There’s no better way to welcome the new year than under the sunny skies of Palm Desert and Indio. Known for stunning desert landscapes, mild winter temperatures, and a vibrant calendar of events, these Southern California towns are the place to kick off the year in style. Here’s everything you need to plan a memorable California New Year’s getaway to Palm Desert and Indio!
Festive Shopping and Celebrations on El Paseo
As the holiday season rolls into New Year’s, Palm Desert and Indio sparkle with seasonal festivities. A must-visit during this time is the El Paseo Shopping District in Palm Desert. This popular destination offers twinkling lights, luxury boutiques, art galleries, and outdoor dining that creates a celebratory vibe perfect for a holiday stroll.
If you’re looking for a last-minute gift or a special treat for yourself, the boutiques and galleries here offer everything from designer items to one-of-a-kind art pieces. Stop at one of the heated patio cafes to relax and sip something tasty while you people watch.
Explore the Great Outdoors in the Winter Desert
The natural beauty of Palm Desert and Indio is at its most stunning during the winter months, making this season ideal for exploring the area’s scenic landscapes. Just a short drive from town, Joshua Tree National Park offers a magical setting for New Year’s, with its iconic rock formations and unique desert flora. Hiking in Joshua Tree in the cooler temperatures is an unforgettable experience, with trails suited to every level of explorer.
For outdoor enthusiasts looking to stay close to Palm Desert, the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains provide beautiful hiking options with trails that wind through scenic desert terrain. Winter is a perfect time for hiking here, with clear skies and cool temperatures that make longer hikes enjoyable. Alternatively, you can take a scenic drive through the hills or head to the Coachella Valley Preserve to explore quieter trails and look for local wildlife.
Dining and Entertainment for New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve in Palm Desert and Indio offers a wide range of dining and entertainment options, from upscale dinners to lively celebrations. Many local restaurants put on special New Year’s Eve dinners featuring elegant multi-course meals, cocktails, and entertainment.
For those who want to keep the party going, Agua Caliente Casino in nearby Rancho Mirage often hosts New Year’s Eve celebrations that include live music, entertainment, and plenty of chances to win big before midnight. Alternatively, smaller bars and breweries throughout Palm Desert and Indio create a cozier atmosphere for an intimate New Year’s toast. With outdoor seating and heaters, you can celebrate the evening comfortably.
Celebrate at Your Vacation Rental
For a truly special New Year’s Eve, nothing beats celebrating at a vacation rental where you can make your holiday your own. Our vacation rentals in Palm Desert and Indio are designed with all the amenities you could want, giving you the freedom to enjoy the evening on your own terms.
With a gourmet kitchen, you can prepare a celebratory dinner or toast with homemade cocktails. Some homes even feature home theaters, so you can have a New Year’s movie marathon in total comfort. Whether you want a quiet night or a full holiday feast, a private vacation home allows you to create a New Year’s Eve experience that’s personal and memorable.
Your Home-Away-From-Home
Finding the perfect place to stay is easy with TRAVLR Vacation Homes, offering top-quality vacation rentals that enhance every moment of your New Year’s getaway. Each TRAVLR property is purposefully crafted with exceptional standards, blending modern technology and luxurious design for an effortless stay.
Equipped with smart home features, our rentals also include premium amenities like private pools, hot tubs, movie theaters, and EV charging outlets, making them the ultimate base for a relaxing yet refined holiday experience. Many homes are located conveniently close to golf courses, hiking trails, and popular attractions, allowing you to explore the best of Palm Desert and Indio with ease.
Book Your New Year’s Getaway Today
Palm Desert and Indio are filled with opportunities to make your New Year’s celebration truly unforgettable, from lively festivities and serene natural beauty to luxurious vacation rentals that feel like a home away from home. Take advantage of the warm desert winter, incredible food, and scenic landscapes as you welcome the new year in style. Book your New Year’s rental with TRAVLR Vacation Homes today!
