Amargosa Opera House Tour Review: Is It Worth Visiting Near Death Valley?

Deep in the Mojave Desert, where endless stretches of sand meet dramatic mountain silhouettes, sits one of California’s most extraordinary cultural treasures. The Amargosa Opera House stands as a testament to artistic passion and unwavering determination, drawing visitors from around the world to witness where dreams literally came to life on painted walls.

After initially stopping to explore the grounds during an earlier Death Valley trip, we later returned to take a guided tour inside both the Amargosa Hotel and Opera House. Seeing Marta Becket’s painted theater in person completely changed our perspective on this unusual desert landmark

This isn’t your typical tourist destination. Located in the remote town of Death Valley Junction, the Amargosa Opera House represents something far more profound than entertainment—it’s a love story between an artist and her craft that transformed an abandoned building into a magical world of perpetual performance.

If you plan to be near Death Valley, Marta Becket’s Amargosa Opera House and Hotel offers tourists a chance to explore the desert’s cultural history. It’s a desert itinerary addition we highly recommend – especially taking a tour of the Opera House. We’ve visited this location several times, so let us share our first-hand perspective in our Amargosa Opera House review.

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Watch Our First Visit to the Amargosa Opera House

Check out one of our early YouTube videos where we stop to tour the grounds outside the Amargosa Opera House.

Is The Amargosa Opera House Worth Visiting?

Yes — especially for travelers who enjoy unusual roadside attractions, desert history, folk art, photography, and off-the-beaten-path experiences near Death Valley. The guided tour provides access to one of the most unusual artistic spaces in the American Southwest. However, visitors expecting a polished commercial attraction or luxury accommodations should set expectations accordingly.

Our Visits to the Amargosa Opera House

The first time we took our Airstream to Las Vegas, we took a new route for us. We’ve driven past Baker many times en route to Las Vegas, but this was the first time we passed through the town and then ventured north on California 127 towards Death Valley. After passing by the Mad Greek Restaurant and the iconic “largest thermometer in the world”, we continued our travels to the Longstreet Inn RV Park where we had a reservation for our Airstream.

On the way, we found an oddity in the middle of Death Valley Junction. In the middle of nowhere, we saw a long white building to our left with painted signage and doors. I immediately knew exactly what we had come upon, as just a few years earlier I had read the book “To Dance on Sands” by Marta Becket. This was Marta Becket’s Amargosa Opera House & Hotel, featuring a fascinating performance space set in the most unusual location.

This is a location that comes up on searches for haunted places near Death Valley. Some people stop here for that intrigue alone.

The Story of Marta Becket and the Amargosa Opera House

Marta Becket was a talented painter and ballerina who, by a twist of fate, stumbled into life near Death Valley in 1967. While experiencing a flat tire near an abandoned hotel in Death Valley Junction, Marta looked inside the empty space and had a life-changing vision.

In her mind’s eye, she saw a theater that could hold the stage for her ballet creations. Within months, she negotiated a lease for the property and began transforming it into a performing space. The theater became her desert home for the next four decades.

The makeover of the old social hall into Marta Becket’s Opera House represents one of the most remarkable artistic achievements in American cultural history. What began as a deteriorating building in a ghost town became a Renaissance masterpiece that continues to captivate visitors today.

What to Expect on the Amargosa Opera House Tour

The best way to experience the Amargosa Opera House is through a guided tour. While the exterior of the property is interesting to see, the tour provides access to areas and stories that most visitors would otherwise miss. During our first visit to Death Valley Junction, we only explored the grounds from the outside. On a later trip, we returned for the guided tour and gained a much deeper appreciation for Marta Becket’s remarkable achievement.

Tour Length and Cost

At the time of our visit, tours were offered twice daily at 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. The guided experience lasted approximately 40 minutes and included both the historic hotel and the opera house itself.

