Wearing wool in Joshua Tree may seem crazy. But in dress form especially, it made for the perfect desert attire.

Step One: check into our Airbnb! There are many ways to experience Joshua Tree. Airbnb has a range of thoughtfully decorated properties nestled in the land. Each space contributes to a unique experience in the desert and are a great option for those in the mood for something more comfortable than camping.

Drop off your bags, take off your shoes, and blast some Willie.

We stayed at the Airbnb pictured above (check it out), but some other cozy spots are here, here, and here.

We headed into town to check out the many artists and tastemakers who have made the high desert home, selling their goods in curated shops that open on weekends or by appointment.

Our first stop was Shop On The Mesa, a perfect place for artisan apothecary, ceramics, textiles, and special handmade items. They have a great selection of vintage clothes and hand selected rugs.

We also stopped by Janelle Pietrzak’s Yucca Valley brick and mortar shop and studio: All Roads. A perfect place to shop local gifts in the high desert. Janelle is a Yucca Valley based textile artist who uses fiber to create objects, site specific installations and custom furniture.

We then headed to The Station to pick up a funky souvenir. We didn’t leave before stopping next door to grab a bottle of, in our humble opinions, the best olive oil around at Wonder Valley Olive Oil.

The park is named for the pointy Joshua trees native to the Mojave Desert, so named by the Mormons who say the tree’s shape reminded them of the biblical story of Joshua raising his hands to the heavens.

There are many hiking trails full of blooming cacti and yellow boulders. we especially loved the Barker Dam Loop for a nice morning walk, packing our pockets with snacks.

Back out of the park we enter into the dream world of Shari Elf—a local textile artist. The ‘World Famous Crochet Museum’ is a weird and wonderful crochet installation. Full of color and odd trinkets—this spot feels like you fell down the rabbit hole into wonderland.

After a long day in the park, we’re getting hungry…

We head over to our personal favorite La Copine—founded by East Coast couple Nikki Hill and Claire Wadsworth, La Copine has become a crucial touchstone for anyone passing through. You’ll do yourself a favor by arriving early, as they fill up to capacity regularly.