The Shops on El Paseo is Palm Desert’s premier shopping destination. Known as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert” it stretches about a mile long and has over 300 stores and restaurants. There are several other shopping locations throughout the desert area including The River at Rancho Mirage, The College of the Desert Street Fair, and the Palm Desert Town Center to name a few.
The desert is also home to over 100 public, private and executive golf courses (many of which are PGA Tour quality) to meet every golfer’s desire. The Indian Wells Golf Resort has multiple courses to choose from. The Classic Course is a popular 18 hole, 6,478-yard course, with a par 72 and has a slope rating of 127, complete with lessons, dining and locker rooms to make for an all day event!
For the nature and animal lovers, The Living Desert is a local zoo and garden attraction fun for people of all ages. Located just 15 minutes outside of Palm Springs, the Living Desert is a fully functioning zoo featuringanimals and plant life from North American and African deserts. It is open year round with extended hours during the winter months.
The Desert also offers a mix of outdoor and sporting activities. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a popular attraction where you can watch professional matches as well as play on your own court. With recent expansions, the Garden now has two stadiums, 18 tennis courts and two restaurants. It is the second biggest tennis-specific stadium in the world and is home to the Indian Wells Masters, has served as a venue for several different musical artists and was the location for the first NBA outdoor game in over three decades. If you are more interested in quieter more peaceful activities, there are several scenic and challenging hiking trails for the independent active explorer around and just outside the desert cities as well, including the famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
These are just a few of the local attractions the Desert has to offer. There are various museums and performing arts centers, spas and resorts, and casinos to keep you busy all winter or even all year long. Aside from all the exciting activities, the desert can also provide a quiet, peaceful, relaxing and welcoming atmosphere for vacationers and winter residents. Palm Springs and surrounding cities offer more than a few beautiful housing options in safe neighborhoods and gated communities, ideal for vacation and second homebuyers.
Written By: Cari Gagner
