Palm Springs, nestled in the Sonoran Desert of southern California, is renowned for its year-round sunshine, stunning landscapes, and a rich blend of culture, cuisine, and history. This guide will help you explore Palm Springs through eight distinct sections, ensuring you experience all the best this desert oasis has to offer.
Landmarks
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tramcar, offering a breathtaking ride up the cliffs of Chino Canyon to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. The journey covers over 2.5 miles and takes you from the desert floor to an alpine forest at 8,516 feet. Once at the top, enjoy panoramic views, hiking trails, a natural history museum, and dining options at the Peaks Restaurant and Pines Café.
Indian Canyons
The Indian Canyons, consisting of Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon, are some of the most scenic natural landmarks in Palm Springs. Palm Canyon is the world’s largest California Fan Palm oasis, offering lush landscapes and picturesque trails. Andreas Canyon features a creek that runs year-round, providing a lush contrast to the desert surroundings. Murray Canyon is known for its beautiful waterfalls and opportunities to spot endangered bighorn sheep.
Tahquitz Canyon
Tahquitz Canyon, located on the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation, is a stunning natural landmark featuring a seasonal 60-foot waterfall, ancient rock art, and beautiful desert landscapes. The easy-to-moderate hike through the canyon takes you past historic sites and provides opportunities for photography, bird watching, and learning about the area’s cultural significance through guided tours.
Food and Cuisine
Cheeky’s
Start your culinary adventure at Cheeky’s, a popular breakfast and brunch spot in Palm Springs. Known for its innovative menu and use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, Cheeky’s offers a rotating menu that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Highlights include their bacon flight, chilaquiles, and house-made pastries. The casual atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a perfect spot to start your day.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar
For a sophisticated dining experience, visit Workshop Kitchen + Bar, located in the historic El Paseo Building. This award-winning restaurant is known for its farm-to-table approach and modern American cuisine. The menu features seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, such as roasted bone marrow, duck confit, and handmade pastas. The industrial-chic setting and innovative cocktails make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
No trip to Palm Springs is complete without a visit to Sherman’s Deli & Bakery, a classic New York-style deli known for its generous portions and delicious offerings. Open since 1963, Sherman’s serves up a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as a tempting selection of baked goods. Try their famous pastrami on rye, matzo ball soup, or a decadent slice of their homemade cheesecake.
Purple Palm Restaurant
Located within the Colony Palms Hotel, the Purple Palm Restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. The restaurant’s lush poolside setting creates a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Enjoy dishes like grilled octopus, lamb meatballs, and Moroccan-spiced chicken while sipping on craft cocktails and soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
Entertainment
Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival, held annually in January, is one of the most prestigious film festivals in North America. Attracting A-list celebrities and showcasing over 200 films from around the world, the festival offers a unique opportunity to see award-winning films and participate in Q&A sessions with filmmakers. The festival’s star-studded gala is a highlight, drawing Hollywood’s elite to celebrate the best in cinema.
Agua Caliente Casino
For those seeking excitement and entertainment, the Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage offers a variety of gaming options, live entertainment, and dining. The casino features slot machines, table games, and a poker room, as well as regular live performances from top artists and comedians. Enjoy a meal at one of the casino’s restaurants, such as The Steakhouse, known for its prime cuts and seafood.
Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum, located in the heart of downtown, is a cultural hub featuring a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, Native American artifacts, and natural history exhibits. The museum’s impressive collection includes works by artists such as Henry Moore, Dale Chihuly, and Alexander Calder. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Culture
Moorten Botanical Garden
The Moorten Botanical Garden, established in 1938, is a family-owned garden showcasing a stunning collection of desert plants. The garden features over 3,000 species of cacti, succulents, and other desert flora from around the world. Visitors can explore the garden’s themed areas, including the Cactarium, a unique greenhouse filled with rare specimens. The garden also hosts special events and plant sales, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers.
Sunnylands Center & Gardens
Sunnylands Center & Gardens, also known as the “Camp David of the West,” is a historic estate and cultural center located in Rancho Mirage. Once the winter home of philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg, Sunnylands has hosted numerous U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries, and celebrities. Visitors can tour the beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring native plants and sculptures, and learn about the estate’s history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, located in Desert Hot Springs, is a unique cultural landmark built by homesteader Cabot Yerxa in the early 20th century. The museum is housed in a Hopi-inspired pueblo structure made from reclaimed materials and features a collection of Native American artifacts, art, and historical exhibits. Guided tours provide insight into Cabot’s life and the history of the Coachella Valley, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
Outdoor Activities
Joshua Tree National Park
Just a short drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its stunning desert landscapes, unique Joshua Trees, and incredible rock formations. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and photography. Popular trails include the Hidden Valley Trail, Barker Dam Trail, and Ryan Mountain Trail, each offering unique views of the park’s natural beauty.
