25 Best & Fun Things to Do in La Quinta (CA)

In search of the best and most fun things to do in La Quinta, CA?

La Quinta is a desert resort city located in Riverside County, California, United States. The city is between the Indian Wells and Indio. The name La Quinta means “the Fifth” in Spanish; the city is popularly known as the “gem in the desert”, and it is one of the nine cities of the Coachella Valley.

La Quinta is one of the top leading golf destinations in the United States. The city has lots of golf courses and many resorts.

The city is usually hot and arid during summers while the winters are cool. The weather in La Quinta is primarily clear all year round. The beautiful resort city is a lovely scenic place to visit, and it is usually flooded by celebrities who come for vacations.

Planning an exploration of La Quinta? Here are the top things to do in La Quinta, CA.

Things to Do in La Quinta

1. Explore Old Town La Quinta

Old Town La Quinta
Credits: Ulf Nammert / Shutterstock
Old Town La Quinta

Old Town is the “Heart and Main Street” of La Quinta, California; it holds the region’s history and is the economic center in La Quinta. Old town La Quinta is located at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

You will find cafes, shops, boutiques, salons, and various goods and services at Old Town. These shops occupy the down flour while offices and other corporate enterprises occupy the top of these buildings. A stop at the Old town is all you need to grasp the essence and culture of the people of La Quinta.

Another unique feature of Oldtown is its architectural charm and village atmosphere. The old town or Main Street of La Quinta was built by Wells Marvin, who moved to La Quinta with his family in 1997. Wells had spent seven years building Old Town using his love for art and California Renaissance Architecture.

Address: 78100 Main St, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-8962

2. Marvyn’s Magic Theater

Marvyn's Magic Theater
Credits: SimoneN / Shutterstock

Marvyn’s Magic Theatre is a luxury 129-seat theatre featuring a lounge, comfortable theatre seats, a well set up the stage and other modern theatre facilities.

At Marvyn’s Magic Theatre, there are a variety of shows performed bi-weekly; make sure you follow through with the schedule of programmes at the Theatre to not miss out on any. At the Theatre, you will watch shows like comedy, stage plays, musicals and magical performances.

Marvyn’s Magic Theatre offers top-notch entertainment in La Quinta; attending any of the shows at the Theatre is one of the best things to do in La Quinta. The staff at Marvyn’s Magic Theatre are also friendly and professional in carrying out their duties

Address: 46630 Washington St, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-2439

3. La Quinta Museum

La Quinta Museum
Credits: La Quinta Museum / Facebook
La Quinta Museum

La Quinta Museum is a two-storey Spanish colonial revival building occupying about 9,000 square feet. The museum was established in 2008 to tell the story of La Quinta through art, artefacts and various kinds of exhibits.

At La Quinta, you will find pictures that show the growth process and development of La Quinta; there are pictures of old resorts and other historical sites and events in La Quinta. You will also find two dioramas, one of a Cahuilla Native American village and the other of the native animals living in the area.

While at the museum, make sure you see the 32-foot-long mural of old La Quinta made by Andre Blanche before leaving the museum. A visit to the La Quinta Museum should be on your bucket list of top things to do in La Quinta, CA.

Address: 77885 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253

4. Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area

Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area
Credits: InnaPoka / Shutterstock
Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area

Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area is one of the top recreational areas in La Quinta; the park is named after the lake in the area, “Lake Cahuilla”. Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area is a large park situated at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains and on the banks of Lake Cahuilla.

The park features a lake, hiking trails, campsites, picnic tables, benches, etc. Spend time with your family while hiking, fishing, swimming, picnicking or camping at the Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area.

Camping at the park is amongst the fun things to do in La Quinta with your family or friends. There are over 150 campsites at the park, and Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area is also equipped with suitable modern facilities to make your camping fun and without stress.

Address: 58075 Jefferson St, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-7676

5. La Quinta Library

La Quinta Library
Credits: jakkaje879 / Shutterstock

Are you a book lover? Do you love visiting the library or reading in the library? If yes, then you should see the La Quinta Library.

La Quinta Library is a community library that provides the people of La Quinta with access to free educational materials such as books, maps, magazines and many more. The library is open to locals and visitors to read, buy, or explore the library’s books and other educational materials.

