Ultimate Guide: Enjoy Greater Palm Springs During the 2018 CareerBuilder Challenge
The PGA Tour returns for its 59th annual CareerBuilder Challenge in Greater Palm Springs from January 17-21, 2018, featuring one of the deepest fields in recent years with 156 top players.
Enhance your visit beyond the tournament. Before and after watching world-class golf, explore exceptional dining, drinks, activities, and nightlife across Greater Palm Springs.
As you secure your tickets and follow your favorite pros, build a complete desert itinerary with these expert recommendations for tournament week.
Before the CareerBuilder Challenge
The event's unique three-course rotation—The Stadium and Nicklaus Tournament Courses at PGA WEST, plus La Quinta Country Club—offers flexible tee times over the first three days, leaving ample time for pre-round adventures before Sunday's finale.
On days when your top player tees off later, start early with these tailored plans.
Thursday
Fuel up for walking the course with a hearty breakfast at these Greater Palm Springs favorites:
Elmer's: A Palm Springs staple for delicious pancakes that power your tournament day.
Desert Willow Golf Resort: In Palm Desert, enjoy inspired patio dining alongside premier courses to awaken your golf appetite.
Si Bon: Rancho Mirage's European bistro serves exceptional waffles, omelets, and homemade crepes.
Friday
After Round 1, sharpen your swing before watching stars like Phil Mickelson, Jon Rahm, or Patrick Reed in Round 2.
SilverRock Resort
SilverRock Resort: Tee off minutes from the pros on the newly redesigned back nine (book ahead).
Heritage Palms or Indian Springs: Convenient Indio courses near PGA WEST, ideal for all skill levels.
College of the Desert Driving Range: Perfect for quick practice at Greater Palm Springs' largest public range.
Saturday
Kick off with casual morning outings before hitting the courses.
COD Street Fair: Palm Desert's winter market (7:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.) offers art, music, snacks, and vendors.
Palm Springs' Certified Farmers' Market
Palm Springs' Certified Farmers' Market: Fresh produce, chef demos, live music, and kid-friendly activities (8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.).
After the CareerBuilder Challenge
With rounds wrapping before 5:00 p.m., evenings are perfect for desert exploration.
Thursday
After Round 1 surprises, dine at these spots (reservations advised):
Arnold Palmer's: Extend the golf theme on one of Greater Palm Springs' best patios.
Melvin's at the Ingleside Inn: Renovated Palm Springs icon for recapping the day's highlights.
Il Corso: Modern Italian elegance on El Paseo with classic dishes.
Friday
Stay post-Round 2 for Huey Lewis and The News' free concert (~4:30 p.m.) on the PGA WEST driving range (all ticket holders welcome).
Then, unwind at these casinos:
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage: Premier slots, tables, poker, and dining.
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino: Gaming, cocktails, and late-night laser bowling.
Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs: Convenient downtown option after Palm Canyon drinks.
Saturday
Post-Round 3, catch The Goo Goo Dolls' free concert on the driving range (ticket holders only).
Prep for Sunday with these pampering spots:
Spa La Quinta: La Quinta Resort's top-tier menu (open till 8:00 p.m.; book ahead).
Footloose Reflexology: 1-hour foot treatments in Rancho Mirage or La Quinta.
Miramonte Resort & Spa: Unique Well Spa treatments in Indian Wells (open till 5:00 p.m.).
For tickets, event details, and player updates, visit www.careerbuilderchallenge.com.
