20 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs, California

Imagine driving through Palm Springs, California, under the bright sun. The road showcases desert beauty and stylish homes. As the San Jacinto Mountains loom, excitement fills you. Palm Springs is an oasis for both relaxation and adventure. It offers nature, culture, and history. Whether it’s hiking, visiting museums, or enjoying a date shake, it promises memorable times.

One weekend, I rode the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It’s the world’s largest rotating tram. The trip up to Mount San Jacinto changes from desert to forest quickly. Playing golf at Escena Golf Club was also unforgettable. The beautiful San Jacinto Mountains made the game even better.

The Palm Springs Air Museum showcases its war history with vintage planes flying. After, I explored the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. It features over 150 species, focusing on conservation.

Palm Springs also shines with its architecture. Self-guided tours show off midcentury modern homes. Each house tells a story, fitting perfectly with the city’s modern vibe. Evenings were for culinary treats and shopping at El Paseo Shopping District, highlighting a mix of luxury and local crafts.

This desert city offers from starlit hikes in Joshua Tree National Park to refined art galleries. Every corner tells its story, ready for your discovery. Want the best Palm Springs experience? Let’s look into the 20 top activities in this enchanting place.

Coolest Places to Stay

Explore Palm Canyon and Indian Canyons

If you love nature, don’t miss out on Palm Canyon and the famous Indian Canyons. These spots are perfect for hiking lovers. They offer a stunning mix of trails, plants, and history.

Trails and Hiking Opportunities

Victor Trail is 2.7 miles long with a 365-feet climb. It gives breathtaking views. Palm Canyon Trail stretches 0.5 miles and is quite easy. It’s part of a longer 15-mile trail through beautiful palms.

Andreas Canyon has an easy 1.2-mile trail. It rises 200 feet, leading to a huge palm oasis. Murray Canyon Trail is tougher, stretching 4.7 miles with a 450-feet gain. Keep an eye out for wildlife here.

Flora and Fauna

In these canyons, you’ll find diverse animals and plants:

• Palm Canyon has native plants like Yucca. The local Indians used them for medicine.
• In Andreas Canyon, over 150 plant species thrive within just half a mile.
• Murray Canyon is where you might spot the rare Least Bell’s Vireo bird.

Cultural Significance

The Indian Canyons are very important to the Agua Caliente Cahuilla Indians. They have a rich history. You can learn a lot from guided tours here. The canyons offer a peaceful experience and a way to connect with the past.

Experience the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway lifts you from the desert to Mount San Jacinto’s cool heights. It’s a must-see on any desert trip. This engineering wonder changes how we see California aesthetic. You go from warm palm springs weather to cool mountain air.

World’s Largest Rotating Tram

It’s known as the biggest rotating tram in the world. Climbing around 6,000 feet over 2.5 miles, it’s impressive. The 10-minute journey showcases 360-degree views, amazing everyone with the changing views.

Views of Chino Canyon

On the way up, look out for Chino Canyon’s stunning views. Its rugged beauty is a sight to see, making the *California aesthetic* real. The canyon shows off different looks at each height, great for photos that match your *palm springs outfit*.

Hiking at Mount San Jacinto

Reaching the top, there’s over 50 miles of hiking trails to try. The cooler temperatures offer a nice break from the desert. You can choose from easy to hard trails, depending on what you like.

This spot mixes *desert travel* excitement with peaceful alpine views. It’s an unforgettable part of visiting Palm Springs.

10 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs with Kids

Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum

Are you an aviation enthusiast? If yes, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a must-visit. It showcases a rich history of aviation and an impressive collection of WWII aircraft. The museum boasts one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWII planes. These planes are kept in perfect condition, taking you back to a key time in history.

The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and during their Gala in February. It welcomes visitors of all ages and guarantees an engaging experience.

Located at 745 N Gene Autry Trail, the museum features four main hangars. These are the Europe, Pacific, Korea/Vietnam hangars, and one for the iconic B17 plane. Inside, you’ll find historical planes and artwork. They tell the tales of courageous pilots on their missions. The museum also has events like the Memorial Day Flower Drop, Chili Cook-Off/Car Show in October, and the Props & Hops Craft Beer Festival in November.

