Desert View Tower, Westside Travel Guide

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Experience panoramic desert views and quirky history at this iconic roadside attraction in Jacumba Hot Springs, California.

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Desert View Tower

The Desert View Tower, a quirky roadside attraction in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, offers panoramic desert views and a glimpse into early 20th-century travel. Built in the 1920s, the tower houses a museum of eclectic artifacts and stands adjacent to the unique Boulder Park, a collection of folk-art sculptures.

A brief summary to Desert View Tower

01 In-Ko-Pah Park Rd, Jacumba Hot Springs, California, 91934, US
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Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Desert View Tower.

Check the tower's operating hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Allow at least an hour to explore both the tower and Boulder Park.
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the tower stairs and exploring the rocky terrain of Boulder Park.
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the desert climate can be dehydrating.

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Explore Desert View Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Desert View Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Desert View Tower is located off Interstate 8. Take the In-Ko-Pah Park Road exit. The tower is a short drive from the exit. Parking is available on-site, but the lot is small and can be crowded. Be aware that the road leading to the tower can be rough.

Discover more about Desert View Tower

Desert View Tower, rising 70 feet above the In-Ko-Pah Mountains in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, is a unique historical landmark offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Built between 1922 and 1928 by Bert Vaughn, a San Diego real estate developer, the tower served as a roadside attraction and advertisement for his nearby restaurant and bar. Vaughn dedicated the tower to the pioneers and builders who opened up the area.The five-story tower houses a museum filled with an eclectic collection of artifacts, ranging from historical photos to unique trinkets. Each floor presents a different theme, creating a sense of discovery as visitors ascend. The observation deck at the top provides panoramic views of the desert, mountains, and the winding Interstate 8.Adjacent to the tower is Boulder Park, featuring sculptures carved into the local stone by Merle Ratcliff during the Great Depression. These folk-art figures add to the site's quirky charm and provide a fun exploration area, especially for children.Designated a National Historic Place in 1980, the Desert View Tower offers a glimpse into the early days of cross-country travel and the ingenuity of roadside attractions.