Palm Springs is one of the most iconic destinations in California. With the Art Deco style luxury rentals, funky design and architecture, tall palms, and mountain backdrops, it’s no wonder why this town has been the go-to escape for the LA crowd for decades.
Whether you’re a nature lover or you’re just looking to stroll around and sip cocktails by the pool, Palm Springs has a little something for everyone.
Read on for the 21 best things to do in Palm Springs California.
Table of Contents
1. Ride a bicycle around Vista Las Palmas
If you are looking for fun things to do in Palm Springs, rent a bicycle and ride around.
The Art Deco houses, tall palm trees, and mountain backdrops make Vista Las Palmas one of the most iconic places in Palm Springs. The streets are relatively quiet and there are even designated bike lanes in some areas which makes it easy to get around.
Just remember that people do actually live in these homes, so, as photogenic as they are, don’t walk into people’s yards and pose.
Bike Rental Costs
There are a few different bike rental locations in Palm Springs, and many of the hotels have their own bikes (either included or at a cost). However, typical rental costs are:
- Electric Bike – $60.00 / day
- Standard Pedal Bike – $35.00 / day
If you’re interested in learning more about the area’s history and architecture, this highly rated two-hour bike tour takes you through Deepwell Estates, Twin Palms, and Indian Canyons.
2. Experience a Van Tour of Palm Springs
If you are interested in learning more about the people who live or have lived in the area’s spectacular homes, you can join a 1.5-hour minivan tour. Visit Frank Sinatra’s former residence, the Rat Pack Hideaway, and discover other celebrity homes.
3. Have cocktails at the Sugar High Rooftop Bar
Boho chic meets Palm Springs. Located above the Azucar Restaurant is this super cute outdoor rooftop bar. It comes complete with an outdoor fireplace and views over the San Jacinto mountains.
Featuring Mexican-inspired small plates and delicious cocktails, it’s the perfect place to end a day while watching the sunset. Unwind with your loved one or a group of friends (they can host private events too).
4. Visit the Windmills
If you drive into Palm Springs from the northern end you will likely go past the famous San Gorgonio Pass wind farm. If not, one of the best places to get close to the windmills for a photo is along Indian Canyon Drive. This road connects the town to the I10 freeway.
Here you will be able to get a clear photo of the windmills with the mountain ranges in the background.
Self-guided windmill tour
This self-driving windmill tour allows you to experience the wind farm up close from the comfort of your own vehicle. You will obtain entry to the property (behind the fence) and can exit your vehicle at your leisure, allowing for those up-close shots.
5. Admire the grounds of the Parker Palm Springs
These amazing grounds are perfectly manicured and really make you feel like you are in a movie about Palm Springs. To get into the property (without staying there) is by making a reservation at one of the restaurants on site:
- Norma’s
- Mister Parker’s
- Counter Reformation
- Mini Bar
- Lemonade Stand
- Mrs Parker’s
6. Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden
If you’re a fan of succulents and cacti, this is one of the top things to do in Palm Springs. The Moorten Botanical gardens boast some of the world’s most amazing cactus collections in the “Cactarium”.
Apart from the cactus collection they have a wide range of interesting plants and arrangements. You can also purchase your own succulents on the way out (all shapes and sizes).
Moorten Botanical Garden Entry Fees
- Adults/Seniors – $5.00
- Children under 15 – $2.00
- Children under 5 – Free
7. Get inspired at the Palm Springs Art Museum
Making a trip to the Palm Springs Art Museum is one of the most popular activities to engage in when visiting downtown Palm Springs. The entry fee is $14, and the structure itself is a work of art, carved out of the rocky mountainside.
Due to the large number of works in the collection (over 12,000), there are several possibilities to appreciate modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design that have developed as a result of Palm Springs’ unique culture and geography.
8. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
One of the most popular Palm Springs activities is taking a ride up to the top of the mountains on the world’s longest Tramway, which provides spectacular views over Palm Springs and the surrounding region.
As the tram vehicle ascends, it rotates around, giving you a complete 360-degree panorama! It takes around 10 minutes to reach the summit, where you will find a few eateries and walking pathways to explore on your way down. Tramway Fees:
- Adults – $26.95
- Seniors – $24.95 (65+)
- Children – $16.95 (ages 3-10)
9. Hike to a waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon
This 60-foot waterfall is located in the midst of a stony desert mountain range, making it a spectacular sight. You will be able to witness rock art, ancient irrigation systems, and native fauna while on your hike. If you want to get some exercise while you are in the city, this is a fantastic option.
