Things To Do
in Imperial
Imperial is a small, agricultural city in the southern California desert that serves as a hub for the Imperial Valley. Its landscape mixes irrigated farmland, wide desert skies, and easy access to unique attractions like the Salton Sea and the Imperial Sand Dunes. The community has deep Mexican and farming influences, reflected in local food, festivals, and bilingual signage.
Visitors come for outdoor recreation, birding, off‑roading and a low‑key, authentic desert experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the majestic Imperial Sand Dunes, where the golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner before embarking on a guided dune tour. As the sun rises higher, the dunes create mesmerizing patterns, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
After a morning of exploring, head to the nearby Glamis Beach for a picnic lunch while soaking in the stunning desert landscape. In the afternoon, embrace the thrill of off-roading by renting ATVs or dune buggies to navigate the vast sand terrain. Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed over the dunes, enjoying the unique natural beauty of the area.
As the sun begins to set, return to the dunes for a breathtaking view of the horizon painted in hues of orange and pink. Gather around a campfire for some stargazing, where the clear desert skies reveal countless stars. Share stories and enjoy s'mores as the cool desert air sets in.
Begin your day with a visit to the Imperial Valley Historical Society and Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the area. Engage with exhibits that showcase the region’s agricultural heritage and the indigenous cultures that have thrived here. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a day of exploration.
In the afternoon, head to the local farmers' market to experience the vibrant community and taste fresh produce grown in the Imperial Valley. Interact with local farmers, sample delicious foods, and pick up unique souvenirs. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks to enjoy the warm sunshine and picturesque surroundings.
As the evening approaches, dine at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Valley. After dinner, attend a cultural event or performance at a community center, immersing yourself in local music and dance. Reflect on your day while enjoying a dessert from a local bakery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2.50-4 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🚗Taxi start / per mile | $3.50 start + $2/mi |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-130 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to unique desert attractions (Salton Sea, sand dunes, folk art)
- Authentic, affordable Mexican and farm-fresh food
- Excellent birdwatching and off-roading opportunities
- Laid-back, low‑crowd experience compared to coastal California
- Very hot summers and limited shade
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure within the city
- Some attractions are remote and require a vehicle
- Air quality can be poor at times (dust, agricultural activity, Salton Sea odors)
Places to Visit in Imperial
Visit one of these nice places.
Eerie lakeshore scenes, abandoned structures and the volcanic glass outcrop at Obsidian Butte make striking compositions, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Sweeping dune ridges and rippled sand provide dramatic desert landscapes; golden-hour light is best and ORV tracks can add texture.
Bold folk art installations with vibrant colors and human subjects; popular for creative portrait and documentary-style shots.
Irrigated farmland with rows of crops, farm equipment and dramatic early-morning light—great for rural and documentary photography.
Small-town murals, local signage and everyday life scenes capture the region’s culture and community.
Food in Imperial
Imperial Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled marinated beef tacos served with fresh onions, cilantro, salsas and warm corn tortillas; available at taquerias and family-run restaurants around town.
Must-Try!
Imperial Valley produces dates—try date shakes, pastries or sweets at farm stands and seasonal markets.
Crispy or grilled fish tacos with cabbage slaw and creamy sauce; popular in nearby towns and at coastal-influenced eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small roadside stands and weekend markets selling seasonal vegetables, citrus, dates and honey—great for fresh snacks and photos.
Family-run taco shops and lunchtime vendors offering affordable, authentic Mexican street food—try carne asada, al pastor and fresh salsas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shopkeepers and servers with a smile; basic politeness goes a long way in small towns.
Spanish is widely spoken—attempting simple Spanish phrases is appreciated. English is common, but be respectful of bilingual signage and culture.
Stick to public roads and trails; do not trespass on farmland or private irrigation canals and fields.
If you head into desert or dunes, leave no trace, avoid disturbing wildlife and follow local rules for ORV areas and protected sites.
Safety
Tipping in Imperial
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping applies: 15–20% in sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at a bar, $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night, and a few dollars for taxi drivers or bag carriers. Tip more for exceptional service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; many local vendors and small stands prefer cash. Mobile and contactless payments are increasingly common. ATMs are available in larger nearby towns—bring cash for remote outings.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Extremely hot and dry—daytime highs often exceed 100°F (38°C). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening, carry ample water, sunscreen and a hat, and avoid strenuous midday exertion.
Temperatures moderate and mornings can be cool; this is a pleasant time for hiking, birding and exploring farmers’ markets as harvests continue.
Mild days and cool nights—daytime temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities, but bring layers for chilly evenings; migratory birds at the Salton Sea make winter a prime time for birdwatching.
Wildflower displays in nearby desert areas and comfortable temperatures make spring a popular season; occasional gusty winds are possible, especially in exposed areas.
Imperial at Night
Hiking in Imperial
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive desert trails, wildflower displays in spring, slot canyons and scenic desert vistas—best explored with plenty of water and sun protection.
Short walks and viewpoints around the Salton Sea and local coves—good for birdwatching and shoreline photography.
A short hike to the volcanic obsidian outcrop near the Salton Sea that offers unique geology and panoramic views.
Less-traveled terrain for day hikes and exploration—bring navigation aids and avoid high heat hours.
Airports
How to reach Imperial by plane.
A small regional airport serving general aviation and limited commercial services; convenient for private planes and regional access.
Larger regional airport about an hour’s drive northeast offering commercial flights and car rental options—useful for some domestic connections.
Across the border in Mexicali, offering domestic and some international flights; border crossing formalities apply if using this option.
Major international airport approximately two to three hours west by car, offering wide flight options and full services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and vibrant Hispanic/Latino population shapes the culture, language, cuisine and festivals of the region.
Many residents are connected to the valley’s intensive agriculture—seasonal and year-round workers and multi-generational farming households.
The region has ties to nearby military communities and cross-border families who travel regularly between the U.S. and Mexico.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Friday night high school football is a focal point of community life, drawing local crowds and school spirit.
Soccer is widely played and followed locally, reflecting the region’s strong Latino influence.
Dune riding, ATV and off-road racing are extremely popular due to proximity to the Imperial Sand Dunes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Imperial.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options can be found at taquerias (cheese, nopal/cactus, beans, grilled vegetables) and diners; ask for beans without lard and request vegetable fillings. Larger nearby towns have dedicated vegetarian-friendly cafes.
Vegan choices are more limited but achievable—look for bean and veggie tacos, salads, and fruit from markets. Bringing snacks is wise for long outings.
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and common in local restaurants. Confirm preparation methods for cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.