March 7, 2024

Plan Your Visit to Borrego Springs: Tips From A Local

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Plan Your Visit to Borrego Springs


Borrego Springs offers activities for everyone, from local dining and live music to stargazing and exploring Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. While summers can be hot (100+ degrees), you don't have to avoid visiting. Enjoy relaxing at resorts, and exploring the local art and food scene with air conditioning. Popular times to visit are in the cooler months, from fall to spring.


Start at the ABDNHA Visitor Plaza


  • Educational Panels: Learn about the area's rich history, wildlife, and geology from the panels outside the facility.



  • Gift Shop: Find unique local items, educational materials, souvenirs, books, and gifts.


  • Events: Enjoy guided walks and expert talks. Check their calendar for current events.


  • Local Passion: ABDNHA's dedicated small-town team brings a deep passion for the area, making your visit enriching and memorable.



Where to Eat in Borrego Springs


Fuel your day with some delicious local cuisine. Here are top recommendations for every meal:


Breakfast


  • Calico’s: Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a cozy ambiance.
  • Kendall’s Cafe: Known for its friendly service and great breakfast options.
  • Red Ocotillo: Offers a diverse menu with outdoor seating.


Lunch


  • Carlee’s Place: A classic choice with live music and a lively atmosphere.
  • The Arches at Borrego Springs Resort: Perfect for a relaxing lunch with scenic views.
  • The Propeller Bar & Grill: Enjoy your meal overlooking the airstrip, a unique experience.


Dinner


  • Pablito’s Mexican Bar & Grill: Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors.
  • Carmelita’s Mexican Grill: Another great spot for Mexican dishes with a welcoming atmosphere.
  • The Fox Den: A fine dining option with an excellent menu and ambiance.


Coffee Breaks


  • Calico’s: Besides breakfast, it's also great for a coffee break.
  • The Fudge Shop: Enjoy coffee and sweet treats.


Learn More About Where To Eat In Borrego Springs


Serpent Photo by Johnny Bradley

Discover Galleta Meadows


Spend a few hours marveling at the metal sculptures in Galleta Meadows. These impressive works of art are scattered throughout the desert landscape, depicting prehistoric creatures, historical figures, and whimsical creations. It's a must-see for art lovers and photographers alike.


Immerse Yourself in The Borrego Springs Music Scene


  • Community Concerts: The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association hosts a variety of concerts each year, from classical and jazz to folk and world music. Check their schedule months in advance here.


  • Live Music at Carlee’s Place: Enjoy live music events scheduled a few weeks in advance. Find the latest happenings at Borrego Events.


Stargazing: Embrace the Dark Sky Community


Borrego Springs is ideal for stargazing, thanks to its dark skies and commitment to reducing light pollution. Follow local astronomer Dennis Mammana for updates and tips on Creators. Night sky tours are available through local organizations and businesses.


Check event pages or visit California Overland for more information.


Where to Stay in Borrego Springs


When planning your trip to Borrego Springs, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your preferences:






Learn More About Where To Stay In Borrego Springs


Things to Do in Borrego Springs


Borrego Springs offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers:


  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.


  • Biking: Discover scenic bike routes that showcase the stunning desert landscape.


  • Droning: Capture breathtaking aerial views of Borrego Springs and its surroundings with your drone. Visit the dedicated Drone Zone for a safe and expansive flying area.


  • Photography: Take advantage of the stunning desert scenery to capture beautiful photos.


  • Desert Garden Walks: Stroll through local desert gardens to learn about native plants and enjoy the serene environment.


  • Thrift Shopping: Find unique treasures and bargains at local thrift stores like Frugal Coyote and Bargain Barn.


  • Art Exhibits and Events: Explore the vibrant art scene at the Borrego Art Institute, which hosts regular exhibits and events.


Learn More About Things To Do In Borrego Springs


The Entrance to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park


Borrego Springs serves as the entrance to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California's largest state park. The park spans over 600,000 acres and features diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, desert plains, and lush palm oases. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the park's geological wonders. The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is also renowned for its wildflower blooms, which attract nature lovers from around the world.


Conclusion


Borrego Springs offers an array of activities and experiences that cater to all interests. From exploring the natural history at ABDNHA and dining at local eateries to enjoying live music and stargazing, there's something for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of Borrego Springs.




