Gay Local Tips in Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs: an LGBTQ oasis with a rainbow flame

Welcome to Desert Hot Springs, one of the many cities that constitute the LGBTQ-friendly Coachella Valley in the USA. Informed misterb&b host, Eric, wants travelers to experience the LGBTQ life the region has become known for, and shares his great local tips with us here. From the various Pride events in the area (Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Joshua Tree, etc) to LGBTQ Film Festivals, explore Desert Hot Springs, experience your pride.

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

Desert Hot Springs is an incorporated city that is just a 15-minute drive from Palm Springs, California. Not only are there substantial LGBTQ populations in both towns, but the surrounding Coachella Valley and other neighboring communities have significant LGBTQ demographics as well. There are Pride parades and festivals as well as other annual LGBTQ events taking place throughout the year in Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Joshua Tree, and other nearby communities. No matter which time you visit the region, you will be able to connect with like-minded individuals and experience your pride hassle-free.

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

There are loads of gay events taking place across the whole Coachella Valley throughout the year, and better still, they’re all very varied, meaning you can find something that is just right for you. Top events include: Desert Hot Springs Pride, Palm Springs Pride, Joshua Tree Pride, International Bear Convergence, Palm Springs White Party, Palm Springs Leather Pride, Wet N Hot Weekend, Dinah Shore Weekend, Cathedral City LGBT Days, and Cinema Diverse: LGBTQ Film Festival. These take place at different times throughout the year, so if there is one you’re particularly interested in, be sure to check out exactly when it takes place to avoid missing out.

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

48 hours is never enough to explore all the hidden gems of Desert Hot Springs and its surrounding region, but if you only have this short amount of time, I would recommend the following: Joshua Tree National Park to soak up some nature, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Palm Springs Art Museum for those looking to appreciate a collection of modern and contemporary art as well as architecture and design, Indian Canyon hiking trails, Cabazon Outlet Mall, or Coachella Music Festival if you want to experience some incredible live music.

If you plan to experience a true American diner, make a beeline for the popular and well-reviewed Pappy & Harriet's Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy a classic menu combo of a hamburger and beer. Other recommendations include Integratron, Salton Sea, Salvation Mountain, Joshua Tree Music Festival, Stagecoach Music Festival, Modernism Week, and of course Desert X - an incredible outdoor art installation that your Instagram will love! Dates vary though, so also be sure to check this out before visiting. Fashionistas will also love Palm Springs Fashion Week, which usually takes place in April in Palm Springs.

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

There are plenty of places to enjoy food in the Coachella Valley, but definitely stop by La Copine in Flamingo Heights. This diner is a queer oasis in the California desert. La Copine is a gussied-up roadside diner just outside of Joshua Tree. It’s in this land of contrasts that Claire Wadsworth and Nikki Hill - partners in life and business - decided to open the restaurant. For an LGBTQ visitor to the desert, walking through the door feels like stumbling upon a gay, matriarchal oasis. The staff is largely female or gender nonconforming, and everyone is always more than happy to welcome. The food - craggy fried chicken, flattop-blistered green beans showered with mint and dill, a brownie masquerading as chocolate almond cake...enough said!

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A gay place for brunch on weekends?

I would definitely recommend Trio in Palm Springs. It is stylish and upbeat, and has handsome staff. The menu is trendy, and can cure any morning blues with brunch staples including chicken and waffles, eggs benedict, and avocado toast. Wash everything down with one of the cocktails on offer and you’re good to go.

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

You can wind plenty of places that serve good beer in the area, but for an impressive happy hour, I would definitely say friday night at Wang's In the Desert, in Palm Springs. This is an award-winning restaurant for pan-Asian cuisine, but the beers on offer - along with the prices - make this place a must during your visit to the Coachella Valley.

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We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

Toucans Tiki Lounge is great for drag entertainment, while The Tool Shed provides drinks, DJs, go-go dancers & special events in a laid-back setting. The Barracks offers cocktails and beer, plus rotating DJs and a no-frills down and dirty backyard patio for those wanting to smoke or soak up a bit of fresh air. Hunters Nightclub is a long-running gay club that draws a mostly male crowd thanks to its DJ beats, happy hour, BBQ events and theme nights. Those wanting to keep the party going all weekend should head to the iconic Oscar's Cafe, which hosts a great Sunday tea dance.

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

Chill Bar is a gay bar and lounge in Palm Springs, that serves delicious cocktails in a sleek, contemporary space. There is an outdoor patio, along with communal seating at the bar inside. Quadz is a popular spot for singalongs with VJs showing a range of classic and diverse music video clips that are a hit with a gay crowd. If you’re looking for some kitsch fun in Palm Springs, this is the right place to be.

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Are there any places related to LGBT history?

There aren’t necessarily specific places dedicated to LGBT history in the Coachella Valley, however, the area is home to houses of 20th century movie stars, such as Liberace and Rock Hudson. These can definitely be lots of fun to visit, should you have the time.

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in your city?

Those seeking some pampering should head to the lush Two Bunch Palms Spa Resort. The adults-only spa is located in Desert Hot Springs, and offers an indulgent menu featuring body treatments, massages, facials, and reiki and chakra treatments.

Are there any beaches, parks or best other places to chill out?

I would hands down say Joshua Tree National Park. The sprawling area is best represented by lush desert landscapes and rugged rock formations, creating a very impressive and unique site. You will also see plenty of twisted Joshua Trees here, which is what has given the region its name.