Thanksgiving is right around the corner making now the perfect time to elevate your holiday traditions and plan a well-deserved trip to California. Let the following guide be your starting point to creating a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving in Palm Desert & Indio stay you’re sure to remember for years to come!
Thanksgiving Dinner at Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert
A trip to Palm Desert, California is always exciting but for those who find themselves here over Thanksgiving, there’s a good chance you’ll be looking for a mouthwatering stop so you can include that traditional Thanksgiving feast on your itinerary. When your holiday appetite is calling, be sure to head over to Desert Willow Golf Resort where they’ll be hosting their annual Thanksgiving meal once again in 2023.
Desert Willow Golf Resort is located at 38-995 Desert Willow Drive and offers guests access to two beautifully landscaped public golf courses complete with stunning water features and an inviting event space. Over Thanksgiving, it’s their lake-view dining area that’s bound to thrill. The Thanksgiving buffet will be held on November 23, 2023, and is a family-friendly event that promises to be as savory as it is fun!
Seating is available every 30 minutes this day between noon and 4:00 pm giving guests plenty of time to pick and choose their ideal dining situation. The menu is certainly made to inspire and will include options ranging from seafood, soups, and salads to seasonal fruit, international cheese boards, roasted beets, deviled eggs, green bean salads, roasted wild mushrooms, and tuna saku toast on charcoal bread too.
At the carving station, guests will enjoy Denver cut ribeye and roasted turkey breast topped with gravy and rich cranberry sauce. When you go through the buffet for your second round, you won’t want to miss out on the pan-seared salmon with artichoke relish, stuffing, maple-glazed yams, or cider-braised Brussels sprouts. Top it all off on a sweet note by swinging by the dessert station where you’ll find chocolate cake, cheesecake, mousse cups, fresh baked pies, and crepes too.
Every guest will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne, coffee, hot tea, iced tea, or juice upon request. To enjoy the Thanksgiving Dinner at Desert Willow Golf Resort, be sure to book your place for $69.99 per adult and $29.99 for children 6 to 12. Those 5 and under can dine at no cost.
Hike Through Scenic Indian Canyons
The beauty of a Thanksgiving getaway to Palm Desert and Indio is that November comes with gorgeous weather for guests to enjoy. That means you can work off your amazing Thanksgiving meal with a scenic hike through Indian Canyons while you’re in town! When you head this way with your hiking boots laced up, you’ll have options to pick and choose from three canyons including the Murray Canyon, the Palm Canyon, or the Andreas Canyon. No matter which routes you choose to conquer, you’ll be treated to amazing Coachella Valley views and opportunities to spot wildlife too. If you happen to be someone with a passion for landscape photography, the trails through Indian Canyons are captivating on camera.
Take a Trip Up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
When you’re looking for a new view and perspective this Thanksgiving, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take a ride up the nearby Palm Springs Aerial Tramway alongside family and friends. This easy-to-access tramway is one-of-a-kind and there are often special discounts on tickets around Thanksgiving time. In just 15 minutes, this tramway takes you to a gorgeous summit, but along the way, you’ll have access to panoramic views that are breathtakingly beautiful. There are restaurants and mountain trails to explore at the top, but for many travelers, the ride itself is one to remember over the holidays.
Check Out the Thanksgiving Turkey Egg Hunt in Indio
If you’re in Indio a few days before Thanksgiving with the little ones in tow, you’ll be right on time to enjoy participating in the Thanksgiving Turkey Egg Hunt this year! Hosted November 18th at 9:00 am, this Turkey Egg Hunt happens at Indio Community Center Park and is ideal for kids who are looking for something unique to enjoy during their Thanksgiving away. The event is designed for participants ages 4 to 12 and will run through noon. The idea of the gathering is that a Thanksgiving turkey has hidden eggs throughout the park and kids are invited to come and hunt for them in holiday style. In addition to the turkey egg hunt, kids can participate in on-site games, crafts, and activities too. Be sure to pre-register to make sure your little ones have a place in the fun!
Participate in a Fun Run
Martha’s Village & Kitchen will be hosting its 17th annual Thanksgiving Day 5K in 2023 on Thursday, November 23 in Palm Desert. Taking part in this event is a chance to enjoy a fun run for a cause as proceeds will go to helping feed the homeless across the Coachella Valley and Riverside County through the upcoming year. The race is mapped out to travel along El Paseo and registration is $45 for adults and $35 for those 7 and under.
Book Your Stay Today
When a California adventure is calling, TRAVLR is here to make sure you have amazing vacation rental accommodation to match. Reach out today to learn more about our options including our Thanksgiving rentals that are sure to inspire!