Imperial County Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Imperial County with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to get around.
- Introduction to Imperial County
- List of Places to Visit in Imperial County
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Imperial County
- Best Things to Do in Imperial County: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Imperial County
- Food and Drink Scene of Imperial County
- Where to Stay in Imperial County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Imperial County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Imperial County
- Best Time to Visit Imperial County
- Do’s and Don’ts of Imperial County
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Imperial County: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Imperial County
- Where to Go Next from Imperial County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Imperial County
Located in the southeast of California, Imperial County is a desert region with stunning landscapes and plenty of outdoor adventures. The county is named after the Imperial Valley, which is known for its agriculture and serves as an important source of winter produce for the United States. Imperial County is also home to many cultural attractions that celebrate its diverse population, including several museums and historical sites.
List of Places to Visit in Imperial County
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Imperial Valley Desert Museum: This unique museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the desert region, with exhibits on geology, flora and fauna, and the indigenous cultures of the area.
- Cibola National Wildlife Refuge: This 17,000-acre refuge is a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife, and offers visitors a chance to explore the desert landscape through hiking trails and birdwatching spots.
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park: Located just across the border in Arizona, this park was once a notorious prison that held some of the West’s most dangerous criminals. Today, visitors can tour the old cells and learn about the prison’s history.
Natural Attractions of Imperial County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Salton Sea: The Salton Sea is the largest lake in California and a popular destination for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The lake was created when an irrigation canal broke in 1905, and today it supports a rich ecosystem of birds and other wildlife.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Located just south of Imperial County, this state park is one of the largest and most diverse deserts in North America. Visitors can explore the park’s rugged wilderness through hiking and camping, or enjoy the stunning views from the comfort of their car.
- Jacumba Wilderness Area: This remote wilderness area is a popular spot for hiking and backpacking, with trails that wind through narrow canyons and up steep mountainsides.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Imperial County
- Palo Verde Mountains: This stunning mountain range boasts some of the best hiking trails in Imperial County, with routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
- Imperial Sand Dunes: These massive sand dunes are a popular spot for off-road vehicles, but hikers and bikers can also explore the sand dunes and enjoy the sweeping desert views.
- Smuggler’s Cave: This hidden gem is a short but strenuous hike that takes visitors to a secluded cave with stunning views of the desert below.
Best Things to Do in Imperial County: Activities and Tours
- Hot air balloon rides: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Imperial Valley and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Imperial County Fair: Held every February, this beloved fair celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, carnival rides, and food stands.
- Algodones Dunes: Rent a dune buggy or ATV and explore the massive Algodones Dunes, one of the largest sand dune systems in North America.
Week-Long Itinerary for Imperial County
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Imperial Valley Desert Museum and learn about the history and ecology of the desert region |
| 2 | Explore the Salton Sea and take a fishing or boating trip |
| 3 | Take a hot air balloon ride over the Imperial Valley |
| 4 | Visit the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge to see migratory birds and other wildlife |
| 5 | Explore the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and take a scenic drive through the park |
| 6 | Rent a dune buggy and explore the massive Algodones Dunes |
| 7 | Take a hike in the Palo Verde Mountains or the Jacumba Wilderness Area |
Food and Drink Scene of Imperial County
Must-Try Dishes
- Carne asada fries: This local specialty consists of french fries topped with carne asada steak, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream.
- California burrito: This hearty burrito is filled with steak or chicken, French fries, cheese, and guacamole.
- Fish tacos: Fresh fish and shrimp tacos are a popular local delicacy, served with fresh salsa and lime wedges.
Local Beverages
- Margaritas: Made with fresh lime juice and tequila, margaritas are a favorite local cocktail.
- Mexican beer: Popular brands like Corona and Modelo are widely available in Imperial County.
- Date shakes: Made with fresh dates grown in the Imperial Valley, date shakes are a unique and delicious local treat.
Where to Stay in Imperial County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Best Western El Centro: Located in the heart of El Centro, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a refreshing outdoor pool.
- Pioneers Hotel: This historic hotel in Brawley has been recently renovated and offers affordable accomodations.
- Budget Inn and Suites El Centro: A budget-friendly option with spacious rooms and free breakfast.
What to Buy in Imperial County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Date products: Fresh dates, date syrup, and date candies are all popular local souvenirs.
- Handmade pottery and ceramics: Several local artisans create beautiful pottery and ceramics inspired by the region’s desert landscape.
- Local spices and seasonings: The Imperial Valley is known for its spicy cuisine, and several local stores sell unique blends of seasonings and spices.
Local Culture and Customs of Imperial County
The culture of Imperial County is diverse and influenced by both Hispanic and Native American traditions. Residents celebrate their heritage through food, festivals, and music, and often fuse traditional styles with modern influences.
Best Time to Visit Imperial County
The best time to visit Imperial County is from November to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers in the desert region can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do’s and Don’ts of Imperial County
Do:
- Do try the local cuisine, including carne asada fries, fish tacos, and date shakes.
- Do explore the outdoors and take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails throughout the county.
Don’t:
- Don’t underestimate the desert heat, and be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Don’t litter or damage the delicate desert ecosystem.
Safety and Health
Safety in Imperial County
Imperial County is generally considered a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions when exploring the desert landscape. Always stay hydrated, bring appropriate clothing and gear, and be aware of any potential hazards like venomous snakes or steep drop-offs.
Health in Imperial County
The dry and dusty desert environment can be hard on respiratory systems, so visitors with asthma or other respiratory conditions should take extra precautions. Be sure to drink plenty of water and consider purchasing a disposable dust mask if necessary.
Getting to Imperial County: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Imperial County
- Imperial County Airport: Located in Imperial, this small airport offers limited service from a few regional airlines.
- Yuma International Airport: Located just across the border in Arizona, this larger airport offers more flights and connections.
Bus Stations Near Imperial County
- El Centro Greyhound Station: Served by Greyhound and other regional bus lines.
- Calexico-Border Station: This bus station is located just across the border in Mexico and offers connections to several Mexican cities.
Other Options
- Car rentals: Several major car rental companies have locations in Imperial County and the surrounding areas.
- Private shuttles: Private shuttle services are also available for transportation to and from the airport and between destinations within the county.
How to Get Around in Imperial County
A rental car is the best option for getting around Imperial County, as public transportation is limited and most attractions are spread out across the county.
Where to Go Next from Imperial County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- San Diego: Just a few hours west of Imperial County, San Diego offers world-class museums, beaches, and cultural attractions.
- Joshua Tree National Park: Located just north of Imperial County, this stunning national park offers breathtaking desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor adventures.
- Palm Springs: This popular desert destination is known for its luxury resorts, spas, and hot springs.
Conclusion
Imperial County is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in the desert sun, Imperial County has it all. Plan your trip today and discover all that this hidden gem of California has to offer.