Southern California 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 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 (134 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.
FreeSeasonal & outdoors near La Quinta
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from La Quinta.
More SoCal 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, sorted by distance from you with hours, prices and tips.
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. Use the "free only" filter in the finder above to see them all.
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.