Imperial Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, and local customs of Imperial, California in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Imperial

Imperial County is a hidden gem located in the heart of the Desert region in California, United States of America. The scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and plethora of outdoor activities make Imperial a must-visit destination for travelers. This guide will take you through the top attractions, activities, and local customs of Imperial, providing you with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Imperial

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Imperial Valley Desert Museum
  • Pioneers Museum
  • Imperial Valley Press Museum
  • Calexico Mission Schoolhouse

Natural Attractions of Imperial: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salton Sea
  • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
  • Yuha Desert
  • Painted Gorge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Imperial

  • Carrizo Mountain Road
  • Fish Creek Wash Loop Trail
  • Mount Signal Trail
  • Sweeney Pass Trail

Best Things to Do in Imperial: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride
  • ATV Riding in the Desert
  • Sandboarding in Glamis
  • Birdwatching at the Salton Sea

Week-Long Itinerary for Imperial

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Imperial Valley Desert Museum, explore Imperial’s historical sites
Day 2 Take a hot air balloon ride; spend the evening at Salton Sea
Day 3 Explore the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park; hike the Fish Creek Wash Loop Trail
Day 4 ATV ride in the desert and sandboarding in Glamis
Day 5 Visit the Pioneers Museum and Imperial Valley Press Museum
Day 6 Birdwatching at the Salton Sea
Day 7 Head to Calexico Mission Schoolhouse and Painted Gorge for scenic views and hiking trails

Food and Drink Scene of Imperial

Must-Try Dishes

  • California Burrito
  • Carne Asada Fries
  • Fish Tacos
  • Tamales

Local Beverages

  • Margarita
  • Michelada
  • Horchata
  • Agua fresca

Where to Stay in Imperial: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Best Western Plus Main Street Inn
  • Rodeway Inn
  • Desert Motel
  • Motel 6

What to Buy in Imperial: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade pottery
  • Soaps and Perfumes
  • Local honey
  • Cactus jelly

Local Culture and Customs of Imperial

Imperial County is heavily influenced by Mexican culture, so expect to find a lot of authentic Mexican cuisine, music, and traditions. It is important to respect locals’ traditions and beliefs.

Best Time to Visit Imperial

The best time to visit Imperial is between October to April when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Imperial

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and customs
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas
  • Park in restricted areas
  • Leave valuables in your car

Safety and Health

Safety in Imperial

Imperial is a safe place, but visitors should take basic precautions such as locking vehicles and securing personal items.

Health in Imperial

It is advisable to protect yourself from sun exposure and stay hydrated at all times.

Getting to Imperial: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Imperial

  • Imperial County Airport
  • Yuma International Airport
  • San Diego International Airport

Bus Stations Near Imperial

  • Greyhound Station, El Centro
  • El Centro Transit Terminal

Other Options

  • Rental cars
  • Taxis

How to Get Around in Imperial

It is recommended to rent a car, as public transportation is limited in Imperial County.

Where to Go Next from Imperial: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Diego
  • Palm Springs
  • Ensenada, Mexico
  • Joshua Tree National Park

Conclusion

Imperial County is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who appreciate natural beauty. With this guide, you can plan a memorable trip to Imperial, California, and make the most of your time in this beautiful desert region.