Experience Unique Shops, Restaurants and the Best in Desert Ambience
Often called “the gem of the desert,” the sunny city of La Quinta boasts a stunning assortment of world-class resorts, shops, restaurants and galleries. The shiniest part of that gem is Old Town, La Quinta’s main street with cobblestone sidewalks, white-washed adobe buildings, local boutiques and dreamy mountain views. Peruse through the many Old Town boutiques, pamper yourself with a trip to the spa or salon and enjoy al fresco dining at one of the many charming restaurants. La Quinta, along with its neighboring desert communities, is at the height of its season now, so there’s no better time to visit! Here’s how to experience the idyllic Old Town lifestyle in just 24 hours. Old Town La Quinta Itinerary
9 a.m.
Get Your Caffeine Fix at Main Street Coffee
Enjoy a delicious cup of joe and a pastry at Main Street Coffee, where you can choose from a great selection of baked goods and hot or cold beverages. If it’s a warm morning, cool off with an iced latte and pair it with the avocado toast, featuring brioche bread, cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. If you’re eager to explore, pick up one of their new grab-and-go items like the chicken hummus wrap.
Old Town La Quinta Itinerary
10 a.m.
Sweat It Out With a Bike Ride and Yoga Class
Experience the natural beauty of La Quinta by renting an electric bike from Pedego Electric Bikes. There are trails nearby where you can enjoy the beauty of the area, and before you go, be sure to check out Pedego’s schedule for group rides too! Once you’ve peddled around town, wind down at Gather Yoga & Wellness, where you can choose among a variety of classes, such as Gentle Yoga, Restorative Flow, Cardio and Stability and Strength.
7/1
Noon
Enjoy a Light Bite at RD RNNR
Eat a healthy lunch at RD RNNR in their dining room or on the covered patio. This local bar and grill specializes in craft drinks and dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Start with a spinach and artichoke dip with red chips, then move on to the Pavo turkey Cobb salad or Big Boy Grilled Cheese and Avocado sandwich, paired with a mixed green salad. And for those with a sweet tooth, be sure to ask your server about RD RNNR’s decadent dessert selection!
Old Town La Quinta Itinerary
1 p.m.
Shop at elizabeth & prince and Alexandrite
If you’re in the market for cool clothing made with fine fabrics, then head to Old Town’s elizabeth & prince. This boutique was named after a New York restaurant and shopping district and was created for those who love to explore the world. Then, make your way over to Alexandrite to shop a curated selection of golf, hiking, tennis and workout wear. This shop carries top activewear brands like Lorna Jane, Stance, Vuori and more!
Old Town La Quinta Itinerary
2 p.m.
Discover Essence Arts and Art on Main Street
Looking for the perfect piece for your home? Make a stop at Essence Arts in Old Town La Quinta. This fine art gallery, run by Anna Boatright, specializes in “creating beautiful environments by enhancing spaces with fine art.” And for those who prefer an open-air shopping experience, mark your calendars for Art on Main Street! On Feb. 5 and 19 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., over 100 artists will line the street, selling everything from paintings, ceramics and photography to jewelry, textiles, sculptures and mixed-media pieces.
3 p.m.
Take a Wellness Break at Old Town Massage
Old Town Massage strives to give its clients a one-of-a-kind therapeutic experience. They offer a variety of services, such as hot stone therapy, reflexology, Chinese massage, deep tissue and couples massages. When you book an appointment, make sure to let the therapist know what type of service you’re looking for, so they’re able to match you with the best therapist for your specific needs. Be prepared to relax and let the tensions of the day melt away.
4:30 p.m.
Head to Happy Hour at La Quinta Brewing Company or TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill
La Quinta Brewing Company
TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill
For a pint of the good stuff, head to La Quinta Brewing Company’s Old Town Taproom. During their weekday “hoppy” hour, you can order award-winning beers like Una Mas Por Favor!, Tan Line Brown Ale or Even Par 7.2 IPA starting at just $4 per pint. If you prefer a salted rim over suds, TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill offers over 75 different tequilas and 20 mezcals. Order a classic margarita, house wine, well drinks or beer for just $5 at happy hour!
Old Town La Quinta Itinerary
6 p.m.
Dine at The Grill on Main or Stuft Pizza
The Grill on Main offers a fresh approach to classic American fare, and you can dine inside or on their pet-friendly patio! Start out with a tempura shrimp appetizer, then move on to entrees like maple-glazed salmon or prime rib. In the mood for Italian? Stuft Pizza still features the same great pizzas that started it all 46 years ago but now offers an extensive menu that includes filet mignon and sea bass piccata. When you dine at these family-owned businesses, you’re supporting local!
8 p.m.
Listen to Live Tunes and Shop From Local Vendors
Enjoy live music by local musicians four evenings a week (Thursday through Sunday) in Old Town La Quinta’s open-air plaza! And before you head home, stop by the Certified Farmers Market on Sunday between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, eggs, baked bread, candles, body products, cheese, yogurt and more! The market runs through April 24, so don’t miss out!
Old Town La Quinta Itinerary
Old Town La Quinta
78100 Main St
La Quinta, CA 92253
760.777.1770
@oldtownlaquinta
Lynne Eodice is an accomplished writer & photographer. She is the former Features Editor for Petersen’s PHOTOgraphic magazine, and has contributed her writing and/or editorial expertise to Photographer’s Forum, Rangefinder, DoubleExposure.com, California Tour & Travel, Family Photo and Adorama’s Learning Center. She is also the author of Photos That Inspire: Photo Workshop, an instructional book that’s illustrated with more than 200 images by various photographers, published by Wiley & Sons.