Call Ahead to Verify Current Tour Times and Prices Before Your Visit

A Walk Through Death Valley Junction History

One of the aspects we appreciated most about the tour was that it went beyond Marta Becket’s story. Our guide began with the history of Death Valley Junction itself, explaining how the town developed during the borax mining boom of the early twentieth century.

Visitors learn how the community evolved from a company town serving the Pacific Coast Borax Company into the unusual artistic destination it would eventually become.

Planning Our Tour of the Amargosa Opera House

We became aware of Marta Becket shortly after our first visit to Death Valley back in 2013. The landscape of the monumental, desolate California desert captivated us. Amazingly, the journey from our Southern California home was just a few hours, but it had taken us decades until making our first visit, which would be one of many following our initial encounter.

Upon returning home, we soaked up more information about Death Valley – including its history and characters who made their mark near and around its borders. One of these people was Marta Becket. We checked out a copy of her book, To Dance on Sands, from our local library. Upon reading her history, we were inspired to learn more.

Before our 2024 trip to Death Valley, we learned on the Amargosa Opera House website that daily tours were available. As we’ve driven through Death Valley Junction before, we knew that visitors were limited at best, so we didn’t make a point of making advance reservations. We arrived at the hotel lobby 30 minutes before the scheduled daily tour time and got ourselves on the list.

What the Amargosa Opera House Tour Is Like

While photos provide a glimpse of the murals, they do not adequately convey the scale of the artwork. Standing inside the theater and seeing the painted audience surrounding the room is a completely different experience.

We were so glad we had the opportunity to tour the Amargosa Opera House and walk inside the theater. Let us give you some additional background so you know what to expect if you make the trip to this location.

Arriving at Death Valley Junction

If you’ve never been to Death Valley Junction, don’t set high expectations. There is nothing here of note other than the Amargosa Opera House & Hotel. It’s a desolate place indeed – a strange and unexpected location for a theater.

You can’t miss the hotel as the white adobe structure pops up on your left as you drive north on California State Route 127 from Baker. If you love roadside stops, this place beckons at the very least as a curiosity.

Stepping outside of the car, we immediately felt a sense of remoteness. The place almost feels like a ghost town. The hotel has peeling paint, and you get the sense it was once something much more than it is today. On our first drive past the hotel, we even wondered if it was still operational, as there were no cars in the parking lot. There is plenty of open space and a parking lot where you can stop, get out, and explore.

If you’re interested in ghost towns, be sure to check out nearby Rhyolite Ghost Town in Nevada.

Touring The Opera House Interior

Our tour began in the hotel lobby, and on this day, Julie and I were the only tour participants. While our guide was not the warmest and fuzziest person, she was knowledgeable and answered just about every question we asked during our tour. Our guide offered a brief history of Marta Becket’s decision to acquire the property and her subsequent work at Death Valley Junction as both a property owner and a creative artist. The highlight for sure was being able to step inside the legendary Opera House.

I felt a particular joy when the doors of the theater were opened to us. We’ve seen the interior space before in our reading and on YouTube videos. Still, there is always that indescribable feeling when stepping into a space you’ve anticipated for years. Such was the case today. My personal background includes playing piano for musical theater groups since the age of 16, as well as being a staff accompanist for ballet studios in my young adult years – so that alone gave me a sense of kinship with the spirit of this space. We stepped into the dark, dusty theater and soaked up the atmosphere for the brief time available to us.

If you just happen to be driving by, odds are the doors will be locked, and you won’t even be able to peek through a window to see what is inside. We felt lucky to tour the interior of this historic theater. Accompanied by a docent, we were able to view the magnificently painted walls and learn about the performance history inside this space. Even today, there are occasional performances at this theater, but sadly, they are very infrequent. So, your best way to experience the space is to book a tour.

Marta’s most stunning accomplishment was painting an entire audience on the walls and ceiling of the theater. Working tirelessly with her brushes and an extraordinary imagination, she created a permanent crowd of elegant patrons who would never miss a show, never leave early, and never fail to appreciate her performances. We were moved by the dedication and beauty of the space that Marta created.

