When it’s time to pack a suitcase and get away from it all, knowing you’re headed somewhere as scenic and inspiring as Joshua Tree can make all the difference. For all of the iconic stops this area hosts that are worth checking out, there are just as many lesser-known attractions in Joshua Tree that shouldn’t be missed! When you’re looking to round out your itinerary, the following are the top five under-the-radar Joshua Tree National Park attractions to make sure you experience for yourself when you’re next in Joshua Tree.
Attractions in Joshua Tree: Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum
Many travelers heading to Joshua Tree come this way with visions of captivating landscapes in mind. But who would have guessed traveling here would also be an opportunity to travel through the many decades of hair care and design? That’s exactly what you’ll do if you make time to stop at the very unique Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum situated at 61855 Twentynine Palms Highway. Open daily from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm except for Sundays when hours are shortened to 4:00 pm, the Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum is a fully functioning salon open for appointments that also doubles as an intriguing retro museum dedicated decades of hair-inspired artifacts. From vintage beauty tools and perm machines to colorful wigs and salon ads dating back to the 1940s, it’s a collection that you won’t soon forget. Pair a trip through the museum with an appointment or just drop by to take a look. Either way, you’ll be glad you did.
Desert View Conservation Area
While other visitors are rushing directly into Joshua Tree National Park, those who take a little time to linger on the outskirts will find that the Desert View Conservation Areas, also known as Section 6, is in fact just as inviting! Accessed at 62701 Onaga Trail, the Desert View Conservation Area is thought to be one of the most thriving habitats for desert tortoises that the area boasts. Covering 605-acres of protected land, this conservation area provides a peaceful place for tortoises to thrive but is also home to incredible wildlife like wild cats and bighorn sheep too. Mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding are all popular activities within the Desert View Conservation Area.
World Famous Crochet Museum
When you head to Joshua Tree for a great getaway, there’s no reason you can’t indulge your crafty side too. Head over to the World Famous Crochet Museum at 61855 Twentynine Palms Highway and spend some time browsing a collection dedicated to this colorful art form. Situated inside a restored photobooth, this crochet museum isn’t hard to spot thanks to it’s bright lime green façade. The museum hosts a variety of crocheted items that belong to owner Shari Elf who began the collection back in the early 90s. The museum is open 24/7 and there’s no cost to enjoy it—just bring your sense of fun and adventure! This is definitely one of the best Joshua Tree National Park attractions!
Institute of Mentalphysics
A journey to Joshua Tree is bound to be filled with iconic and incredible sights but one of the lesser-known stops that asks visitors to take a more introspective approach is the Institute of Mentalphysics. Encompassing 420 acres of high-desert landscape, the Institute of Mentalphsyic’s retreat center is found at 59700 Twentynine Palms Highway and was built by Frank Lloyd Wright and his son. This distinct landing spot was designed to be a portal to your inner being by working as a place where the art of meditation and focused breathing can help bring visitors to a more balanced perspective. While students come from near and far to participate in courses at the center, it’s just as interesting to pop by for a look at the architecture.
The Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum
If admiring quirky, environmental sculptures is very much your thing, you won’t want to miss a chance to stop by and enjoy the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum. Located at 63030 Blair Lane, the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum promises to be unlike anything you’ve seen before! This one-of-a-kind stop features art exhibits and displays made by Purifoy using what might otherwise be considered junk in the form of scrap metal, wood, appliances, clothing, and more. The collection of unique sculptures was created on-site between 1989 and 2004 and covers an impressive 10-acres of land. While some find the displays intimidating when presented against the dynamic desert landscape, others find them inspiring. Come by and decide for yourself!
Book Your Joshua Tree Stay Today
A trip to Joshua Tree is an experience you simply don’t want to miss. Knowing you’ve booked vacation rental accommodations that keep you close to the fun makes it even better. Reach out to Hi-Desert Dwellings today to learn more about our portfolio of area property options and to start planning your next trip. We can’t wait to see you in California soon! Check out our 4-bedroom vacation rentals.