Palm Desert offers value, entertainment, beautiful homes, and a sunny climate to its residents and many visitors. This inviting neighborhood boasts the warmest winter months in the western United States. This has made it a popular winter vacation spot for part-time residents, who flock to Palm Desert to escape colder climates. But the many other amenities this city offers have encouraged a growing number of people to settle here year-round.
The Beautiful Outdoors
Because of the lovely weather in this neighborhood, outdoor activities are something you can enjoy any time of the year in Palm Desert.
- Nature – Relish the glorious flora of the desert at the Aerie Art Garden and the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Breathe in the fresh air while hiking the Bump and Grind Trail, the Art Smith Trail, and the Palm Desert Cross Hiking Trail.
- Family Fun – There are numerous parks to choose from to take kids and pets. Try the Civic Center Park with a lovely pond and walking and biking paths. Ironwood Park features 11 acres of open space, and University Dog Park is a favorite among dog lovers. These are just a few of the offerings from the dozen to choose from.
- On- and Off-Road Tours – The geology and landscape of this area lends itself to a variety of tours for fun and knowledge. Visit the San Andreas Fault, Thousand Palms Oasis, and other popular outdoor attractions by Jeep, 4×4, ATV, SUV or Hummer with the many tour service companies eager to show you the beauty of Palm Desert and the surrounding areas.
Dining Delights
From quick eats and comfort food to exotic offerings and fine dining, your culinary desires will be more than satisfied in Palm Desert. There are about 200 places to eat in this city. They range from fast food -chains and family owned bistros and diners to haute cuisine and international fare. Wolfgang Puck Pizza Bar, Mastro’s Steakhouse, and Mitch’s on El Paseo Prime Seafood are a few of the local favorites. Stop in to Pacifica to satisfy your seafood cravings and dine in the Cork Tree Restaurant for upscale California dishes. Wilma and Frieda’s have all the yummy comfort food you remember from childhood, and La Spiga Ristorante Italiano will have you salivating for their farm-fresh cuisine. Choice, variety, charm, and taste are all on offer when dining out in Palm Desert.
Retail Riches
The El Paseo Shopping District is a mecca for consumers. It boasts more than 300 retail shops, art galleries, boutiques, jewelers, spas, and other businesses offering upscale, luxury shopping. These stores span a mile of beautiful, well-maintained Palm Desert architecture, landscaping, and real estate. Many call it the Rodeo Drive of the Desert. Shoppers can also while away several hours in the Desert Crossing Mall located in the city. And fashionable bargain hunters will love the Desert Hills Premium Outlets in nearby Cabazon — just 30 minutes away from town.
Stellar Education
The Desert Sands Unified School District makes up the public-school system for this neighborhood, with 14 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools. Three of these public schools offer a performing arts focus. There are also many private schools to choose from offering education to students ranging from preschool to high school, and include a Montessori education, a religious focus, or college prep.
Speaking of college prep, higher education is also on offer here. College of the Desert is the Palm Desert area community college. Other universities located here include the University of California Riverside, California State University, and San Bernardino, Brandman University.
Stay, Work and Play
Palm Desert is a wonderful place to settle, whether you’re just starting out, raising a family, or you’re a baby boomer seeking a great place to enjoy your retirement. For working professionals, the low unemployment rate is a bonus, and the city’s popularity with tourists helps to provide a strong economy. This affluent area boasts several upscale employers, such as the JW Marriott Desert Springs Golf Resort, Bighorn Golf Club, and Toscana Country Club. Palm Desert is a place where you can merge work and play to enjoy an excellent quality of life in sunny southern California.
