Desert Magic: A Girls Trip to Joshua Tree
Curated By
Liz Schmittgens
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Active Travel
Group Travel
California
Bachelorette Party Destinations
Countryside
National Park
Sightseeing
Curator’s statement
The desert landscape is a magical place to gather with the most important women in your life. It’s also a great place for a diverse group of friends looking for different things out of their long weekend with options for relaxation, outdoor and foodie activities. One of my girlfriends also introduced the idea of a Land Acknowledgement on this trip. A land acknowledgement is a way of formally recognizing and showing appreciation for the Indigenous peoples who have been traditional stewards of the land for generations before colonization. This helped bring a bit of extra magic to our long weekend together.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in California
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Things to do in California
Visit some truly unique outdoor art installations:
Transmission’ Sculpture by Daniel Popper
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
Rhythm of Life
Fitting In’ by Hector Santos
Take a drive out to Pioneertown for a funky mix of boutique shopping and kitschy Western shows.
Explore a trail on horseback at CottonWood Canyon Ranch.
Experience a unique sound bath at The Integratron dome.
Take LOTS of photos during golden hour. The sunset light in the desert is truly different and you will want to capture it with your group. Hire a local photographer for a professional eye.
Go for a hike to see the varied landscapes and admire the Joshua Trees. If you are there January to Mid-April, you'll also see the cacti flowering. Forty-nine Palms Oasis was a particular favorite, but there are many trails in the area:
Forty-nine Palms Oasis
Nancy Karl Trailhead
Barker Dam
Black Rock Canyon Trailhead
Places to eat & drink in California
When you're in Pioneertown, don't miss the BBQ at Pappy + Harriet's. And don't be afraid to get messy with a rack of ribs. Your girlfriends will be sure to tell you if you have sauce on your face.
If you stay in a place with a kitchen, hire a local private chef. For girls trips or any group over five people, this is one of the best ways to get quality time with the group, skirt all the logistics of finding a restaurant that will take large groups and enjoy a great meal cooked by a local.
For off-the-beaten-path dining
La Copine Kitchen - A hidden gem with a rotating menu of California-inspired dishes.
Frontier Cafe - A quirky spot with a vintage vibe and delicious breakfast burritos.
For when you fly in and out of Palm Beach
The Tropicale Palm Springs - Great patio and even better drinks.
Rooster and the Pig - Vietnamese-inspired cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.
Birba - Wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails in a chic outdoor setting.
King's Highway - Diner-style restaurant with a retro vibe, located in a converted 1950s gas station.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Zurich Like a Local.
Travel Advisor
Liz Schmittgens
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.