Taking family holiday photos is a special way to capture memories each season, and Palm Desert and Indio offer stunning backdrops that bring a unique desert charm to your pictures. From beautiful parks to historic spots, these locations provide great settings for your family photos, whether you’re looking for a natural landscape or something with a little more character. Here’s your guide to some of the best family Indio and Palm Desert photography locations that will make your holiday pictures extra memorable.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert is one of the most scenic places in the area. It features an array of native desert plants, beautiful trails, and animal exhibits that bring the desert to life. The gardens are particularly beautiful, providing a variety of backdrops for family photos, from lush, desert flora to rocky landscapes. The cacti and desert flowers create a stunning and unique natural frame for family portraits.
The Living Desert is open year-round and is especially charming during the holiday season when festive decorations add a bit of extra sparkle. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit if you’re hoping for softer, golden-hour lighting that will make your photos shine.
Civic Center Park
Palm Desert’s Civic Center Park is a community favorite and one of the most photogenic spots in the area. With its large green lawns, pretty water features, walking paths, and sculptures, the park provides a versatile environment for family photos. The reflective pond surrounded by palms makes for a beautiful and peaceful background, while the variety of public art installations adds a creative touch to any holiday picture.
During the winter, Civic Center Park is decorated with seasonal lights, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for capturing holiday memories. The open lawns and scenic bridges are ideal for larger group shots, making it a popular choice for family photoshoots. Plus, the park is centrally located, so it’s easy to include in your plans for a full day out in Palm Desert.
Old Town La Quinta
For a charming, old-world feel, Old Town La Quinta is a beautiful option that’s just a short drive from both Palm Desert and Indio. The area is known for its Spanish-style architecture, with white stucco buildings, terracotta rooftops, and colorful tiles that give it a Mediterranean flair. The cobblestone streets and colorful bougainvillea climbing over archways provide the perfect setting for timeless holiday photos.
This quaint area is especially scenic in the late afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow over the buildings. Strolling around Old Town La Quinta also offers plenty of chances for candid shots as you explore boutiques, cafés, and shaded courtyards.
Shields Date Garden
Located in Indio, Shields Date Garden is a historic and unique spot that adds a rustic touch to family holiday photos. Established in the 1920s, this date farm is surrounded by tall date palms, providing a peaceful and beautiful natural setting. The garden also has charming walkways, benches, and other outdoor features that make it easy to capture special moments.
The garden’s café and vintage shop are also fun stops to check out while you’re there, adding a little extra to the experience. It’s a one-of-a-kind location that brings a bit of history and nature into your holiday photos.
Joshua Tree National Park
Though a bit further from Palm Desert and Indio, Joshua Tree National Park is worth the drive for families who want a dramatic desert landscape in their holiday photos. The park is filled with striking rock formations and the iconic Joshua trees, which create a memorable and unique backdrop. The sweeping vistas and clear blue skies give photos a timeless, almost otherworldly look, perfect for families wanting a nature-inspired feel.
Book Your Holiday Stay with TRAVLR Vacation Homes
To complete your holiday experience in Palm Desert or Indio, book your stay with us at TRAVLR Vacation Homes. Each property is designed to offer exceptional quality, equipped with modern smart home technology, stylish furnishings, and amenities that make for a comfortable and luxurious stay. From cozy family-friendly homes to spacious estates, our vacation rentals offer all the comforts of home, combined with the luxury of a resort.
Our rentals provide a personalized service that ensures each guest feels cared for, making them a top choice for holiday travelers looking for a place to stay in the Coachella Valley. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a couples’ retreat, or simply need a quiet place to relax after a day of exploring, we have the perfect home for you.
Plan Your Holiday Getaway in Palm Desert and Indio
With so many beautiful locations to capture family holiday photos, Palm Desert and Indio offer a wonderful mix of natural beauty and unique desert charm. Book your holiday rental with TRAVLR Vacation Homes to enjoy a stylish and comfortable stay!
The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, creating unforgettable memories, and enjoying some festive fun. If you’re planning a Christmas Palm Desert trip or Indio, California, you’ll find plenty of holiday magic sprinkled throughout these sunny desert towns. Whether you’re a fan of twinkling lights, festive parades, or live performances, the holiday season in Palm Desert and Indio has something for everyone.
