If you’ve found yourself daydreaming about palm trees, sunny skies, and a desert oasis that practically shouts “relaxation meets adventure,” then Palm Springs is calling your name. But let’s face it: planning a trip can be a little overwhelming.
You don’t want to miss out on the hidden gems, right? So, here I am, your unofficial Palm Springs tour guide (without the cheesy Hawaiian shirt) to walk you through the 25 best things to do in Palm Springs. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or someone who just wants to chill by a pool—there’s something for everyone here!
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Why Visit Palm Springs?
Looking for a sunny escape with a touch of vintage glamour? Palm Springs is the perfect destination. It is a city located in Riverside County, California, United States. It is located in the Coachella Valley, about 100 miles east of Los Angeles.
From thrilling festivals and iconic attractions to trendy hotels and luxurious retreats, there’s something for everyone in Palm Springs. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the ultimate desert getaway!
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Want to start your trip with a view that’ll make your jaw drop? The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is your go-to! It’s the world’s largest rotating tram car and takes you on a 10-minute ride up 2.5 miles into the cliffs of Chino Canyon. At the top, you’ll have spectacular views of the Coachella Valley. Plus, it’s 30 degrees cooler up there, so if the desert heat is getting to you, this is a refreshing escape!
Pro tip: Bring a sweater—it gets chilly up there.
2. Joshua Tree National Park
Okay, so technically this isn’t in Palm Springs, but it’s close enough to make the cut. If you’re a fan of weirdly beautiful landscapes, giant boulders, and trees that look like they were ripped from a Dr. Seuss book, Joshua Tree is your jam. Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, or stargazing, it’s a magical place to visit.
Just remember, the desert gets hot—bring water!
3. Palm Springs Art Museum
Culture junkies, rejoice! The Palm Springs Art Museum offers a surprisingly diverse collection for a city known for lounging. You’ll find modern and contemporary art, Native American artifacts, and glasswork that’ll leave you mesmerized. It’s also a perfect indoor activity for when the desert sun gets too intense.
4. Moorten Botanical Garden
This place is basically a cactus lover’s dream. The Moorten Botanical Garden is a quirky, family-run garden that has been around since the 1930s. You’ll find thousands of desert plants, and the “Cactarium” (yep, that’s a thing) is the perfect spot for Instagram photos.
5. VillageFest
Every Thursday night, downtown Palm Springs transforms into a bustling street fair known as VillageFest. From local crafts and artwork to mouthwatering street food, this is where you can soak in the local culture. It’s also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for the ride!
6. Tahquitz Canyon
Want to hike but don’t want to drive far? Tahquitz Canyon is just a stone’s throw from downtown Palm Springs. It’s home to a seasonal 60-foot waterfall, ancient rock art, and beautiful desert landscapes. The hike is moderate, so even if you’re not an avid hiker, you’ll manage just fine.
Don’t forget to check if the waterfall is flowing before you go!
7. Palm Canyon Drive
Consider this the heartbeat of Palm Springs. Palm Canyon Drive is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a great place for an afternoon stroll. The architecture along the street screams mid-century modern, and the vibe? Pure laid-back desert chic.
8. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Got kids (or are you just a big kid at heart)? The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in nearby Palm Desert is a hit with visitors of all ages. You’ll get to see animals like giraffes, cheetahs, and even Mexican wolves. Plus, the botanical gardens are a must-see!
9. Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
For all the Elvis fans out there—did you know the King of Rock and Roll honeymooned in Palm Springs? You can actually visit the mid-century home where he and Priscilla spent their honeymoon. Even if you’re not an Elvis superfan, the house itself is an architectural gem.
10. Indian Canyons
Looking to get away from the tourist hustle for a bit? Indian Canyons is a serene oasis where you can take in towering fan palms, lush vegetation, and peaceful streams. This is a sacred area for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and the trails here are perfect for some reflective desert hiking.
