Death Valley National Park is located in California and is known for its diverse landscape, starry nights, and breathtaking views. This national park is especially unique with its otherworldly landscapes and consistently warm temperatures. Keep reading to discover some of Death Valley’s most popular places to visit, restaurants, and much more!
Things To See
There’s so much to do and see in Death Valley and it can be hard to decide which adventures to embark on first! Follow along with this list to discover some of Death Valley’s most popular attractions.
Badwater Basin
Badwater Basin is the lowest point of land in the Western Hemisphere at 282 feet below sea level. This attraction is named for the small pool of water located near the boardwalk area. The terrain surrounding the Badwater Basin mainly consists of salt flats spreading out in all directions. Visitors can walk around and explore the salt flats, and be sure to look for Telescope Peak, which is located about two miles above Badwater Basin.
Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Point is another one of Death Valley’s unique places to see. This overlook provides a breathtaking view of Death Valley’s badlands. Zabriskie Point is also easily accessible, requiring just a short walk up a paved hill. For those looking for more of a challenge, there is a small hike that begins and ends here. Visit early in the morning for a chance to see a beautiful sunrise and superb lighting.
Furnace Creek
Furnace Creek is a small town that is home to Death Valley’s Visitor Center, various lodging options, restaurants, and much more. There are many places to visit around Furnace Creek, such as exploring Desolation Canyon, Twenty Mule Team Canyon, and Golden Canyon. Another popular attraction is Harmony Borax Works, the ruins of an old Borax factory and townsite.
Dante’s View
Dante’s View is an overlook area in the Black Mountains that has an exceptional view of Death Valley. The best time to visit Dante’s View is in the morning, during the sunrise hours. This overlook point also provides telescopes for nighttime stargazing.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Death Valley National Park has a variety of sand dunes, but the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the most popular. These dunes have an otherworldly feeling about them and are just waiting to be explored! These are also the only sand dunes in the park that allow sandboarding.
Fun Fact: The planet Tatooine in Star Wars Episode IV and VI was filmed in Death Valley, so keep an eye out for a Jedi or two while visiting!
Artist’s Drive & Artist’s Palette
Artist’s Drive is a unique drive that winds through the canyons and mountains of Death Valley National Park. The most popular stop during this drive is Artist’s Palette, which is a vivid landscape of colored hills. The colors are a result of the oxidation of metals and elements found in the environment and produce colors such as red, purple, blue, yellow, and green. It truly is a unique sight, unlike anything else found throughout Death Valley.
Titus Canyon
A drive through the famous Titus Canyon includes steep canyon walls, stunning rock formations, diverse wildlife, towering mountains, and even a ghost town! There are plenty of hikes, great views, and remarkable attractions to see throughout this canyon. Check with ranger stations for road and weather conditions, as this canyon road can be unpredictable at times.
Places To Eat
There are a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from in Death Valley, all bringing their own unique dining experiences to the national park.
Badwater Saloon
Badwater Saloon provides American pub-style dining at a reasonable cost! Their wide menu has great options for the whole family and the restaurant is conveniently located near Stovepipe Wells.
Panamint Springs Resort Restaurant
Panamint Springs Resort Restaurant is located within Panamint Springs Resort and is a great place to stop on the way to Furnace Creek. This restaurant serves American-style food and is known for great service!
Amargosa Cafe
Amargosa Cafe is a great stop for those wanting a homemade meal on the road. This cafe is located right off Death Valley Junction and provides a wide variety of meals. They are popular for their breakfast and sandwiches.
Toll Road Restaurant
Toll Road Restaurant provides a unique saloon-style dining experience. This restaurant is located in Stovepipe Wells Village. Toll Road Restaurant serves American-style cuisine.
Best Time To Visit
Spring in Death Valley is unlike any other and is the most popular time of the year to visit. Good weather, the bloom of the wildflowers, and the Dark Sky Festival are all great reasons to visit Death Valley in the spring. Fall is relatively uncrowded and is the beginning of camping season. Winter in Death Valley has cool days, chilly nights, and small crowds, with the exception of popular weekends. Summer is not a recommended time to visit Death Valley, as daily temperatures are extremely high and pose a danger to visitors.
Already planning your next trip to Death Valley National Park? The Wander Camp provides the ultimate Death Valley experience with a 4-day expedition that includes glamping, stargazing, and exploring all Death Valley has to offer. Experience Death Valley National Park by booking a glamping experience with Wander Camp today!
Post written by Abby Kimball