Skip’s guidebook to the Hi-Desert/Joshua Tree
Live Bands & Music Venues
From rustic Beer Gardens to Plush casino's this area has it all within a 30 minute drive.
Fantastic BBQ and Great bands. Paul McCarthy played there. Here's the calendar - Great bands
https://www.pappyandharriets.com/calendar/
Pappy & Harriet's Pioneertown Palace is a honky-tonk, barbecue restaurant and music venue near Joshua Tree National Park in Pioneertown, California. Accessible from California State Route 62, the restaurant lies four miles northeast of Yucca Valley & The Hidden Gold Ranch House.
In 1946, a group of filmmakers built a Western-style movie set in the high desert 25 miles north of Palm Springs for the cowboy actors Roy Rogers and Gene Autry.[1] Production designers decorated the facades of "Main Street" with a Western saloon, bank, chapel and a cantina. Pioneertown and its cantina were used in more than 50 films and television programs throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including The Cisco Kid and Judge Roy Bean.[1][2] In 1972, John Aleba and his wife Francis purchased the building and John further developed the property into a cantina.
1340 locals recommend
Pappy & Harriet's
53688 Pioneertown RdFantastic BBQ and Great bands. Paul McCarthy played there. Here's the calendar - Great bands
https://www.pappyandharriets.com/calendar/
Pappy & Harriet's Pioneertown Palace is a honky-tonk, barbecue restaurant and music venue near Joshua Tree National Park in Pioneertown, California. Accessible from California State Route 62, the restaurant lies four miles northeast of Yucca Valley & The Hidden Gold Ranch House.
In 1946, a group of filmmakers built a Western-style movie set in the high desert 25 miles north of Palm Springs for the cowboy actors Roy Rogers and Gene Autry.[1] Production designers decorated the facades of "Main Street" with a Western saloon, bank, chapel and a cantina. Pioneertown and its cantina were used in more than 50 films and television programs throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including The Cisco Kid and Judge Roy Bean.[1][2] In 1972, John Aleba and his wife Francis purchased the building and John further developed the property into a cantina.
The Agua Caliente Casino which is 39 miles from the house is a gambling facility and concert venue, run by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, in Rancho Mirage, California. The facility has over 45,000 square feet (4,200 m2) of gambling floor. The casino completed a 16-story, 173-foot (53 m) hotel tower which opened on April 18, 2008. The tower is the third-tallest building in the Inland Empire.
258 locals recommend
Agua Caliente Spa
32-250 Bob Hope DrThe Agua Caliente Casino which is 39 miles from the house is a gambling facility and concert venue, run by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, in Rancho Mirage, California. The facility has over 45,000 square feet (4,200 m2) of gambling floor. The casino completed a 16-story, 173-foot (53 m) hotel tower which opened on April 18, 2008. The tower is the third-tallest building in the Inland Empire.
A local watering hole for over 30 years! Serving up Jt's finest Burgers and the Coldest beer in town. A Bar & Grill located at the Gateway to the National Park!
This special, unique, one of a kind western atmosphere is waiting for you! Enjoy a game of pool or a game of hotspot, while enjoying one of our 14 beers ON TAP, a Hot JT Irish Coffee, or a fresh spring Mojito. INDULGE in one of our famous Bloody Mary's..... with Buzz's homemade bloody mary mix!!
We open for Breakfast at 7:30 am Daily & Lunch starts at 11 am. We have a Large Variety of options to choose from; from an amazing Southwest Garden Burger to a Flame grilled 12 oz. Ribeye. All of our Eggs come from "happy hens" and all of our meat is Grass Fed.
909 locals recommend
Joshua Tree Saloon
61835 Twentynine Palms HighwayA local watering hole for over 30 years! Serving up Jt's finest Burgers and the Coldest beer in town. A Bar & Grill located at the Gateway to the National Park!
This special, unique, one of a kind western atmosphere is waiting for you! Enjoy a game of pool or a game of hotspot, while enjoying one of our 14 beers ON TAP, a Hot JT Irish Coffee, or a fresh spring Mojito. INDULGE in one of our famous Bloody Mary's..... with Buzz's homemade bloody mary mix!!
