PALM DESERT

THE SUN SHINES BRIGHTER HERE

Palm Desert, home to the highest concentration of Canadian homeowners, has some of the warmest winters in the Western United States, with an average of 354 days of sunshine. More than 30,000 Snowbirds and seasonal travelers flock to the city during the high season to bask in the dry desert heat.

PALM DESERT

Population: 51,290

Median Age: 55.2

Median Household Income: $75,691

A centrally-located hotspot for shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation, it’s a favorite destination of both the young and young at heart. The prestigious, mile-long El Paseo Shopping District, is the heart of Palm Desert. Known as the 'Rodeo Drive of the Desert', it’s home to more than 200 designer boutiques, luxury stores, trendy restaurants, art galleries, and international brands. The District's shopping centre, The Gardens of El Paseo, is also host to many notable annual events including Fashion Week El Paseo and the Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival.

After some much needed retail therapy, play a round at one of Palm Desert’s 37 golf courses, hike the popular Bump and Grind Trail, or cheer on the American Hockey League’s Coachella Valley Firebirds at the new 11,000-capacity Acrisure Arena. There is always something fun to see and do in Palm Desert.

The city's housing market is dominating by single family homes and condominiums in country club and gated communities. There are an assortment of architectural styles including Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, Mid-Century Modern, and Contemporary. Home prices in Palm Desert are moderate with the average single-family home selling for $585,000.

Palm Desert is ideal for families. The public school system is superb, and both the University of California, Riverside and California State University, San Bernardino have campuses here.

A great place to play; endless summers await in Palm Desert.

EXPLORE PALM DESERT REAL ESTATE

By submitting your email, you consent to receive property listings and marketing communications from California Homes for Canadians. You also agree to our Privacy Policy, which outlines how we use your information. You can unsubscribe at anytime.

ATTRACTIONS

RESTAURANTS

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

GOLF COURSES

Palm Desert Attractions

ATTRACTIONS

LIVING DESERT ZOO AND GARDENS

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers visitors a fascinating look at the unique desert habitats of North America, Africa, and Australia. Home to more than 450 animals, including lions, giraffe, rhinos, bighorn sheep, and meerkats, as well as 1,400 desert plants, the zoo prioritizes conservation and education. Its interactive exhibits, breeding programs, and family-friendly activities inspire environmental stewardship.

ACRISURE ARENA

Experience the thrill of live entertainment and sports at Acrisure Arena. Specifically designed for hockey and acoustically optimized for major concert attractions, this 11,000-capacity venue has hosted legendary musicians like Jimmy Buffett, Sting, Madonna, and The Eagles, and is home to the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the AHL affiliate of the Seattle Kraken.

MCCALLUM THEATRE

An unforgettable evening of entertainment awaits at the McCallum Theatre. From the soaring melodies of Broadway to the graceful artistry of ballet, this 1,127-seat, state-of-the-art theatre presents a dazzling mix of world-class programming. Operated by the dedicated Friends of the Cultural Center, the McCallum has been enriching the community and captivates audiences since 1988.

THE STREET FAIR, AT COLLEGE OF THE DESERT

Discover a treasure trove of unique finds at the College of the Desert's open-air flea market, held every Saturday and Sunday, May through October. Wander through rows of merchant stalls and browse a diverse selection of gifts, gadgets, housewares and tools, clothing, crafts, original art, and delicious food.

DESERT SYMPHONY

Featuring the finest chamber musicians, virtuoso soloists, principal players, and recording artists in the region, the Desert Symphony offers music lovers a lively season of pop concerts, recitals, and special events. With a commitment to musical and artistic excellence, the symphony inspires, educates, and entertains audiences of all ages.

BUMP AND GRIND TRAIL

Winding through the rugged foothills of the Northern Santa Rosa Mountains, the Bump and Grind Trail is a moderately challenging 4-mile loop popular with hikers, runners and cyclists. The trailhead is conveniently located behind the Desert Crossings Shopping Center in Palm Desert. Get started at sunrise or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat; and leave your dog at home.