Palm Springs Holiday Market at VillageFest
For a festive outdoor shopping experience, the Palm Springs Holiday Market at VillageFest is a must-visit. Kicking off on November 28, this lively market transforms Palm Canyon Drive into a holiday wonderland every Thursday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a wide range of local vendors make this market the perfect spot to pick up one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, artisanal foods, or unique holiday décor, VillageFest has something for everyone.
WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo
A visit to WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo is a magical holiday experience for the entire family. This event, held November 26 through December 30, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, features more than a million twinkling lights, a towering 30-foot-tall holiday tree, and festive animal-themed displays. Guests can stroll through the zoo while enjoying seasonal favorites like the Tunnel of Lights, s’mores stations, and even photos with Santa.
The WildLights celebration is a beloved tradition in Palm Desert, and new light displays are added each year to keep things fresh and exciting. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and dazzling lights.
Festival of Lights Parade
A highlight of the holiday season in the area is the Festival of Lights Parade in Palm Springs. This year’s event takes place on December 7 at 5:45 PM along Palm Canyon Drive. The parade is a spectacle of festive floats, Macy’s-style balloons, marching bands, and holiday music that will leave you feeling full of cheer.
Locals and visitors alike line the streets to enjoy this annual tradition, which draws in thousands of spectators. From whimsical floats to holiday-themed costumes, this parade is a true celebration of the season. If you’re visiting in early December, be sure to grab a spot early to get the best view of this magical event.
Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum
If you’re craving a white Christmas, Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum is your answer! From December 19 to 23, you can experience a winter wonderland complete with 40 tons of real snow. Kids will love playing in the snow, making crafts, and sipping hot chocolate while parents can snap photos with Santa Claus and his friends.
Tailwaggers Santa Paws and Mrs. Claws Holiday
Calling all pet owners! The Santa Paws and Mrs. Claws Holiday event, held at Tailwaggers in Palm Springs on December 14 from noon to 5:00 PM, is the perfect opportunity to treat your furry friends to some holiday cheer. Bring your pet along for a festive photo with Santa Paws and Mrs. Claws and browse a selection of tasty holiday treats for your pup.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor with your pet in tow, this event is a fun and unique way to celebrate the holidays with your four-legged family member.
Book Your Holiday Rental with TRAVLR Vacation Homes
After a day filled with holiday festivities, there’s nothing better than returning to a luxurious home where you can unwind and relax. At TRAVLR Vacation Homes, we offer a curated selection of premium holiday rentals designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Each of our properties is outfitted with modern smart home technology and features stylish furnishings, ensuring a first-class stay during your holiday visit.
Whether you’re looking for a rental with a private pool, a hot tub to warm up in after a festive day, or a home theater for movie nights with the family, TRAVLR has the perfect vacation home for you. We also offer homes with casitas, EV outlets, and convenient access to nearby hiking trails and golf courses. With a variety of amenities to choose from, you’ll feel right at home while you enjoy all that Palm Desert and Indio have to offer during the holidays.
Plan Your Magical Holiday Stay
From the twinkling lights of WildLights to the joyful sounds of the Festival of Lights Parade, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this festive season in Palm Desert and Indio. So, why wait? Book your stay with TRAVLR Vacation Homes today and experience the magic of the holiday season in one of Southern California’s most enchanting destinations!
The holidays are a magical time to visit Palm Desert and Indio. With sunny skies, beautiful landscapes, and endless activities, it’s a fantastic place to spend Christmas. One of the most important parts of the holiday is, of course, Christmas dinner. Here’s a guide to planning the perfect Indio and Palm Desert Christmas dinner during your stay.
Cooking at Your Vacation Rental
For those who love the idea of a home-cooked holiday meal, staying in a vacation rental in Palm Desert or Indio is the perfect solution. With fully equipped kitchens available in most vacation homes, including those offered by TRAVLR Vacation Homes, you have all the tools you need to prepare a memorable Christmas feast.
You can visit local grocery stores like Ralphs or Vons to pick up everything you need, from a fresh turkey or ham to side dishes, desserts, and all the trimmings. The stores offer a wide selection of ingredients to help you create your ideal holiday meal, whether you want to stick with traditional dishes or try something new.
