essence of the era.

Post-World War II development introduced mid-century modern architecture to Victorville. This period brought sleek, minimalist designs utilizing new materials and construction techniques.

Notable examples include residential neighborhoods and public buildings that reflect the trends of the 1950s and 1960s.

In recent decades, contemporary architectural styles have emerged, blending modern elements with traditional influences.

Together, these eras create a diverse and historically rich environment that continues to evolve while preserving the essence of Victorville’s past.

Architectural Styles

Victorville, California, showcases various architectural styles that reflect its rich history and evolving trends. Key styles include Spanish Colonial Revival, Modernist Influences, and Eclectic Designs.

Spanish Colonial Revival

Spanish Colonial Revival architecture is characterized by red-tile roofs, stucco walls, and arched doorways. This style emerged in the early 20th century and reflects the Spanish roots of California.

Buildings often feature courtyards, ironwork gates, and colorful tiles.

The use of natural materials like wooden beams and terracotta adds an earthy appeal.

Houses are typically single-story, with expansive porches that provide shade and outdoor living spaces.

This style often incorporates ornamental details like wrought iron balconies and elaborate tile work, making it visually rich and inviting.

Key elements include arcades, clay roof tiles, and wall sconces.

Modernist Influences

Modernist architectural elements in Victorville emphasize simplicity, functionality, and clean lines.

Buildings feature minimal ornamentation, large windows, and open floor plans.

The use of concrete, glass, and steel is prominent.

In Modernist buildings, the design focuses on the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Flat or low-pitched roofs, cantilevered structures, and industrial materials are common.

The idea is to use space efficiently and let in natural light.

Typical features include asymmetrical facades and innovative construction techniques.

The aesthetic is sleek and unadorned, focusing on practicality and modern living.

Eclectic Designs

Eclectic architectural designs blend various styles and elements to create unique and personalized structures. In Victorville, this means combining historical styles with modern touches.

Homes may feature Victorian gables alongside Art Deco detailing.

The mix and match approach allows for unique floor plans and diverse materials.

Eclectic designs often use contrasting textures like brick with glass, or stone with metal.

This style is marked by individuality and creativity.

Each building becomes a canvas for different architectural inspirations, leading to diverse and visually interesting neighborhoods.

Common features include mixed-use spaces and adaptive reuse of old structures.

Preservation and Conservation Efforts

Efforts to preserve and conserve the rich architectural heritage of Victorville are both ongoing and essential. These initiatives are spearheaded by various local organizations and have a notable impact on the community.

Local Conservation Initiatives

Victorville has numerous local groups dedicated to preserving its historical architecture.

One prominent organization is the California Preservation Foundation, which often collaborates on projects in the city.

Efforts include maintaining landmark buildings and implementing restoration projects to bring old structures back to their former glory.

Another notable initiative is the Victor Valley Museum’s historical preservation program.

This program works to educate the public about the importance of preserving local landmarks.

Special events and workshops are held to raise awareness and encourage community involvement in conservation efforts.

Additionally, the city government has policies to protect historic sites like the California Route 66 Museum.

These policies ensure that developments do not compromise the integrity of Victorville’s architectural heritage.

Impact of Preservation on Victorville

Preservation efforts positively impact Victorville in many ways.

Economically, preserved historic sites attract tourists, which boosts local businesses.

The California Route 66 Museum is a perfect example, drawing visitors interested in exploring America’s iconic highway.

Culturally, preservation helps maintain the city’s identity and historical significance.

It instills pride among residents and educates younger generations about their local heritage.

Schools often organize field trips to historical sites, integrating local history into their curriculum.

Environmentally, these efforts promote sustainable practices by reusing and renovating existing structures rather than demolishing them.

This reduces waste and preserves the green spaces surrounding historical buildings, which is crucial for maintaining Victorville’s unique desert landscape.