Marta spent six years painting these amazing murals. We were told this comprised four years working on the whimsical, life-size audience figures painted on the walls. This was supplemented with another two years to paint the cherubs and blue sky on the ceiling. The painting project was completed in 1974.

These aren’t simple decorative paintings—they’re intricate, detailed portraits that seem to watch performances with genuine interest. The painted audience includes Spanish nobles, Victorian ladies, Renaissance courtiers, nuns, and characters from all walks of life. Each figure has its own personality and story, creating an atmosphere where reality and art merge seamlessly.

While the paint in many areas of the adjacent hotel is cracked, peeling, and shows signs of age, the theater space is well-preserved. We are hopeful, given the history of this theater, that future generations will see its value and continue to preserve it for the enjoyment of desert visitors who will appreciate a touch of culture in the middle of nowhere.

We heard stories that even on days when nobody was in attendance, Marta Becket would still perform on the stage. On such days, the figures she painted on the walls were her audience. She created her own inspiration for an audience, extending her artistry beyond the stage into the murals of an ever-present audience. Today, the space was silent except for our tour guide’s voice. Standing amid decades-old chairs and taking in the musty smell of an old theater, we imagined Marta performing in front of her murals on a day without visitors.

Looking up at the painted ceiling, we had momentary flashbacks to our time touring the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican. Here, the ceiling features elaborate Renaissance-style frescoes that rival those found in European palaces.

Underneath, the walls showcase Marta’s incredible attention to detail and artistic skill. We heard that she was inspired to mimic a full house sitting inside Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre. Even though they are just painted faces, they completely surround the space and almost serve as a time-travel transport to London, England.

Every surface tells a story, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

A very special place inside the theater was Marta’s chair. Although she retired from performing in 2012, she continued to be present in the theater – often in the front row, even if arriving in a motorized wheelchair.

When Marta performed—which she did regularly, whether paying customers were present or not—she danced and sang for both her painted patrons and any living audience members who had made the desert pilgrimage to witness her art.

Standing in this space, we could close our eyes and see Marta dancing on the stage. We could imagine her creating a personal ballet performance and turning a moment of joy for anyone who stepped through the doors of this magical space. What a special moment it would have been for anyone lucky enough to personally witness this cultural history at Death Valley Junction during her performing years.

We visited on a relatively cool Spring morning, making it comfortable inside the theater. Our tour lasted just under one hour.

Touring the Historic Hotel

The theater space is indeed the highlight of a tour at the Amargosa Opera House. You also get a bit of history and a walk through some of the hotel’s corridors. Throughout the hotel, you’ll see memorabilia connected to the legacy of Marta Becket. Numerous newspaper articles, displayed behind glass, convey the historic contribution of the desert’s ballerina. You’ll see her book “To Dance on Sands“, concert announcements, and many photos, all of which pay homage to the lady who was the steward of this lonesome spot in the desert.

The hotel itself shows its age. Given its remote location and, we suspect, limited visitation, the hotel has likely seen better days. It definitely has a vintage atmosphere and presents quirky details.

Amarogsa Opera House History

The Hotel and Opera House is managed by a non-profit organization established to preserve the property. The historic property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A similar distinction was also awarded to Death Valley Junction.

Planning Your Visit: Tours and Reservations

The Amargosa Opera House welcomes visitors through guided tours that offer intimate access to this remarkable artistic achievement. Due to the venue’s remote location and limited capacity, advance reservations are strongly recommended to ensure you don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tours offer comprehensive insights into Marta Becket’s remarkable journey, the creation of her painted audience, and the ongoing preservation efforts that sustain this cultural treasure. Knowledgeable guides share stories about Marta’s daily life in the desert, her artistic process, and the challenges of maintaining such an isolated cultural venue.

