Looking for a fun and sunny getaway? Look no further than Palm Springs, California.
This desert oasis is perfect for those looking to escape the cold winter weather or simply enjoy some fun in the sun.
With an average of 350 days of sunshine per year, there is no shortage of things to do in Palm Springs.
You can enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, swimming, and horseback riding, to name just a few. The city is also home to numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters.
And of course, no trip to Palm Springs would be complete without taking advantage of the many outstanding spas and resorts.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Palm Springs has something for everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Here are 18 fun & memorable things to do in Palm Springs.
1. Meet the Animals at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
Palm Springs is home to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, a unique zoo that is dedicated to showcasing the plants and animals of the desert.
The zoo offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of different desert creatures, from giraffes and zebras to rattlesnakes and Gila monsters.
In addition to its educational value, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is also a beautiful place to spend an afternoon.
The grounds are dotted with native plants, and the animal enclosures are thoughtfully designed to mimic the natural habitat of each species.
Whether you’re a Palm Springs local or just passing through, be sure to add The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to your list of must-see attractions.
2. Ride the World’s Largest Rotating Tram car at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Looking for a fun and unique way to experience Palm Springs?
Then be sure to ride the world’s largest rotating tram car at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
The tramway takes visitors on a ten-minute ride from the Valley Station to the Mountain Station, providing stunning views of the desert landscape along the way.
And, thanks to the rotating floor, everyone on board has a chance to enjoy 360-degree views of the scenery.
So, whether you’re looking for a thrill or simply want to take in the sights, a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is sure to be a memorable experience.
3. Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum is a must-see for any art lover visiting the area.
The museum features an impressive collection of both modern and contemporary art, with works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock.
In addition to the artwork, the museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it the perfect place to learn more about the world of art.
And for those looking for a unique experience, the museum also has a rooftop deck with stunning views of the surrounding desert.
Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking to expand your knowledge, the Palm Springs Art Museum is sure to have something for you.
4. Learn About Desert Plants at Moorten Botanical Garden
If you want to learn about desert plants, there’s no better place to visit than Moorten Botanical Garden.
Located in Palm Springs, California, Moorten Botanical Garden is home to a wide variety of cacti and other desert plants.
You can take a self-guided tour of the garden, or participate in one of the many educational programs offered.
In addition to learning about desert plants, you’ll also get to see some amazing examples of desert landscapes.
Moorten Botanical Garden is a great place to learn about these fascinating plants and how they adapt to their environment.
5. Go On a Beautiful Hike Through the Indian Canyons
Indian Canyons is a must-see for any nature lover visiting Palm Springs.
Rich vegetation, babbling streams, and stunning wildflowers flourish in the canyons.
And a picturesque hike along one of the many trails is the best way to enjoy the canyons.
The Gabrielino Trail is a popular option and offers stunning views of Andreas Canyon.
Another great choice is the Murray Canyon Trail, which leads to a secluded beach where you can cool off with a dip in the water.
Whichever trail you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring the Indian Canyons.
6. Shop ’til You Drop at Desert Hills Premium Outlets
Looking for some retail therapy? You’ll find plenty of it at Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Palm Springs.
This massive outlet center features over 200 stores, making it a shopper’s paradise.
You’ll find all your favorite brands here, including Nike, Adidas, and Gap.
And with discounts of up to 70%, you can shop till you drop without breaking the bank.
Desert Hills is also conveniently located near other Palm Springs attractions, so you can make a day of it.
After a morning of shopping, relax with a poolside cocktail or take a hike in one of the nearby parks.
Whatever you do, you’re sure to have a fun-filled day at Desert Hills Premium Outlets.
7. Take Your Kids to Cabazon Dinosaurs – World’s Biggest Dinosaurs
Cabazon Dinosaurs is a great place to take your kids if you’re looking for something fun and educational.
The dinosaurs are the biggest in the world, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits for kids to enjoy.
You can also take a ride on the Dinosaur Train, which takes you through a prehistoric landscape.
The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Cabazon Dinosaurs is a great place to learn about dinosaurs and have a lot of fun at the same time.
8. Cool off With a Swim at Sunrise Park
As the mercury rises, there’s no better way to cool off than by taking a dip in the pool.
Fortunately, Palm Springs is home to Sunrise Park, a family-friendly spot with a spacious pool and plenty of grassy space for picnicking.
The park also has a playground and a basketball court, making it the perfect place to while away a hot summer day.
So whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip or just enjoy some quality time with loved ones, Sunrise Park is sure to please.
9. Take a Tour of the Palm Springs Windmill Farm
The Palm Springs Windmill Farm is a must-see for any visitor to the area.
Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto mountains, the farm is home to more than 50 windmills, each towering over 100 feet tall.
The best way to tour the farm is by taking a guided hike.
During the hike, you’ll learn about the history of windmills and how they help to generate electricity for the nearby city of Palm Springs.
You’ll also get up close and personal with these massive machines, getting a rare chance to see them up close.
The Palm Springs Windmill Farm is a unique and fascinating place, and it’s well worth a visit.
10. Camp Under the Stars at Joshua Tree National Park
There’s nothing quite like spending a night under the stars. And at Joshua Tree National Park, you can do just that.
With over two hundred thousand acres of wilderness to explore, Joshua Tree is the perfect place to unplug from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
Best of all, there are no reservations required for camping, so you can spontaneously decide to spend a night under the stars.
Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer, Joshua Tree National Park is the perfect place to enjoy all that nature has to offer.
So pack your tent and sleeping bag and head on out for an unforgettable experience.
11. Take a Walk Through Downtown Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is a great place to spend an afternoon.
With its trendy shops and cafes, it’s the perfect place to people-watch or do some window shopping.
The area is also home to several art galleries, so there’s plenty to see and do.
And if you get hungry, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’re sure to find something to your taste.
So next time you’re in Palm Springs, be sure to take a stroll through downtown. You won’t be disappointed.
12. Hike the Coachella Valley Preserve – Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve
The Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The preserve is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, and the hiking trails wind through a variety of landscapes, including desert washes, palm groves, and oases.
Additionally, the preserve is a fantastic place for bird watching, and the visitor center rents out binoculars for this purpose.
Best of all, the preserve is open year-round, so there’s always something new to explore.
So whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing nature walk, be sure to check out the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve.
13. Join the Palm Springs Village Fest Weekly Party
Looking for a fun way to spend your Thursday evening?
Look no further than the Palm Springs Village Fest!
This weekly party takes place in the heart of downtown Palm Springs and features a variety of food vendors, live music, and unique shops.
The best part? It’s absolutely free to attend!
So come on down, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. We’ll see you there!
14. Catch a Show at the McCallum Theatre
The McCallum Theatre in Palm Springs is one of the city’s most popular entertainment venues.
Located in the heart of downtown, the theatre hosts a wide variety of shows and events throughout the year.
From Broadway musicals to nationally touring comedians, there is something for everyone at the McCallum.
The theater also serves as a venue for special events, such as film screenings and panel discussions.
And with a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, the McCallum provides an immersive experience for all who visit.
Whether you’re looking for a night of laughter or a night of song, the McCallum Theatre in Palm Springs is sure to please.
15. Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum
The Palm Springs Air Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in aviation history.
Located in the heart of the Coachella Valley, the museum houses one of the largest collections of vintage aircraft in the world.
You can see everything from biplanes and WWII fighters to Cold War jets and space exploration vehicles.
The museum also offers a variety of hands-on exhibits, including flight simulators and opportunities to sit in the cockpits of some of the rarest aircraft in existence.
Whether you’re a history buff or just a casual fan of planes, the Palm Springs Air Museum is sure to impress.
16. Check Out Forever Marilyn: A Giant Statue of Marilyn Monroe
In 2012, a 26-foot-tall statue of Marilyn Monroe was erected in Palm Springs, California.
The statue, which is based on the iconic scene from The Seven Year Itch in which Monroe’s dress is blown up by a gust of wind, has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Named Forever Marilyn, the statue has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers and has even been used as a backdrop for weddings and other special events.
If you’re ever in Palm Springs, be sure to check out Forever Marilyn – it’s definitely an experience you won’t forget!
17. Rent a Bicycle and Explore Palm Springs’ Scenic Bike Trails
Palm Springs is a beautiful desert oasis, and one of the best ways to experience its natural wonders is by bike.
There are numerous scenic bike trails that wind through the area, many of which are easily accessible from the city center.
There’s bound to be a trail that’s perfect for you, whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging workout.
And what could be more fun than exploring Palm Springs on two wheels?
So grab a map and rent a bicycle, and get ready to discover all that this fantastic place has to offer.
18. Soak Up the Sun at One of Palm Springs’ Many Pools and Resorts
Looking to relax and soak up some sun? Palm Springs is the perfect place to do just that!
The desert city is home to numerous pools and resorts, each offering its own unique experience.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious spa treatment or a fun pool party, you’ll find it all in Palm Springs.
And with the city’s year-round sunshine, you can enjoy the pool any time of year!
So what are you waiting for? Book your stay today and get ready to enjoy everything Palm Springs has to offer.