You will see a giant dinosaur and a book store at the library. The book store has many incredible books and educational materials like CDs for sale at very affordable rates. In search of the best things to do in La Quinta, visit La Quinta Library.

La Quinta Library opens from 10 am to 7 pm from Monday to Thursday, while on Friday and Saturday, it opens from 10 am to 6 pm; and Sunday, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. 

Address: 78275 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-3851

6. City Hall

City Hall
Credits: City of La Quinta – Government / Facebook
City Hall

The City Hall is a citadel of pride and governance for the community; it offers municipal services to the residents of La Quinta, making civic government accessible to the people.

The City Hall is a U-shaped building occupying 30,000 square feet in La Quinta; the government building in the centre of governance in La Quinta, public records, government services and information about La Quinta can be gotten in the City Hall.

At the City Hall, you will find the offices of the Mayor, City Council, City manager, administrative personnel and the Council Chamber. The City Hall building was architecturally designed to pass on a message of an open, transparent and responsive government to the people.

Address: 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-2839

7. Civic Center Campus

Civic Center Campus
Credits: Shelofast Hanna/ Shutterstock

Civic Center Campus is a 17.5-acre nature park in La Quinta, California. The park is situated on the side of Washington & Calle Tampico and is adjacent to La Quinta City Hall, La Quinta Senior Center and La Quinta Library.

The park is a natural habitat featuring a pond, waterfall, green trees and grasses, public art displays, etc. Take your family or friends to Civic Centre Campus and enjoy walking, picnicking, playing games or relaxing and having a quiet time.

Taking a walk with that person at the Civic Centre Campus is amongst the top things to do in La Quinta. As you walk, look out for those great artworks at strategic places in the park. The giant Chess is a must-see when you visit the park.

Address: 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-2839

8. Pedego Electric Bikes

Pedego Electric Bikes
Credits:Nomad_Soul/ Shutterstock

Do you love riding bikes? Do you love biking along trails and exploring places? If yes, then you should visit Pedego Electric Bikes. Rent or buy bikes for trips at Pedego Electric Bikes when you visit La Quinta, California.

Pedego Electric Bikes offers bike rental services to locals and visitors in La Quinta, and these bikes can be used for fitness or fun. They also provide maintenance and bike repairs, and if you wish to buy a bike for yourself or a loved one, you can also drop by and check out the bikes at Pedego Electric Bikes.

While at La Quinta, you can participate in the bike tours organized by Pedego Electric Bikes, meet other passionate bikers and enjoy the experience.

The Coachella valley route is a fantastic route to bike with your friends, be sure to explore another captivating nature place in La Quinta

Address: 78250 CA-111, La Quinta, CA 92253

California makes one of the top vacation spots in the United States, check out our guide on things to do in Palo Alto, things to do in Eureka and things to do in Beverly Hills, for a memorable California vacation.

9. Certified Farmers Market La Quinta

Certified Farmers Market La Quinta
Credits: Arina P Habich / Shutterstock

Buy fresh farm produce and shop from farmers directly when you come to the Sunday Certified Farmers’ Market.

When you come to Certified Farmers Market, you will find different kinds of fresh foods for sale, and there are fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, fresh-cut flowers, honey, organic meat, cheese, fresh-baked pieces of bread and pastries, olive oils, and so many more.

Shopping for fresh food, produce and other agricultural products at Certified Farmers’ Market is one of the fun things to do in La Quinta. At the market, live music is available, and other fun demonstrations, have fun and enjoy the live music as you shop in the Certified Farmers’ Market.

Address: 78100 Main St, La Quinta, CA 92253

10. Sm’Art Studio and Gallery

Sm'Art Studio and Gallery
Credits: Sm’Art Studio / Facebook
Sm’Art Studio

Sm’Art Studio and Gallery is an art studio and art store gallery in La Quinta. Creatives are welcome to display the unique works at the studio, either for sale or strictly exhibition. The gallery is filled with lots of unique artworks by incredible artists.

Visitors are also welcome to see, create, learn and play while in the studio. Sm’Art Studio and Gallery offers glass art classes and other art classes, artwork sales and other fun art programs for kids and adults.

At the gallery store in Sm’Art Studio and Gallery, you will find jewellery, glassware, paintings, photographs, gift items and assemblage art. You can either browse through this artwork or shop for items at the gallery store.

