Curator’s statement
I was born and raised in Palm Desert, making it a significant part of who I am. The town is steeped in familial history, as three generations of my family have also grown up there. The entire Coachella Valley is a place of unparalleled beauty and history, offering a unique mix of natural splendor and cultural richness. Additionally, Palm Desert is a fantastic vacation spot, offering a chic and classy ambiance that is perfect for relaxation, while also offering opportunities for adventure.
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Where to stay in Palm Desert
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Things to do in Palm Desert
Hikes:
Cross Hike - Moderate hike in Palm Desert, about 2.2 miles round trip, you will reach a cross at the top. Make sure to bring plenty of water and dress for hot temperatures.
Tahquitz Canyon - Easy hike in Palm Desert. Home of the Cahuilla Indians-$15 entrance fee for adults and $7 for kids — open from 7:00 am-5:00 pm (can’t enter after 3:30 pm). Breathtaking waterfalls & areas to swim, so be sure to bring your swim suite.
Shopping:
El Paseo - High-end shopping, the Rodeo drive of Palm Desert.
Palm Springs Strip - Fun outdoor shopping. Many different shops to check out.
Cabazon Outlets — Over 100 outlet stores, wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some great deals.
Spas:
Miracle Springs Resort & Spa (hot springs)
La Quinta Resort & Club
Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Agua Caliente Resort & Spa (hot springs)
Other:
Living Desert - Must feed the Giraffes!
Shield’s Date Garden - Stop here for a date shake. Lots of history-the original date shake shack.
Quick Day Trips:
Joshua Tree National Park - 45 min
Idyllwild - 1-hour, small, cute little mountain town.
Salvation Mountain - 1.5 hours, a hillside visionary environment created by local resident Leonard Knight in the middle of the desert.
San Diego or LA - Approximately 2 hours.
Places to eat & drink in Palm Desert
Breakfast/ Brunch:
Norma's @ The Parker Palm Springs Hotel — This hotel has a lot of history-it has been around for years. Celebrities frequent this hotel often and everything is very picturesque, from the art on the walls to the food on your plate.
Wilma & Frieda's on El Paseo in Palm Desert - Delicious brunch! Must try the blackberry custard French toast!
Keedy's Fountain & Grill in Palm Desert — Staple to Palm Desert, this diner has been around for many years. If you aren't looking for anything fancy, this is your place. Fills up fast. Be sure to get there early.
IW Coffee - Newer coffee shop, my new go-to when visiting my family back home. They have many fun flavors and pink cups! My go-to is the Almond Joy late 1/2 sweet.
Lunch:
Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar Palm Springs -After a day of shopping, this is your place, grab a cocktail and some fish tacos while you people-watch in the sunshine.
Casuelas Cafe Palm Desert — A true classic to the desert. They have a few locations. This one is my favorite. Live music on the weekends, great food and margaritas.
Armando's Dakota Bar & Grill — Great Mexican food and the strongest margarita you have ever had. They limit two per person.
Dinner:
Jillian's - Classy steak, chops and seafood restaurant with the most adorable little patio.
Ruth's Chris Steak House — Though a chain and not specific to Palm Desert, this is still one of my favorite places to eat. Great steaks, great service and the general manager, Darrell, is awesome!
The Nest Palm Desert - Live music, great food and a lot of fun!
La Quinta Cliff House - Wonderful happy hour on the patio!
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Travel Advisor
Chelsea Rogers
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Palm Springs. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Adrienne Griffin's guide, Girls Trip to Palm Springs.