Palm Desert Restaurants

RESTAURANTS

CAFE DES BEAUX-ART

73640 El Paseo, Palm Desert

Transport yourself to Paris at Café Des Beaux-Arts. Savor the aroma of freshly baked beignets, the delicate flavours of a Salade Niçoise, and the comforting taste of Coq Au Vin. The Café offers a wide array of options including small bites, vegetarian and gluten-free choices, and decadent desserts. Enjoy Happy Hour nightly in Le Bar and live entertainment twice a week.

JC'S CAFE

73200 El Paseo, Palm Desert

All day, every day happy hour! Conveniently located in downtown Palm Desert, JC’s Café is the perfect spot to grab lunch while shopping El Paseo. Relax on the patio with a refreshing cocktail and a hearty salad or mouthwatering sandwich. Locals love the all-day breakfast, and daily specials keep the café hopping. There is something for every appetite on this value-packed menu.

MITCH'S ON EL PASEO

73951 El Paseo, Palm Desert

Satisfy your craving for steak, seafood and sushi at Mitch’s on El Paseo, a relaxed, fine dining restaurant specializing in variety. Their extensive lunch and dinner menus feature a wide selection of small plate options, American classics, and masterfully prepared sushi and sashimi, complemented by an impressive selection of wines, sake, and cocktails.

PACIFICA SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

73505 El Paseo, Palm Desert

At Pacifica, seafood is a passion. Quality local ingredients and the freshest seafood, delivered daily from San Diego, dominate the innovative menu. Located on the upper level of The Gardens on El Paseo shopping centre, Pacifica boasts a beautiful dining room, a bustling bar offering a daily happy hour, and an outdoor patio with spectacular mountain views.

RISTORANTE MAMMA GINA

73705 El Paseo, Palm Desert

A family business since 1986, Mamma Gina’s serves authentic Florentine cuisine in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Indulge in classic Italian dishes, specialty recipes, and handmade pastas in the dining room or unwind with a happy hour bite in the restaurant's Enoteca Bar from 4 p.m. to close daily.

WILMA & FRIEDA'S CAFE

73575 El Paseo, Palm Desert

Named in honor of the owner's grandmothers, Wilma and Frieda, this charming farmhouse café welcomes guests with delicious brunch favorites like decadent French toast, build-your-own scrambled eggs, and house specialties such as griddled meatloaf and short rib eggs benedict. Don't skip the sweet treats in the dessert case, they're irresistible.

Palm Desert Festivals & Events

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

FASHION WEEK EL PASEO

The West Coast’s largest consumer fashion show, Fashion Week El Paseo showcases the country’s top design talents and emerging stars every March at The Gardens on El Paseo. Indulge your inner fashionista, attend runway shows, celebrity meet-and-greets, in-store events, and cocktail parties celebrating the fashion trends of today, tomorrow and the future.

PALM DESERT FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Food and wine lovers won't want to miss the Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival. Held at The Gardens on El Paseo, this four-day festival of food and drink brings together the nation's most prominent and innovative chefs, vintners, and brewmasters. Foodies can enjoy tastings from local and regional restaurants, sample a variety of beverages, and participate in hands-on demonstrations.

PALM DESERT GREEK FESTIVAL

Come hungry to St. George Greek Orthodox Church's annual celebration of Greek culture. From the authentic Greek food, made from generations-old family recipes, to the dozens of free activities, including Greek folk dancing, guided church tours, live musical performances, and the kids' zone, the Palm Desert Greek Festival will have you shouting "OPA!"

PALM DESERT GOLF CART PARADE

Secure your spot early for the weird, wild and whimsical Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade as it cruises down El Paseo. This annual spectacle of creatively customized golf carts showcases the community's unique creativity and spirit. After the parade, the fun continues with live music, family entertainment, a classic car display, animal encounters, and a tempting array of delicious food and drinks.

CITY OF PALM DESERT PUBLIC ART DOCUMENTARY SERIES

The City of Palm Desert's Public Art Documentary Series presents free screenings of inspiring and thought-provoking films at the University of California, Riverside Palm Desert Center auditorium, followed by a Q&A and discussion. Film-lovers are encouraged to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

Palm Desert Golf Courses