We open for Breakfast at 7:30 am Daily & Lunch starts at 11 am. We have a Large Variety of options to choose from; from an amazing Southwest Garden Burger to a Flame grilled 12 oz. Ribeye. All of our Eggs come from "happy hens" and all of our meat is Grass Fed.
Arguably one of the most iconic and celebrated music festivals in the world, Coachella is not just a festival, but an experience. Set against the ethereal backdrop of the California desert, this annual two-weekend event held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, boasts a diverse lineup that spans various genres, from indie rock and electronic music to hip hop and international sensations. But Coachella is more than just its music – it's a cultural phenomenon. The festival also showcases large-scale art installations and immersive experiences, providing festival-goers with a visual and sensory treat. Fashion, too, plays a prominent role, with attendees often donning bohemian-inspired outfits that have become synonymous with the Coachella aesthetic. Whether you're there to catch world-renowned headliners, discover emerging artists, indulge in gourmet food stands, or simply to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, Coachella promises memories that last a lifetime.
Coachella Way & Stagecoach Dr, Indio, CA 92203, USA
Arguably one of the most iconic and celebrated music festivals in the world, Coachella is not just a festival, but an experience. Set against the ethereal backdrop of the California desert, this annual two-weekend event held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, boasts a diverse lineup that spans various genres, from indie rock and electronic music to hip hop and international sensations. But Coachella is more than just its music – it's a cultural phenomenon. The festival also showcases large-scale art installations and immersive experiences, providing festival-goers with a visual and sensory treat. Fashion, too, plays a prominent role, with attendees often donning bohemian-inspired outfits that have become synonymous with the Coachella aesthetic. Whether you're there to catch world-renowned headliners, discover emerging artists, indulge in gourmet food stands, or simply to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, Coachella promises memories that last a lifetime.
Sightseeing
Fantastic Zoo and Garden a must see if you are a nature lover. My favorite is the butterfly Garden and the wild Peninsula Big Horn Sheep.
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
62975 Blair LnTotally funky art in the desert.
Giant Rock CA
Got to check this out near the Integratron and Landers Brewing .
An old movie set that was started by Roy Rogers in the 50's.
Check out the artsy shops and gunfights on weekends.
558 locals recommend
Pioneertown
53688 Pioneertown RdAn old movie set that was started by Roy Rogers in the 50's.
Check out the artsy shops and gunfights on weekends.
Desert Christ Park
56200 Sunnyslope DrDesert Christ Park
https://www.desertchristpark.org/
A cute old camera booth turned into a crochet museum. A quick stop just for fun. Sock monkeys, poodles, funky toilet paper covers and many more vintage collectable crochet treasures.
168 locals recommend
World Famous Crochet Museum
61855 CA-62A cute old camera booth turned into a crochet museum. A quick stop just for fun. Sock monkeys, poodles, funky toilet paper covers and many more vintage collectable crochet treasures.
Forever Marilyn! This large statue is a piece of artwork that is whimsical and brings a smile to your face. Check it out. Have lunch at LuLu's California Bistro and shop til you drop. Thursdays has Village Fest 7-10 and free entrance to the museum 5-8.
14 locals recommend
Marilyn Monroe Palm Springs Store
220 N Palm Canyon DrForever Marilyn! This large statue is a piece of artwork that is whimsical and brings a smile to your face. Check it out. Have lunch at LuLu's California Bistro and shop til you drop. Thursdays has Village Fest 7-10 and free entrance to the museum 5-8.
El Paseo Shopping District
Shop in Styel!
Located in the heart of Palm Desert and just under an hour drive from the house, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a unique destination that celebrates the wildlife and plant species found in the world's deserts. Visitors are treated to a remarkable journey through North American and African desert environments, where they can encounter fascinating animals like giraffes, cheetahs, mountain lions, and Mexican wolves. Beyond the animals, the gardens showcase a diverse collection of desert plants, capturing the natural beauty of arid landscapes. Special experiences, such as giraffe feedings and behind-the-scenes tours, elevate the adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or traveling with family, the Living Desert promises an educational and engaging experience set amidst the stunning backdrop of the California desert. Don't forget to check out their seasonal events and conservation programs that highlight their commitment to protecting desert ecosystems.
