If you're planning a trip to Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa in Cabazon, California, you're probably thinking about more than just the gaming floor. The good news is you're right next to one of Southern California's most famous shopping destinations. We're talking about the Desert Hills Premium Outlets, which is practically in the casino's backyard. For US players, this means you can easily mix a day of slots and table games with some serious retail therapy, all without having to drive miles out of your way.
Desert Hills Premium Outlets: Your Main Shopping Destination
Located directly off the I-10 freeway at the Fields Road exit, the Desert Hills Premium Outlets are less than a 5-minute drive from Morongo's valet stand. This isn't just any mall; it's one of the largest luxury outlet centers in the U.S., featuring over 180 stores. You'll find massive discounts (typically 25% to 65% off retail) at brands like Gucci, Prada, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, and Burberry. For more everyday shopping, there's also Nike, Levi's, Kate Spade, and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH. It's wise to wear comfortable shoes—the complex is sprawling and you can easily spend a full day here.
Timing Your Visit for the Best Deals
To maximize your trip, consider hitting the outlets in the morning when they're less crowded, then heading to Morongo Casino in the afternoon or evening. Major holiday weekends like Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Black Friday offer the steepest discounts, but also the biggest crowds. If you're a guest at the Morongo resort, you can take a quick break from shopping, head back to your room to drop off bags, and then return to the stores—the convenience is a major perk.
Other Retail and Dining Options in Cabazon
While the outlets are the star, there are a few other spots to know. Directly adjacent to the casino property, you have the Morongo Travel Center, a large gas station and convenience store perfect for snacks, drinks, and last-minute essentials. For a quick bite, there are fast-food options like McDonald's and Subway right at the freeway interchange. If you're willing to drive about 15 minutes east into Beaumont or Banning, you'll find bigger grocery stores like Stater Bros., Walmart, and a wider selection of sit-down restaurants ranging from classic American diners to Mexican food.
Planning Your Morongo Casino & Shopping Trip
Many players from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Phoenix make a weekend out of it. You can book a room at the Morongo resort, which often has packages, and split your time between the casino floor, the pool, and the outlets. Remember, any casino winnings are yours to keep, but if you want to budget for shopping, it's easy to set a limit. Use a dedicated payment method like a separate credit card or cash from an ATM at the casino (though be mindful of fees). The synergy between high-stakes gaming and high-end shopping makes this a unique destination that caters to both impulses.
FAQ
How far are the Desert Hills Outlets from Morongo Casino?
They are extremely close. The outlets are literally across the freeway. It's about a 2 to 5 minute drive, or roughly 1.5 miles via the Fields Road overpass. You can even see the outlet complex from many parts of the casino property.
Is there a shuttle from Morongo Casino to the outlets?
Morongo Casino does not currently operate a dedicated shuttle service to the Desert Hills Premium Outlets. The most common ways to get there are by driving your own car, using a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft (which takes just minutes), or taking a taxi. The short distance makes ride-shares very affordable.
What are the outlet mall's hours?
Hours vary by season and holiday, but generally, the Desert Hills Premium Outlets are open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours before you go, especially around major holidays.
Are there any other casinos near these shopping outlets?
Morongo is the premier casino resort right at the outlets. However, if you're driving from the Los Angeles area, you might pass the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio or the Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage, but they are further east (30+ minutes away). Morongo's location is unique for its immediate proximity to major retail.