La Quinta Through a Local’s Eye: Mimi Lawhon

PEOPLE

Mar 28

Raised in the far away Alaskan bush with no modern amenities available, Mimi Lawhon grew up wanting to explore everything — from fun to glamour, taste to culture.

The youngest child of a very young Las Vegas showgirl mother and a silent generation WWII father, she had just enough mix of old-school-strict and wild-at-heart-artist vibes to keep her disciplined, yet creative. She took up two careers in both retail fashion management and fitness and raised three grown children with her husband.

After 20+ years of visiting the desert frequently, Mimi and her family bought a home in 2020 to wait out the pandemic. Within a month she had fallen in love with La Quinta and knew it would be her forever happy place. She spends her time exploring the scenic nature of the Coachella Valley, bird watching, exploring new food options, attending festivals, farmers markets, and browsing boutiques. The wild weather keeps her on her toes and in the pool.

Here she shares the seven things she’s vibing on most in La Quinta…

Main Street Coffee

Delight in fair trade local roasts, teas, and scrumptious homemade treats at this charming café nestled in beautiful Old Town La Quinta.

Nitroinfusions Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth with organic ice cream crafted using liquid nitrogen, making for an indulgent and mesmerizing dessert experience.

Historical Tour of La Quinta

Uncover La Quinta's rich heritage on a 45-minute journey, exploring everything from the Cahuilla Indians to the iconic La Quinta Hotel.

East Cove Trailhead

Perfect for year-round exploration, this easy, 40-minute hike offers picturesque desert landscapes and ample opportunities for birdwatching.

Indian Springs Golf Club / Big Rock Pub

Experience a stunning golf course and Hard Rock Cafe-inspired pub at this fun-filled Indio gem. It’s also one of the most beautiful golf courses in the valley!