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Joshua Tree, California, is best known for its otherworldly desert landscapes, characterized by iconic Joshua trees, looming rock formations, and magical night skies filled with stars as far as the eye can see. While there’s the usual outdoor activities, like hiking, rock climbing, and camping, did you know that Joshua Tree also offers a vibrant creative community scene?
Located 264km from Los Angeles, you’ll find everything from art installations to galleries to live music and theater in Joshua Tree.
The town has a long history of attracting artists, dating back to the 1940s when a group of modernist painters settled in the area. Today, that tradition roars on, with a new generation of local artists, musicians, and performers drawn to Joshua Tree’s rugged beauty and inspiring spirit.
Keep reading to discover Joshua Tree’s thriving desert art scene and cultural attractions.
Visit the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum
One of the most notable destinations for art lovers in Joshua Tree is the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum. Located just outside of town, this outdoor museum features the work of the late artist Noah Purifoy, who spent the final years of his life creating monumental sculptures and installations from objects he found in the desert.
The museum is a fascinating exploration of the intersection of art and the natural world and a must-see for anyone visiting Joshua Tree, even for those who aren’t huge art fans.
Noah Purifoy was a prominent African American artist and sculptor best known for his assemblage sculpture, including his extensive body of work he called the “66 Signs of Neon,” inspired by the 1965 Watts riots.
After the riots, Noah collected debris from the destruction and used it to craft his sculptures. He used a vast array of salvaged materials, from car parts and scrap metal to old shoes and broken glass. Later, Noah settled in Joshua Tree and devoted the final years of his life to creating large-scale installations in the Mojave Desert.
The Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum in Joshua Tree is home to more than 100 of Purifoy’s large-scale sculptures, as well as several smaller works, installations, and exhibitions. The museum’s breezy, open-air layout allows visitors to roam through the desert landscape and explore the creations at their own pace, taking in the natural surroundings as well as the art.
The Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum is open to the public year-round from sun up until sundown and is free of charge. There’s free parking available, too.
Watch a Theater Performance at the Hi-Desert Cultural Center
The Hi-Desert Cultural Center is a community arts center hosting various performances throughout the year, from plays and musicals to dance and comedy shows. Check out the upcoming performances and buy tickets online here.
The center also offers classes and workshops for those interested in developing their creative skills, from ballet dance classes to drawing sessions. Tickets for the performances and classes range in price, and there’s free parking.
Immerse Yourself in Live Music
Unknown to many, Joshua Tree also has a booming music scene. From folk to rock to experimental, there’s something for every music lover in town.
Pappy and Harriet’s is a legendary venue that has been going strong since the 1980s. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, hosting live music seven nights a week in a rustic, western-themed setting. The venue has welcomed numerous big-name musicians, including Paul McCartney, Robert Plant, and Vampire Weekend, to name a few.
Check the online schedule to see who’ll be hitting center stage soon.
The Joshua Tree Saloon is another much-loved spot for live music, with performances held on most weekends. This iconic bar and restaurant has been around since the 1940s and has a colorful history as a hangout spot for cowboys, miners, and rock climbers. The bar has a parking lot and there’s nearby street parking too if it’s busy.
Where to Stay in Joshua Tree
Savvy VRM offers short-term rental properties in Joshua Tree, CA, that you can book for your next desert escape. Book today and secure a comfortable and convenient home base to support your culture vulture escapades and outdoor nature activities.