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March 3, 2026
Presented by Borrego Springs Community Concert Association
March 2, 2026
Borrego Springs, CA The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) will host the 2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The public is invited to explore four private homes and gardens at their own pace in Borrego Springs. This annual tour is a fundraiser benefiting ABDNHA, the educational 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports interpretation, education, and stewardship connected to the Anza-Borrego Desert region. Event details Event: 2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Format: Self-guided tour of four private homes and gardens Tickets $30 General Public $24 ABDNHA Members $20 ABDNHA Volunteers Early purchase discount: Buy by March 8 and save $2 per ticket . How to purchase Tickets are available online at abdnha.org/gardentour and in person at the ABDNHA Desert Nature Center , 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs . Questions: (760) 767-3098 Important guidelines Tickets are non-refundable . For guest safety and property rules, no strollers or dogs are permitted. About ABDNHA The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) is a nonprofit organization that supports education and interpretation in and around Anza-Borrego Desert State Park through programs, exhibits, and community engagement. Media Contact: ABDNHA Desert Nature Center 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA (760) 767-3098 abdnha.org/gardentour
February 28, 2026
BSCCA 50th anniversary celebration at BSPAC with the Waddington Brothers Borrego Springs Community Concert Association (BSCCA) celebrated 50 years of live concerts on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. The evening began at 6:00 PM with cake and sparkling cider, then the theater filled for the 7:00 PM concert by the Waddington Brothers. Earlier the same day, the group also performed a student concert at BSPAC for Borrego Springs High School.
February 27, 2026
Waddington Brothers at BSPAC Borrego Springs High School students spent part of the school day at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center (BSPAC) for a live performance by the Waddington Brothers. This Borrego Springs Community Concert Association student concert paired a professional theater experience with a clear educational message about discipline, entrepreneurship, and creative careers. Students did not just hear music. They experienced live acoustic instruments in a real theater, watched professional musicians interact on stage, and listened as the band spoke honestly about building a life in music. A Theater Experience During School Hours For many students, walking into BSPAC during the school day shifts learning into a different space. They are not watching a video or listening through headphones. They are hearing sound resonate in the room and seeing how musicians communicate without a script. As the band shared, “Music is a huge part of our life. But ultimately, it’s communication.” They encouraged students to “listen with intent,” explaining that sitting down and truly listening to music can be revealing. That message reframed the concert as more than entertainment. It became an exercise in focus and engagement. About the Waddington Brothers The Waddington Brothers are four siblings from rural North Dakota, a region better known for ranch country than bluegrass scenes. Their sound blends traditional bluegrass with western cowboy influences reminiscent of The Sons of the Pioneers. They have played together all their lives and launched the band professionally in 2019. The lineup includes: Seth on guitar and lead vocals Ethan on banjo Jacob on mandolin Job on bass In 2023, they earned first place at the SPBGMA International Bluegrass Band Competition in Nashville, gaining national attention. They have since signed with the Live on Stage agency in Nashville and are touring more extensively across the United States. During the concert, they explained that there are “a lot of different ways to make music,” describing touring, recording sessions, commercial work, and side businesses that help support a music career. “You have to find a market that you fit in,” they told students, emphasizing persistence and adaptability. What Students Learned Between songs, the Waddington Brothers explained what it takes to work as professional musicians. They talked about long travel days, the cost of touring, and why many musicians also do other work so they can keep playing and keep improving. Their takeaway for students was straightforward: building skill takes practice and consistency, and creative careers still require planning, reliability, and strong work habits.
February 24, 2026
Borrego Springs continues to expand its wellness community with the arrival of Mountain Healing Acupuncture, led by Lara Koljonen, a dedicated practitioner of holistic medicine since 2008. Lara brings more than 15 years of experience in acupuncture and integrative care, focusing on empowering patients to better understand their bodies and take an active role in their health. Her philosophy centers on the idea that life is like a garden. The more we care for it, the more vibrant and resilient it becomes. Through education, treatment, and ongoing support, she helps patients cultivate long-term wellness. Her approach blends eastern and western methods, bridging traditional acupuncture with modern health understanding. Treatments are designed to support pain relief, stress reduction, balance, and overall vitality in a safe and nurturing environment. Mountain Healing Acupuncture emphasizes continued learning and integrating new therapies to best serve patients. Lara works to both heal and educate, encouraging clients to build sustainable habits that strengthen their physical and emotional well-being. Contact: Mountain Healing Acupuncture 619.980.0745 Borrego Springs continues to grow as a destination for wellness, and the addition of a long-practicing acupuncturist adds another valuable resource for those seeking holistic support close to home. 
February 15, 2026
Live On Stage, Inc. and Borrego Springs Community Concert Association announce Sibling Bluegrass/Western band as part of their 2025-2026 Concert Season BORREGO SPRINGS, Cali. – (February 5, 2026) – Join the Waddington Brothers as they perform iconic Bluegrass and Western music with jaw-dropping authenticity in a live concert at Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Individual tickets may be available in the lobby the night of the show. If you would like to get on the waiting list or for further information, please use the contact form on the website - borregoconcerts.org . Students are admitted for free. “…world-class musicians who connect with their audiences and bring sheer joy to those in attendance.” Michael Burgraff, Fergus Falls Center for the Arts The Waddington Brothers, a band of four brothers from rural North Dakota, perform what they live: music that is real to them, that takes listeners on a journey through the heart of the American West. Seth, Ethan, Jacob and Job skillfully blend cowboy and bluegrass music, creating a style that is timelessly classic and yet refreshingly new and unique. Their rich, stirring harmonies and instrumental versatility bring familiar favorites like “Old Home Town,” “Less Traveled Road,” and “Red River Valley” to life in way that is entertaining and engaging for audiences of all ages!
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