City Editor Alyson here — within the last year, I've been trying to adventure to in-state destinations that don't hurt my wallet, but are still an escape from my normal day-to-day reality.

My favorite getaway? Joshua Tree. It's the coolest spot to plan a weekend trip (or longer) with a unique backdrop that's unlike anything you'll see in the South Bay.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~7 hours
Est. population: 7,400
Avg. high in June/July: 95°-100° (pack lots of sunscreen)

This specific hiking trail was called "Hall of Horrors." | Photo by SJtoday staff

🥾Things to do

Joshua Tree National Park
The biggest draw to this small town is the park which spans ~800,000 acres and is filled with those quirky-looking Joshua Trees. Pro tip: Survey the map to see what points you want to hit, and be prepared for a lengthier drive in for popular spots like Skull Rock.

Explore local shops
Find vintage gifts and quirky t-shirts at The Station where you'll be greeted by a 20-ft tall cowboy. Located right across from the Joshua Tree Visitor Center is Coyote Corner, the perfect spot for national park souvenirs.

View art installments
With so much empty desert space, Joshua Tree invites artists from all walks of life to plant their installments around the city. See the large stone goddess of "Transmission," the welded steel sculptures of Simi Dabah, or the world-famous Crochet Museum.

Kitchen in the Desert is best at night with live music. | Photo by SJtoday staff

🍽️ Grab a bite

Crossroads Cafe
For casual diner grub, this breakfast + lunch spot has it all. Grab scrambles, country breakfast plates, burritos, stacked sandwiches, and mimosas at this eatery. Pro tip: It's a popular spot among locals and visitors alike, so put your name in earlier than later.

Natural Sisters Cafe
Fuel up before a day's hike at this organic, locally sourced cafe with vegetarian and vegan offerings. Along with fresh juices + smoothies, you can also grab breakfast sandwiches, plant-based burgers, and loaded wraps.

Kitchen in the Desert
Just a short drive next door to Joshua Tree in 29 Palms is this New American restaurant and bar. Set in a 1940s-era building, this vintage eatery is a great spot offering live music, outdoor fire pits, and a tropical desert oasis setting.

Consider camping in Joshua Tree National Park where you can see the stunning stars at night. | Photo by SJtoday staff

🏕️ Cozy stays

Camping, Joshua Tree National Park
Get the full Joshua Tree experience and sleep under the stars. There are eight campsites within the park, which range from $15-$25 a night. Just a note, most have pit toilets, no water, and no RV hookups.

Sacred Sands, 63155 Quail Springs Rd.
Located just a mile from the West Entrance of the national park is this luxury stay. The desert-chic private rooms feature outdoor tubs for a serene soak during sunset.

Rimrock Ranch, 50857 Burns Canyon Rd., Pioneertown
This ranch offers Airstreams, cabins, lodges, and full houses for your group. The rustic decor will transport you back to 1950s desert life — but with air conditioning, a Bluetooth record player, and a luxury plunge pool.

Looking for more recommendations? We explored a foodie foray to Sonoma + Napa counties, as well as an outdoor adventure to Lake Tahoe.