Central Desert - The California Deserts - Greater Palm Springs

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The fascinating topography of the Central Desert reveals a region of immense beauty, brimming with unparalleled opportunities to engage in a myriad of experiences — from exhilarating outdoor adventures and recreational sports to health and wellness retreats and immersive arts and culture.

Magnificent Joshua Tree National Park lies to the north with its 550,000 acres of wilderness encompassing sweeping vistas of jaw-dropping rock formations, spiny Joshua trees, and thriving populations of plants and wildlife species. The enrapturing landscape and surreal skies at dusk have long been a magnet for artists and musicians, instilling a creative, free-spirited vibe in Joshua Tree and surrounding high desert towns.

To the west is where you’ll find Cabazon, a popular shopping and entertainment destination with nearly 200 luxury stores at Desert Hills Premium Outlets and the adjacent Cabazon Outlets. Nearby, Morongo Casino Resort Spa features the ultimate Southern California resort gaming experience and marquee entertainment.

To the south lies Greater Palm Springs, an oasis of nine resort cities: Desert Hot Springs, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella, and the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Native Americans.

This legendary resort destination saw rapid transformation throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries as pioneer homesteads and ranches gave way to the development of exclusive hotels and hideaways frequented by Hollywood stars. In the 50s, new country club communities inspired visitors to extend their stays. Today, Greater Palm Springs is widely recognized for its world-class attractions, resorts and amenities, championship golf and tennis, cultural activities, and epic live music concerts.