889 locals recommend
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
47900 Portola AveLocated in the heart of Palm Desert and just under an hour drive from the house, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a unique destination that celebrates the wildlife and plant species found in the world's deserts. Visitors are treated to a remarkable journey through North American and African desert environments, where they can encounter fascinating animals like giraffes, cheetahs, mountain lions, and Mexican wolves. Beyond the animals, the gardens showcase a diverse collection of desert plants, capturing the natural beauty of arid landscapes. Special experiences, such as giraffe feedings and behind-the-scenes tours, elevate the adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or traveling with family, the Living Desert promises an educational and engaging experience set amidst the stunning backdrop of the California desert. Don't forget to check out their seasonal events and conservation programs that highlight their commitment to protecting desert ecosystems.
Food scene
Located in Pioneertown about 12 minutes from the house. If your going for dinner it's highly recommended to make reservations. My favorite is the Steak Salad and full rack of ribs.
Call: (760) 365-5956
Website/Dinner Menu: https://www.pappyandharriets.com/menu/dinner-menu/
Check out the live music scene there.
1340 locals recommend
Pappy & Harriet's
53688 Pioneertown RdLocated in Pioneertown about 12 minutes from the house. If your going for dinner it's highly recommended to make reservations. My favorite is the Steak Salad and full rack of ribs.
Call: (760) 365-5956
Website/Dinner Menu: https://www.pappyandharriets.com/menu/dinner-menu/
Check out the live music scene there.
Cool Mexican seafood cuisine with excellent food and drinks. Great for families and groups. My favorite is the Stuffed Fish Fillet with mushrooms, shrimp cheese and spinach smothered in ranchero sauce.
Menu/Directions etc. https://zmenu.com/la-palapa-7-yucca-valley-online-menu/
52 locals recommend
La Palapa Mexican Restaraunt
57173 Sunnyslope DrCool Mexican seafood cuisine with excellent food and drinks. Great for families and groups. My favorite is the Stuffed Fish Fillet with mushrooms, shrimp cheese and spinach smothered in ranchero sauce.
Menu/Directions etc. https://zmenu.com/la-palapa-7-yucca-valley-online-menu/
After touring the park all day this is the place you want to land for dinner. Located in the City of Joshua Tree off the 62 hwy and Park Blvd across from the Park visitors center. It's a quirky joint with pool, darts & and Old West vibe. Outdoor dining and libations in "The Yard."
909 locals recommend
Joshua Tree Saloon
61835 Twentynine Palms HighwayAfter touring the park all day this is the place you want to land for dinner. Located in the City of Joshua Tree off the 62 hwy and Park Blvd across from the Park visitors center. It's a quirky joint with pool, darts & and Old West vibe. Outdoor dining and libations in "The Yard."
Closest to the house and best pizza hands down with rock-n-roll decor.
Phone for delivery: 760-418-5075
http://www.2guyspies.com/menu.html
137 locals recommend
2 Guys Pies Brick Oven Pizzeria
56969 Yucca TrailClosest to the house and best pizza hands down with rock-n-roll decor.
Phone for delivery: 760-418-5075
http://www.2guyspies.com/menu.html
New Location. Dine in. Its the old Denny's. Its right in front of Big Lots. It's close to Hidden Gold Ranch House and 5 miles from Black Rock Luxury Lodge. Good Mexican food at a decent price.
60 locals recommend
La Casita
56895 Twentynine Palms HighwayNew Location. Dine in. Its the old Denny's. Its right in front of Big Lots. It's close to Hidden Gold Ranch House and 5 miles from Black Rock Luxury Lodge. Good Mexican food at a decent price.
They only take reservations which have to be made weeks in advance. If you want to plan a special dining experience you will have to call ahead of time. They are closed in the summer.
