We are not going to lie, fall is our absolute favorite season of all, and although the temps might still be a little high in Palm Desert early in the season, by fall’s end, we wish the season would go on forever! Living in the desert is a little different than living anywhere else, but we still enjoy the falling of the mercury and the taste of pumpkin spice! Palm Desert offers a unique lifestyle made even more fun when we can get out and play, and this guide to our favorite fall activities will ensure that every minute you spend here will be memorable.
Woodhaven Country Club, 41555 Woodhaven Drive E in Palm Desert
While the rest of the world may be preparing to put away their clubs for the season, we in Palm Desert are enjoying the relief that fall brings and begin to golf in earnest! Woodhaven Country Club is one of our favorite places to play, offering a course that is fast, fun, and not too intimidating. The natural beauty of the landscape can take your mind off how many times your ball went into the sand or water hazards, and although the course is open to the public, it has the genteel feel of a private country club, making every player feel as if they have stepped into the world of quiet luxury. Costs to play do go up in the fall, as the cooler weather invites everyone to come out and play a round or two, but the beauty of the experience and the fun you will have at the 19th hole makes the extra costs worth it!
Triabike, 44841 San Pablo Avenue in Palm Desert
As we move further into adulthood, we start to find that the simple pleasures of life bring the greatest joy. A walk around the block at sunset, that first sip of wine after a long day of adventuring, and the joys of riding a bike along desert trails are destined to be the highlights of your Palm Desert journey! Triabike is one of our favorite places to purchase the latest bikes, and because they also offer rentals, you don’t have to worry about bringing along your own set of wheels. Stop by and pick your favorite bike for a desert ride, or even better, choose one of their e-bikes, and spend your fall journey in Palm Desert exploring all that our beautiful town has to offer.
Desert Beer Company, 77770 Country Club Drive Suite D
The taste of pumpkin isn’t delegated to just pies and coffees; there is a whole world of food and drinks that could be improved with a little bit of the orange gourd, and Desert Beer Company offers the perfect example! Open Tuesdays through Sundays and offering an extensive selection of craft beers, many flavors changing with the seasons, there is no better way to have fun on a fall day in Palm Desert than with a tour of the brews served here. They are currently featuring their summer sips with quirky names—right now we are loving Red State of Mind and ‘Merica, an American light lager with only 5% ABV—when the temperatures drop, we expect to see more fall flavors drop as well!
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, 47900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert
Families traveling to Palm Desert for the first time will be thrilled to discover a world that children love, and while you hike, bike, and play in the cooler weather, you might want to add a visit to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to your vacation bucket list! Open by reservations only during pandemic days, they offer over 500 different animals from over 150 different species, all living out their days in happiness. Explore the desert animals that make their home at the zoo, including rhinos, bobcats, desert tortoises, dromedary camels, and check out the beautifully colored jaguars that just look exciting as they stand motionless, poised to capture whatever creature catches their eye! Want a sneak peek? Live cams available on the zoo’s website are fun to watch at any time.
Stay Home and Play
Our seasonal sanctuaries at TRAVLR Vacation Homes are designed to be lived in, so why not take one of your days and stay home and play? Sip on Apple Cider Mojitos you whipped up in our fully equipped kitchens, hang out by the pool, and work on a tan that will make your friends jealous, and if your fall visit starts in late October, watch the newest Hallmark Christmas movies on state-of-the-art televisions! Falling in love with fall is easy when you choose TRAVLR Vacation Homes for your vacation accommodations. Reserve your stay today!
Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley are home to some of the biggest international events like Coachella Music and Arts Festival, Stagecoach Music Festival, American Express PGA Tour, and much more. One of the biggest events of the year is the BNP Paribas Open, which features professional tennis in an approachable and affordable way. Here is more information on this amazing sports event in the Palm Springs and Coachella Valley area.
Location
The 2021 BNP Paribas Open is located in the town of Indian Wells, which lies in the Coachella Valley about 125 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The tournament is played at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, which was built in 2000 and has 29 different tennis courts, including a 16,100-seat main stadium which is the second largest tennis-only stadium in the world. After the tournament gained significant attendance in 2013, they expanded into an 8,000-seat stadium for their second court. They used a new “pro-purple” interior court color developed specifically for this tournament which is the exact opposite color of the yellow on the tennis ball to make it that much easier to see the ball.
