Scenic 395 - The Official Guide 2026

5 2026 Scenic 395 9 Ridgecrest tractions, and amenities. But the Ridge- crest Welcome Center goes beyond the basics, delivering memorable, high-qual- ity experiences that visitors won’t find anywhere else. “Our Welcome Center is unique because of the immersive exhibits we offer,” Crutcher said. One of the newest and most exciting additions is a virtual reality tour of Little Petroglyph Canyon, located in the Coso Mountain Range near Ridgecrest. The area is considered a hotbed of cultural and historical significance, as several Na- tive American tribes lived in and migrat- ed through the region for thousands of years. Little Petroglyph Canyon is home to the largest known concentration of petroglyphs in the Northern Hemisphere. Because the canyon is located within Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, public access is prohibited. As a result, the Ridgecrest Welcome Center’s VR ex- perience offers a rare opportunity. “This virtual reality tour is the only petroglyph VR experience of its kind in the nation,” said Crutcher. “It allows visitors to explore a place that very few people will ever see in person, while honoring and protecting this culturally sensitive site.” The Welcome Center also continues to offer a popular virtual reality experience of Death Valley National Park, allow- ing guests to explore iconic landscapes through Oculus VR headsets. “Ridgecrest is often known as the gateway to Death Valley,” Crutcher explained, “but not everyone who comes through town will visit the park. VR provides an immer- sive way to experience it—especially for visitors with mobility or accessibility challenges.” Another standout attraction is the TV and Film Experience exhibit, which highlights major productions filmed throughout Death Valley, Lone Pine, Red Rock Canyon, and the surrounding region. Interactive QR codes connect visitors to filming locations featured in Lady Gaga and Rihanna music vid- eos, Top Gun: Maverick, Iron Man, Star Trek, Star Wars, Jurassic Park, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and Westworld. Video presentations emphasize the region’s dramatic desert landscapes and their continued draw for film and television productions. “This exhibit is a perfect fit for us,” said Crutcher. “We manage both the visitor’s bureau and the film commission. Tourism and the film industry work hand in hand, and many of our visitors are here specifi- cally for film projects.” In addition, the Welcome Center showcases California’s Top Ten Amazing Archaeological Adventures, appealing to visitors interested in history, culture, and exploration. “The comment we hear most of- ten—especially from locals—is ‘Wow,’” Crutcher said. “People are surprised by what they find the moment they walk in.” Visitors frequently ask about the Trona Pinnacles, Death Valley, and national parks such as Yosemite. “We see many travelers staying overnight in Ridge- crest while passing through on their way north,” Crutcher added. At the heart of the Welcome Center is a thoughtfully curated gift shop featur- ing Ridgecrest- and California-themed merchandise, including items created by local artists. “We’re proud to showcase local artists on consignment and plan to feature new creators in the coming year,” said Crutcher. “It’s also becoming a fa- vorite spot for locals looking for Ridge- crest souvenirs.” As with all California Welcome Cen- ters, visitors can access brochures, mag- azines, and information on local attrac- tions, dining, and lodging. The space is also available to the public for meetings, receptions, parties, and other community events. The Ridgecrest Welcome Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 760-375-8202 or email info@goRidgecrest.com.