Chris & Lara
Things To Do
Joshua Tree National Park
Eight hundred thousand acres of protected desert half a mile from the wedding venue (though using that route involves hopping a barbed wire fence).
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
If you want a short, easy walk through a fascinating desert wetland habitat, this is the place.
Crossroads Cafe
JT's most popular restaurant. Chris eats here during the off-season when there's no line and the servers need the work.
Kitchen in the Desert
A really good place to eat that's usually less crowded than the places in Joshua Tree.
Cactus Mart
Our pal Nicole owns the best nursery in the county. Tons of potential souvenir succulents here. Be sure to say hello to Butch and Sundance. Sundance is the orange one; Butch is the tortoiseshell.
Oasis of Mara
An historic oasis of California fan palms near the Joshua Tree National Park visitor center in 29 Palms. It looks a little the worse for wear since the city is using up its groundwater, but it's still a peaceful and interesting place. Our friends at the 29 Palms Inn own the wettest part of the oasis, and they welcome respectful visitors.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Ride from the low desert near Palm Springs to 8,000 feet up Mount San Jacinto. Take snow toys, probably, since it'll be February.
Instant Karma Yoga
Some good classes here, not too expensive, and supplies are supplied (though we do have a few things you can use too).