Coachella Valley Preserve
The Coachella Valley Preserve, located in Thousand Palms, is a protected area that offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. The preserve is home to the Thousand Palms Oasis, one of the largest groves of native California Fan Palms in the state. Visitors can explore the preserve’s hiking trails, enjoy bird watching, and learn about the area’s unique desert ecosystem. The preserve also offers guided nature walks and educational programs.
Tahquitz and Indian Canyons
For those seeking adventure closer to Palm Springs, Tahquitz and Indian Canyons offer stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities. The canyons are part of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation and feature lush oases, seasonal waterfalls, and ancient rock art. Visitors can hike the trails, enjoy picnicking, and participate in guided tours to learn about the cultural and historical significance of the area.
Shopping
El Paseo Shopping District
El Paseo Shopping District in Palm Desert, often referred to as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” is a premier shopping destination featuring a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining. The district’s beautifully landscaped streets are lined with designer stores such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., as well as unique local shops and galleries. El Paseo also hosts seasonal events and art walks, making it a vibrant and upscale shopping experience.
Palm Springs Uptown Design District
The Palm Springs Uptown Design District is a trendy area known for its mid-century modern design and eclectic mix of shops. The district features vintage and contemporary furniture stores, home decor boutiques, and art galleries. Shoppers can find unique items such as retro furniture, modern art, and stylish clothing. The district also has a variety of cafes and restaurants, providing a perfect spot for a leisurely shopping day.
Desert Hills Premium Outlets
For those seeking great deals, the Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon is a must-visit. The outlet mall features over 180 stores, including popular brands such as Coach, Michael Kors, and Nike, offering significant discounts on clothing, accessories, and home goods. The mall’s open-air design and beautiful desert surroundings make it a pleasant shopping experience. There are also several dining options available, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
History
Palm Springs Air Museum
The Palm Springs Air Museum is a world-renowned museum dedicated to the history of aviation and the role of aircraft in World War II and subsequent conflicts. The museum’s extensive collection includes over 59 vintage aircraft, many of which are still operational. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch flight demonstrations, and even take a ride in a historic aircraft. The museum also hosts special events, educational programs, and veterans’ talks.
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The museum’s exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and stories that highlight the tribe’s rich heritage and contributions to the region. Visitors can learn about traditional Cahuilla practices, the impact of European settlement, and contemporary issues facing the tribe. The museum also offers cultural programs, workshops, and special events.
McCallum Adobe
The McCallum Adobe, built in 1884 , is the oldest building in Palm Springs and serves as a museum operated by the Palm Springs Historical Society. The adobe was the home of John McCallum, the first permanent white settler in Palm Springs. The museum’s exhibits provide insight into the early history of Palm Springs, the development of the area, and the lives of its early inhabitants. The historical society also offers walking tours of the downtown area, highlighting significant historical sites.
Beaches
Palm Springs Swim Center
While Palm Springs is located in the desert and does not have natural beaches, the Palm Springs Swim Center offers a refreshing alternative. The swim center features an Olympic-sized pool, diving boards, and a kiddie pool, providing a fun and relaxing place to cool off. The facility is open to the public and offers lap swimming, recreational swimming, and swimming lessons. The swim center’s beautiful setting, with views of the surrounding mountains, makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs
For a day of water fun, visit Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs, a water park featuring a variety of attractions for all ages. The park’s highlights include thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a dedicated children’s area. Wet ‘n’ Wild also offers cabana rentals, dining options, and special events, making it a great destination for families and groups looking to beat the heat.
Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area
Located just outside of Palm Springs in La Quinta, Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area offers a tranquil setting for outdoor recreation. The park features a 135-acre lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and camping in the park’s scenic surroundings. The lake’s sandy beach area provides a great spot to relax and enjoy the views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
Festivals and Events
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held annually in April in Indio, is one of the most famous music festivals in the world. The festival features an eclectic lineup of musicians and bands from various genres, as well as large-scale art installations and interactive experiences. Coachella attracts music lovers from around the globe and offers an unforgettable experience with its vibrant atmosphere, diverse performances, and stunning desert backdrop.
Modernism Week
Modernism Week, held annually in February, is a celebration of mid-century modern architecture, design, and culture in Palm Springs. The event features home tours, lectures, exhibitions, and parties, highlighting the city’s iconic modernist heritage. Visitors can explore historic homes, attend design workshops, and learn about the architects and designers who shaped Palm Springs’ unique aesthetic. Modernism Week also hosts a fall preview event in October, offering a glimpse into the main event.
Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival, held annually in January, is a premier event showcasing independent and international films. The festival features over 200 films from around the world, as well as panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special events. The festival’s star-studded gala attracts celebrities and film industry professionals, making it a highlight of the Palm Springs social calendar.
Palm Springs offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage to its vibrant entertainment scene and world-class dining. Whether you’re exploring landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, or enjoying outdoor activities, this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to this desert oasis.