Cooking at your vacation rental also gives you the flexibility to cook at your own pace, involve family and friends in the preparation, and enjoy your meal in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re cooking for two or a larger group, the fully equipped kitchens and spacious dining areas in our rentals make it easy to enjoy a cozy, home-cooked Christmas dinner.
Order Takeout from a Local Restaurant
If cooking isn’t in the cards this Christmas, ordering takeout from one of the area’s fantastic restaurants is a great alternative. Many local restaurants offer holiday takeout menus, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Christmas dinner or something a little different, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Mastro’s Steakhouse are excellent choices in Palm Desert for upscale takeout options. You can order a full holiday meal, including prime rib, sides, and desserts, to enjoy back at your vacation home. Takeout allows you to skip the cooking and cleaning while still enjoying a wonderful Christmas meal in the comfort of your vacation rental.
Hire a Private Chef
For a truly luxurious and stress-free Christmas dining experience, consider hiring a private chef to prepare your holiday meal right in your vacation rental. Several private chefs in the Palm Desert and Indio areas offer in-home dining services, allowing you to sit back and relax while they handle all the details.
Private chefs can create a custom menu that suits your tastes, whether you want a traditional Christmas dinner, a seafood feast, or something unique. From selecting fresh, local ingredients to preparing and serving each course, a private chef brings the restaurant experience to you. You won’t have to lift a finger, and you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal in the privacy and comfort of your vacation home.
Dine at a Restaurant
If you prefer dining out for Christmas, there are several excellent restaurants in Palm Desert and Indio that remain open on the holiday and offer special Christmas menus. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or something more casual, the local dining scene has plenty to offer.
For an upscale holiday dinner, The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage offers an elegant dining experience with a holiday menu crafted from seasonal ingredients. Lavender Bistro is another excellent option for a romantic Christmas dinner, with its charming outdoor dining space and festive atmosphere.
Your Home Away from Home
No matter how you plan to enjoy your Christmas dinner, your holiday starts with finding the perfect place to stay. TRAVLR Vacation Homes offers exceptional properties in Palm Desert and Indio, each designed with the highest standards of quality and comfort. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll find everything you need to make your holiday stay special.
Each TRAVLR vacation home is fully equipped with modern smart home technology, beautiful furnishings, and thoughtful amenities like pools, hot tubs, and movie theaters. Whether you’re staying near a golf course, close to hiking trails, or in a home with a casita for extra space, TRAVLR properties are designed to enhance your holiday experience. With homes that feature EV outlets and a range of luxurious amenities, TRAVLR ensures you can relax and enjoy every moment of your Christmas getaway.
Book Your Holiday Getaway
Ready to enjoy a memorable Christmas in Palm Desert or Indio? Whether you’re cooking, ordering takeout, hiring a private chef, or dining out, there are endless options to make your holiday meal special. With TRAVLR Vacation Homes, you’ll have a beautiful, well-equipped space to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
The holiday season is a magical time, and one of the best ways to get into the spirit is by enjoying festive Christmas light displays. In Palm Desert and Indio, you’ll find a variety of incredible light shows and events that will make your holiday trip unforgettable. From drive-through light experiences to local neighborhoods decked out in their holiday best, there’s plenty to see and enjoy. If you plan to visit the area, here’s your guide to the best places to see lights and displays at Christmas in Palm Desert and Indio.
Magic of Lights
One of the most anticipated events of the season is the Magic of Lights, a dazzling drive-through holiday lights experience. This family-friendly event has quickly become a new holiday tradition in Coachella Valley, and for good reason. The Magic of Lights showcases a fantastic array of holiday scenes and beloved characters, brought to life through state-of-the-art LED technology and digital animations.
What makes Magic of Lights particularly special is that you can experience it all from the comfort and safety of your own car. As you wind through the sparkling path, you’ll be immersed in the joy and magic of the holiday season, with a variety of light displays and animations sure to delight visitors of all ages. The convenience of a drive-through format means that you can relax and take in the sights at your own pace, making it the perfect choice for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to celebrate the holidays together.
The Living Desert WildLights
For over three decades, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has been transforming into a breathtaking winter wonderland with its annual WildLights event. Now in its 32nd year, WildLights continues to dazzle guests with more than a million colorful holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for an evening stroll through the zoo.