The Sm’Art Studio and Gallery is a great place to take your kids; learning glass art at the studio is amongst the best things to do in La Quinta.

Address: 78-115 Calle Estada Suite 101, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-3919

11. Laser Oasis Family Entertainment Centre

Laser Oasis Family Entertainment Centre
Credits: ZouZou / Shutterstock

Oasis Fun Centre is a family-oriented centre filled with lots of indoor and outdoor fun activities for everyone in the family. At the Oasis Fun Centre, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The fun centre has served the community as a family fun spot for over 60 years. At the Oasis Fun Centre, you will find miniature golf, go-carts, laser tag, 3d Ride Simulator, laser maze, arcade and bumper boats.

While at the park, be sure to take your kids to have fun at the kiddie’s rides; you can also get some snacks at the snack bar. Spending time at Laser Oasis Family Entertainment Centre with your family is one of the most fun things to do in La Quinta, so do add to your bucket list.

Address: 46805 Dune Palms Rd, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-2009

12. PGA WEST Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course

PGA WEST Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course
Credits:Mr.Somchai Sukkasem/ Shutterstock

The Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course is part of PGA WEST’s nine championship golf courses. There are many excellent golf courses in PGA WEST that would give you a challenge and test your golf skills with the landscape of the golf course holes and Par.

PGA WEST also features five clubhouses, two private clubs and a gorgeous view of the Palm Springs area. The PGA WEST is why La Quinta is known as “The Western Home of Golf in America.”

PGA WEST offers its guests exquisite resorts and golf services, making it the hot spot for celebrities. While golfing at PGA WEST Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course in La Quinta, you might spot your favourite celebrity on the golf course.

Golfing with your friends or colleagues at the PGA WEST Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course should be added to your list of things to do in La Quinta.

Address: 56150 Pga Blvd, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-4600

13. PGA WEST Pete Dye Mountain Course

PGA WEST Pete Dye Mountain Course
Credits: Isarapon Pinthong / Shutterstock

The Mountain Course is part of the exceptional golf courses in PGA WEST, and it is called the mountain course because of its position at the foot of the stunning Santa Maria Mountain.

The mountain golf course requires an outstanding level of experience and skill in golf whole playing. It is an ultra-challenging course that requires you to give your best shot.

Mountain course has ultra-challenging course features like rock formations, pot bunkers, the elevation of tee boxes and well-bunkered greens. If you want to get the best view of greens while playing, stick to your right fairway bunker.

The Mountain course has been the home to the World Cup, the PGA National Club Pro Championships and the California State Open. One of the top courses in the valley.

Address: 50200 Avenida Vista Bonita, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-2600

14. Old Town Peddler

Old Town Peddler
Credits: anatoliy_gleb / Shutterstock

Old Town Peddler offers bike rental services, maintenance and sale of bikes in La Quinta. These bikes come with the necessary accessories such as helmets, locks and headlights. While on rent, care of the bike by Old Town Peddler is available for the rider.

Old Town Peddler is a family-owned business and is La Quinta’s first bike rental service. If you do not want to rent a bike, you can always come with your bike for maintenance and a quick, reliable repair. Old Town Peddler is committed to making you enjoy your bike experience in La Quinta.

When you visit La Quinta, be sure to stop by with your bike before you hit the road for that exciting adventure.

Address: 51351 Avenida Bermudas Ste. 2, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253

15. La Quinta-Norman Course

La Quinta-Norman Course
Credits: Bohbeh / Shutterstock

The golf course is named after the designer, Greg Norman, and it is the newest course in PGA WEST and the only golf course designed by Greg Norman in Coachella Valley. The course is a challenging but fair course for beginners and experienced golfers.

Norman course has a fair design, and it captures the beauty of desert golf. The golf course has lots of sand, wildflowers, lakes, a panoramic vista, a dining area and a pro shop. Spend time enjoying the beauty of nature at the Norman course.

Golinf in Norman course should be added to your checklist of things to do in La Quinta, CA.

