Twentynine Palms Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about Twentynine Palms, from where to stay, what to eat, and what to see and do, to local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Twentynine Palms

Located in the Mojave Desert in Southern California, Twentynine Palms is a small but beautiful city known for its stunning natural scenery and abundance of outdoor activities. With a population of just over 25,000, this quiet community offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of nearby Los Angeles.

In this travel guide, we’ll explore all the best things to see and do in Twentynine Palms, from hiking and biking to cultural attractions and local cuisine. We’ll also provide tips on where to stay, how to get around, and how to stay safe while exploring this unique desert oasis.

List of Places to Visit in Twentynine Palms

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • 29 Palms Art Gallery: This nonprofit gallery features rotating exhibits of contemporary art and photography by local and regional artists.
  • Old Schoolhouse Museum: Housed in a historic one-room schoolhouse built in 1927, this museum features exhibits of artifacts and memorabilia from the early days of Twentynine Palms.
  • 29 Palms Historical Society: This organization maintains several historical sites in the area, including the 29 Palms Pioneer Museum and the Oasis of Mara.

Natural Attractions of Twentynine Palms: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Joshua Tree National Park: This expansive park sits at the intersection of two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and Colorado, and offers endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and stargazing.
  • Smith’s Ranch Drive-In Theater: A true piece of Americana, this classic drive-in theater lets visitors enjoy a double feature under the stars.
  • Indian Cove: This popular campground and picnic area is situated in a scenic canyon surrounded by towering rock formations.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Twentynine Palms

  • 49 Palms Oasis Trail: This moderate 3-mile round-trip hike takes visitors through a boulder-strewn canyon to a verdant oasis surrounded by towering fan palms.
  • Ryan Mountain: One of the most popular hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, this 3-mile round-trip trail climbs 1,000 feet to the summit of Ryan Mountain for incredible views of the surrounding desert.
  • Cholla Cactus Garden Trail: This 0.25-mile loop takes visitors through a stunning stand of cholla cacti, which glow golden in the late afternoon sun.

Best Things to Do in Twentynine Palms: Activities and Tours

  • Sky’s the Limit Observatory and Nature Center: This nonprofit center offers stargazing tours, educational programs, and hiking trails through a pristine desert landscape.
  • Joshua Tree Adventure Tours: This outfitter offers guided tours of Joshua Tree National Park, including rock climbing, mountain biking, and nature walks.
  • Rocky Trail ATV Rentals: Adventure-seekers can rent ATVs and explore the desert landscape on their own.

Week-Long Itinerary for Twentynine Palms

Day 1: Arrive in Twentynine Palms and explore the Old Schoolhouse Museum and 29 Palms Art Gallery.

Day 2: Start the day with a hike on the 49 Palms Oasis Trail, then head to Indian Cove for a picnic lunch and some rock climbing.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, where you can hike, bike, and stargaze to your heart’s content.

Day 4: Rent an ATV from Rocky Trail Rentals and explore the surrounding desert mud flats.

Day 5: Enjoy a relaxing day by the pool at your hotel, followed by dinner and drinks at one of the many local restaurants.

Day 6: Take a guided rock climbing tour in Joshua Tree National Park with Joshua Tree Adventure Tours.

Day 7: Depart Twentynine Palms and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Twentynine Palms

Must-Try Dishes

  • Palms Restaurant: This local favorite serves up classic American diner fare, including burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
  • Cactus Mart: This quirky desert plant store also doubles as a cafe serving up fresh-baked treats, coffee, and tea.
  • 29 Palms Inn: This historic hotel and restaurant features a farm-to-table menu showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Joshua Tree Brewery: This small-batch brewery produces a range of delicious craft beers, from pale ales to stouts.
  • La Copine: This hip eatery serves up creative cocktails and an extensive selection of local beers and wines.
  • BKB Ceramics: This ceramics studio and shop sells handmade mugs, cups, and other drinkware, perfect for sipping your favorite beverage in style.

Where to Stay in Twentynine Palms: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • 29 Palms Inn: This historic hotel features cozy rooms and cottages, a farm-to-table restaurant, and stunning views of the surrounding desert.
  • Element Hotel: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a pool and hot tub, and a 24-hour fitness center.
  • Motel 6 Twentynine Palms: This budget-friendly chain motel offers basic amenities and an ideal location just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park.

What to Buy in Twentynine Palms: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • 29 Palms Art Gallery: This nonprofit gallery sells affordable art and photography by local and regional artists.
  • Smith’s Ranch Drive-In Theater: Show your love for this local landmark with a retro-style t-shirt or hoodie.
  • Joshua Tree Farmers Market: Stock up on local produce, artisanal jams and jellies, and handmade crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Twentynine Palms

Twentynine Palms is a close-knit community with a strong connection to the natural environment. Visitors should be respectful of the desert ecosystem and adhere to “leave no trace” principles when hiking and exploring. It’s also important to dress appropriately for the desert climate, with plenty of sun protection, sturdy footwear, and plenty of water.

Best Time to Visit Twentynine Palms

The best time to visit Twentynine Palms is in the fall and winter months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring is also a good time to visit, as the desert blooms with wildflowers and cacti. Summer can be very hot and dry, so visitors should take extra precautions and be prepared for extreme heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Twentynine Palms

Do:

  • Do bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks when exploring the desert.
  • Do be respectful of the natural environment and local customs.
  • Do try local cuisine and beer at one of the many restaurants and breweries in the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the local wildlife.
  • Don’t forget to check weather conditions and be prepared for extreme heat.
  • Don’t underestimate the ruggedness of the desert terrain; stay on marked trails and bring appropriate footwear.

Safety and Health

Safety in Twentynine Palms

Twentynine Palms is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take common sense precautions when exploring the desert. This includes always carrying a map, staying on marked trails, and being mindful of the danger of dehydration and heat stroke.

Health in Twentynine Palms

The extreme heat and dry climate in Twentynine Palms can take a toll on visitors, but with proper preparation and precaution, it’s possible to stay healthy and safe. Visitors should stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning when necessary.

Getting to Twentynine Palms: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Twentynine Palms

The nearest airport to Twentynine Palms is Palm Springs International Airport, located about 55 miles (88 kilometers) southwest of the city. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 150 miles (241 kilometers) to the west.

Bus Stations Near Twentynine Palms

Greyhound operates a bus station in nearby Yucca Valley, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of Twentynine Palms.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to get around Twentynine Palms, with several major highways and scenic routes running through the area.

How to Get Around in Twentynine Palms

A car is the most convenient way to get around Twentynine Palms and the surrounding area, as public transportation is limited. Visitors can rent a car at Palm Springs International Airport or in nearby Yucca Valley.

Where to Go Next from Twentynine Palms: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Palm Springs: This iconic resort town is known for its midcentury architecture, hot springs, and world-class shopping and dining.
  • Salton Sea: The largest lake in California, Salton Sea is a unique geological phenomenon with a storied history and (somewhat eerie) beauty.
  • San Bernardino National Forest: Just a short drive from Twentynine Palms, this expansive wilderness area offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful desert retreat, Twentynine Palms is a must-visit destination. With its stunning natural scenery, fascinating cultural attractions, and abundance of outdoor activities, this unique desert oasis is truly one-of-a-kind.

Palm trees of the Oasis of Mara, for which Twentynine Palms was named Palm trees of the Oasis of Mara, for which Twentynine Palms was named California State Route 62 in Twentynine Palms California State Route 62 in Twentynine Palms