As you explore the zoo’s pathways, you’ll encounter a wide range of sparkling displays, including animal-themed light sculptures that reflect the zoo’s focus on wildlife conservation. The whimsical light displays, combined with holiday music, hot cocoa, and opportunities to visit with Santa, make WildLights a must-see event during the holiday season.
Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, the beauty of The Living Desert WildLights is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Plus, it’s a great chance to experience the zoo in a completely different way, as the lights bring a magical glow to the desert landscape after dark.
Indian Wells Winterfest
In the heart of Southern California, Indian Wells Winterfest is quickly becoming one of the region’s most extraordinary holiday celebrations. Now celebrating its second year, Winterfest brings residents and visitors together to enjoy the magic of the season with a unique and festive event.
Held at the Indian Wells Golf Resort, Winterfest features an ice-skating rink, live entertainment, food trucks, and plenty of holiday cheer. One of the highlights of Winterfest is the stunning light displays that illuminate the grounds, creating a festive ambiance perfect for an evening out. Whether you’re skating on the rink or taking a stroll through the event, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful lights and holiday decorations, making Winterfest a must-see on your holiday itinerary.
Neighborhood Light Displays
One of the simplest yet most charming ways to experience the holidays in Palm Desert and Indio is by exploring the local neighborhoods to see how residents have decorated their homes. Many communities in the area take great pride in their holiday displays, and a leisurely evening drive or walk through these neighborhoods can reveal some truly spectacular light shows.
Some of the best-decorated neighborhoods are known for going all out with their decorations, featuring everything from twinkling lights and inflatable holiday characters to synchronized light shows set to music. For a relaxed, self-guided tour of holiday lights, grab a warm drink, hop in the car, and cruise through neighborhoods in both Palm Desert and Indio.
Book Your Holiday Rental with TRAVLR Vacation Homes
After a festive day exploring the best Christmas lights and displays, you’ll want a place to relax and recharge in style. When it comes to holiday accommodations, TRAVLR Vacation Homes offers an unparalleled experience. Each of our vacation homes is designed to provide the highest quality and standards, equipped with modern smart home technology and furnished with luxurious style and amenities.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat for two or a spacious home for a group of friends or family, TRAVLR has a property to suit your needs. Many of our vacation homes feature mountain views, pools, hot tubs, and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the beautiful desert landscape. With a wide range of options, you’re sure to find the perfect home to make your holiday getaway truly special.
Experience a Magical Holiday in Palm Desert & Indio
The holiday season is a magical time to visit Palm Desert and Indio, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From the stunning drive-through Magic of Lights to the sparkling wonderland of The Living Desert WildLights, these incredible events will make your holiday trip one to remember. Book your stay with TRAVLR Vacation Homes today and experience a vacation filled with holiday cheer and luxury.
When winter comes around once again, some travelers are inevitably drawn to the ski slopes of places where snowfall is abundant and you can count on temperatures to plummet. Others crave year-round sunshine and access to summer fun opportunities, even in December. If you find that you’re the type of adventurer who falls into the latter category, there’s no better place to find yourself this winter than scenic Palm Desert, California! Year-round, Palm Desert offers up an oasis of adventure for those who find their vacation mind most easily when there’s plenty of sun, sand, and surf involved. During the wintertime, there’s something exceptionally appealing about a place that’s warm, welcoming, and brimming over with sunny views to enjoy. Located in the heart of the greater Palm Springs region, Palm Desert has transitioned seamlessly over time from a sandy cove at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains into a mecca of entertainment, recreation, and upscale shopping too. For those who love to get out and explore the great outdoors, Palm Desert in the winter offers up plenty of space, nature trails, blooming flowers, and mountains to enjoy. For visitors who are excited to shop and dine their way through a stay, Palm Desert provides a luxurious and savory side that’s hard to resist! There’s truly something for everyone who heads this way and when a winter trip is calling your name, consider this your ultimate winter holiday vacation guide to a Palm Desert stay you won’t soon forget.
