Palm Desert CA is a beautiful city with an array of things to do and see. This charming oasis offers top-notch dining, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant arts & culture scene.
Residents elect five members of the non-partisan city council. The council appoints a city manager and other officials.
Enjoy the outdoors
Palm Desert offers a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you are an avid hiker or just want to escape the busy streets and take in the beautiful views, there are plenty of hiking trails in the area.
The popular Bump and Grind trail offers a challenging circle climb that is one of the most popular trails among locals. San Andres faultline and other scenic trails are must-sees.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens (formerly the Living Desert Museum) is a wonderful place to learn about desert animals and their habitats. There is also a botanical park with many cacti, and desert biome plants. It is a fun and educational experience for families and kids.
Shop Local
As the region’s established center for education, shopping and arts, Palm Desert has something to suit everyone. Browse chic boutiques, including Just Fabulous, whose owner curates a collection of gifts that’s “oh-so Palm Springs!”
Maison Felice is a great place to find antiques and home decor from the past. The selection changes regularly.
Westfield Palm Desert is a two-story shopping center bursting with fashion. You’ll also find designer boutiques as well as independently owned labels. Enjoy a signature drink at a cafe nearby when you are ready to take a break.
Eat Out
Palm Desert is home to a diverse group of restaurants that offer cuisines for every taste. Whether you’re looking to dress up for a fine-dining experience, embark on a create-your-own culinary tour of authentic ethnic foods, or simply enjoy a fresh burger and fries, there’s something for everyone in the Coachella Valley.
The upscale El Paseo Shopping District features public art pieces and a wide array of shops and restaurants. Choose from a variety of fine dining options or try a classic American restaurant like Islands Restaurant.
Visit Ristorante Mamma Gina for a traditional Italian meal. This restaurant is run by a mother and daughter duo with roots in Florence, Italy. Guests rave about their top-notch service and ambiance as well as the authentic dishes that are served.
Take a Hike
Palm Desert CA is a great place for outdoor adventurers. There are many scenic hiking trails in the city that provide a glimpse of the desert landscape. Some trails are closed in the summer due to high temperatures. However, hikers can still enjoy many of them if they get an early start and plan to stop frequently to stay hydrated.
A popular trail that is well worth the trek is the Murray Peak Trail. This steep, rocky trail will make your heart race and offer spectacular views. You can even time your trip around sunset for a gorgeous view of the mountains. Be sure to bring plenty of water and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking in the desert. These include packing up trash in advance, hiking only on solid surfaces and not removing plants or wildlife.
Explore
Palm Desert is home to a wide array of cultural experiences that make the region a destination for locals and travelers alike. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens highlights desert animals, while the McCallum Theatre hosts a range of events from spoken word performances to Broadway shows.
The area offers lip smacking food options from global inspired cuisine to locally grown craft brews. Open-air jeep tours offer a unique view of the San Andres Fault.
Shoppers can find carefully curated local boutiques, luxury shops and top-notch galleries. The upscale El Paseo Shopping District is Palm Desert’s answer to Beverley Hills Rodeo Drive. Westfield Palm Desert is a nearby shopping mall that features a wide selection of clothing, food and anchor stores like Macy’s or JC Penney.