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Travel Guide to California

La Quinta

LQVE La Quinta
Desert Chic with Soul

by Jennifer Malloy

You don’t just visit La Quinta—you live it. Set against the dramatic Santa Rosa Mountains, this sun-splashed desert city blends polished luxury with creative grit and outdoor swagger. Think world-class golf, art-lined streets and meals that linger long after the last bite. This is where you slow down, tune in and fall hard for the desert lifestyle.

Eat Like a Local

From farm-fresh produce to bold regional flavors, La Quinta’s dining scene serves up authentic taste with elevated flair. Locally loved Chula Artisan Eatery showcases scratch-made classics, where zesty salsas and melt-in-your-mouth tamales transform cherished family recipes into crave-worthy comfort food.

As the sun dips, The Sandbar sets the mood with coastal-inspired seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a lively patio that hums well into the night. Casa Mendoza brings soulful Mexican dishes made from scratch to the table, offering a warm, indulgent dining experience. For an elevated night out, Melange at the Chateau pairs elegant plates with shimmering lake views.

Effortless Style and Unique Finds around Town

Old Town La Quinta is compact, stylish and wonderfully walkable. This retail enclave blends desert flair with thoughtfully curated local and international finds. Explore specialty shops offering handcrafted décor and distinctive gifts that capture the area’s relaxed sophistication. 

Where You Lay Your Head Matters

For iconic desert luxury, La Quinta Resort & Club remains legendary for its lush grounds, historic casitas and glamorous amenities, including championship golf, tennis and pickleball courts, and a destination spa. The Chateau at Lake La Quinta offers boutique elegance with waterfront serenity, while Embassy Suites La Quinta delivers spacious all-suite comfort and a delectable complimentary breakfast.

Traveling smart? Homewood Suites La Quinta and Residence Inn La Quinta provide reliable value without compromising comfort. For added privacy, vacation rentals through PlayInLaQuinta.com offer a live-like-a-local experience, poolside mornings included.

Art, Culture and Creative Pulse

La Quinta’s creative spirit shines throughout the city. Old Town Artisan Studios, a nonprofit collective, invites visitors to engage with local artists through hands-on experiences. The La Quinta Museum brings local history and cultural arts to life through thoughtfully curated exhibits. Time your visit with the nationally recognized La Quinta Art Celebration, where jury-selected artists, live music and gourmet food converge in a scenic desert park. Art on Main Street completes the picture, turning everyday strolls into open-air gallery moments.

Play Outside

La Quinta’s outdoor adventures are some of its most celebrated attractions: tee off on celebrated golf courses, and hang out at the American Express Golf Tournament that’s an annual staple. You can pedal along scenic bike trails that wind through city paths and open desert. Or hike the region’s most striking trails in La Quinta Cove and beyond, where towering peaks and rugged landscapes reward adventurers of every skill level.

Refined, Vibrant, Creative, Adventurous.

Play in La Quinta PlayInLaQuinta.com

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