I’ve been intrigued with Joshua Tree ever since watching the 2008 Entourage episode where they ventured to Joshua Tree (this was before I even lived in California!). I finally started exploring Joshua Tree about three years ago, and I love it more each time I go. I was originally nervous that I would be required to camp or be an outdoorsy person to appreciate the desert landscape – but turns out those things aren’t necessary at all. Don’t get me wrong – outdoorsy people go nuts for this place – but for me, it is a beautiful and inspiring destination that has great people, good food, and breathtaking scenery. It is truly an incredible place to escape from the everyday and experience mother nature.
Here are a few restaurants, activities, and places to stay that I suggest for your next Joshua Tree trip. I will keep this guide updated as I hope to visit this desert haven more in the future:
RESTAURANTS:
Crossroads Café: While they are open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, I always visit Crossroads for breakfast before heading to the park! It is the perfect place to grab a hearty meal before exploring nature. Their expansive menu makes it difficult to decide – but I typically opt for their Homemade Corned Beef Hash which is divine! If I am feeling festive, I’ll also partake in a mimosa or two. This place gets crowded, so come early on the weekends to avoid a long wait!
The Dez: This is the perfect lunch spot in Joshua Tree! They have two locations – but I suggest visiting the larger location, where you can grab a table and enjoy a beverage as well. Their Roasted Turkey Sandwich with chipotle aioli, applewood smoked bacon, and white cheddar is fantastic with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. I also love their Hummus & Lentil situation served on a Pita – such a bright and refreshing dish – especially on a hot desert day!
Joshua Tree Saloon: I just adore this place! The Saloon has something for everyone – want to just hang at the bar for a drink? Want to sit down for a full meal with friends? Or how about staying outside and eating delicious burgers while enjoying live music? Joshua Tree Saloon has you covered! I am a fan of the JT Cheeseburger and can’t get enough of the desert vibe here.
JT Country Kitchen: Open since 1977, JT Country Kitchen is a Joshua Tree staple! They serve Breakfast and Lunch all day – but I cannot visit without having their Breakfast Burrito. Filled with chorizo, eggs, hash browns, onions, bell peppers, and cheese – it’s a contender for my all-time favorite breakfast burrito (and I eat many). They have indoor/outdoor seating and serve mimosas, micheladas, beer & wine.
Pappy & Harriet’s: This is a scene! Located in Pioneertown, P+H has been open since 1982. They have live music with legit concerts and specialize in Santa Maria style BBQ. Their Pulled Pork Sandwich is delicious, and I am obsessed with their Mac & Cheese. This place gets super busy – so just be prepared to put your name down and then grab a drink or explore Pioneertown – I promise you, it is worth the wait!
THINGS TO DO:
Joshua Tree National Park: If you made it all the way to Joshua Tree, you need to visit the actual park! You can spend days exploring Joshua Tree National Park without seeing everything – but even if you just spend a few hours, you will understand the attraction. While adventure seekers love this place, I promise that you do not need to be an active person to enjoy what Joshua Tree National Park has to offer. You can just drive through the park to enjoy it or stop at a few of my favorite spots below:
- Cholla Cactus Garden: Park the car and stroll through the .25-mile Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail – it is a wondrous site to see these wild cactus plants covering nearly ten acres of land. Word of caution – do not get too close to the cactus as they can attach themselves to you!
- Keys View: About a 20-minute drive from the park entrance, it affords stunning views of the Coachella Valley. With plenty of parking spots available, it is easy to jump out of the car and take a few pics, or if you are feeling more adventurous, you can hike up a bit higher for even more spectacular views.
- Skull Rock: To stretch your legs but still have a relatively easy hike, I suggest checking out Skull Rock. There is a 1.7-mile nature trail available, or just walk around the rock and take photos (which is what I typically do with my friends!)
Joshua Tree Gift Shop – Coyote Corner: This is my must-stop shop when I visit Joshua Tree! It is typically my last stop on my way out of town to pick up souvenirs to bring home. They have a little of everything from t-shirts, hats, and snacks to jewelry, books, and locally made art. They even have camping supplies for those brave enough for that sort of thing.
Joshua Tree Rock Shop: When in Joshua Tree, I think it makes sense to buy some crystals! The Rock Shop has a vast assortment of gems, crystals, fossils, and minerals. They even have a gemstone mine where you can pan for real gems. This is the place to help me add to my growing amethyst collection.
Pioneertown: It feels like a movie set – and for good reason! Pioneertown was originally built as a filming location back in the 1940s. While it is still used for productions, the town now has restaurants, shops, and lodging. You can spend a lovely afternoon exploring the town. For shopping – highlights include Xēba Botánica for wellness and skincare products and the Pioneertown General Store for anything else you could think of – clothing, accessories, books, and boots (of course).
Stargazing: Joshua Tree is the perfect location for one of my favorite pastimes - gazing up at the stars. During moonless, summer nights, you may even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way! While there are areas in the park that are best for stargazing – you can see an incredible sky on clear nights from just about anywhere in the vicinity.
WHERE TO STAY:
Airbnb: Full disclosure – I’ve only ever stayed at Airbnb properties in Joshua Tree. It’s just such a perfect option. You can bring a larger group, provide your own snacks and, more importantly, good wine. Look for a rental with a pool, so you can keep cool in the desert climate. There are so many great options, and you can typically find dog-friendly places as well.
However, I know some people prefer a hotel, so I’ve suggested a few below:
Joshua Tree Inn: A historic inn that is in close proximity to Joshua Tree National Park. Their rooms are charming and rustic, and the hotel has a pool, firepits, and peaceful garden area. *Dog-friendly
Mohave Sands: 1950s motel that has been transformed to a boutique, luxury haven. They have both standard rooms and suites. This place gives off magical vibes! *Dog-friendly
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