What You Can Expect Weather-Wise During Your Stay
Feel free to leave that winter park far behind when you’re packing your bags and getting ready to make it a winter journey to Palm Desert, California. Here, the cooler season is considered the timeframe between November 20 and February 27. During this time, the average daily high lingers somewhere around an inviting 76 degrees Fahrenheit. Even in the middle of December, daily highs reach nearly 70 degrees and the lowest it gets in the evening hours is around 50 degrees. This makes for an extremely comfortable experience whether you’re focused on daytime fun, nighttime adventures, or a little bit of both. Yes, you might want to pack some layers for the evening hours or time out on the trails in the early morning—but overall, you’ll find Palm Desert offers up near-perfect winter-weather conditions to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Activities to Add to Your Winter Itinerary
A holiday away to Palm Desert in the wintertime is a treat for travelers from near and far. A fantastic addition to any itinerary this time of year is a holiday performance or two and the good news is, you’ll have plenty of performance venue options within reach when you make travel plans for a Palm Desert stay. Begin your search for great seasonal performances at the local McCallum Theatre. This state-of-the-art performance venue is proud to welcome world-class entertainers year-round including Broadway acts that are sure to inspire! The Acrisure Arena is another great option when you’re excited to expand your itinerary with top performances this winter. This destination is known for hosting amazing music festivals year-round and just opened to the public in December of 2022. This means prime access to world-class amenities and plenty of space to enjoy a show no matter when you book tickets. In total, the venue can host upward of 11,000 guests at a time and alternates between concerts, conventions and sporting events depending on the season.
While you won’t find snow and ice in Palm Desert during a winter holiday away, that doesn’t mean you have to leave winter activities off the list entirely if you’re craving some more traditional seasonal fun. Just make your way to the Berger Foundation Iceplex and enjoy some time open ice skating with family and friends during their public skate sessions. This 250-seat NHL ice rink is a fantastic place to hit the ice in style. It’s open from 6:00 am until 11:30 pm most days of the week and sprawls across an impressive 36,000 square feet of space.
If you’re traveling to Palm Desert this winter with little ones in tow and you’re looking for an unforgettable holiday adventure, be sure to spend some time together at the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens. Located at 47900 Portola Avenue, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a fan-favorite stop for locals and visitors alike with good reason. Ranked one of the top zoos in the country, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is open daily from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm and is home to an incredible array of animals from across the country and globe! Here, you can explore areas like the African Savanna to the Wild Americas and get up close to the amazing creatures that call those regions home. From giraffes and jaguars to the Mexican wolf and more, the encounters you’re sure to experience are truly inspiring. The newest addition to the zoo is the Australian Adventures section where you’ll see everything from tawny-frog mouths to singing kookaburras and wallabies. Beyond the incredible creatures, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens hosts 50 immersive gardens for guests to explore that represent the terrain of North America and Mexico alike. There are nature trails that run through the gardens and an interactive Discovery Center you won’t want to miss out on as well.
Explore the Great Outdoors in Winter Style
For the winter holiday adventurers with their sights on Palm Desert, there’s no shortage of options for outdoor fun and exploration! If you’re the type of traveler who simply can’t wait to lace up their boots and hit the trails, winter in Palm Desert does not disappoint. Make sure to start things off on the beloved Bump and Grind Trail. This route offers up a 1,000-foot elevation gain that comes with the reward of breathtaking panoramic terrain views at the top. The access point for this trail is conveniently located in-town by Target making for easy parking options as well. Another great local route to consider adding to your winter itinerary is the Randall Henderson Trail up the hill on Highway 74 off El Paseo. It’s just four miles from town and provides stunning views as well as a vantage point over the iconic Palm Desert sign! Vista Point is yet another alternative which is perfect for a sunrise hike. Heading to Palm Desert in the wintertime also puts you within easy reach of trails that run throughout the Greater Palm Springs area. In fact, there are over 100 hiking trails to choose from when you expand your horizons in this direction. Thanks to the fact that Palm Desert enjoys more than 300 days of sun on average annually, you won’t typically have to worry about rain infringing on your winter hiking plans. A few of the top hiking destinations to check out when you’re willing to go beyond Palm Desert parameters including the Indian Canyons trails where you can find waterfalls, amazing sunset overlooks, and incredible wildlife as well.
