Cathedral City South

Many desert dwellers gravitate to Cathedral City for its assortment of independent shops and restaurants. The city’s other attractions include the IMAX Theatre (1)  , Mary Pickford Theatre (2) , and Big League Dreams Sports Park  — where the playing fields resemble scaled-down famous ballparks such as Boston’s Fenway Park, New York’s Yankee Stadium, and Chicago’s Wrigley Field. 

And don’t forget Boomers (3) , a recreation complex with miniature golf, go-karts, bumper boats, a rock wall, and a game room. Soon to join this plethora of available activities is Desert Ice Castle, a massive, full-service skating facility. Until then, enjoy the distinctive shapes and colors — and play in the water — at the Fountain of Life in the Town Square across from the Civic Center (4) , or mountain bike along the Santa Rosa Mountains to the south of the city. 

Tips & Fun Facts 
■    The city was named after a canyon that reminded an early explorer of a European cathedral.
■    Cathedral City named among the top 10 retirement bargain spots by US News & World Report.
■    Desert Memorial Park is the final resting place of former Palm Springs mayor Sonny Bono and Rat Packer Frank Sinatra. www.pscemetery.com
■    Perez Road Design District offers housewares and furniture shops with mid-century modern and vintage merchandise you won’t find at big-box stores.
■    Cathedral City has an expanding art-in-public-places program, with sculptures adorning a variety of locations. www.cathedralcity.gov

(Desert guide)