Palm Desert Visitor Center: Your Desert Gateway
Your gateway to exploring Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley, offering maps, guides, and expert advice for an unforgettable desert experience.
The Palm Desert Visitor Center is your first stop for discovering all that Palm Desert and the surrounding Coachella Valley have to offer. Located in the Palm Desert Library, the center provides maps, brochures, and expert advice to help you plan your desert adventure.
A brief summary to Palm Desert Visitor Center
- 73510 Fred Waring Dr, Palm Desert, California, 92260, US
- +1760-568-1441
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week for personalized assistance, as the center is busiest on weekends.
- Pick up a map of the area to help navigate the various attractions and points of interest.
- Ask the staff for recommendations on local restaurants and hidden gems.
Getting There
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Walking
The Visitor Center is located inside the Palm Desert Library at 73300 Civic Center Drive. If you are already in the Civic Center area, walking is a convenient option. From the intersection of Fred Waring Drive and San Pablo Avenue, walk south on San Pablo Avenue, then turn right onto Civic Center Drive. The library will be on your left.
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Public Transport
SunLine Transit Agency provides bus service to the Palm Desert area. Check the SunLine Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. From the Town Center & Hahn bus stop, the library is a short walk away.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Palm Desert. A taxi from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to the Palm Desert Library is approximately $45-$60 and takes about 20 minutes. Be aware that Uber prices may vary.
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Driving
The Palm Desert Library is located at 73300 Civic Center Drive. From Highway 111, turn east onto Fred Waring Drive, then turn south onto San Pablo Avenue, and finally turn right onto Civic Center Drive. The library will be on your left. Parking is available at the library.
Discover more about Palm Desert Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Desert Map & Aerial Photo
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Uncover the beauty of California's desert landscape through breathtaking aerial photography and detailed maps at Desert Map & Aerial Photo.
El Paseo Shopping District
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Eisenhower Walk of Honor
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Carl G. Bray Smoke Tree Painter Monument
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Explore the Carl G. Bray Smoke Tree Painter Monument, a historical landmark celebrating the artistic heritage of California's Indian Wells.
Palm Desert Sign
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Discover the vibrant Palm Desert Sign, an iconic landmark that embodies the spirit of California's desert oasis, perfect for memorable photos and adventures.
Desert Memorial Park
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Gene Autry Statue
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Spectra Tower
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Coachella Valley History Museum
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Palm Springs Mod Squad (Architecture Tours)
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The Saguaro Palm Springs
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Experience the vibrant charm of The Saguaro Palm Springs, a colorful hotel offering relaxation, adventure, and a taste of the desert lifestyle.
Agua Caliente Monument
16.6 km
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Mojave and Colorado Deserts Biosphere Reserve
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Discover the captivating Mojave and Colorado Deserts Biosphere Reserve, a natural sanctuary showcasing California's stunning desert landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Palm Springs Sign
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The Modern Tour - Palm Springs
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Unmissable attractions to see
Desert Holocaust Memorial
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A moving and educational memorial in Palm Desert dedicated to the victims and lessons of the Holocaust. A place for remembrance and reflection.
Palm Desert Civic Center Park
0.3 km
Experience recreation and community at Palm Desert Civic Center Park, a 70-acre oasis with sports, events, and natural beauty.
Palm Desert Aquatic Center
0.6 km
Dive into year-round fun at Palm Desert Aquatic Center: pools, slides, fitness, and events for all ages in the heart of Coachella Valley.
City of Palm Desert Magnesia Falls Park
1.3 km
Escape to Magnesia Falls Park in Palm Desert: a green oasis offering recreation, relaxation, and community engagement for all ages.
Historical Society of Palm Desert
1.6 km
Explore Palm Desert's past at the Historical Society: photos, archives, and stories of early settlers await! Open Oct-May, free admission.
Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert
1.8 km
Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert, where creativity and culture converge to inspire visitors of all ages.
The Bump And Grind
2.3 km
Hike the iconic Bump and Grind Trail in Palm Desert for a challenging desert workout with panoramic Coachella Valley views, perfect for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers.
City of Palm Desert Cahuilla Hills Park
2.4 km
Explore scenic trails and desert views at Palm Desert's Cahuilla Hills Park, a natural gateway to the Santa Rosa Mountains.
City of Palm Desert Homme-Adams Park
3.1 km
Escape to Palm Desert's Homme-Adams Park: trails, picnic spots, and a dog-friendly oasis await in this blend of nature and recreation.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
3.4 km
Explore the unique wildlife and beautiful botanical gardens at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, a top destination for nature lovers in Palm Desert, California.
Palm Desert Cross
3.5 km
Hike to the iconic Palm Desert Cross for panoramic Coachella Valley views and a peaceful desert experience. A must-see landmark!