11. Cabazon Dinosaurs
Feeling a little nostalgic for some roadside Americana? Just a short drive from Palm Springs, you’ll find the famous Cabazon Dinosaurs. These larger-than-life creatures are one of the quirkiest photo ops around, and kids (or let’s be real—adults) will love it.
12. Sunnylands Center & Gardens
Once the winter estate of billionaire philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg, Sunnylands is a 200-acre paradise that includes perfectly manicured gardens and stunning architecture. You can tour the estate or just relax in the gardens.
13. Coachella Valley Preserve
The Coachella Valley Preserve is home to 25 miles of hiking trails and the Thousand Palms Oasis. The palm groves here are unlike anything you’ve seen, and the oasis is fed by underground water seeping from the San Andreas Fault. It’s a quiet, serene spot perfect for some peaceful exploration.
14. Palm Springs Windmill Tours
Ever wondered about those giant wind turbines you see in Palm Springs? Take a Palm Springs Windmill Tour to get up close and personal with these modern marvels of energy production. It’s fascinating to learn how they work, and the views of the desert from the wind farms are pretty epic too!
15. La Quinta Resort & Club
This is for the luxury lovers. La Quinta Resort & Club is an iconic desert hideaway known for its Spanish-style architecture and five-star amenities. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for a drink at their famous bar or dining at one of their restaurants.
16. Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour
Palm Springs is synonymous with mid-century modern architecture, and there are tours dedicated to showcasing some of the most iconic homes in the area. You’ll see designs by legends like Richard Neutra, Donald Wexler, and Albert Frey. If you’re an architecture buff, this is a must-do.
17. Palm Springs International Film Festival
If you happen to be in town in January, don’t miss the Palm Springs International Film Festival. It’s one of the largest film festivals in North America and draws some serious star power. Plus, it’s a great way to catch some indie films and future Oscar contenders.
18. Spa Day at Two Bunch Palms
Sometimes you just need a little R&R, and Palm Springs is the place for spa lovers. Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs offers mineral-rich hot springs, mud baths, and a variety of spa treatments that will leave you feeling like a new person.
19. Palm Springs Air Museum
Aviation enthusiasts, this one’s for you! The Palm Springs Air Museum houses one of the largest collections of WWII aircraft in the world. You can even hop in a vintage plane for a flight if you’re feeling adventurous.
20. Golfing in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a golfer’s paradise, with over 100 courses in the Coachella Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to hit the links for fun, there’s a course here for you. The scenery is breathtaking, and it’s a great way to spend a sunny day.
21. Explore the Art Galleries
Palm Springs has no shortage of art galleries. Whether you’re into contemporary art or more traditional pieces, you’ll find something that catches your eye. Plus, the galleries are often located in charming parts of town, so you’ll get a scenic walk in too.
22. Desert X
This isn’t your typical art exhibit—Desert X is a biennial outdoor art exhibition that takes place across the Coachella Valley. The large-scale installations interact with the desert landscape, creating a truly unique experience.
23. Shields Date Garden
A bit quirky but totally worth the stop, Shields Date Garden offers visitors a chance to learn all about date farming. Try their famous date shake—it’s like a milkshake but with dates. It’s sweet, creamy, and oh-so-delicious.
24. Agua Caliente Casino
Feeling lucky? The Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage offers table games, slots, and poker, plus there’s live entertainment and great restaurants. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the casino’s atmosphere is lively and fun.
25. Take a Pool Day
No trip to Palm Springs is complete without a day (or two) spent lounging by the pool. Most hotels and resorts in the area have amazing pools where you can relax, sip a cocktail, and soak up the desert sun.
My Final ThoughtsI
There you have it! I would say Palm Springs is more than just a desert retreat—it’s a treasure trove of experiences that cater to everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone who loves to relax, Palm Springs delivers.
What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to this sun-soaked paradise. And don’t forget to leave a comment below! Tell me which activity you’re most excited to try, or share your favorite Palm Springs memory!
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