About the Tournament
The BNP Paribas Open is a combined ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 event that will be held October 4th to October 17th. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this is the first time that the event will be held in the fall. The Open will feature a women’s event with a 96-player singles draw, 32-player singles qualifying draw, and 32-team doubles draw, while the men’s event will feature a 56-player singles draw, 28-player singles qualifying draw, and 28-team doubles draw. The top men and women in tennis will play for the title in the desert with $15.3 million in prize money available, the most for a combined ATP and WTP event of this size since the beginning of the pandemic.
Health and Safety Protocols
After a 2.5-year hiatus, the 2021 Paribas Open will celebrate the return of professional tennis to the desert, but with health and safety as a top priority. The BNP Paribas Open will require all fans, staff, sponsors, media, and vendors will have to show valid proof of vaccination in order to enter the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the tournament. In addition, depending on the conditions at the time of the tournament, additional testing as well as mask mandates in certain seating areas may be required by the Riverside County Health Department and the state of California. Make sure you check their website prior to attending to ensure you have everything you need to experience this event.
Ticket Packages
The BNP Paribas Open has options for just about any level of tennis lover who wants to participate in this event. Their ticket options range from single session tickets all the way up to packages to see the entire event in prime seating locations. Their single session tickets allow you to enjoy the perfect day in tennis paradise with reserved seats in one of the three stadiums or even a simple grounds pass. The reserved seating tickets start at $50 and include access to the other two stadiums’ open seating areas and increase in price depending on your preferred area of seating. If you just want to get in and see some tennis, we recommend grabbing a grounds pass, which gets you in the gate and access to the non-reserved seating which is first come, first serve. If you are looking to really save some money, their qualifying games and warm-up matches are available free of charge on October 5th and 6th. These first two days of the tournament are completely open to the public.
Planning Your Experience
If you are planning to visit any part of this amazing event, make sure you check out the 2021 BNP Paribas Open website for all your information needs before the event. They have a complete interactive site map that includes maps for the stadiums, dining, retail, and more. The event also has a mobile app that will allow you access to every exciting moment of the tournament, no matter where you are. Along with basic information, you will also have access to their event policies. Some of these to watch out for are the clear bag policy, which prohibits any bags larger than 12’’ x 6’’ x 12’’ and they much be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC. The event also prohibits guests from bringing in their own alcohol, pets, or cameras with a flash, so make sure that you check out their restrictions prior to the event to make sure you aren’t that guy or gal that gets kicked out of the event early.
If you’re planning on attending the BNP Paribas Open, you’ll want to secure the perfect lodging to return to at the end of a long day of tennis. Several of our rental properties such as Hacienda Santa Rosa, Base Camp, and The Summit even feature access to private tennis courts to help you get in your own spirited back-and-forth game. Contact TRAVLR today to book one of our exquisite rental properties located conveniently near the Indian Wells Tennis Garden!
Here at TRAVLR, we’re proud to offer some of the most exquisite vacation rentals in the Palm Desert area. Our exclusive estate property, Casa Mara, has been selected to host an exciting new reality show in the California desert, and we couldn’t be happier to have one of our properties chosen as the perfect location for a peek into the lives of the fabulous!
A little drama goes a long way—especially when you and your traveling crew of friends enter the Hotels.com Destination Drama Sweepstakes! This Labor Day Weekend event promises to be one-of-a-kind. Especially if you’re part of a circle of friends that tends to come with a side of the dramatic no matter where you roam.
What It’s All About
Hotels.com is bringing the reality show experience to Palm Desert in 2021. They’re currently looking for an inspired group of entertaining friends to make the most of a high-drama weekend spent in a breathtaking vacation rental known as Destination Drama. If you and your crew are the lucky few who are chosen to experience Destination Drama, you’ll find yourself situated within the parameters of a luxurious one-acre Palm Desert Property September 3-6, 2021.
