After many months of staying at home and a negative Covid-19 test, we ventured down south to Palm Springs & Joshua Tree, California. With little traffic, it took us about 5 hours each way. To be honest, I was just going primarily to relax by the pool at our Airbnb, not do any work, and to feel refreshed for the new year. Although some things we wanted to do were closed, we were still able to make the most of this fun and unique city.
We appreicated that the city was very stict with obeying the state orders and provided patrons with a safe experience. We either got take-out or used DoorDash for food. We then explored outside. Yay for fresh air and 80 degree temperatures, and ventured to Joshua Tree for an afternoon and did some socially-distanced photos. We also took advantage of all the great architecture and history by creating our own driving tour. Although some of the main attractions were closed, and we couldn’t get the full foodie experience, we still really enjoyed our stay.
I definitely want to return when the Art Museum, Botanical Gardens, and The Parker hotel are open. And definitely go back to Joshua Tree and go on a hike or two! Until then, I will dream of that warm California Sunshine that we were blessed with in the middle of January.
So what can you do in Palm Springs during a pandemic?
- Bootlegger Tiki Drinks – The Zombie was incredible. They provide you everything to make your own hand-crafted cocktail in the comfort of your own home.
- Joshua Tree – About an hour drive to the park entrance. Head there after lunch and pack a picnic and go explore this beautiful National Park. Campsites are currently closed (as of January 2021), so plan accordingly.
- Cruise Around Downtown – Support the businesses that are open! Get food to go, do some retail therapy, and check out the funky architecture.
- Find Celebrity Homes & Mid-Century Modern Architecture – You can either walk it or drive. Find a cool door and take some photos. Always being respectful of people’s property of course!! The link takes you to an app that guides you to 13 homes.
- Visit The Saguaro Hotel – Take Some Insta-Worthy Photos and maybe even snag a lounge chair and soak in that Southern California sunshine. The Pool is open and you can get a wrist band at the front desk if you want to sit and hang out. Or just cruise around and enjoy the colorful hotel!
- Great Shakes – This was amazing! I got the Strawberry and my husband got the date shake. It was such a lovely treat after walking around downtown.
Want to see other posts from our travels? Check out these!
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