The experience goes beyond simply viewing the painted walls. Visitors learn about the technical aspects of Marta’s work, the years of dedication required to bring her dreams to life, and the broader cultural significance of her achievement within the context of American folk art.

While you can see photos of the Opera House online and in books, the true magic of the Opera House can only be fully appreciated in person, where the scale, detail, and emotional impact of Marta’s work become truly apparent.

Tour schedules may vary seasonally, and the remote location means weather conditions can occasionally affect accessibility. Checking current availability for the Amargosa Opera House Tour, as well as road conditions, before your visit to ensure the best possible experience.

Beyond the Theater: The Marta Becket Museum

Directly across the street from the Opera House stands another building that houses an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia related to Marta Becket’s life and artistic legacy. This informal museum offers visitors additional context and a deeper appreciation for her remarkable story.

While not always open for interior tours, the building’s exterior displays and windows offer glimpses of Marta’s personal belongings, artistic materials, costumes from her performances, and historical photographs documenting the transformation of Death Valley Junction from a ghost town to a cultural destination.

We walked around the building’s perimeter to view these displays, which include everything from Marta’s painting supplies to performance programs from her shows. It takes just a few minutes to walk the perimeter of the building and glance at the items displayed through the windows. The collection helps illustrate the daily reality of her desert life and the practical aspects of maintaining both her artistic practice and the Opera House facility.

This additional stop enriches the overall Amargosa experience by providing context that makes Marta’s achievement even more impressive. Seeing her modest living conditions alongside her grand artistic vision creates a powerful contrast that speaks to the strength of human creativity and unwavering dedication.

The museum building also serves as a reminder that Marta’s legacy extends far beyond the painted walls of the Opera House itself—she created an entire cultural ecosystem in one of America’s most challenging environments.

For a fuller experience, we recommend contacting the hotel in advance to inquire whether it is possible to visit this museum during your planned visit.

Quick Facts About Visiting the Amargosa Opera House

• Location: Death Valley Junction, California
• Distance From Furnace Creek: Approximately 30 miles
• Guided Tours: Available
• Tour Length: Approximately 40 minutes
• Reservations Needed: No, although we recommend advising the staff of the day you intend to visit
• Restroom Availability: Yes
• Lodging: Available at the Amargosa Opera House Hotel (At the time of our post, the lodging has a 7.4 rating on Expedia). Check out other nearby lodging options in our article titled Where to Stay in Death Valley
• Best Season to Visit: We prefer winter. Read our post about the Best Time to Visit Death Valley for more information
• Cell Service: Limited to nonexistent
• Services: Limited (no restaurants, gas stations, or other commercial facilities)
• Pack water and snacks
• Fuel: Be sure to have adequate fuel before driving into Death Valley Junction
• Clothing: weather can be extreme in summer and winter – dress accordingly

If you find yourself in this part of California and are interested in Death Valley Junction attractions, just know that the Amargosa Opera House is it. So if you’re driving through the area, by all means, stop the car and explore this fascinating piece of desert history.

While the journey to reach the Amargosa Opera House requires some planning, the reward is an experience unlike anything else in American cultural tourism. This isn’t a quick roadside stop—it’s a pilgrimage to witness the incredible story of Marta Becket.

Map for Amargosa Opera House via Google Maps

Why Visit the Amargosa Opera House

The Amargosa Opera House represents more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a testament to the transformative power of art and the human spirit’s ability to create beauty in the most unlikely places. Marta Becket’s story resonates with anyone who has ever felt called to pursue a dream despite seemingly impossible circumstances.

For travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Opera House delivers something genuinely unique. This isn’t a manufactured tourist destination or a sanitized historical recreation—it’s a real place where an extraordinary woman lived her dream with unwavering commitment for four decades.

The painted audience that adorns the walls serves as both an artistic masterpiece and a philosophical statement about the nature of performance, creativity, and dedication to craft. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or simply someone who appreciates remarkable human stories, the Opera House offers profound inspiration.