Destination Drama is anything but your traditional getaway locale. It’s just the right setting for an exceptional trip complete with plenty of time to unwind, enjoy yourselves, and of course, let the entertainment factor run wild. The lucky group of friends who finds themselves here over Labor Day 2021 will enjoy unrestricted access to a stunning 9-bedroom residence that can easily accommodate up to 16 people at a time! Outdoors, guests can savor time swapping gossip around an enormous firepit or jump into the massive pool complete with a waterslide and lazy river too! The Destination Drama house even includes a putting green, outdoor shower, hammocks, and a sand volleyball court to match. Inside, guests will be able to make the most of time spent in the game room or working on that fitness thanks to a gym fully equipped with the latest in Peloton gear.
Come for the Fun, Leave with a Reel
While this property brings the upscale expectations to new standards, you and your crew will bring the drama and endless entertainment. The home hosts an interior confessional booth where guests can reveal all of their gossip starting on day one. At the end of your vacation, that confessional video will be transformed into a professional reel you can submit for your next spot on reality TV!
How to Enter
Hotels.com wants to make sure the most high-drama crew wins. Entering the contest requires a group of up to six friends to submit a casting application complete with examples of over-the-top group chats or texts. Entries must be submitted by August 18, 2021, at 12:00 pm CT. All applicants must be 21 or older. Winners will be notified by August 20, 2021. Each member of the group will receive $1,000 to make sure the trip to Destination Drama gets off on the right foot. With that, let the drama begin!
Palm Desert has long been known as an oasis of fun in the otherwise unoccupied California desert. Located just a few hours away from both Los Angeles and San Diego, the Palm Desert area has been a vacation haven for Southern Californians trying to escape the big city and the crowded beaches. Famous for being a popular getaway for classic Hollywood stars, Palm Desert has recently been revitalized as a popular vacation destination. Enjoy world class golf courses and resorts and find the beauty within the nature of the desert with a vacation in Palm Desert. Explore the best of Palm Desert by booking a tour! Keep reading to find out our picks for top tours to experience on your next vacation in Palm Desert.
Tour the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has been one of the top destinations in Palm Desert for nearly 50 years and is definitely a must do to add to your itinerary. Here you can explore the nature and hiking trails, get up close and personal with animals, and learn about the conservation efforts of zoos around the world. For an extra special experience, consider booking a private tour for your next visit! Your tour includes admission to the park, a personal guide, a private shuttle, and a giraffe feeding experience. For two hours, you’ll get the VIP treatment at the zoo, with your guide leading you throughout the park and giving you insights on animal facts, park history, and more! This tour can accommodate two to six guests and departs at 9am from October-May and 8am from June-September. This tour is a great introduction to the zoo for first time guests, or a fun way to get excited about a return visit.
San Andreas Fault Half-Day Jeep Tour
One of the top-rated tours in all of Palm Desert is the San Andreas Fault Jeep tour! Here, you’ll explore the desert of Coachella Valley while learning about the native plants and animals, local history, the Salton Sea, and of course the San Andreas Fault. You can choose to have your tour completely from the comfort of the Jeep or get a bit adventurous and enjoy a nature walk through the desert. You can also choose a morning or afternoon departure time that best suits the rest of your itinerary for the day. One of the highlights of the tour is a stop at a local date farm where you can try their signature date milkshake! Although this tour is great for families, kids must be at least 6 years old to participate. Your tour includes your guide, transportation, and light refreshments throughout the four-hour tour.
Joshua Tree National Park Half-Day Driving Tour
For many, a visit to Joshua Tree National Park is the highlight of their trip to the Palm Desert area. Unlike any forest you’ll find anywhere else, the Joshua trees have a unique beauty that consistently captivates visitors. To make the most of your visit, consider booking a half-day driving tour! Enjoy the scenery from the comfort of an air-conditioned van or SUV, making stops at key sightseeing attractions, such as Keys View, Hidden Valley, and the Joshua Tree Visitor Center. You’ll learn about the desert landscape from an experienced guide and have the opportunity to take two nature walks. This 4.5-hour tour includes the fee to the National Park, as well as transportation, guide, and bottled water. The tour is also wheelchair accessible and a great option for those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to explore.
