Cathedral City

In 1850, California surveyor Col. Henry Washington came upon a series of rock formations resembling a European cathedral. He named the area Cathedral Canyon, which 75 years later inspired the name of this town.

A destination for artists like plein-air painter Agnes Pelton, who settled in the 1930s amid the rocky foothills in a neighborhood now known as Cathedral City Cove, the area also became a hideout for Hollywood high rollers who sought out the exclusivity of the bygone Dunes Club casino in an era when gambling was still underground.

The vibrant city was incorporated in 1981 and in recent years has adopted the slogan “where art lives.” Still a haven for creative types, Cathedral City boasts an ever-expanding public arts scene anchored by the Downtown Arts & Entertainment District, which hosts regular concerts and community festivals. The area is experiencing major growth, making it the perfect time to explore this inclusive and welcoming city.

Visit City Website

5

THINGS TO DO IN THE CITY

1 Stroll Downtown

The walkable Downtown Arts & Entertainment District stretches from Agua Caliente Casino to the Community Amphitheater and offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. Future plans include a pedestrian path to connect walkers to the Cathedral City Cove.

2 Take a Swing

Desert Princess Country Club features a 27-hole golf course, where each set of nine holes presents a unique array of challenges. At nearby Cimarrón Golf Resort, two 18-hole courses of varying length cater to players of all skill levels.

3 Bring Your Pup

The Cathedral City Dog Park at Panorama Park has two sides: one for big dogs and another for small ones. There are shade structures and drinking stations for pups and people, and the facility is fenced for off-leash play.

4 Head for the Hills

Cathedral City Cove is one of the desert’s many beautiful hiking areas, offering sweeping views of the Coachella Valley from its perch in the foothills. Find the Cathedral Canyon Trailhead on Foothill Road.

5 Get Ready to Rock

Located downtown, the Community Amphitheater hosts regular open-air concerts and cultural events. Instantly recognizable, the amphitheater’s sharply angled roofline was inspired by origami.