Address: 50200 Avenida Vista Bonita, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-2600

Planning a California road trip? also, check out our list of things to do in Visalia , things to do in Crescent City and things to do in Roseville for a fun California road trip

16. SilverRock Resort

SilverRock Resort
Credits: Bohbeh / Shutterstock

The Arnold Palmer Classic Course in SilverRock Resort is one feature that makes the resort unique. Arnold Palmer Classic Course is a challenging 7,239 yards with massive native bunkers. The golf course also offers a beautiful vista of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

While at the resort, walk to the SilverRock grills to get some delicious breakfast or lunch meals. The restaurant has an outdoor and indoor seat setting, and you can choose to enjoy your meal on the patio while you absorb the beauty of nature.

A visit to the SilverRock Resort is one of the fun things to do in La Quinta, CA, with your family. Take along your camera as you explore the area and make beautiful memories. Enjoy a free internet connection as you spend time with your family and friends at the resort.

Address: 9-179 Ahmanson Ln, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253

17. PGA West Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course

PGA West Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course
Credits: Thaninee Chuensomchit / Shutterstock

The Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course is one of the nine exceptional courses in PGA WEST. This golf course was named after the designer, Jack Nicklaus. It is over 7,000 yards long and has a stroke rating of 75.3 and a slope rating of 143.

The tournament course is an 18-hole championship dessert course featuring large lakes, deep bunkers and steep drops off the edges of greens. The golf course stands out in its design, which adds to its challenge and needs for skillfulness from the player.

Get ready to take on the challenge when you visit the PGA West Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course. Watching PGA TOURS at the Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course should be added to your list of fun things to do in La Quinta. Nicklaus Tournament Course is among the biannual host of the PGA TOUR’s final round of Q-School. 

18. Century Theatres Next-Gen

Century Theatres Next-Gen
Credits: Zoran Zeremski / Shutterstock

Grab some movie tickets for your family and friends and enjoy watching movies at the Century Theatres when visiting La Quinta, California.

Watch exciting movies with the newest cinematographic technology and modern facilities at the Century Theatres. The Theatre features an Extreme Digital Cinema auditorium (Cinemark XD), a lobby with self-serve concession stands, everything about the Century Theatres NextGen speaks modern.

Cinemark Holdings, Inc owns century Theatres NextGen. The Century Theatres NextGen is the first established cinema by Cinemark Holdings, Inc., and it was opened in 2010. The cinema has a high tech movie theatre design

Watching movies in motion graphics at the Century Theatres Next Gen. with your family and friends is one of the top things to do in La Quinta.

Address: 46800 Washington St, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-208

19. Coral Mountain Golf Club

Coral Mountain Golf Club
Credits: Mikael Damkier / Shutterstock

Coral Mountain Golf Club is one of the most famous golf clubs in La Quinta. The golf club is renowned for being the home of PGA Tour SKINS GAME events from 2003 to 2006. The world’s best golfers have tested golf courses like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, etc.

Gary Panks designed the golf course, located at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains, giving a beautiful view of the natural desert landscape of Coachella Valley. The 18-hole track also offers an excellent challenge for golfers who love a bit of a challenge

Enjoy every moment at the Coral Mountain Golf Club playing golf or enjoying a nice meal at their restaurant and having drinks with friends or family. The restaurant offers various delicacies and meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Address: 60151 Trilogy Pkwy Ste 2, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-7640

20. Spa La Quinta

Spa La Quinta
Credits: Aleks Gudenko / Shutterstock

Spa La Quinta is the right place to go for a refreshing and relaxing body treatment after a busy period of exploring and having fun in La Quinta.

At Spa La Quinta, the best modern spa technologies, products, and staff are available to give your body the treatment it deserves. Start with a dry brush exfoliation, and then relax with a full body massage with the sweet aroma of agave nectar.

Spa La Quinta offers luxurious skincare treatment to heal your mind, body and soul. Take out time to try out any of their specials when you visit, and there is also a prenatal spa treatment for expectant mothers.

Enjoying a full body massage in Spa La Quinta is one of the top things to do when visiting La Quinta, California. Unique aroma and essential oils are also available at the Spa.

Address: La Quinta Resort and Club 49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253

21. Palm Royale Country Club

Palm Royale Country Club
Credits: Yellowj / Shutterstock

Palm Royale Country Club is a residential community in La Quinta with 354 condominiums, 18 holes, three par golf courses, six pools, spars, and lighted sports courts. The residential area offers luxurious services to its residents and visitors.

