The Best 15 Things to Do in Palm Springs

Tucked away in the heart of the California desert, Palm Springs is a lively oasis famous for its striking mid-century modern architecture, endless outdoor adventures, and rich cultural offerings.

Visit Palm Springs to stroll through its beautifully preserved neighborhoods, hike scenic desert trails, or delve into the city’s fascinating history; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

From art galleries and museums to breathtaking views and nature escapes, Palm Springs is a destination that blends relaxation with excitement, making it the perfect getaway for travelers of all interests.

What is Palm Springs best known for?

Palm Springs is best known for having the largest concentration of preserved mid-century modern homes and architecture in the world, making it a haven for design and architecture enthusiasts.

Beyond its iconic style, the area is famous for its stunning desert landscapes, outdoor activities like hiking in the San Jacinto Mountains, and luxurious resorts.

The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, including the Palm Springs Art Museum, annual events like Modernism Week, and its proximity to natural wonders like Joshua Tree National Park.

Top activities in Palm Springs, California

Outdoor adventures and relaxation in Palm Springs

San Jacinto mountains

The San Jacinto Mountains, the second-highest mountain range in Southern California, offer a diverse array of outdoor activities and breathtaking vistas.

Visitors can take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which provides a scenic 10-minute ride up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. As the tram cars rotate slowly, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of Chino Canyon and the surrounding desert.

Once at the top, explore over 50 miles of hiking trails, including the challenging trek to San Jacinto Peak, or try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter months. The mountain's alpine scenery provides a stark yet beautiful contrast to the desert landscape below.

Indian Canyons

Located just 5 miles south of central Palm Springs, the Indian Canyons—comprising Palm Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Andreas Canyon—offer a unique glimpse into the region's natural and cultural history.

These canyons are situated on the reservation lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and visitors can see ancient rock art, historical house pits, and foundations that reveal the area’s rich past.

With 60 miles of hiking and walking trails, the canyons provide a serene escape into breathtaking desert scenery and a deeper understanding of the indigenous culture.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park spans 800,000 acres and is renowned for its surreal landscapes and striking rock formations. The park straddles two desert ecosystems, the Mojave and Colorado deserts, creating a diverse and dramatic environment.

It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for rock climbing, stargazing, and exploring its vast network of trails. The park's unique Joshua Trees and rugged terrain attract visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility in one of the most iconic desert landscapes in the U.S.

Moorten Botanical Garden

The Moorten Botanical Garden, a family-owned and operated botanical garden, features an extensive collection of desert plants, including a variety of cacti and succulents.

Established in 1938, this privately owned arboretum provides an educational and visually stunning experience. Guests can wander through beautifully curated gardens and learn about desert ecology, plant conservation, and the adaptations of desert flora.

The garden offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to appreciate the resilience and beauty of desert vegetation.

Coachella Valley Preserve

Just a 20-minute drive from downtown Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley Preserve is a natural oasis featuring diverse desert landscapes and unique wildlife.

The preserve includes the Thousand Palms Oasis, a lush area with palm trees and a variety of hiking trails. These trails allow visitors to explore the desert’s hidden wonders and experience the beauty of the California desert up close.

The preserve offers a tranquil setting for hiking, bird watching, and immersing yourself in the serene desert environment.

Cultural and historical sights in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum is a cultural cornerstone, showcasing a rich collection of modern and contemporary art. Its diverse exhibitions feature works by renowned artists and highlight the region’s artistic heritage.

The museum's galleries include American art, contemporary installations, and Native American pieces, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of art in the region.

Special events, educational programs, and art exhibitions make it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum provides a fascinating insight into aviation history, particularly from World War II. The museum houses an impressive collection of vintage aircraft and wartime artifacts, including rare models and interactive exhibits.

You can explore exhibits on aviation history, experience flight simulators, and learn about the role of aviation in major historical events.

The museum is a tribute to the heroes of the skies and offers an engaging educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Living Desert Zoo & Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens offers an engaging look at desert wildlife and plant life. Located just outside of Palm Springs, the zoo features exhibits on animals native to desert environments, including cheetahs, bighorn sheep, and desert tortoises.

The botanical gardens showcase desert plants and provide educational programs on conservation and the ecology of arid regions. The zoo and gardens offer a family-friendly experience with opportunities for hands-on learning and encounters with desert creatures.

Shopping and entertainment in Palm Springs

VillageFest

VillageFest is a lively street fair held every Thursday evening in downtown Palm Springs. This vibrant event features local vendors, artists, and food trucks offering a variety of goods and cuisine.

Visitors can enjoy live music, shop for unique crafts and art, and experience Palm Springs's lively atmosphere. The weekly event is a great way to explore local culture, sample diverse foods, and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Palm Canyon Drive

Palm Canyon Drive is the heart of downtown Palm Springs, lined with a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

This bustling street offers everything from high-end boutiques to casual eateries, making it a popular destination for retail therapy and dining.

Explore art galleries, enjoy live music, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city center.

Palm Springs golf courses

Palm Springs is renowned for its exceptional golf courses, offering stunning desert landscapes and challenging play for enthusiasts.

The city's golf courses, such as the PGA West and Indian Canyons Golf Resort, are set against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains and provide a premier golfing experience.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, Palm Springs' courses offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and top-notch amenities.

El Paseo Shopping District

Located in nearby Palm Desert, El Paseo Shopping District is known for its upscale retail and dining options. Often referred to as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” this shopping area features high-end boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining establishments.

You can enjoy a day of luxury shopping, exquisite dining, and exploring the elegant surroundings of this premier shopping destination.

Unique sights in Palm Springs, CA

Cabazon Dinosaurs

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a quirky roadside attraction featuring giant dinosaur sculptures that have become iconic landmarks.

These massive structures, including a towering T-Rex and a gigantic Brontosaurus, provide a fun and memorable photo opportunity.

The site also includes a museum with exhibits on dinosaurs and prehistoric life, making it a unique stop for families and dinosaur enthusiasts.

Cabot's Pueblo Museum

Cabot's Pueblo Museum, located in Desert Hot Springs, is inspired by the traditional Hopi Native American tribe.

Cabot Yerxa, a homesteader, spent decades constructing this four-story, 35-room pueblo using a blend of indigenous and southwestern architectural styles.

A 'pueblo' is a type of communal living structure traditionally built by Native American peoples. It's characterized by multi-story construction and adobe walls. The museum offers a glimpse into Yerxa’s life and the cultural influences that shaped his creation.

Palm Springs Walk of the Stars

The Palm Springs Walk of the Stars is a tribute to the celebrities who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

Located along Palm Canyon Drive, this walk features commemorative stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring Hollywood legends and local heroes.

It’s a great way to celebrate the city's rich connection to Hollywood and enjoy a stroll through its charming downtown area.

Where to stay during your Palm Springs vacation

For an exceptional Palm Springs experience, consider staying at Wander Palm Springs. Designed by renowned architect Walter S. White, this stunning mid-century modern retreat offers a serene escape with elegant amenities.

The property features a main house and a guest house with redwood paneling, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and a circular swimming pool. Surrounded by a meticulously landscaped desert garden, guests can unwind while taking in panoramic views of the Coachella Valley.

With ample space for relaxation and modern comforts, Wander Palm Springs provides a luxurious and unforgettable stay. Check availability and book online now for your perfect desert getaway.