Twentynine Palms

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Twentynine Palms's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Joshua Tree National Park
morning
:

Start your day early by hiking the Hidden Valley Trail, which offers stunning rock formations and a view of the iconic Joshua Trees. Don't forget your camera to capture the diverse landscapes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the designated areas in the park. Afterward, visit the Barker Dam for a short and scenic hike to see ancient petroglyphs and a historically significant water reservoir.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to Keys View for breathtaking panoramas of the Coachella Valley. Stay until dark to experience some of the best stargazing in Southern California.

day 2
Bike Ride in Twentynine Palms
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the pathways around town at your own pace. This is a great way to check out local art installations and shop at unique local boutiques.

afternoon
:

Cycle over to the Twentynine Palms Historical Society for a glimpse into the town’s heritage. Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe to refuel before your next adventure.

evening
:

End your day with a relaxing ride at sunset along the scenic roads. Stop by a food truck or diner for a hearty dinner while enjoying the local vibes.

day 3
Nature Day at Tortoise Rock Casino
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Tortoise Rock Casino, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding desert landscape. Take a moment to appreciate the abundant wildlife and unique vegetation.

afternoon
:

Try your luck at the casino or partake in one of the special events happening during the day. Consider grabbing lunch at the on-site restaurant for a great meal amidst your gaming excitement.

evening
:

After dinner, unwind by watching a live show or performance at the casino. It’s a perfect way to finish the day with entertainment and fun.

day 4
Stargazing Adventure
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Twentynine Palms Visitor Center to pick up information on the best stargazing spots nearby. Utilize this time to plan your night escapade successfully.

afternoon
:

Take in the beauty of the desert landscape with a relaxing afternoon hike, returning to your favorite spot as night approaches. Don't forget to grab a snack for later as you prepare for your evening outing.

evening
:

Settle into a dark location with minimal light pollution for a night of stargazing. Bring a telescope or binoculars to appreciate the night sky, and share stories and mythology surrounding the stars with friends.

day 5
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to the Joshua Tree Art Gallery, where you can appreciate local artists' work. Take your time exploring the exhibitions and perhaps picking up a piece to take home.

afternoon
:

Join a local art workshop and learn about desert-inspired crafts. Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the nearby cafes known for their artistic ambiance and healthy options.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to the local music scene, catching a live performance at a local venue. Engage with the artists and enjoy a night of creativity and community.

day 6
Foodie Tour in Twentynine Palms
morning
:

Kick off your day at a popular local cafΓ© for a hearty breakfast with fresh ingredients. Take your time to enjoy the unique flavors that Twentynine Palms has to offer.

afternoon
:

Follow this with a food tour of the town, sampling various dishes from food trucks and local eateries. Discover hidden culinary gems that showcase the area's diverse food culture.

evening
:

Finish off with a delightful dinner at a trendy restaurant, savoring desert-inspired dishes. Consider making reservations for a special treat as you reflect on your taste adventure.

day 7
Desert Hiking Expedition
morning
:

Prepare for a day of hiking with an early morning trek at the Indian Cove Campground. This area features unique rock formations and beautiful desert flora, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax and have lunch in a shady spot, soaking in the serene quiet of the desert. Explore other trails or head towards the Cholla Cactus Garden for more stunning views.

evening
:

Conclude the day with a sunset hike at one of the park's viewpoints for a breathtaking view of the sun dipping below the horizon. Stay in the area for a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.

day 8
Discover Local History
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Twentynine Palms Historical Society to learn about the area's rich heritage. Their exhibits offer insightful stories from the past that shaped the region.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic downtown area, featuring retro architecture and local shops. Grab lunch at a nearby diner known for its classic American comfort food.

evening
:

Spend your evening at the local museum or attend a community event if available. Engage with locals and learn more about the vibrant culture of Twentynine Palms.

day 9
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Start your day with a guided rock climbing session at one of the nearby climbing spots. Experience the thrill of scaling the desert rocks while being surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch in the park and share your climbing stories with others. After recharging, consider taking a more leisurely walk on one of the park’s nature trails.

evening
:

As night falls, participate in a ranger-led night sky program if available. Enjoy insightful talks and gaze at the starlit desert sky for a captivating experience.

day 10
Animal Encounters
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the Joshua Tree National Park where you can observe native wildlife. Bring binoculars for the best chance to see birds and desert animals.

afternoon
:

Take an afternoon to explore possible wildlife tours that the park might offer. Lunch at the cafΓ© in the park is a perfect way to enjoy nature while you refuel.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a guided night hike to observe nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. It will be an unforgettable experience filled with wildlife sightings and desert sounds.

Discover Twentynine Palms

Read more in our Twentynine Palms 2024 Travel Guide.

Twentynine Palms Travel Guide