Here’s Where to Dine, Shop and Explore in This Desert Town

Nestled in the heart of the California desert, the sun-kissed landscapes of Rancho Mirage unfold, inviting travelers to dive into a desert oasis. The city is also known as the “Playground of the Presidents,” and it exudes a unique charm that beckons both thrill-seekers and poolside loungers. Famous for presidential visitors, such as Dwight D. Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan, and Golden Age celebrity residents like Frank Sinatra and Lucille Ball, this gem of a city combines sophistication and leisure while offering warm days and balmy nights year-round. From championship golf courses and culinary havens to vibrant arts and culture events, Rancho Mirage seamlessly blends picturesque scenery with attractions and activities for every type of tourist. Here’s how to spend a day or two in this laid-back desert town.

 

DINE

Wally’s Desert Turtle

Founded by the visionary behind Velvet Turtle, Wally’s Desert Turtle celebrates regional bounty and three generations of family ownership. Known for its seasonal ingredients, the five-star menu and curated wine list create a flavor experience worth savoring. Succulent seafood dishes capture the essence of the Pacific, while locally sourced produce highlights California’s rich agriculture. Every bite tells a story of the desert’s culinary landscape, crafted with care and creativity.

Attentive staff ensures each visit feels like more than a meal—it’s a journey into Rancho Mirage’s food scene. An opulent dining room, live musical performances, and warm hospitality make Wally’s Desert Turtle a truly elevated experience.

 

Si Bon

Transport yourself to a European culinary escapade at Si Bon, the Belgian bistro nestled in the heart of Rancho Mirage. Whether you’re craving a savory French crepe for breakfast, mussels for lunch or steak frites for dinner, Si Bon offers a charming and delicious dining experience at any time of day. The cozy bistro is an ode to Brussels with cafe chairs and hand-painted murals—an idyllic setting to indulge your taste buds in a variety of Belgian-inspired dishes along with some American classics. 

Local Insight: If you’re a fan of shareable plates, be sure not to miss Si Bon’s happy hour! 

 

DO

Explore Sunnylands Center + Gardens

In 2012, Sunnylands Center & Gardens opened to the public, revealing 15 acres of stunning desert art gardens. A sleek glass facade leads to the Sunnylands Center, a spacious retreat for art and culture lovers. Inside, visitors find a rotating art exhibition, charming café, gift shop, and multimedia displays telling the story of Sunnylands.

The legacy of Walter and Leonore Annenberg comes to life through these carefully curated experiences. Guests can also tour the Annenbergs’ former winter estate, a 25,000-square-foot midcentury modern masterpiece.

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Unwind at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Rancho Mirage

A sanctuary of desert-inspired rejuvenation, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Rancho Mirage goes beyond the ordinary day-spa experience. Boasting 16 beautiful treatment rooms—some of which have private terraces with sweeping views of the valley—this serene retreat is just as gorgeous inside with its elegantly designed stone and wood architecture. Immerse yourself in a world where indigenous botanicals shine through massages, facials and body treatments for a holistic wellness experience. Some of our favorite services include the Art of Wellness Massage, the Spirit of the Mountains treatment, the Indigenous Desert Wrap and the Ultimate Radiance & Renewal Facial.

 

Stargaze at the Rancho Mirage Observatory

Step into the cosmic realm with Observatory Public Exploration Nights at the Rancho Mirage Observatory, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the universe with the facility’s PlaneWave Instruments CDK 700 telescope. Admire celestial marvels and interact with passionate astronomers and enthusiastic docents who are there to answer your questions and offer more information while you marvel at 100-350x magnified views of different planets, nebulae, star clusters and more (depending on weather and time of year). No need to fret about reservations—this is a drop-in, open-house-style event.

 

Hike the Bump and Grind Trail

Journey through the captivating landscapes and natural beauty of Rancho Mirage while exploring this 4-mile loop trail. The Bump and Grind Trail is a moderately challenging route—the adventure typically takes less than two-and-a-half hours, promising a fulfilling experience for hikers, mountain bikers and runners alike. For the best conditions, plan your visit between October and May, when the weather lends itself to the perfect blend of sunny skies and light breezes. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on this trail, so you’ll need to leave your pup behind this time. (Don’t worry, you can take them out to a dog-friendly restaurant to make it up to them!)

 

SHOP

Coco & LuLu Boutique

Nestled in The River shopping center is CoCo & LuLu Boutique, a family-owned shop where California fashion meets a vibrant BoHo vibe. This boutique takes pride in curating a collection that embodies fun, quality and, most importantly, affordability. CoCo & LuLu’s offerings range from stylish clothing to home goods and accessories, and with new arrivals coming in every week, you’ll always be able to find something new and exciting. The CoCo & LuLu team pours love and meticulous attention into each acquired item, ensuring that every piece reflects the essence of the boutique’s whimsical energy. 

 

Rancho Relaxo

From humble beginnings within the desert expanse of Greater Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, Rancho Relaxo has blossomed into a celebration of the leisurely side of life, which is perfect for the desert’s resort lifestyle. Today, the shop meticulously curates a collection of items sourced from around the globe, with a special emphasis on the craftsmanship of California. Each piece is chosen not only for its inherent beauty but also for its resonance with the unique spirit of Rancho Relaxo—inspiring shoppers to cultivate their personal paradise wherever they may be. 

 

STAY

The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage

With sweeping views of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains, fine dining and luxurious ways to unwind in the spa or by the pool, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage offers an elevated retreat that encapsulates the beauty of Rancho Mirage. Contemporary design lends itself to the surrounding desert, offering breathtaking valley panoramas at The Edge Steakhouse and spa experiences inspired by the spirit of the Coachella Valley. The resort’s opulence harmonizes with the area’s rich history, creating an ambiance of refinement and indulgence. With spacious layouts, private balconies and expansive bathrooms, each room captures the essence of the resort. For enhanced amenities and top-notch service, we recommend opting for The Ritz-Carlton Club Level.