Palm Springs is one of the hottest areas drawing in many tourists and new residents a year in California. With a rich history, beautiful art and architecture, and a thriving nightlife, new residents will find that there is always something to do when living in Palm Springs.
Take a day trip up to the High Desert area to discover the stunning golf courses, eclectic dining options, and parks and museums that can be found in this area of California.
Continue to read to find the differences between the High Desert and Low Desert in Palm Springs, CA.
What are the High Desert and Low Desert in California?
The High Desert and Low Desert are bordered areas in California that are a known distinction to locals living in both areas.
Where are They Located?
The High Desert (Mojave Desert) is 2,000 feet above sea level, just north of the Low Desert (Sonoran Desert) sitting at 500 feet above sea level.
The Key Differences Between High Desert and Low Desert
Both the High Desert and the Low Desert have tons in common! Both feature some of the most delicious food scenes around, as well as beautiful vibrant art.
However, when it comes to the temperature, you will find a key difference in the Californian weather. The High Desert is typically a windier and cooler area when compared to the Low Desert, making it a wonderful escape from the heat during the long blazing summer months in Palm Springs. The Low Desert, for its heat, is considered by the locals to be more of a resort area.
Best Dining in High Desert
An hour-and-a-half drive from Palm Springs is the price to pay when it comes to experiencing some of the best dining experiences in the High Desert area. Here are our top picks of the best restaurants you can find here.
- Goody’s Family Restaurant. If you are an early bird, don’t miss out on scoring a table at Goody’s Family Restaurant for some of the best breakfasts in the High Desert. We recommend the cinnamon roll French toast for those with a sweet tooth in the morning. For those who like a heartier breakfast, check out the bacon avocado omelet.
- Apollo Restaurant. If you have a thing for old-school diners who specialize in the perfect onion rings and fat juicy burgers, then look no further than Apollo Restaurant. With the freshest ingredients around in an old-school joint, you won’t be disappointed in this diner. We recommend keeping it classic with the classic burger with cheese and fries. Don’t miss out on the breaded onion rings either!
Best Dining in Low Desert
After a long day in the resort-like pools in the sun in the Low Desert area, check out some of the hottest dining scenes in Palm Desert.
- Mitch’s on El Paseo Prime Seafood. This upscale eatery offers a diverse menu of Japanese dishes with an innovative fine dining experience. At Mitch's on El Paseo Prime Seafood, you can find signature prime steaks, sushi, seafood, fresh fish selections, soups and salads, great appetizers, diverse wine, sake, and cocktail menus. We recommend starting with the honeymoon oysters before moving on to Chilean sea bass Misoyaki.
- Ristorante Mamma Gina. This go-to for traditional Italian dishes and happy hour specials in an upscale setting since 1986 is a must-see when in the Lower Desert. We recommend the classic spaghetti carbonara with a side of garlic bread followed by a sweet slice of tiramisu when dining in the Ristorante Mamma Gina.
Before moving to California, we recommend reading up on the High Desert vs the Low Desert to get a better understanding of what area is best for you and your family.
Contact Your Palm Desert Realtor.