A stroll through the Living Desert.

Desert Living Series
Summer Activities

“There isn’t a single word to describe all that The Living Desert is and does. We must string words together, like beads: zoo and endangered species conservation center – botanical gardens – natural history museum – wilderness park – nature preserve – education center. The thread that holds all the beads together is the word “desert.”

If you are looking for something to do in the earlier part of the day, take a stroll around the Living Desert.  They have lush gardens and interesting animals on exhibit.

If you are interested in photography there are many photo opportunities awaiting you at the park.  I’ve been able to capture images of hummingbirds, butterflies, giraffes and other four-legged residents.

The park is also a great place to shop for desert plants.  The Palo Verde Garden Center offers a variety of plants and other items for sale including: cactus, succulents, flowering ornamental, books and videos.

Admission is only $9.50 in the summer and the hours are 8:00 am to 1:30 pm.

The Living Desert is more than a zoo that houses the animals and plants native to the World’s deserts.  It is a place where can be inspired, learn and interact with nature.  It is also a way to spend a relaxing day meandering the paths and viewing the living desert around you!

If you buy a season pass you can get in the gates an hour earlier.  This is handy when the summer temps get hotter later in the day.  It is also a better time to see or photograph the animals as they tend to be more active in the cooler parts of the day.

The Living Desert is located in Palm Desert, CA. For more information about the park and directions, please visit their Web site.