Desert Dreams: The Palms, Wonder Valley’s Artistic Oasis

In this episode, Paul sits down with Kevin Bone, co-owner of The Palms, a quirky and artistic desert destination in Wonder Valley, CA.. Kevin shares the fascinating journey that brought him and his wife, Laura, to this remote haven, about 15 miles east of Twentynine Palms off Hwy 62. From its origins tied to the Homestead Act of the 1950’s to its transformation into a vibrant hub for music, art, and community, The Palms has become a beloved gathering place. Learn about its rich history, including Laura's band, The Sibleys, their connection to a German biker group, and how Ben Vaughn’s annual music festival put The Palms on the map.

Discover the eclectic mix that makes The Palms so special: a bookstore filled with rare finds, Laura’s celebrated vegan cuisine, open mic nights, experimental festivals, and even an old guillotine that adds to the venue's charm. Kevin also shares his vision for maintaining the intimacy and affordability of The Palms, ensuring it remains a welcoming retreat for locals and travelers alike. Whether it’s music/theater, homemade food, or a sense of community, The Palms offers something truly unforgettable. Tune in for the full story behind this desert gem!

 

Watch the full episode HERE 

What you’ll learn in this episode:
0:00 Welcome to the show and introduction of our guest: Kevin Bone of The Palms

0:43 The Palms is located in the middle of nowhere known as “Wonder Valley”

1:39 Kevin Bone tells us the story of how he ended up at The Palms

2:31 The history of The Palms started with Kevin’s now wife as a teenage girl.

3:31 A guillotine, a bus and amazing art are all part of The Palms and come with a story

4:12 We learn about Kevin’s wife, Laura’s, band, “The Sibleys” and a German Biker Tour Group that would visit The Palms a couple times a year to listen to them

6:06 An annual music festival at The Palms put on by Ben Vaughn

6:58 Find out how the Homestead Act of the 50s brought homesteaders to the area near The Palms

8:11 Wonderland Books is also a part of The Palms and is a bookstore with an eclectic mix of books and music

9:05 Laura is also a chef and makes a vegan burger that people rave about

10:13 How The Palms markets Laura’s Five-Courser Vegan meals and the sense of community that The Palms has that keeps people coming back 

12:31 The prices at The Palms and the goal to keep everything affordable, making it a community for locals

14:59 Music festivals at The Palms like the High Desert Hukilau Music Festival and what an Experimental Festival is

17:05 Movies have also been filmed at The Palms

18:30 The future of The Palms and the desire to keep it as special and as intimate as it is now

21:52 An old bus, a guillotine, and an old skateboard ramp that makes the stage are nostalgic items found at The Palms

23:19 Open Mic nights, the music booked at The Palms, how Coachella is connected, and how theater, comedy and literary are all part of the line up at The Palms

27:53 How to get to The Palms

29:14 A bison with planets on it make up the sign for The Palms

31:08 Kevin and Laura’s wedding was held at The Palms and hosted by the community they have built through this special venue.

32:09 A special thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Music, History & Magic: The Story of Tiny Porch Concerts at Peter Strauss Ranch

Wings, Wrenches and Wisecracks with Tom McClain and Hangar Comedy

Sage Brews- A Female Owned Organic Brewery

 

The Palms Bar & Restaurant:
The Palms
Mailing Address: 83131 Amboy Rd. Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Phone Number: 760-361-2810
Email: thepalms@dslextreme.com

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! On the Road with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures On the Road can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.