Visiting the Amargosa Opera House also provides perspective on what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. In our interconnected world of instant communication and constant connectivity, Marta’s choice to pursue her art in complete isolation feels both radical and deeply meaningful.

Tips For Visiting the Amargosa Opera House

• Make a reservation for your tour through the hotel in advance of your visit
• Bring water – there are no stores in Death Valley Junction
• Fuel up beforehand – there is no gas station in Death Valley Junction
• Visit in fall, winter, or early spring
• Pair your visit here with a Death Valley itinerary
• Add more nearby attractions with a visit to Rhyolite or Beatty
• Be aware of limited cell service in Death Valley Junction

Who Should Stay at the Amargosa Opera House Hotel?

For transparency, we have never stayed at the Amargosa Opera House Hotel. During our visits to Death Valley and surrounding areas, we have opted to stay either at the Longstreet Hotel Casino & RV Resort when traveling in our Airstream or in the park proper at The Ranch at Death Valley.

It is worth considering when visiting the area and has ratings ranging from 4.1 on Google to 3.4 on TripAdvisor. As the property sits in a very remote location, you likely won’t be bothered by the sound of endless traffic from the main road during the evening.

If you fall into one of the following categories, a stay at this property might just be an ideal choice:

• Photographers
• Artists
• History lovers
• Unusual roadside attraction fans
• Ghost town enthusiasts
• Slow travelers

You might look for other options, however, if you fall into one of these categories:

• Luxury travelers
• Travelers sensitive to old buildings
• Visitors wanting commercial attractions
• People uncomfortable with remote locations

Check Rates & Availability at the Amargosa Opera House Hotel

Travelers who prefer more modern lodging amenities may want to compare accommodations in Beatty, Pahrump, or Furnace Creek before booking. If you’re interested in visiting the area, read our companion article about places to stay near Death Valley National Park.

The Amargosa Opera House is not a polished tourist attraction — and that is precisely what makes it memorable. For travelers who appreciate unusual history, artistic passion, and hidden desert experiences, the guided tour offers one of the most fascinating stops near Death Valley.

What To Bring When Visiting the Amargosa Opera House

Be prepared for your visit to the historic Amargosa Opera House in Death Valley Junction. Because of its remote location, you’ll want to consider the following items:

• Hydration pack
• Death Valley guidebook
• Layered clothing
• Plenty of water
• Food & Snacks
• Camera
• Sunscreen

Check out our complete guide – Death Valley Packing List – Don’t Leave Home Without These Items.

06/03/2026 02:38 am GMT

Listen to Our Podcast Episode

Episode 39 of The Places Where We Go Podcast includes our discussion about visiting the Amargosa Opera House. Plus, we discuss stops at Area 51 Alien Travel Center, Rhyolite Ghost Town, Tom Kelly Bottle House, Goldwell Open Air Museum, and the Longstreet Inn Casino and RV Park.

Was the Amargosa Opera House Tour Worth It?

So, is the Amargosa Opera House worth visiting? We say, yes!

Although we enjoyed walking the grounds during our first visit, the guided tour transformed our understanding of the Amargosa Opera House. Learning about Death Valley Junction’s history, Marta Becket’s life, and the creation of the murals provided context that would have been impossible to gain from simply viewing the property from the outside. Marta Becket’s painted theater stands as proof that extraordinary beauty can emerge from the most unlikely circumstances when guided by unwavering dedication.

Plan your visit with advance reservations, prepare for desert conditions, and approach this experience with the reverence it deserves. The Amargosa Opera House isn’t just a stop on a Death Valley itinerary—it’s a profound encounter with American folk art at its most pure and powerful.

We’re glad we had the chance to visit the Amargosa Opera House several times. Stepping inside the magnificent theater on our last visit was a highlight of our trip. Next on our bucket list is to attend a performance at the Amargosa Opera House.

Thanks for stopping by to read this article about visiting the Amargosa Opera House.
Art & Julie

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