Warbird Flights

Experiencing warbird flights is a highlight at the Palm Springs Air Museum. These flights, available every weekend starting at $195, offer a special chance to fly above Palm Springs in a vintage aircraft. To join these exciting flights, it’s best to call ahead and book your spot.

Historical Exhibits

The museum also presents educational exhibits on aviation history. These programs run from October to May and include Saturday guest speakers at 1 PM. Many of the museum’s guides are veterans. They share enlightening stories and context, making visitor experiences more informative. Through these exhibits, you’ll see the important role of air power in WWII and beyond.

WWII Aircraft

The Palm Springs Air Museum is famous for its vast WWII aircraft collection. This collection includes the mighty B-17 bomber among other iconic planes. These planes are kept ready to fly, allowing visitors to see their magnificence up close. The museum works hard to preserve these important pieces of history. This way, the stories of the aircraft and their brave pilots are honored and remembered.

A ticket to the Palm Springs Air Museum costs $18.50. For anyone interested in military and aviation history, it’s a valuable visit. You can join the annual events or explore the exhibits on your own. This museum offers an exciting trip through the history of aviation.

Discover Midcentury Modern Architecture

Palm Springs is known for its stunning midcentury modern architecture. It attracts visitors to see famous homes and buildings through tours. The designs are known for their neat lines and bright colors. They show the hopefulness of the post-war times. These tours don’t just show off beauty. They also tell the stories of the architects who made the city look this way.

Self-Guided Tours

If you like to explore at your own speed, self-guided architectural tours are great. You can use maps and apps to learn about places like the Kaufmann House and Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway. There are plenty of websites and books that suggest paths. They help you enjoy the Palm Springs aesthetic on your own time.

Architectural Highlights

Palm Springs is home to many midcentury modern buildings. They were built between 1945 and 1975 by famous architects like Richard Neutra. Some key sights include:

• The Kaufmann House, made by Richard Neutra in 1946, has a unique cross shape.
• Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway, designed in 1960 by William Krisel and Dan Palmer, is known for its round design.
• The Parker Palm Springs, which was once California’s first Holiday Inn, is now a luxury resort.
• The Tramway Gas Station, finished in 1965, stands as a brilliant piece of modern architecture and is now the Palm Springs Visitor Center.

Guided Tours

Guided architectural tours give a detailed look at Palm Springs. Companies like Five Star Adventure Tours offer various options. These tours give special entry to private homes and knowledgeable talks about the importance of this style. They show how midcentury modern design continues to shape Palm Springs.

Best Restaurants in Palm Springs

Explore the culinary delights of Palm Springs with our guide to the 10 Incredible Restaurants in Palm Springs You’ll Love. From trendy bistros to fine dining establishments, discover a variety of flavors and atmospheres that make dining in Palm Springs unforgettable. Perfect for food lovers seeking their next favorite spot!

Relax at Desert Hot Springs

For those seeking relaxing getaways, Desert Hot Springs in California is perfect. The area is known for its natural spas. These spas have mineral-rich, geothermal hot springs with healing qualities.

Among the top resorts is the Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa, with over 75 years of history. It offers natural hot springs packed with therapeutic minerals. Miracle Springs Resort & Spa is also famous. It has eight natural hot mineral water pools and Jacuzzis. The temperatures range from 90°F to 104°F.

The Sea Mountain Inn Resort and Spa offers an adults-only setting. It has mineral water pools and spa services available 24/7. The Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel features eight mineral water pools and hot tubs. It suits all relaxation and healing needs.

Desert Hot Springs boasts other unique spots too. The El Morocco Inn & Spa has a Moroccan-themed feel. Enjoy their natural hot mineral water pool and Jacuzzi. Each resort brings its own luxury and calm. It makes finding your perfect relaxing getaway spot easy.

Make sure to explore the Greater Palm Springs area for more fun. It has hiking trails in Coachella Valley Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, and Indian Canyons. Desert Hot Springs and the surrounding areas offer many ways to unwind. They make your visit memorable, whether you’re aiming to refresh your mind, body, or soul.