725 locals recommend
La Copine
848 Old Woman Springs RdThey only take reservations which have to be made weeks in advance. If you want to plan a special dining experience you will have to call ahead of time. They are closed in the summer.
We like to get food to go from here. They have a great selection and family packages. I recommend calling ahead of time and taking the food to go but you can eat there too. It is located near Stater Bros. Market. Skip and I order the Enchilada Suizas every time.
33 locals recommend
El Guero Mexican Restaurant
57109 Twentynine Palms HighwayWe like to get food to go from here. They have a great selection and family packages. I recommend calling ahead of time and taking the food to go but you can eat there too. It is located near Stater Bros. Market. Skip and I order the Enchilada Suizas every time.
It is located in the Morongo Valley off Highway 62 and is open only on Thure, Fri, Sat and Sunday from 4:00pm - 9:00 pm. Check out the website and event calender. It is Italian food with a Cowboy theme.
Spaghetti Western
It is located in the Morongo Valley off Highway 62 and is open only on Thure, Fri, Sat and Sunday from 4:00pm - 9:00 pm. Check out the website and event calender. It is Italian food with a Cowboy theme.
Best Breakfast Spots
C & S Coffee Shop
55795 Twentynine Palms HighwayThis is a local diner with "Old School Charm".
This is close to the Hidden Gold Ranch House. It has a Western atmosphere with yummy food. Ask for "Grandma". She will take good care of you. (760) 369-3000
Menu: https://www.zmenu.com/larrys-and-milt-western-cafe-yucca-valley-online-menu/
50 locals recommend
Larry & Milt's Western Cafe #2
56098 Twentynine Palms HighwayThis is close to the Hidden Gold Ranch House. It has a Western atmosphere with yummy food. Ask for "Grandma". She will take good care of you. (760) 369-3000
Menu: https://www.zmenu.com/larrys-and-milt-western-cafe-yucca-valley-online-menu/
John's Place is family friendly.
Try the pastrami sandwich or the burgers. The Johns gourmet burger is delicious!
And the fried zucchini is the best too. (760) 365-0144
Menu: https://www.johnsplaces.com/menus/
Directions: https://www.yelp.com/map/johns-place-yucca-valley?start=56797%20Hidden%20Gold%20Dr.%2C%20Yucca%20Valley%2C%20CA%2092284
70 locals recommend
John's Place
56249 Twentynine Palms HighwayJohn's Place is family friendly.
Try the pastrami sandwich or the burgers. The Johns gourmet burger is delicious!
And the fried zucchini is the best too. (760) 365-0144
Menu: https://www.johnsplaces.com/menus/
Directions: https://www.yelp.com/map/johns-place-yucca-valley?start=56797%20Hidden%20Gold%20Dr.%2C%20Yucca%20Valley%2C%20CA%2092284
Small town "old fashioned" Donut shop and you better get there early for the fresh made donuts. Try the apple fritter Y'all and get your sugar fix first thing.
27 locals recommend
Jelly Donut
56153 Twentynine Palms HighwaySmall town "old fashioned" Donut shop and you better get there early for the fresh made donuts. Try the apple fritter Y'all and get your sugar fix first thing.
Get here early it opens at 6:30 AM if you going to the Park because it's in Joshua Tree City about 13 minutes away from the house. Small retro diner with the most 5-star yelp reviews. Home Cook'n for your soul.
307 locals recommend
Country Kitchen
61768 Twentynine Palms HighwayGet here early it opens at 6:30 AM if you going to the Park because it's in Joshua Tree City about 13 minutes away from the house. Small retro diner with the most 5-star yelp reviews. Home Cook'n for your soul.
Best Coffee in Joshua Tree. No food. 61738 Twentynine Palms Highway it's on the way to Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Drive. Buy a bag of their blend to take home.
522 locals recommend
Joshua Tree Coffee Company
61738 Twentynine Palms HighwayBest Coffee in Joshua Tree. No food. 61738 Twentynine Palms Highway it's on the way to Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Drive. Buy a bag of their blend to take home.
