The high desert region known as Joshua Tree really encompasses three different towns with stretches of the National Park in each: Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and 29 Palms. As a visitor to the area it can be confusing to figure out how to plan your days so you’re not driving back and forth between different destinations—depending on the length of your trip its helpful to group your days by each town to reduce your driving time.
One of the spots that you shouldn’t miss while you are visiting is Pioneertown, an unincorporated area outside of Yucca Valley (you can easily group this with some Yucca Valley spots!). Below, find our guide to our favorite things to do in Pioneertown.
Mane Street
The “Mane Street” of Pioneertown is a funky 1800’s themed movie set that was built in the 1940’s. These days it’s been converted into a car-free (pedestrian/ horse traffic only) block of restaurants and small businesses. It’s really fun to pass an afternoon wandering through there. Depending on the day, you may find chickens, goats, or horses to visit with there too.
Here’s few of our favorite Mane Street, Pioneertown spots:
Dining
Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace
Perhaps the most iconic spot in Pioneertown, Pappy and Harriet’s is a restaurant & bar that turns into a happening music venue some nights after dark. The restaurant has a fun rowdy roadhouse atmosphere and is both family & pet friendly. They specialize in BBQ, but have plenty of veggie options too.
The Red Dog Saloon
The Red Dog is a newer addition to Mane Street Pioneertown, and it’s been wonderful having this historic spot open again. Also kid, dog, and vegetarian friendly, this laid back spot specializes in Tex-Mex cuisine.
Wild Bread Bakery
While not technically a restaurant, no list of food in Pioneertown would be complete without including Wild Bread Bakery! Wild Bread is local naturally leavened bread Cottage Bakery with pickups locations throughout the high desert.
Shops
Soukie Modern Outpost
The Soukie Modern Outpost opened just a few months ago. We are very excited to welcome this extension of their flagship in Palm Springs and Atelier in Morocco to town! They have a rug room there, and also sell a curated selection of vintage and hand made clothing, jewelry, and children’s toys.
XēBA BOTáNICA
XēBA BOTáNICA is a shop offering a selection of versatile, unisex skincare products that are hand crafted in house with organic plant-based materials and plastic-free packaging.
Pioneertown General Store
Located in the historic Saddlery building, Pioneertown General Store is known for their selection of vintage Western wear. They also carry pocket knives, books, apothecary items and a selection of desert themed gifts.
Hiking
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve is the largest nonprofit wilderness area in California. It’s off the beaten track, so a great place to beat the crowds and have a trail to yourself. We like the Chaparrosa Peak Spur Trail, which rewards you when you get to the top with a beautiful sweeping viewpoint.
Always remember to leave no trace: take only photographs, leave only footprints, pack out what you pack in, and stay on designated trails to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
You may also like:
Staying with us in Joshua Tree? Check out our Family Friendly Guide to JT, and our field guides to some of our favorite local trails: Barker Dam, Split Rock Loop, Ryan Mountain, Arch Rock, and Willow Hole.