When you’d prefer to ride your way to outdoor and backroad fun during your winter away in Palm Desert, be sure to team up with the team at Desert Adventures to book a one-of-a-kind Red Jeep Tour. Headquartered at 74794 Lennon Place Suite B, Desert Adventures is always happy to help guests book an exciting journey through the desert on roads less traveled in the wintertime. These tours take you on a fascinating tour through stunning desert ecosystems as well as nearby Joshua Tree National Park. Friendly and knowledgeable guides will provide in-depth overviews of the area’s history, terrain, wildlife, and more. You’ll learn about local plants, animals, cultures, and seasonal species that make a journey this way so inspiring!
Seasonal Events to Enjoy
While a winter journey to Palm Desert is a chance to make the most of summer-style fun, that doesn’t mean that holiday experiences are left off the to-do list. In fact, Palm Desert is known for its many holiday festivities and events that are sure to have you embracing the best of the holiday spirit in no time at all. For example, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is proud to host an annual Wild Lights event which has been thrilling visitors and locals alike for over three decades. This holiday event sees the gardens and zoo turned into a wonderland of lights complete with luminescent animals, plants, and beyond. There are chats with animal keepers, special holiday guests, and nightly entertainment to look forward to with the purchase of a Wild Lights ticket. It’s also a great place to get a photo that could just be your best Christmas card yet!
Beyond the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, there are more holiday light-focused fun events for visitors to experience this time of year. The Magic of Lights event provides a dazzling drive-through holiday light experience for guests where you can view illuminated holiday scenes and characters right from the comfort of your vehicle. In nearby Indian Wells, Winterfest is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy seasonal activities with the entire family from December 1 through January 4. Indio hosts the International Tamale Festival this time of year which puts a savory twist on your Palm Desert winter getaway while the Palm Springs International Film Festival comes to town in January and brings celebrities, filmmakers, and movie enthusiasts along with it!
Great Eateries to Savor After Shopping in Style
For many travelers heading to Palm Desert for winter holiday fun, nothing sounds more enjoyable than time spent savoring the moment and shopping until their heart’s content. Palm Desert has you covered on this front at every turn! You won’t have to look any further than time enjoyed in the El Paseo Shopping District to satisfy your craving for some well-deserved retail therapy during your winter stay. This beautiful and inviting tree-lined boulevard is a great place to explore upscale stores and boutiques that are surrounded by inspiring public art pieces too. In total, the El Paseo Shopping District boasts upward of 250 stops to check out where you can find everything from home goods and jewelry to apparel and more. The district also houses spas and sensational on-site dining options ranging from local cuisine to fare inspired by far-flung destinations alike. Additionally, there are destinations here where you can sign up for cooking demonstrations or classes when you’re looking to incorporate a new skillset into your winter stay.
Nearby Destinations to Explore This Winter
Palm Desert is a destination packed with amazing opportunities for enhancing your winter fun when you journey this way over the holidays. That said, a visit here is also a chance to explore even more as Palm Desert is seamlessly integrated into a region made up of nine local towns. When you’re excited to go beyond the local parameters, you’ll be within easy reach of Palm Springs where you can make the most of stunning Coachella Valley views, a vibrant downtown scene, upscale eateries, and incredibly inspiring architecture with celebrity history interwoven too! Cathedral City is another great stop to check out while you’re in town that’s situated between Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. Cathedral City is home to the Big League Dreams Sports Park as well as an impressive IMAX theatre when you’re looking to elevate your entertainment experience during a winter stay. Indio is yet another must-visit destination near Palm Desert. If you’re feeling lucky, head this way to spend some quality time at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
Book Your Palm Desert Journey through TRAVLR Today
Enjoying a getaway to scenic Palm Desert is always the right choice and no matter when you arrive, the team at TRAVLR is here to make sure you have luxurious accommodations in place to top off your getaway in style. We hope you enjoyed reading our palm desert winter holiday vacation guide. Reach out today to learn more about our incredible vacation rental options available including our winter and holiday rentals that are sure to elevate your journey to the next level of excellence with ease. We’re happy to handle the details while you focus on the fun ahead and can’t wait to see you in Palm Desert soon! Contact us today!