Best Things to Do in Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is in the California desert. It has many activities for different interests. You can explore its culture or enjoy nature from November to February.

The Palm Springs International Airport makes coming here easy. It has flights from the U.S and Canada every day. Over 10 airlines operate here.

The Moorten Botanical Garden is perfect for nature lovers. It has many desert plants and cacti. Indian Canyons offers great natural beauty with its canyons and oases. Hikers will love the trails showing off the desert’s landscape.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an adventure. It takes you 2.5 miles up Chino Canyon. At 8,516 feet high, it shows breathtaking views. The 10-minute ride is unforgettable.

If you like mid-century architecture, Palm Springs is the place to be. You can take guided tours of famous buildings. February’s Modernism Week celebrates this style with events.

Palm Springs has a great food scene. You can find everything from brunch places to Vietnamese restaurants. Try Chef Tanya’s Kitchen for vegan food and Lappert’s for Dole whip.

To relax, visit Desert Hot Springs. Its mineral waters and spas are soothing. Palm Springs also has hotels with great amenities like saltwater pools.

The Walk of the Stars downtown is fun. It honors celebs like Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra. Palm Springs, California is a top place to see.

Whether visiting for a few days or longer, Palm Springs won’t disappoint. Its variety and warmth make it worth exploring. See what makes this California desert city special!

Best Bars and Lounges

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Palm Springs with our guide to the 10 Best Bars and Lounges to Experience Palm Springs Nightlife. From chic rooftop bars with stunning desert views to cozy lounges serving up creative cocktails, discover the perfect spots to unwind and enjoy the iconic Palm Springs vibe. Don’t miss out on these must-visit destinations for an unforgettable night out!

Hike in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a unique place where the beauty of two deserts meets. It’s a perfect spot for those who love to hike in the desert. Plus, it’s an amazing place for anyone looking to enjoy the quiet and beauty of vast desert skies.

Stargazing Opportunities

Stargazing here is a magical experience. The park’s skies are clear of city lights, making it a top spot in Southern California for looking at stars. It’s an unforgettable activity for couples, families, or anyone exploring alone.

Unique Flora and Fauna

The park is home to fascinating plants and animals. Joshua trees, with their unique shapes, fill the landscape. This creates a dreamlike setting perfect for photos and nature walks. The park also shelters animals well-adapted to this tough environment, offering visitors a glimpse into nature’s adaptability and splendor.

A trip to Joshua Tree National Park, whether short or long, is sure to inspire with its natural beauty and scenic views.

Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Discover the wonders of desert life at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Greater Palm Springs. It offers a special mix of animal encounters and plant beauty, perfect for families. It’s one of the top family-friendly activities in California.

Animal Exhibits

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens showcases over 1,600 plant species and more than 140 animal species from deserts worldwide. You can meet African meerkats, desert foxes, giraffes, and many more. There are also keeper talks and interactive spots like a petting area and a giraffe feeding station.

Visitors can get up close with giraffes, donkeys, cattle, and goats. This makes for a fun, educational experience for everyone.

Conservation Efforts

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is fully dedicated to saving animals through breeding programs and teaching the public. It’s recognized as a Certified Autism Center, which means it’s welcoming for guests with autism or sensory needs. Guests can explore three different hiking trails to make their visit even more memorable.

Its commitment to saving species and preserving natural habitats is clear. Service dogs can come along too, following certain rules to protect visitors and animals.

Shop at El Paseo Shopping District

El Paseo Shopping District is the go-to spot in Palm Desert. It offers more than 300 shops, art spots, and places to eat. You’ll find everything from luxury shopping to cozy dining areas. It has two main sections worth exploring.

The west end has The Shops on El Paseo with famous names like Ralph Lauren. Here, eating out is a treat with choices like Daily Grill. The Gardens on El Paseo are known for luxury brands and some unique stores.

For food lovers, The Gardens offer places like The Hideout Kitchen + Bar. Besides shopping, there’s always something happening here. Events include Fashion Week El Paseo and the Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival.

