Baker, California: World's Largest Thermometer

Along I-15, between LA and Las Vegas, the desert town of Baker has long been an essential stop on Roadside America's California map, chiefly for its World's Largest Thermometer. That impressive tribute to a record high desert temp (134 degrees Fahrenheit) is visible from the interstate. But in recent years its once reliable lit digital array has been wonky, too expensive to repair or even to continue to power, and last reported for sale.

The 134-ft. tall thermometer still merits a brief stop -- there's always a parking space next it at the long closed and empty Thermometer Welcome Center. The ball at the bottom of the thermometer promotes "Baker CA. Gateway to Death Valley." Then its on to exploring Baker's other charms: a Big Boy statue, an obscure tribute to an explorer, an assemblage of cheesy Greek statuary. And right down the street is the new thermal dynamic in town -- the Alien Fresh Jerky store.

The thermometer wasn't working at night; there were LED numbers lit up, but it wasn't the temperature.

The World's Tallest Thermometer and adjacent Bun Boy Restaurant has been sold by 75 year-old Willis Herron, partner of the original Bun Boy owner since the 1950s. Bun Boy opened in 1926; the 134-foot tall thermometer was constructed in 1991.... [01/30/2000] Complete News Story