Inland Empire family guide
Things to Do in La Quinta with Kids
Curated by Simir Shah
Reviewed & updated August 2026 · we check listings regularly, but hours and prices change — confirm before you go.
La Quinta on the map
📍 Where La Quinta is
La Quinta sits in Inland Empire, Southern California. Nearest major airport: Palm Springs Intl (~18 mi / 29 km). It's roughly 115 mi (185 km) from Downtown LA and 83 mi (133 km) from San Diego — SoCal traffic can make a drive take far longer than the distance suggests, so plan around it.
Visiting? See SoCal at a glance, getting around and which airport.
Things to do in La Quinta
La Quinta Museum
This free two-story museum tells the story of the Coachella Valley and the Cahuilla people, with rotating exhibits and a kids' area that keeps little ones engaged. A cool, quiet stop right in the historic Cove neighborhood — save it for a hot afternoon when the desert sun is too fierce for the trails.
Free
Fred Wolff Bear Creek Nature Preserve
A 20-acre patch of protected desert at the western edge of La Quinta Cove, tucked against the Santa Rosa Mountains along the Bear Creek Trail. Families can spot native plants and watch for lizards and birds on the flat lower path. Go early morning in warmer months and bring water — very little natural shade out here.
Free
Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park
This Riverside County park wraps a small lake at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains with fishing, camping, picnic ramadas and a swimming pool — a favorite for a low-key family day close to town. Hours shrink in the summer heat, so check the schedule before you drive out and pack shade and sunscreen.
Varies (day-use fee)
La Quinta Park
The city's largest park, an 18-acre spread with a big playground, a fenced toddler area, a splash pad, ball fields and a skatepark. There's room to run and public art along the walking path. Aim for the splash pad on hot days, but morning or evening is kindest when summer temperatures climb.
Free
Old Town La Quinta
A walkable, Spanish-style Main Street at the foot of the mountains lined with restaurants, boutiques and ice cream, plus a seasonal farmers market and family events. Fountains and shaded corridors make it pleasant for a stroll — come in the cooler evening in summer and grab a treat while you wander.
Free to stroll
La Quinta Library
This bright Riverside County branch on the Civic Center campus offers story times, a maker-focused Creation Station and a welcoming children's section — a genuinely comfortable place to cool off and slow down when the midday desert heat makes outdoor plans tough for the youngest kids.
FreeFestivals & annual events in La Quinta
What La Quinta is known for — the events locals plan the year around.
La Quinta Art Celebration
An outdoor juried art fair on the lawns of the La Quinta Civic Center, running twice a year in November and March. Artists are selected by jury from national and international applicants.
See site for admission (ticketed)
Local restaurants in La Quinta
Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill
Pizza, burgers and American fare at 78015 Main Street #100, La Quinta (a second location is at 72840 CA-111 #465, Palm Desert). The site shows dine-in and patio dining, high chairs, takeout and delivery.
NitroInfusions Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream
Organic ice cream frozen to order with liquid nitrogen, with 30+ flavor combinations, at 78010 Main St., Suite 108, Old Town La Quinta. Open daily from 11am.
Seasonal & outdoors near La Quinta
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from La Quinta.
More Inland Empire family guides
La Quinta family FAQ
What are the best things to do in La Quinta with kids?
Family favorites in and around La Quinta include La Quinta Museum, Fred Wolff Bear Creek Nature Preserve, Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park and La Quinta Park, and more. Our guide lists 6 spots, each with a price note and practical tips where we have them.
Are there free things to do in La Quinta?
Yes — free family spots near La Quinta include La Quinta Museum, Fred Wolff Bear Creek Nature Preserve, La Quinta Park and Old Town La Quinta. Our free things to do page lists more across Southern California.
Where can families eat in La Quinta?
Local, family-friendly spots in La Quinta include Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill and NitroInfusions Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream — independent, SoCal-only eateries, never national chains.
What does the YourSoCal La Quinta guide cover?
Our La Quinta family guide includes 6 things to do and 2 local eats — with independent, non-chain eats and shops.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.
Where to stay in La Quinta
Hotels & rentals via Stay22 · we may earn a commissionCompare hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals near La Quinta on one map — then book on your favorite site.