Staying at Hotel Paseo makes for an unforgettable visit. It combines top-notch shopping, dining, and staying options. It stands out for its elegance and attractiveness.

Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum is a highlight in the Coachella Valley. It has over 12,000 items, from modern art to historic artifacts. With three floors, it showcases modern art, architecture, and the American West.

Modern and Contemporary Art

This museum is proud of its contemporary art collection. It features works from California and all over. There are sculptures, paintings, and more.

New exhibits come often, so there’s always something fresh. Notable shows include pieces by Phillip K. Smith III and glass art.

Sculpture Garden

The Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden is a calm spot in Palm Desert. It combines art with nature over four acres. And it’s free to visit.

Special Exhibits

Special exhibits at the museum attract many visitors. They host music, theater, films, and talks in the Annenberg Theater. These exhibits offer a look at different styles and times.

Every Thursday night, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can enter for free. There are also free guided tours Thursday to Sunday afternoons.

Enjoy a Date Shake at Hadley Fruit Orchards

Visiting Palm Springs? Don’t miss out on a date shake at Hadley Fruit Orchards. These creamy shakes are a favorite in Palm Springs. They’ve been loved for decades.

Hadley offers three sizes of date shakes: small, medium, and large. You can easily find the right size for you. Their shakes mix vanilla ice cream and chopped dates. This makes them chewy and irresistible.

Shakes at Hadley’s are more budget-friendly than Shields Date Garden’s. At Shields, they use date crystals for a smooth flavor. But both places in Palm Springs offer tasty date shakes for everyone.

But Hadley Fruit Orchards is not just about shakes. It’s also a great place for local goods. As California grows over 90% of the U.S. dates and exports 39.6 million pounds yearly, you’re enjoying local flavors.

For a real treat in Palm Springs, try these shakes. Hadley Fruit Orchards offers a mix of good prices, great taste, and local charm. It’s a top pick for trying date shakes.

Best Photo Spots

Capture the beauty of Palm Springs with our guide to the 5 Stunning Photography Spots in Palm Springs You’ll Love. From breathtaking desert landscapes to iconic mid-century modern architecture, discover the perfect locations to elevate your travel photos and create unforgettable memories. Don’t miss these must-see spots for nature and photography enthusiasts!

Attend Modernism Week

Every year, Modernism Week in Palm Springs invites design lovers from across the United States. It celebrates Palm Springs’ architectural history, with a focus on Midcentury Modern style. Visitors enjoy home tours, talks, and parties that highlight Palm Springs’ design legacy.

Home Tours

At Modernism Week, the home tours are a major attraction. They allow visitors to see iconic Midcentury Modern homes up close. There’s Bella da Ball’s sunset tour of celebrity homes for $100 and the Midcentury Top Ten Tour for $130.

You can explore the Twin Palms area for $45 or learn about great architects for $50. Each tour offers a special look at the city’s architectural gems.

Educational Presentations

The educational talks at Modernism Week cover topics like preservation, design trends, and innovation. These sessions help guests understand Midcentury Modern design’s importance. They provide insights on keeping these buildings alive for future generations.

Experts and leaders in the field share their knowledge. It’s a great opportunity for those interested in design to learn more.

Parties and Social Events

Modernism Week is also about meeting people and having fun. It hosts numerous parties and gatherings in unique and historic places. These events allow guests to connect with design fans, professionals, and influencers.

Whether it’s a themed party or an exclusive after-party, these social events enhance the Modernism Week experience. They make it unforgettable for everyone who attends.\

FAQ

What are the best things to do in Palm Springs, California?

In Palm Springs, you can explore canyons, visit museums, go on architecture tours, and enjoy fine dining. Don’t miss the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the Air Museum, and the architecture tours for a full experience.

What hiking opportunities are available at Palm Canyon and Indian Canyons?

Palm Canyon and Indian Canyons have over 60 miles of trails. These trails offer a chance to see the beautiful desert scenery and unique plants.

What unique flora and fauna can be found in Palm Canyon and Indian Canyons?

