Things to Do in Palm Desert

Palm Desert, nestled in the Coachella Valley of Southern California, is a destination known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning desert landscape, and an array of activities that cater to residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re considering relocating to this beautiful desert city or planning a visit, there are many things to do in Palm Desert that highlight the area’s unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and recreation. Let’s explore the experiences that make this vibrant oasis an ideal place for luxury living.

For golf enthusiasts, Palm Desert is nothing short of a paradise. With more than 30 premier golf courses in the surrounding area, the city offers an unmatched golfing experience for both amateurs and professionals. The stunning desert landscape creates a unique and visually striking backdrop for some of the country’s finest courses.

One of the standout golf destinations is the Desert Willow Golf Resort, which features two championship courses: Firecliff and Mountain View. These courses are known for their challenging layouts, breathtaking scenery, and exceptional conditions. The Firecliff course, in particular, is designed to test even the most skilled golfers, with strategic bunkers and water features that demand precision.

Another must-visit course is the Classic Club, which was once a host site for the PGA Tour. Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, this course offers a demanding yet rewarding experience, with rolling fairways and stunning water hazards. After a round of golf, players can unwind at the luxurious clubhouse, complete with top-tier dining and spa facilities.

For a more relaxed experience, the Shadow Mountain Golf Club provides a scenic, player-friendly course that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned golfers. The charm of this course lies in its intimate setting, where players can enjoy their game against the serene backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains.

Palm Desert is not only a hub for luxury and recreation but also a gateway to nature. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is one of the city’s top attractions, offering visitors the chance to explore the unique flora and fauna of desert ecosystems from around the world. Spanning over 1,200 acres, the zoo features species from the Sonoran Desert and African desert regions, creating an immersive experience for all ages.

Visitors can expect interactive exhibits, such as giraffe feeding sessions and up-close encounters with desert reptiles. The zoo’s dedication to conservation and education makes it an enriching stop for both residents and visitors. Beyond the wildlife, the botanical gardens within the zoo showcase an impressive variety of desert plants, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers.

This is the perfect family-friendly activity, offering educational programs, walking trails, and even the opportunity to participate in nature hikes through the desert landscape. For those looking to delve deeper into the region's natural beauty, the Eisenhower Mountain Trail within the Living Desert Reserve offers a more rugged hiking experience with breathtaking panoramic views.

Known as the "Rodeo Drive of the Desert," El Paseo Shopping District is Palm Desert's premier luxury shopping destination. This mile-long boulevard is lined with high-end boutiques, designer stores, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy a refined shopping experience.

Shoppers will find flagship stores from internationally recognized brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Saks Fifth Avenue. For art enthusiasts, the galleries along El Paseo offer a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art from both local and global artists, providing a rich cultural experience to accompany the shopping.

Beyond the retail experience, El Paseo is also a culinary hotspot. Fine dining establishments such as Mastro’s Steakhouse offer exquisite meals in an elegant setting, while local favorites like Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar provide a more casual, yet still upscale, dining experience. Seasonal events like the Fashion Week El Paseo and El Paseo Art Walk draw a crowd, making this district a lively center of activity throughout the year.

Palm Desert’s natural beauty is best experienced through its many outdoor activities. The city's desert landscape is home to numerous hiking and biking trails, offering residents and visitors a chance to connect with the breathtaking surroundings.

For a moderate hike with incredible valley views, the Bump and Grind Trail is a local favorite. This trail is popular for its accessibility and the sweeping vistas it offers of the Coachella Valley. Hikers can enjoy the desert’s unique plant life along the way, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a scenic workout.

The Palm Desert Cross Trail is another option for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. This short yet rewarding trail leads to a prominent hilltop cross, offering panoramic views of Palm Desert and the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts, particularly at sunrise or sunset.

More adventurous hikers might opt for the Eisenhower Mountain Trail, which takes you through rugged desert terrain, offering both solitude and the chance to encounter native wildlife. Whether you’re seeking a quick escape into nature or a more challenging outdoor adventure, Palm Desert’s trails provide an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors year-round.

For those seeking cultural enrichment, the McCallum Theatre is Palm Desert’s premier venue for performing arts. This state-of-the-art theater hosts a wide variety of performances, from Broadway-style productions to classical concerts, comedy shows, and dance performances.

With a reputation for attracting world-class talent, the McCallum Theatre offers something for everyone. Upcoming events range from touring Broadway shows like Hamilton to classical performances by renowned orchestras. The theater's intimate setting and excellent acoustics make it a beloved cultural institution within the community.

Residents of Palm Desert enjoy having such a high-caliber theater right in their backyard, making it easy to indulge in world-class entertainment without leaving the desert.

One of the many advantages of living in Palm Desert is its proximity to Joshua Tree National Park, a short drive away. Known for its otherworldly landscapes and iconic Joshua Trees, this national park is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Joshua Tree offers a serene environment for stargazing, picnicking, and exploring the unique rock formations that define the park’s landscape. The park’s vast open spaces and clear desert skies also make it a prime spot for camping, especially during the cooler months.

Palm Desert’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse and cosmopolitan residents. Whether you're in the mood for a gourmet meal or a more casual dining experience, the city has something to offer.

Fine dining options such as Cork Tree serve farm-to-table dishes that celebrate the flavors of the region, with seasonal ingredients carefully crafted into gourmet plates. For those looking for a more relaxed setting, Wilma & Frieda’s Café is a local favorite, known for its hearty breakfast offerings and comfort food with a twist.

No matter your palate, Palm Desert's culinary landscape caters to both refined tastes and casual dining, ensuring that every meal is a memorable one.

From world-class golf courses and luxury shopping to hiking trails and cultural landmarks, Palm Desert offers a lifestyle that is both luxurious and laid-back. Whether you’re drawn to its outdoor adventures or its fine dining and shopping, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re considering making Palm Desert your home, Team Armstrong is here to help. With their expertise in the local real estate market, they can guide you through the process of finding the perfect property to match your lifestyle.

Contact Team Armstrong today to begin your journey toward luxurious desert living in Palm Desert.