We’re almost there, folks! Fall is nearly upon us and, with it, more pleasant weather! In these last dog days of summer, I have found myself dreaming about the many outdoor activities I will be embracing as soon as the temperatures dip. And while there are plenty of cool-weather attractions to enjoy in the Coachella Valley, below are the five I’m most looking forward to. In the pertinent words of Green Day, “Wake me up when September ends!”
xo, Lindsay
MORNINGS AT KOFFI NORTH
The original location of beloved coffee chain Koffi, at The Corridor in Palm Springs’ Uptown Design District, is a true oasis complete with a bucolic rear courtyard overlooking the San Jacinto Mountains. Featuring numerous tucked-away seating areas and sun-dappled grassy expanses, the pastoral retreat has become a favorite spot to kick back, sip espresso, and take in the balmy air and serene surroundings on lazy weekend mornings.
HIKING THE FISHERMAN STEPS
There’s a genuine Hollywood relic at the Cove Oasis Trails in La Quinta! Located about 500 feet south of the trailhead and reached via a short, moderately difficult hike is a stone staircase originally built for the filming of the 1959 drama “The Big Fisherman” starring Howard Keel. Left intact post-shoot, the structure makes for a unique outdoor destination. For more information on the historic set piece, head to the La Quinta Museum’s current La Quinta Legends exhibit, featuring props, photos, and mementos from the big screen endeavor.
LUNCH AT SUNNYLANDS CAFÉ
The café at Sunnylands Center & Gardens (which just reopened for the season yesterday!) is easily one of the Coachella Valley’s most picturesque spots to grab a bite. Offering espresso drinks, baked goods, and light lunches (the Field of Greens salad and Turkey Sandwich are my favorite menu items) served against a stunningly verdant backdrop, a meal here is a uniquely Palm Springs experience.
VISITING THE LIVING DESERT
There is no place I love exploring more than The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Even though I have walked the grounds on more occasions than I can count and know the landscape like the back of my hand, the nature preserve never fails to impress! From venturing amongst the wallabies at the Australian Adventures exhibit to quiet contemplation sitting in the rocking chairs nestled against the Sonoran Pond, visiting The Living Desert always makes for a memorable outing.
DINNER AT ADOBE GRILL
There is no shortage of picturesque al fresco eateries in the desert, but my favorite, hands down, is Adobe Grill at the La Quinta Resort. Boasting a terraced patio tucked beneath a canopy of twinkling lights with stunning views of the surrounding grounds, Adobe’s ambiance can’t be beat! And the fare is fabulous, to boot. The Enchiladas Verdes dish is easily one of my favorite meals in the entire Coachella Valley, especially when enjoyed with some tableside guacamole and a Cadillac margarita!