For a storied vacation full of history, charm and more pools you can shake a stick at, La Quinta Resort & Club is a must-visit for your next Palm Springs getaway. Set against the rugged Santa Rosa Mountains on 45-acres of lush landscape, we have the intel on all there is to do and eat at this desert spot just 120 miles from downtown Los Angeles.

Resort Overview

Andie Huber

Located in La Quinta (the town was named after the resort), La Quinta Resort & Club, was originally built and designed as desert hideaway in 1926 and offered Hollywood celebrities more privacy than adjacent Palm Springs.

And as you turn down the long driveway, you'll immediately see why. It feels as though you are transported to another era thanks to the blooming flowerbeds, layered against the Spanish Colonial Revival buildings and the looming mountains.

The lobby, thanks to a recent renovation, highlights the architecturally stunning dark wood beams and Mexican-tiled floors, lending a historical gravitas to this fun-filled vacation spot. And while the resort is vast, each area feels intimate and private—like your very own desert oasis. 

Good to Know: The resort is pet-friendly too! No need to leave four-legged family members back in LA if you don't want.

Pool Time

La Quinta Resort & Club

The resort has 41 temperature-controlled pools on the property—yes, you read that right! There are 41 pools! Included in that number is a large, main pool that has lunch and drink service.

There is a dedicated pool in each courtyard, surrounded by a set of accommodations that is perfect for last-minute dips, evening swims, or if you don't feel like walking more than twenty feet to get your family swim game going.  

On-Site Activities

Andie Huber

In addition to swimming, there are 23 tennis courts, six golf courses, and a fitness center for everyone in the family to work up a sweat. Or just go for a walk or jog on the spectacular grounds. If you do go for a walk, keep an eye out for plaques on the property that detail famous guests, like Frank Capra, who spent the winters at La Quinta and wrote the script for "It's a Wonderful Life" at the resort.

Make sure to swing by the spa and make an appointment for a mommy-to-be-massage ($170 for 50-minutes) or one of their signature massages like the Sacred Stone Massage ($235 for 80-minutes) that uses warm basalt stone combined with a Swedish massage.

Insider Tip: Plan to spend some extra time before and after your massage at the spa. The waiting rooms are so relaxing you might find yourself taking a nap before the massage even starts. There are also some gorgeous outdoor spots to hang, post-massage. And even better? You can order lunch, drinks, and snacks here too.  

The Rooms

Andie Huber

The resort is made up of casitas, suites and villas which gives families flexibility for their stay—crucial if you plan to spend more than a couple days out in the desert. The suites are generously-sized and can easily accommodate a family of four. The sofa pulls out into a bed and is roomy enough for two kids to sleep there while you and your partner can claim the bed to yourselves.

All the rooms come with a fireplace in the room, but if you can, request a room with a patio that has an outdoor fireplace. That way you can hang outside while the kids sleep inside, and enjoy those desert, star-filled nights by a cozy fire.

Where to Eat

Andie Huber

There are lots of dining options, in addition to room service, at the resort.

For breakfast or a casual American-bistro style dinner, Twenty6 has plenty to offer everyone in the family. Both offer extensive kid's menus and are amenable to special requests for picky eaters. At breakfast you can choose buffet or you can order off the menu.

The main pool has a bar and lunch menu—perfect for eating poolside and keeping the kids properly fueled. 

For dinner, make a reservation at Adobe Grill for the freshest, Mexican food that gives LA dining hot-spots a run for their money. And definitely splurge on the dulce de leche for dessert. We promise, you won't regret it.

Entertainment

Andie Huber

There is usually live music on the weekends and it's definitely a must-attend. The atmosphere is relaxing and festive and gives everyone an extra reason to lounge and linger on the lawn after dinner. It's exactly the type of event you want on a vacation—picture kids having fun, running around while the parents can relax and enjoy themselves. It truly was the cherry on top for this family-friendly getaway. 

In the past, the resort has transformed itself into Bedford Falls in honor of the Frank Capra's famous script, "It's a Wonderful Life." Add to that fireside movies, cooking classes and more, the resort offers loads of entertainment options throughout the year. Make sure to check out their calendar when planning your next getaway.

Insider Tip: Loads of kids had scooters with them and zoomed their way around the various pathways on the resort. If you have room in the car, definitely pack yours.

Nearby Attractions

Andie Huber

If you haven't been to this side of town before, there are a ton of family-friendly activities close-by (and some that are even closer to La Quinta than Palm Springs).

First thing in the morning, head to The Living Desert (just 15 minutes away), or go visit the old town of La Quinta (2 minutes away), that is, if you can convince the kids to leave the pools. For more fun things to do with the kids, check out our comprehensive list of what to do in Palm Springs.

Insider Tip: On the property, is one of the best gift shops that we've ever seen. Between the clever books and cactus-inspired collectibles, make sure to stop here for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs. And don't forget to stop at Lollipops for their sweet treats. 

Room rates start at $159 per night.

49-499 Eisenhower Dr.
La Quinta, CA 92253
Online: laquintaresort.com

Room and meals were provided by La Quinta Resort & Club but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to on the weekends, follow us on Instagram!

—Andie Huber

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