Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Cathedral City, CA

Cathedral City is a city of approximately 55,000 residents located in the Coachella Valley region of Riverside County. Also known as Cat City, this desert oasis is recognized for its cultural attractions, luxurious resorts, and country clubs, alongside its central positioning just 10 miles from Palm Springs.

Thanks to Cathedral City’s exceptional weather year-round, it has become a favored destination for individuals seeking warmth during colder months.

Within Cathedral City, one can find an array of restaurants, golf courses, art galleries, and shopping venues including Cathedral City Marketplace, Canyon Plaza Shopping Center, and Vista Chino Plaza.

Throughout the year, a plethora of festivals and events are hosted in Cathedral City, such as the Hot Air Balloon Festival, Taste of Jalisco Festival, Fountainworks Festival, the Youth Festival, Oktoberfest, Shorty’s Rib Fest, and Perez Road Fall Festival.

Here are 15 outstanding activities to engage in while visiting Cathedral City, California.

1. Kick back in Panorama Park

Panorama Park serves as an ideal location to relax on a pleasant afternoon without the need for extensive travel. As the largest park in the city, it features abundant open space and numerous amenities across its seven acres.

Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities that include a children’s spray pool and play area, a basketball court, two tennis courts, a volleyball court, and a baseball field. Additionally, there are shaded picnic areas equipped with BBQ facilities and a walking trail.

2. Spend a Day Golfing at Cimarron Golf Club

A highlight of Cimarron Golf Club is the presence of two distinct and beautiful courses. Each of the 18-hole championship courses offers a unique experience suitable for golfers of all skill levels, while also presenting ample challenges.

Surrounded by breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountains, it is easy to see why this golf club has earned its ranking as one of the top 25 golfing venues in Southern California.

After an invigorating day on the greens, visitors can relax and enjoy a delicious meal along with refreshing beverages at the On the Rocks Restaurant located on site.

3. Visit the Museum of Ancient Wonders

The Museum of Ancient Wonders is an intriguing venue that showcases a variety of fascinating artefacts representing ancient civilizations and prehistoric life from around the globe.

The collection includes both replicas and original items, featuring a total of 375 artefacts spread across five exhibits, including Enlightening the Coachella Valley, Faces of Africa, and Vessels of Gods.

Visitors can explore various exhibits that encompass a timeline exceeding 4 billion years, witnessing treasures of Tutankhamen, Grecian vessels, African tribal masks, sculptures, fossil casts, and the skeletons of ancient creatures.

4. Take a break at the Fountain of Life

Located in the downtown region of Cathedral City, the Fountain of Life offers a picturesque setting complete with water fountains and sculptures, providing an ideal respite during your exploration of the city.

These artistic creations were designed and crafted by local artisans, with sculptures of birds, fish, shells, and flowers adorning this tranquil urban oasis.

5. Immerse yourself in the arts at the Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum is dedicated to showcasing and promoting regional art, and it is regarded as one of the premier attractions in the nearby Palm Springs area.

This distinctive 75,000-square-foot facility houses an extensive collection of artworks across various disciplines. As visitors navigate through the exhibits, they will encounter modern paintings, glassworks, and sculptures.

Moreover, the performing arts, encompassing dance and music performances, are highlighted in the Annenberg theatre, which hosts events throughout the year.

6. Dine on quality seafood at Oceans Restaurant

For seafood enthusiasts, Oceans Restaurant offers a delightful experience featuring a relaxed yet elegant ambiance. The menu presents fresh Mediterranean and Californian-inspired seafood dishes for lunch and dinner.

Guests can choose from an array of appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, and main courses such as swordfish, lobster ravioli, catfish, prawns, Ahi tuna, and salmon.

For those with different cravings, other dishes are available, such as rack of lamb and steak. Furthermore, an extensive wine list complements the dining experience, and outdoor seating options are provided.

7. Take a journey on the Palm Springs Tramway

There are numerous natural landscapes surrounding Cathedral City, and the Palm Springs Tramway offers access to some of these stunning wilderness areas.

This tramcar ride spans ten minutes and covers 2.5 miles, showcasing the largest rotating tramcar in the world. The ascent reaches 8,526 feet before arriving at Mountain Station in Mount San Jacinto State Park.

