Desert Hills Premium Outlets | Palm Springs

Desert Hills Premium Outlets is one of the most prestigious outlet shopping destinations in the United States. Located in Cabazon, California, just off Interstate 10, it is approximately 20 minutes from Palm Springs, 90 minutes from Los Angeles, and 2 hours from San Diego, making it a highly accessible and popular shopping stop for both domestic and international visitors.

Overview and Appeal

This open-air outlet mall is known for its exclusive selection of luxury and designer brands. It’s owned and operated by Simon Property Group as part of the Premium Outlets chain, and it is often cited as one of the best locations for high-end bargain shopping on the West Coast.

What distinguishes Desert Hills from other outlets is not just the number of luxury labels but the depth of inventory and frequency of new stock, making it a top choice for fashion-conscious shoppers looking for real deals on premium items.

Store Selection

Desert Hills Premium Outlets features over 180 stores, including a rare collection of high-fashion and European luxury brands, many of which are not found in most outlet malls in the U.S. The mall includes:

Luxury Brands

These stores often carry out-of-season goods, prior collections, and exclusive outlet merchandise at discounts between 25% to 65% off original retail prices.

Popular Mid-Range and Activewear Brands

Accessories, Beauty, and Footwear

Layout and Atmosphere

The complex is divided into three sections, connected by covered walkways and courtyards. The environment is designed with wide pathways, desert landscaping, and plenty of outdoor seating, creating a relatively relaxed and upscale shopping experience despite high visitor traffic.

There are information kiosks and store directories posted throughout, as well as multilingual signage due to the high number of international tourists.

The complex offers free Wi-Fi, stroller rentals, and a VIP Shopper Club membership, which provides access to exclusive savings and digital coupons.

Dining Options

While shopping is the primary focus, Desert Hills does offer a variety of food and beverage options for different tastes and budgets. Dining includes:

Fast Casual & Quick Bites

Sit-Down Options:

While the outlet center itself is limited in full-service restaurants, there are nearby options in Cabazon and neighboring towns such as Morongo Casino Resort’s restaurants, which are less than five minutes away.

Many visitors pair their shopping day with a visit to the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, which offers fine dining, a spa, and additional entertainment.

Hours of Operation

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Hours may vary on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Parking and Transportation

Desert Hills Premium Outlets has ample parking, including:

General parking (free)

VIP and valet parking (available near luxury sections)

EV charging stations

Designated parking for veterans and disabled visitors

Transportation Options:

By car: Located directly off I-10; very straightforward access from major Southern California cities.

Public transit: Limited; best accessed by car or tour bus.

Tour buses from Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Las Vegas operate frequently, especially catering to international tourists.

Taxi and rideshare options available from Palm Springs and surrounding areas.

Security and Safety

Security presence is visible, and patrols are regular. However, because it is a high-traffic area and a known tourist destination, visitors should:

Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles

Keep bags and personal items secure

Park in well-lit areas

Lockers are not available, so carrying light and being prepared is recommended for an all-day experience.

Visitor Tips

Arrive early for the best parking and quieter shopping environment.

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and holidays.

Check online for seasonal sales or sign up for their VIP Shopper Club for additional discounts.

Bring sun protection, as it’s an outdoor mall and temperatures can soar in spring and summer.

Wear comfortable shoes—there is a lot of walking involved.

Desert Hills Premium Outlets is considered a shopping destination in itself. Many international visitors, especially from Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, make it a key part of their Southern California itinerary. The range of designer brands, outlet-exclusive inventory, and the desert mountain backdrop make it not just a retail stop, but a full experience.