The Legends & Icons Tour of Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a sister city and neighbor to Palm Desert that also offers its own opportunities for fun. This area was made famous all the way back in the 1960s as a raucous getaway from the Rat Pack, including legends like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Legends and Icons tour is the perfect choice for anyone interested in the history of old Hollywood! Explore the sites and historic districts of the Palm Springs area and learn the untold stories of the Hollywood icons that once roamed here. Your guide will personalize this private tour to best suit your interests and will happily answer questions about the area. This 1.5-hour tour features multiple photo ops, can accommodate both large or small groups, and is flexible with the departure time. The Legends & Icons Tour is a fun way to explore this classic vacation city!
Palm Desert is a fun vacation destination that features a variety of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Although you could explore on your own, make the most of your vacation by booking one of these fantastic tours on your next visit to Palm Desert!
Palm Desert has long been a well-kept California secret. Locals know that this is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. While everyone crowds on the beaches for 4th of July Weekend, consider retreating inland to the gorgeous deserts landscape of Palm Desert. Known for its great golfing, shopping, casinos, and more, Palm Desert is a great getaway for the 4th of July! Here you’ll find year-round fun alongside patriotic local events that are sure to make your holiday weekend one to remember. Keep reading to find out all the fun that awaits you in Palm Desert for 4th of July Weekend!
Fireworks Show in Palm Desert
When planning how to spend your 4th of July Weekend, there isn’t a more patriotic way to celebrate than by enjoying a truly spectacular fireworks show! This year, head to Civic Center Park, located near the heart of Palm Desert and enjoy an amazing fireworks show that is sure to delight. This free event is open to the public, so bring the whole family along to enjoy. The fireworks are scheduled to begin at 9pm, and the city will be coming out with more details on the event as it gets closer to ensure that they follow all local and state guidelines. However, no matter the details of the event itself, the show in the sky is sure to amaze!
Independence Day Weekend Events in Palm Springs
The neighboring city of Palm Springs is set to host many family-friendly events over Fourth of July weekend. Head to Bagdouma Park in Coachella on July 1 for carnival rides, food, vendors, and a fireworks display. On July 2nd, enjoy a drone show and concert featuring “Petty and the Heartbreakers” in Downtown Park. On July 3rd, bring the family to Ruth Hardy Park for a screening of “The Goonies”. On the 4th you can enjoy one or more of the multiple events happening around town. Click here for a list of 4th of July events in Palm Springs.
Adventure in the Desert
If you are looking to spend your 4th of July Weekend outdoors, then an afternoon with Red Jeep Tours in Palm Desert is the place to be! For over 30 years, Red Jeep Tours has been wowing both visitors and locals alike with their great tours of Palm Desert and the surrounding area. One trip with Red Jeep Tours and you’ll see why they are the #1 rated outdoor activity on TripAdvisor. Their expert tour guides offer insights about the history of Native American culture in the area, the natural landscape and geography, as well as the flora and fauna in the area. You won’t look at the desert the same way again after you take a tour with them! You can also customize your experience depending on your interests, as they have many different tour options to choose from and can accommodate large groups as well. Consider a sunset tour, stargazing tour, and tours that allow you to explore both from in the Jeep and along the hiking trails. There truly is the perfect outdoor adventure waiting for you during your 4th of July vacation when you book a tour with Red Jeep Tours!
Beat the Heat at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center
Although Palm Desert is a great vacation destination all year long, it does get nice and hot during the summer months. When you are visiting here for 4th of July and want to find a way to beat the heat, consider spending some time at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center! For just $6 a day for adults, $4.50 for youths and seniors, and just $3.75 for children 2-5 years old, the Aquatic Center offers tons of fun for the whole family at a reasonable price. If you think you’ll end up spending a lot of time here, consider their annual or punch card passes as well for an even better value. Not only will you find a great pool for swimming, but they offer tons of programs, workout classes, and swimming lessons all summer long. You’ll also get to enjoy water slides, diving boards, and a splash playground that are sure to delight! Whether you want to relax and leisurely swim or have a full-blown water park adventure, the Palm Desert Aquatic Center is the perfect destination during your 4th of July Weekend!
Celebrate the 4th of July with a fun weekend in Palm Desert!