Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church

Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church is one of La Quinta’s most recognizable landmarks, located along Washington Street near the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. With its pale exterior, red tile roof, arched entry, rose window, bell tower, and mountain backdrop, the church has become a defining visual presence in the city.

More than an architectural landmark, St. Francis remains an active Catholic parish serving La Quinta, Indian Wells, and the surrounding Coachella Valley community. The parish offers Mass, sacraments, religious education, parish ministries, community gatherings, and spiritual formation for a large and diverse congregation.

The church’s design draws from the Catholic heritage of Assisi, Italy, while adapting that old-world inspiration to the Southern California desert. Its warm materials, recognizable silhouette, and prominent location along Washington Street make it meaningful to parishioners, residents, visitors, photographers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the places that shape La Quinta’s identity.

For those exploring the city, Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church represents more than a place of worship. It is part of La Quinta’s broader story — a landmark connected to faith, community growth, desert architecture, and the city’s evolution from a quiet resort town into one of the Coachella Valley’s most established residential communities.

For a deeper look at the church’s founding, early Mass locations, Hollywood connections, murals, Italian craftsmanship, and expansion story, read the full St. Francis of Assisi Church La Quinta history guide.

Quick facts section

Name: Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
Location: 47225 Washington Street, La Quinta, CA
Best known for: Catholic parish life, desert architecture, rose window, bell tower, murals, and mountain backdrop
Nearby: La Quinta Resort, Point Happy, Indian Wells, Old Town La Quinta, and the Santa Rosa Mountains
Good for: Local history, architecture, photography from public areas, parish events, and understanding La Quinta landmarks