Shields Date Garden

Nope, not getting married. Not even engaged (not complaining). This weekend, in effort to avoid the rain, the mud, and the shitty drivers of LA/SGV, I fled my suburban life (AKA my parents' house) for the desert to hit up one of my new favorite spots: Shields Date Gardens.

As you can see, there's more to Shields than just a date garden. They sell many products for both tourists and locals alike, such as fresh dates (15+ types), locally made jams and butters, a bunch of different hot sauces, and other novelty gifts and decor. Dates, unlike the apples, strawberries, and bananas of our lives, are so underrated. The desert folk, however, know what's up. They even have an annual festival dedicated to this fruit. So whether you're a dehydrated hipster taking a break from Coachella or a snowbird enjoying summer all winter long, Shields is the perfect pit stop. Wondering what I ate? Of course you are.

If you happen to make your way to this hidden gem, I highly recommend ordering the Shields Date Pancakes (if you're on the go, swoop up a date milkshake instead). It's a can't go wrong, no nonsense, syrup optional kind of dish, which I actually really appreciate because one of my biggest pet peeves is getting syrup in my hair. Lastly, don't let the look of a date deter you from trying it. I mean, I always thought dates resembled those huge brown cockroaches with wings that I saw plenty of in the Philippines, but look at me now. I just can't get enough.

Shields Date Gardens

80225 Highway 111

Indio, CA 92201