The Plaza — “The Heart of the Resort”

From the beginning, the Main Plaza has been the social heart of La Quinta Resort. In the early years, guests gathered beneath lantern-lit arches to share stories, laughter, and the scent of citrus carried on the desert breeze. During the 1930s and ’40s, the plaza was alive with music and motion—where Hollywood stars mingled with artists and travelers who had arrived by train and horse-drawn carriage long before the first desert roads were built.

Today, the plaza continues to bring people together. Surrounded by gardens, fountains, and Spanish-tile walkways, it remains a place to slow down, listen to live music, and watch the sun dip behind the mountains—just as guests have done for generations.

Did you know?

• During World War II, General George Patton’s officers stayed here during desert training.

• In the resort’s early years, guests traveled by train to Indio, then by horse-drawn carriage to the property.

• The Main Plaza remains one of the most photographed spots at La Quinta Resort.

Continue to the next stop → The Lobby & Santa Rosa Room