Yin Yang
3.5 km
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Sunnylands Center & Gardens
6.1 km
Explore art, history, and nature at Sunnylands Center & Gardens, the former Annenberg estate in Rancho Mirage. Free admission to the gardens!
Greater Palm Springs
6.5 km
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Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert
6.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Mi Cultura peruvian colombian cuisine
0.8 km
Experience the rich flavors of Peru and Colombia at Mi Cultura – where culinary traditions come alive in Palm Desert.
Mimmo's Italian Restaurant and Bar
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mimmo's Italian Restaurant and Bar in Palm Desert - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Keedy's Fountain & Grill
1.0 km
Discover Keedy's Fountain & Grill in Palm Desert: A classic American diner serving up delicious breakfasts and nostalgic vibes.
Trattoria Mezzomondo
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Mezzomondo in Palm Desert – where every dish tells a story.
Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill
1.0 km
Experience vibrant Mexican cuisine at Fresh Agave Bar & Grill in Palm Desert – where tradition meets flavor!
Cafe Des Beaux-Arts
1.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Cafe Des Beaux-Arts in Palm Desert – where every meal is a delightful culinary adventure.
Castelli's Ristorante
1.1 km
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Castelli's Ristorante in Palm Desert - where tradition meets taste.
Casa Mendoza
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Casa Mendoza in Palm Desert – where every meal is a celebration!
Pacifica Seafood Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Pacifica Seafood Restaurant in Palm Desert - where freshness meets flavor in a stunning setting.
Sweet Basil California Eatery
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of California at Sweet Basil California Eatery in Palm Desert - where every dish tells a story.
The Hideout Kitchen + Bar
1.2 km
Experience the best of California cuisine at The Hideout Kitchen + Bar in Palm Desert - where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store
1.2 km
Experience culinary delights and island vibes at Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store in Palm Desert - where every meal feels like a vacation.
Ristorante Mamma Gina
1.2 km
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Mastro's Steakhouse
1.2 km
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JC’s Cafe
1.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shops on San Pablo - Venus Fashion Boutique
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Explore unique fashion at Venus Fashion Boutique, a chic women's clothing store in Palm Desert that offers a personalized shopping experience.
Peach Whiskers Goods
0.9 km
Explore the eclectic vintage treasures at Peach Whiskers Goods in Palm Desert, California—where retro fashion meets unique style.
The Fine Art of Design
1.0 km
Explore a curated collection of vintage clothing and unique consignment finds at The Fine Art of Design in Palm Desert.
Jensen's Shopping Center
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Jensen's Shopping Center, a premier shopping destination in Palm Desert offering local flavors and unique finds.
BG's el paseo
1.1 km
Explore the stylish and unique offerings for women at BG's El Paseo in Palm Desert, where fashion meets individuality.
Sunny Days Retail
1.1 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and accessories at Sunny Days Retail, a must-visit fashion destination in Palm Desert, California.
Daisy Blue Boutique
1.1 km
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Elizabeth & Prince
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Discover the essence of desert fashion at Elizabeth & Prince, Palm Desert's premier women's clothing boutique.
INSANITY
1.1 km
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Wayne's Collection
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Earth Spirits
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Explore Earth Spirits in Palm Desert for unique clothing and accessories that capture the essence of California's vibrant desert lifestyle.
ALEXANDER ON El PASEO
1.1 km
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Johnny Was
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Louis Vuitton Palm Desert
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Discover the elegance of Louis Vuitton Palm Desert, where luxury leather goods meet exquisite craftsmanship in a stunning desert destination.
Patriot Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Desert Fox Bar
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Little Bar
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BaBaLoo Lounge
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Libation Room
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La Fe Wine Bar
1.3 km
Experience the essence of wine culture at La Fe Wine Bar in Palm Desert, where exquisite wines and gourmet small plates await.
Tap-In Taproom
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Yard House
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The 19th Hole
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La Quinta Cliffhouse
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Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails
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Discover a lively cocktail bar experience at Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails, where affordable drinks and vibrant entertainment await in Thousand Palms.
Amigo Room
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Palm Springs at The Amigo Room—an eclectic bar serving creative cocktails and unforgettable experiences.
The Reef
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Explore The Reef in Palm Springs - A vibrant bar and restaurant serving tropical cocktails and delicious cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Elixir Pool Bar & Grill
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Discover the unique blend of Asian flavors and poolside relaxation at Elixir Pool Bar & Grill in Palm Springs, where every meal is a memorable experience.
Seymour's
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Discover Seymour's, an upscale bar in Palm Springs offering unique cocktails and a vibrant nightlife experience perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and fun.
Paul Bar/Food
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Discover the lively Paul Bar in Palm Springs, where unique cocktails, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
