Hotels in Imperial

Imperial: Gateway to the Imperial Valley

Imperial, California sits in the Imperial Valley, roughly 100 miles east of San Diego and 10 miles north of the US-Mexico border at Calexico. Founded in 1901 alongside the first irrigation canals drawn from the Colorado River, the city grew into an agricultural center producing lettuce, sugar beets, and cattle. The surrounding valley lies below sea level — the city itself sits at approximately 55 feet below — making it one of the lower-elevation municipalities in the continental United States.

Visitors arrive primarily for agricultural business, cross-border commerce, and access to outdoor recreation. The Salton Sea, California's largest inland lake, lies about 30 miles north and draws birders and photographers year-round. The Imperial Sand Dunes recreation area, roughly 30 miles east near Glamis, attracts off-road vehicle enthusiasts, particularly between October and April when temperatures drop from summer peaks above 110°F.

Practical Tips

• Climate: Summers regularly exceed 110°F; plan outdoor activity between November and March.
• Getting around: A personal vehicle is essential — no intercity rail serves Imperial directly.
• Border access: The Calexico East port of entry is approximately 12 miles south via Highway 111.
• Altitude note: The below-sea-level elevation means heat and humidity can feel more intense than the thermometer suggests.