Palm Royale Country Club has a beautiful scenic view of the mountains. While staying in Palm Royale Country Club, you can choose to engage in any of the outdoor or indoor activities with your family or friends.

The golf course is excellent for beginners and professionals to have fun. Step up to the challenge by trying out these holes to test your short game in golf. Other activities to enjoy in Palm Royale includes playing tennis, going to the spar, exercising and swimming.

Playing golf in Palm Royale is among the best things to do in La Quinta, CA, makes what to do in La Quinta for golf lovers.

Address: 78259 Indigo Dr, La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92253-3806

22. The Chateau

The Chateau
Credits: The Chateau at Lake La Quinta / Facebook
The Chateau

Chateau is a great place to take your family or that particular person to enjoy a lovely time together and enjoy the beautiful scenery from the resort rooms.

At Chateau, you will find 24 rooms that are well furnished with a flat-screen television, cosy fireplace, whirlpool tubs and many other modern facilities. The rooms at Chateau are beautiful and offer a fantastic view of the Lakeside.

Check out the standard room and hot tub when you go to Chateau. Lodging at Chateau resorts is one of the best things to do with your friends or partner in La Quinta.

Address: 78120 Caleo Bay Dr, La Quinta, CA 92253,

23. Fritz Burns Park

Fritz Burns Park
Credits: Maridav / Shutterstock

Fritz Burns Park is a popular attraction in La Quinta, CA. It is a family-friendly park with lots of fun activities to keep you going throughout your stay.

This Park features six tennis and pickleball courts open to the public. Other amenities include picnic tables, playground areas, a skate park, a dog park, public arts, a swimming pool, water features, BBQs, and restrooms.

There is a park pavilion available for rent, and you can see their website for more details on how to go about it.

The pool at Fritz Burns has something for everyone, regardless of age. Adults can engage in activities such as Adult Water Aerobics, Aqua Fit, Arthritis Water Therapy, and open swimming.

Address: 78107 52nd Ave, La Quinta, CA 92253, United States,

24. Fred Wolf Bear Creek Nature Preserve

Fred Wolf Bear Creek Nature Preserve
Credits: Song_about_summer / Shutterstock

We tend to find great solace when we connect with nature, and one place to visit in La Quinta, CA, to have a feel of what nature has to offer is the Fred Wolf Bear Creek Nature Preserve.

Fred Wolf Bear Creek Nature Preserve is well known as a part of the gorgeous attractions in the Desert Valley. It is a perfect location to enjoy hiking with family and kids.

This nature preserve is also furry-friendly. You can stroll on the walking routes and trails with our four-legged friends. However, they are not allowed on the picnic table.

Since this trail is inside the nature preserve, visitors must ensure their dogs are well looked after and on leashes at all times. After your stroll, you can rest at their picnic table and start conversations with other tourists about your experiences.

Address: 52751-52999 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta, CA 92253, United States

25. Adams Park

Adams Park
Credits: Creative Cat Studio / Shutterstock

Adams Park is a beautiful park located in La Quinta, CA. It offers nature and outdoor recreational activities to locals and tourists.

The Park is available to the general public all year round and features open areas under the care of the La Quinta Parks Department.

Amenities in the Park include interactive water elements, a vast field space, a playground where your kids can have fun, wide walking pathways, and picnic tables where you can relax.

The playground is perched in the center of Adam Park. It has play structures, and the ground is sandy. A tarp is across the playground to prevent the sun.

Address: La Quinta, CA, United States

Want more of California attractions and activities? do check out our list of things to do in Glendalethings to do in Manhattan Beach, and things to do in Redondo Beach for a memorable vacation.

Plan your trip to La Quinta

La Quinta is a beautiful resort city with many excellent activities to enjoy with your friends or family. The PGA WEST is an international golf attraction and a must-visit in La Quinta, do not also miss the stunning view of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

La Quinta is an excellent place for a relaxed and fun family or friends vacation in California. Go golfing, biking, hiking, camping, picnicking, and more when visiting La Quinta.

Visit the Laser Oasis Family Entertainment Centre, Spa La Quinta, the Chateau, PGA WEST and Century Theatres to enjoy a fantastic vacation experience in La Quinta.