Shop 'till You Drop
A colorful vintage shop full of fun finds. There is also one of a kind art. The backyard is full of yard art.
63 locals recommend
Route 62 Arts & Antiques
55635 Twentynine Palms HighwayA colorful vintage shop full of fun finds. There is also one of a kind art. The backyard is full of yard art.
Bohemian decor and an art exhibit in the back. A fun place to shop and browse.
149 locals recommend
Acme 5 Lifestyle
55870 Twentynine Palms HighwayBohemian decor and an art exhibit in the back. A fun place to shop and browse.
A large space full of craft makers and merchants from Joshua Tree, the Coachella Valley and beyond. Find unique hand crafted apparel, accessories and art,
80 locals recommend
Mojave Flea Trading Post Yucca Valley
55727 Twentynine Palms HighwayA large space full of craft makers and merchants from Joshua Tree, the Coachella Valley and beyond. Find unique hand crafted apparel, accessories and art,
This is a fun vintage shop with a great mural on the side to take a great group picture or selfie.
228 locals recommend
The End
55872 Twentynine Palms HighwayThis is a fun vintage shop with a great mural on the side to take a great group picture or selfie.
There is a selection of clothes, gifts and home decor. A fun desert shop. It is very close to Stater Bros. Market.
31 locals recommend
Desert Nest Co.
57085 Twentynine Palms HighwayThere is a selection of clothes, gifts and home decor. A fun desert shop. It is very close to Stater Bros. Market.
#1 ROCK SHOP *
This is a must.* Stop here on your way to your scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park. Ask about the singing crystal bowls and get a demonstration.
65 locals recommend
Joshua Tree Rock Shop
61595 Twentynine Palms Highway #1 ROCK SHOP *
This is a must.* Stop here on your way to your scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park. Ask about the singing crystal bowls and get a demonstration.
Joshua Tree souvenirs galore. Stickers, mugs, post cards, T-shirts and camping gear. It is right next to JT Saloon and across from the Joshua Tree visitor Center.
127 locals recommend
Coyote Corner
6535 Park BlvdJoshua Tree souvenirs galore. Stickers, mugs, post cards, T-shirts and camping gear. It is right next to JT Saloon and across from the Joshua Tree visitor Center.
This has many creative items on display from different many different creators from the Coachella Valley, Joshua Tree and beyond.
34 locals recommend
Mojave Flea Trading Post
383 N Indian Canyon DrThis has many creative items on display from different many different creators from the Coachella Valley, Joshua Tree and beyond.
Hiking, Rock Climbing & Off Roading
Pioneertown
53688 Pioneertown RdGreat hiking and bouldering in Pioneertown Preserve.
Located along the main east-west park road in Joshua Tree National Park. Skull Rock is a favorite stop for park visitors. A parking spot is located just across the road from the rock.
For those wishing to stretch their legs, a 1.7-mile nature trail begins either just across from the entrance to Jumbo Rocks Campground or inside the campground, across from the amphitheater.
133 locals recommend
Skull Rock
Located along the main east-west park road in Joshua Tree National Park. Skull Rock is a favorite stop for park visitors. A parking spot is located just across the road from the rock.
For those wishing to stretch their legs, a 1.7-mile nature trail begins either just across from the entrance to Jumbo Rocks Campground or inside the campground, across from the amphitheater.
This is a great hike for all. It is located up the hill before you enter Black Rock Camp Ground. You will pass horse camp and there is a dirt parking lot. There will be a sign and a trail to follow.
32 locals recommend
High View Nature Loop Trail
This is a great hike for all. It is located up the hill before you enter Black Rock Camp Ground. You will pass horse camp and there is a dirt parking lot. There will be a sign and a trail to follow.
Provisions, Beer, Wine and More,
Desierto Alto
55827 Twentynine Palms HighwayJoshua Tree Distilling Company
58945 Bus Center Drholistic ranch
55818 Twentynine Palms HighwayWine and Rock Shop
59006 Twentynine Palms Highway