River at Rancho Mirage | Palm Springs

The River at Rancho Mirage is a vibrant outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located in Rancho Mirage, California, along Highway 111. Known for its scenic setting and unique water features, it serves as a central hub for both locals and visitors in the Coachella Valley. This lifestyle center combines a carefully curated mix of fine and casual dining, retail, and entertainment, all nestled around a beautifully landscaped waterway that gives the venue its name.

Design and Ambience

The River is not a typical shopping mall—it’s a thoughtfully designed space that incorporates the natural desert landscape with urban leisure. It’s named after the 1,100-foot-long man-made river that flows through the complex, lined with waterfalls, fountains, stone bridges, and lush vegetation. The sound of flowing water and the sight of palm trees and mountains in the background create a serene oasis atmosphere.

At night, The River becomes particularly picturesque, with ambient lighting reflecting off the water and open-air patios lit with string lights. It's a popular location for evening strolls, date nights, and relaxed family outings.

Dining

The River is especially known for its wide selection of restaurants, ranging from upscale full-service options to casual bites. Many have outdoor patios overlooking the river, offering a relaxing dining experience.

The Cheesecake Factory – Classic American fare with an extensive menu and signature desserts.

P.F. Chang’s – A well-known spot for modern Chinese-American cuisine.

Yard House – A high-energy eatery with dozens of beers on tap and a broad menu of American dishes.

Babe's Bar-B-Que & Brewery – A local favorite known for house-smoked meats and craft beer.

Five Guys – Fresh burgers and fries in a casual setting.

Ben & Jerry’s – Famous Vermont ice cream chain.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – Specialty chocolates and sweet treats.

Cowboy Cantina – New Southwestern cuisine combining Mexican, Native American, and Spanish flavors.

Many restaurants offer happy hours, live music, and themed nights, especially on weekends.

Shopping

Although The River focuses more on dining and entertainment, there are a few notable retail outlets and service-based businesses:

Bath & Body Works – Body care, fragrances, and candles.

COCO LULU – Boutique clothing and accessories.

Hats Unlimited – Specializing in hats of all kinds, from fashion to sun protection.

River Nails & Spa – Full-service nail salon and spa treatments.

Entertainment and Attractions

The River stands out in the desert for its entertainment offerings:

Cinemark Century Theatres – A 15-screen luxury movie theater featuring reclining seats, stadium seating, and a full concession stand. It regularly features first-run movies and hosts special event screenings.

Dave & Buster’s – A massive 22,000+ square foot restaurant and arcade that includes sports viewing, classic games, and modern interactive attractions. It's the first of its kind in the Coachella Valley.

Escape Games at The River – Team-based escape room adventures, great for groups and special events.

Mirage Cigar Lounge – A stylish lounge offering a curated selection of premium cigars and a relaxed atmosphere for aficionados.

There's also a 100-seat amphitheater, which hosts free live music, cultural performances, and seasonal events such as holiday festivities and outdoor movie nights.

Amenities and Services

Ample Parking: Free parking is available throughout the complex, including shaded spaces and valet service at select entrances.

Tesla Supercharging Station: The River is home to the largest Tesla Supercharging hub in the Coachella Valley, making it a convenient stop for EV drivers.

Pet-Friendly: Many of the outdoor spaces and even some stores welcome pets, and dog water bowls are commonly provided.

Events and Community Engagement

The River frequently hosts community events, charity fundraisers, seasonal markets, and themed festivals. Events like Holiday Tree Lightings, Easter Egg Hunts, Fall Food Fairs, and Car Shows bring locals together and attract tourists looking for more than just shopping.

Overall Experience

The River at Rancho Mirage is more than a shopping center—it's an experience. Whether you come for a romantic dinner by the fountains, a family movie night, or just to stroll through its scenic walkways with a coffee in hand, it offers a welcoming and relaxing environment that blends desert charm with modern convenience.

Its unique integration of nature, architecture, and leisure has made it a beloved fixture in the Coachella Valley for years.