Shopping Palm Desert: Top 6 Spots for Fashion and Local Culture
Located in Coachella Valley, Palm Springs features sunshine, attractions and one of the top shopping scenes in the area. Whether looking for the latest fashion or a special piece to display at home, Palm Springs guests have a mix of culture and trends. Keep reading and learn about shopping Palm Desert, and plan a trip.
Shopping Palm Desert: Top 6 Places for Local and Big-Box Names
Visit El Paseo District
Packed with variety and flair, El Paseo houses a mile-long shopping district set against mountain landscapes and palm trees. Here visitors find dozens of boutiques, designer retailers and art galleries. Start by browsing more than 300 retailers selling everything from apparel and jewelry to shoes and locally made items. In addition to small boutiques, visitors shop Burberry, Gucci and Ralph Lauren. El Paseo offers so many options, it’s known as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert.”
El Paseo also showcases some of the best art in the area. The district houses more than 20 art galleries, featuring Palm Desert culture through abstract, contemporary and traditional styles. On the first Friday of every month, meet artists and tour galleries during Art Walk. The El Paseo strip also hosts entertaining events throughout the year. Visitors attend special happy hours, cruise nights, live music, and a March fashion show that brings together designers and fashionistas. Top attractions include Gardens on El Paseo and El Paseo Village.
Enjoy Westfield Palm Desert
Another top spot for shopping Palm Desert is Westfield Palm Desert, home to more than 100 stores located on two levels. Anchored by Macy’s, JCPenney and Dick’s Sporting Good, Westfield Palm offers a more traditional outdoor shopping experience.
In addition to department stores, visitors browse brands such as Charlotte Russe and Lane Bryant. Kids will find their favorites at Build-A-Bear and The Children’s Place. The mall also offers dozens of dining options and events throughout the year. Popular events celebrate holidays, local art and culture, and guests can even see works by Coachella Valley artists. In fact, the walls are lined with art, offering shoppers both local insight and a fun shopping experience.
Buy Local at Desert Street Fair
For more than 30 years, College of the Desert Street Fair has delighted Palm Desert tourists and locals. Each weekend, this street fair welcomes 300-plus vendors and artists to showcase creations and entice visitors to purchase special pieces.
The street fair occurs outdoors, under many shaded areas, featuring something for all ages. In addition to vendors, guests should try local goodies at the farmers market, see live music and taste gourmet flavors. While sampling, guests also contribute to the local educational climate. Funds raised by the fair and COD Alumni Association generate more than $500,000 in scholarships, financial aid, and help fund other college programs and projects.
Don’t Miss Downtown Palm Springs
Stroll among palm trees and Mount San Jacinto to browse the stores in downtown Palm Springs. Its Main Street houses more than 500 businesses, including boutiques, florists, galleries and thrift stores.
Looking for antiques? What about home décor and souvenirs? Main Street has it all. While visiting downtown Palm Springs, don’t miss Villagefest every Thursday night. The event welcomes thousands of guests to enjoy extended hours, meet local artists, hear live entertainment, and shop arts and crafts. During Villagefest, blocks along Palm Canyon Drive close, so attendees can explore at their own pace.
Take the Family to Desert Crossing
Ranked among the top malls for Palm Desert shopping, Desert Crossing houses dozens of stores and restaurants. At this open-air hot spot, visitors find both big-box and small shops. Popular retailers include Target, Bed, Bath and Beyond, Best Buy, Ulta Beauty, and more.
Desert Crossing also houses several other retailers and services businesses. The whole family can check out Guitar Center, Chuck E. Cheese, salons, and there’s even an Aldi’s for grocery shopping. Desert Crossing also offers special sales and discounts, helping shoppers save more.
Save at Desert Hills Premium Outlets
Located only a 20-minute drive from Palm Springs, money-savers can’t miss Desert Hills Outlet Mall. Find deals from more than 180 designer retailers, such as Alexander McQueen, Converse, Disney and Versace, to name a few.
Start at one of the anchor stores – such as Neiman Marcus, Banana Republic or Nike – and browse special deals and events throughout the mall. While looking for fashion, gifts and treats, visitors also have several dining and entertainment options.
After shopping Palm Desert, check out the top restaurants in Palm Desert. Or book your Palm Desert vacation accommodations.