These canyons are home to plants like honey mesquite and yucca. The Cahuilla Indians used them for medicine. You’ll also find diverse wildlife, adding to the area’s beauty.

What is the cultural significance of Palm Canyon and Indian Canyons?

The canyons are significant to the Cahuilla Indians for historical reasons. They offer a peaceful nature escape and a connection to past inhabitants.

What makes the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway unique?

It’s the world’s largest rotating tram car. You’ll see amazing views of Chino Canyon on your way to Mount San Jacinto for a memorable adventure.

What can you see from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

As you go up Chino Canyon, enjoy panoramic views. At the top, explore over 50 miles of trails in an alpine wilderness, seeing the region’s diversity.

What are the hiking opportunities at Mount San Jacinto?

Mount San Jacinto has over 50 miles of trails, from the desert to cooler alpine areas. Enjoy scenic views and diverse habitats.

What can you do at the Palm Springs Air Museum?

The museum has a large collection of WWII aircraft, with educational exhibits. You can also book vintage plane flights over Palm Springs.

What historical exhibits are available at the Palm Springs Air Museum?

The museum’s exhibits tell stories with veterans as docents. You’ll learn about WWII aviation history in an educational way.

What makes the WWII aircraft collection at the Palm Springs Air Museum special?

The collection includes warbirds that still fly. Visitors get a close look and learn about their historical roles.

Can you explore Midcentury Modern architecture in Palm Springs?

Yes, Palm Springs is famous for its Midcentury Modern architecture. You can see iconic homes and buildings on tours, learning about the city’s architectural history.

What are the highlights of Midcentury Modern architecture tours in Palm Springs?

The tours show off design features like clean lines and bright colors. They also tell stories of the architects behind these striking buildings.

Are guided architecture tours available in Palm Springs?

Yes, you can join guided tours that cover the architectural gems of Palm Springs. Experts share stories and design details along the way.

What can visitors do at Desert Hot Springs?

It’s known for its natural hot springs with healing properties. A perfect spot for relaxing and rejuvenating in a peaceful setting.

What outdoor activities are available in Palm Springs, California?

There’s a lot to do outdoors, like hiking, exploring gardens, playing sports, and enjoying scenic spots. There’s something for everyone.

What makes Joshua Tree National Park a unique destination?

The park has distinct landscapes and ecological features, with two different deserts. It’s great for hiking and stargazing, far from city lights.

What are the stargazing opportunities at Joshua Tree National Park?

With little light pollution, it’s a top spot for seeing stars. The clear night sky offers stunning views for star lovers.

What unique flora and fauna can be found at Joshua Tree National Park?

Home to Joshua trees, cacti, and diverse animals, it’s perfect for nature fans and photographers. Discover desert life in its natural setting.

What attractions are available at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?

The zoo showcases desert animals from around the world. Visitors can meet various animals and learn about nature conservation.

What conservation efforts are supported by the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens?

Through breeding and education, the zoo helps preserve endangered species. It promotes understanding of biodiversity and the need for habitat protection.

What is the El Paseo Shopping District known for?

El Paseo offers a luxury shopping experience with over 300 stores. It’s the go-to for fashion lovers and anyone enjoying a good shop.

What can you explore at the Palm Springs Art Museum?

The museum has modern art and sculptures, focusing on California artists. Its garden mixes art with nature for a peaceful visit.

What special exhibits are available at the Palm Springs Art Museum?

Special exhibits add to the permanent collections. They feature varied themes and artists for a continually fresh visit.

What makes Hadley Fruit Orchards special?

Famous for date shakes, Hadley’s uses local dates for a sweet treat. They also sell unique local products, great for gifts.

What is Modernism Week in Palm Springs?

It’s a celebration of design and culture, with events like home tours and lectures. Fans of Midcentury Modern design can really dive into the city’s history.

What educational presentations are offered during Modernism Week?

The talks cover preserving Midcentury Modern design. Experts discuss architecture and design, offering deep insights.

What social events can you attend during Modernism Week?

Modernism Week includes parties in stylish settings. It’s an opportunity to connect with design fans in a fun atmosphere.