Where Desert Locals Go in October
As the desert cools into October, locals know it’s the sweet spot before the snowbird season fully arrives. Patio dining, golf cart parade, art walks, and scenic hikes are all on the list of local favorites. Here’s your insider guide to Where Desert Locals Go in October.
🍸LOCALS FAVORITE – HAPPY HOUR AND DINNER SPOTS
Cocktails on the Terrace at The Ritz-Carlton (Rancho Mirage)
We usually prefer to stick with Individual Owner Establishments, but you can’t miss this view! For an unforgettable October evening, slip away to the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage for cocktails on the terrace. Perched high above the Valley, the terrace offers panoramic desert sunsets, cozy fire pits, and a curated cocktail list. A must-do as the desert air turns cooler
Kestrel, A Richard Blais Kitchen + Lounge (Indian Wells)
Chef Richard Blais’s modern dining spot features a scenic terrace and a happy hour window (Wednesday–Sunday 1:00 pm–3:00 pm & Fri–Sat 3:00 pm–5:00 pm) with elevated cocktails and small bites.
Cliffhouse Bar & Lounge – (La Quinta)
A longtime local favorite, built into the rocks at Point Happy with sweeping valley views. From happy hour bites to fine dining fireside. Don’t miss the stuffed artichoke appetizer!
Wildest Restaurant + Bar (Palm Desert)
A stylish desert-chic vibe and bold menu. Great modern design with local warmth, perfect for date night, happy hour, or lingering on the patio under desert skies.
The Nest (Indian Wells)
A classic local favorite – Meet and Mingle, a great local happy hour scene – dinner, dancing and live music nightly
Mitch’s on El Paseo (Palm Desert)
Back open for season October 1st, Mitch’s on El Paseo offers lively patio dining with firepits and El Paseo energy for an elegant blend of prime steaks, fresh seafood, and some of the best sushi in the Valley.
Bellatrix at Classic Club (Palm Desert)
Tucked inside the Classic Club, Bellatrix is a hidden gem. Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and sweeping golf course views, it’s a favorite for both casual evenings and special occasions.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar (Palm Desert)
Locals head upstairs to the Tommy Bahama terrace for happy hour with panoramic views over El Paseo. Light bites, tropical cocktails, and the lively balcony atmosphere make this one of the best October afternoons in town.
Jackalope Ranch Bar & Grill (Indio)
This western-themed restaurant in Indio offers a rustic, relaxed vibe. Beautiful terrace overlooking the waterfall and beautiful grounds. It’s a lively bar scene in late afternoon, but their roots are in the smokehouse BBQ.
Ristorante Mamma Gina – Enoteca Bar (Palm Desert)
The Enoteca Bar at Mamma Gina’s is a long-time favorite for its Italian small plates and bustling Happy Hour energy.
4 Saints Rooftop (Palm Springs)
For a downtown-village vibe with sweeping mountain views, 4 Saints is the place. Perched above Palm Springs, this rooftop lounge pairs craft cocktails with one of the best sunset backdrops in the Valley.
EVENTS –
The UNofficial kickoff to a new season in the Desert, the Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade. A tradition, now in its 61st year, this years theme is “California Dreaming”. The wackiest golf carts take over El Paseo on October 26, it’s a whimsical community event with decorated carts, marching bands, a pancake breakfast, vendor booths, and a festive after-party. Locals line the street early to grab the best views—it’s our “welcome back” celebration.
LOCAL FAVORITES – HIKES
Indian Canyons (Palm Springs)
The Indian Canyons trails are among the most stunning in the desert, winding through palm oases, streams, and dramatic canyons. October’s cooler mornings make this a prime local escape.
The Living Desert Trails (Palm Desert)
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens offers hiking loops ranging from the gentle Discovery Loop (0.5 miles) to the adventurous Wilderness Loop (5 miles). Locals love pairing a morning hike with a zoo visit—all included with admission.
Ike’s Peak Trail (Palm Desert)
The Ike’s Peak Loop, just behind The Living Desert, offers panoramic views across Palm Desert. At ~5 miles round trip with moderate elevation, it’s a favorite October hike for locals seeking big views without leaving the Valley.
Art in Public Places: Outdoor Sculpture Tour
Palm Desert is home to one of the most robust public art collections in California, with over 150 outdoor artworks citywide. The Palm Desert Public Art Sculpture Exhibition features 18 brand-new installations along El Paseo for the 2025/26 season. Locals enjoy a preview before the crowds, exploring this rotating outdoor gallery on foot—art meets everyday life right in the heart of the city.