Palm Desert CA has a lot to offer. There are many things to see and do. 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. Other scenic trails like the San Andres fault line are a must-see.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, formerly the Living Desert Museum, is a great place to see desert animals and learn about their habitats. The park also features a botanical garden with lots of cacti and other desert biome plants. This is an educational and fun experience for kids and families.

Shop Local

Palm Desert is the established center of education, arts and shopping in the region. It has something for 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. When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a signature cocktail at a nearby cafe.

Eat Out

Palm Desert is home to a diverse group of restaurants that offer cuisines for every taste. Coachella Valley has something to offer everyone, whether you want to enjoy fine dining, embark on an authentic ethnic food tour, or just eat a burger with fries.

El Paseo Shopping District is a upscale shopping district with public art and many 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. The authentic Italian dishes and the top-notch service are praised by guests.

Take a Hike

Palm Desert CA offers a lot of outdoor adventures. 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.

Murray Peak Trail is a popular trail and well worth the trip. This steep, rocky hike will get your heart racing and offers spectacular views. You can even time your trip around sunset for a gorgeous view of the mountains. Bring plenty of water with you and adhere to the Leave No Trace principle when hiking in deserts. These include packing up trash in advance, hiking only on solid surfaces and not removing plants or wildlife.

Explore the World with Us

Palm Desert is home to a wide array of cultural experiences that make the region a destination for locals and travelers alike. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens features desert animals while McCallum Theatre offers a variety of events, from spoken word to Broadway.

The area offers lip smacking food options from global inspired cuisine to locally grown craft brews. Explore the San Andres Fault on an open air jeep tour for a unique perspective of this natural phenomenon.

You’ll find carefully selected local boutiques as well as luxury shops and galleries of the highest quality. The upscale El Paseo Shopping District is Palm Desert’s answer to Beverley Hills Rodeo Drive. The nearby Westfield Palm Desert mall features a large selection of clothing and food stores including familiar anchors like Macy’s and JC Penney.