At the summit, a variety of activities await. In the warmer months, guided nature walks are available, or visitors can embark on self-guided hikes or even camp overnight. In winter, skiing and snowshoeing are popular pursuits.

The breathtaking scenery, which features the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, is awe-inspiring at any time of year.

If outdoor activities are not on your agenda, you can enjoy a delightful, locally sourced meal at the Peaks Restaurant or choose light snacks at the Pines Cafe.

8. Pay tribute to an icon at the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway

Commonly known as The Alexander Estate and the House of Tomorrow, this historic residence in nearby Palm Springs is famously recognized as the honeymoon destination and temporary home for Elvis Presley and his wife Priscilla.

While some visitors come to appreciate the architectural uniqueness of the property, many are drawn to the location made iconic by the King of Rock and Roll.

Daily guided tours are offered, along with a variety of special events occurring throughout the year.

9. Explore Indian Canyons

The Palm Springs region, a globally renowned tourist destination, was once inhabited by indigenous peoples who thrived on the natural resources around them.

Now, remnants of their lifestyle can be observed, such as rock art, house pits, ditches, dams, and reservoirs; these elements serve as a captivating reminder of a rich history.

Exploring this historic and captivating area, you can traverse a series of canyons, including Tahquitz Canyon and Palm Canyon, the latter of which is home to the largest California Fan Palm Oasis in the world.

Hiking and horseback riding are popular activities in this region, with numerous picnic spaces available. Additionally, a gift shop offering snacks, beverages, and Native American crafts is located in Palm Canyon.

10. Learn about aviation history at the Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of World War II aviation. Through an array of exhibits, visitors can learn about the significant role of warplanes and their pilots in achieving victory.

As visitors explore the displays, they will encounter aviation-themed art, documents, and artefacts. The facility houses three hangars that contain the world’s largest collection of WWII combat aircraft, as well as a gift shop, theatre, and resource center.

11. Take a break from the heat at the Desert Ice Castle

The dry desert climate of Cathedral City results in minimal rainfall, but the sweltering days can become overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a venue where visitors can cool off and enjoy some fun away from the intense midday heat.

The Desert Ice Castle is an ice-skating rink—a remarkable experience considering its setting in the desert. It is a popular attraction for individuals of all ages, providing an enjoyable atmosphere filled with music.

Community skating sessions occur throughout the week, and skate rentals are available for those who did not bring their ice skates.

12. Spend a day exploring Coachella Valley Preserve

Situated in nearby Thousand Palms, the Coachella Valley Preserve encompasses 880 acres of protected wilderness, featuring diverse habitats and countless activities for exploration.

This preserve stands as one of the region’s leading attractions. As visitors traverse the area, they will encounter palm woodland ecosystems and desert wetlands abundant in flora and fauna.

The park offers 28 miles of hiking trails, with guided hikes available at particular times of the year. A visitor’s center is also on the premises.

13. Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden

Established in 1938 by Patricia and Chester Moorten, the family-owned Moorten Botanical Garden has blossomed into an exquisite collection of over 3,000 plants.

The garden primarily features cacti and various desert flora, while also exhibiting a range of plants from distant regions such as Mexico and Guatemala.

14. Feast on traditional Mexican cuisine at Casa Blanca Restaurant

Regardless of the time of day, Casa Blanca Restaurant ensures a satisfying dining experience, offering an extensive menu of authentic Mexican cuisine and seafood.

The friendly staff, vibrant atmosphere, delectable food, and generous portions contribute to a memorable dining experience.

Using only the highest quality ingredients, the menu boasts a diverse selection, including appetizers, omelettes, enchiladas, fajitas, tostadas, burritos, soups, and more than 150 distinctive entrees.

Happy hour is offered every weekday, with a varied drinks menu encompassing cocktails, margaritas, tequilas, and wines.

15. Go on an exciting excursion with Desert Adventures

The unique desert landscape of Cathedral City and its surrounding regions render it an exceptional destination for unforgettable adventures.

The local eco-tour company, Desert Adventures, provides an array of tours within the Greater Palm Springs area.

Some options include scenic bus tours, hiking tours, San Andreas Fault sunset tours, stargazing experiences, city tours, and excursions to Joshua Tree National Park. All tours are led by knowledgeable guides who foster an engaging and informative environment.