High Desert Trip part 2

Escaping LA and going to a  Joshua Tree/Yucca Valley Airbnb is a serious “thing!" It’s always affordable and a great way to get off the grid. I grew up with my mom taking us here so it holds some precious memories. We had to make the most of our high desert trip by making a stop here on the way home from Palm Springs. Since a huge part of my brand is creating content, a gorgeous location is key! We got so many cool photos in Joshua Tree we figured this part of the trip deserved it’s very own post. 

Pionerertown & Pappy and Harriett's

You will feel like you traveled back in time when you visit the precious and photo friendly Pioneertown! Perfect for cool, quirky, western themed photoshoots. There’s a ton of little kitschy shops to check out while you’re there too! The crown jewel of the little town is the world famous Pappy and Harriet’s restaurant, bar, and music venue. My parents had been going there for years and I had always heard my fellow Angelenos rave about it. Phillip and I had to see what the fuss was about! We went for dinner and open mic night and had the most amazing experience. The food was to die for! I eat mainly a veggie based diet but had to make an exception for their house smoked ribs, and I did not regret it. We stayed around to watch the local talent and it was so cool to see! Pappy and Harriet’s is truly a place where all feel welcome and enjoy. The eclectic crowd included families, Hells Angels bikers, hip young folk giving LA scenesters a run for their money, old long-time locals, and cowboys. You name it, and they were there.

 Off to Joshua Tree! Next stop, The Coyote House

My friends Tim (@timmelideo) and Merrill (@merzydotes) recently bought an old fixer upper in Joshua Tree to renovate and rent out. They did everything themselves and it seriously looks AMAZING! They have dubbed this charming vintage inspired bungalow The Coyote House as it is located right off of Coyote Road. It was photo perfect and walking distance to some cool local spots. They also have a fire pit and hot tub in the yard, calling for nights out under the stars in a place where you can actually see them (darn LA light pollution!) Franklin loved running around in the dust and felt right at home!

"Downtown" Joshua Tree & the National Park

Ok another two-fer here since they are so close! Before you take that right down Park Drive there is a few block strips full of strange stores and restaurants. I was informed by a local that this area is technically all of Joshua Tree, which is often confused with the larger area of Yucca Valley up the road. I hear this area referred to as Downtown Joshua Tree and it is a serious treasure! They have adopted the often used phrase, “Keep Joshua Tree Weird” but unlike Portland or Austin, they seriously mean it! This is one wacky place filled with colorful and crazy art galleries, crochet museums (yes that’s correct),  funky vintage stores and more. There is also some good spots to eat and drink. Phillip and I loved Pie for the People & Joshua Tree Coffee co.

Of course Joshua Tree is known for the national park, there is nothing like it in the world. Giant rocks and Dr. Seuss style trees as far as the eye can see. The landscape looks like another planet entirely.  It’s great for hiking and of course incredible photoshoots! You can’t go to J-tree without hitting up the park.

 

 The Beginning and The End

Right as you get to or leave Yucca Valley there is an awesome little block full of boutiques that rival those of East LA. One of the most well known of these shops is The End, a colorful store full of vintage and carefully curated artist goods. Celebrities and blogger babes go nuts for this spot, not only for what’s inside but the amazing murals by LA artist @bunnieluvrocks paints all over the exterior. Grabbing a beverage and breakfast toast at Frontier coffee and stopping by The End is a must before leaving town!