Joshua Tree Day Trip

Joshua Tree makes a great day trip when you want a little bit of everything without overpacking the schedule. This itinerary an easy way to see a few of our favorite spots at a pace that still leaves room to enjoy the desert. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just looking for a fresh way to spend the day, this is a solid place to start.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Start with breakfast at Country Kitchen. Classic small town diner vibes, with delicious food.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Drive into Joshua Tree National Park. You can buy your pass online before you get there.

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Take on Hidden Valley Trail. It’s one of the best easy hikes in the park and a great way to get the full Joshua Tree landscape without committing your whole day.

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Spend the afternoon shopping in downtown Joshua Tree, including a stop at SUN OF THE DESERT. Make sure to check out Hey There Projects and The Station. Grab a snack or some lunch from The Dez.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Visit Noah Purifoy Outdoor Sculpture Museum. It’s one of those places that feels completely of the desert - expansive, strange, creative, and worth seeing in person.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

End the day at Más o Menos with a cocktail and a small bite. Check out their instagram to see who’s popping up with food.

The desert is at its best when the day has a little range: good food, open space, a few great stops, and time to take it all in. This list keeps things simple while still giving you a real feel for the town and the desert around it. Save it for your next day trip, and stop by SUN OF THE DESERT while you’re making your way through town.

Entrance to Hidden Valley Trail in Joshua Tree National Park