The 1.8 mile round trip takes around 1 hour and is considered to be moderately demanding. Because the pool at the foot of the falls is somewhat small, you won’t be able to swim in it, but you may wade in it to cool yourself. The entry fee is $12.50 for adults and $6 for children.
10. Visit the Palm Oasis in the Indian Canyons
An oasis of palm trees in the middle of the desert makes for a great hike and some photo opportunities.
The Palm Canyon route in the Agua Caliente Indian Canyons park is the most enjoyable walk in the area. Keep in mind that the terrain is rugged and that it gets hot out when hiking to the Palm Canyon. The paths range in length from 1.2 miles round trip to 12 miles.
You can pay the entrance fee and do it yourself, alternatively, you can join a 3-hour Jeep and hiking tour to learn about the history and culture of the area with a guide. You will pass through rocky canyons, see the stunning palm oasis and enjoy a hidden water cave with a knowledgeable guide.
11. Listen to live music at the Purple Room Supper Club
Do you enjoy live music? This historic venue offers guests an intimate and memorable jazz club feel. Situated in the heart of town, it’s easy to see why celebrities often visit this club for the food, music, and good times.
From Tuesday through Thursday, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., experience outstanding jazz performers with no cover charge. On Friday through Sunday you can purchase tickets for dinner and a show, which will include nationally-renowned artists.
12. Shop at some of the vintage stores
Palm Springs is all about the vintage look and feel which makes it a perfect spot to do some shopping.
Whether you’re looking for fashion or homewares you can find some amazing one-off pieces in Palm Springs. Here are a few places to check out:
- The Frippery
- Mitchells Palm Springs
- Iconic Atomic
Or if you are up for a drive, head to The End in Yucca Valley for some great vintage finds.
13. Explore the Desert X exhibit
In Palm Springs, the Desert X displays provide something different than the usual tourist attractions. From February-April, these modern art installations in the desert bring awareness to local and global issues around climate change, gambling, Native American culture, and more.
In addition to being visually appealing, the sculptures, which are frequently wild, also provide for excellent photography and videography.
14. Have a cocktail and enjoy the pops of color at The Saguaro
The Saguaro is one of the most popular places to stay in Palm Springs. It exudes vibrancy and is a work of art in its own right. It’s a terrific location to stop in for a drink or even to get a day pass that grants you access to the pool, two hot tubs, fitness center, and poolside cocktail service, among other things.
Day Pass to the Saguaro Pool Entry Fee starts at $35/person, or you can book a night and enjoy the surroundings for longer.
15. Taste some Pizza and Gnocci at Birba
Birba restaurant, located in the heart of town, is a local favorite with a gorgeous outside eating area complete with fairy lights and built-in fire pits for chilly evenings.
It is recommended to make a reservation for dinner because it may get very busy. The pizza and gnocchi are sensational.
16. Visit Pioneer Town
Pioneer Town is around 45 minutes drive north of Palm Springs. It is a living Western movie set. You can walk down “Main Street” and get a feel for the olden days, or stop in the restaurant for some cowboy favorites.
There is also a small motel that you can stay at if you want to extend your Western experience.
17. Indulge your inner child at the Cabazon Dinosaurs
Since the 1980s, this roadside attraction has established a cult following among its visitors. Despite the fact that there are just two enormous structures, they are seriously big and impressive. If you’re searching for unique things to do in Palm Springs with kids, here is a fantastic place to start your search. The entry fee is $13 for adults and $11 for children.
18. Visit the shops at Thirteen Forty-five
Located in the historic E. Stewart Williams building, The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five is a one-of-a-kind collection of fourteen elegant shops.
All under one roof, you’ll find a treasure trove of authentic Palm Springs design. Vintage and modern furniture and décor, hand-made products, jewelry, art, and clothes, are all available for purchase in the stores. It is a great place to get an idea of the local artesian talent.
19. Spend a night glamping at Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park is a fantastic attraction that is conveniently located near Palm Springs. It is easy to do a day trip to the park, or for a memorable experience, try glamping at Joshua Tree. This is a great option if you want to get out of Palm Springs for the night and watch the sun set between the infamous Joshua Trees. There are some amazing Joshua Tree stays that include yurts, airstreams, and more!
If you don’t have your own car and want to explore the area with a guide, a 4.5-hour van tour from Palm Desert to Joshua Tree National Park is available. Hike around the park’s nature trails, stroll amid massive boulders, and learn about the flora and wildlife.
20. Swim in the Rooftop Pool at the High Bar
Unique amid the wide environment of Palm Springs, High Bar is a terrific location to unwind with a cocktail or two and take in the view of the sun setting over the mountains.
With a rooftop pool perched atop seven stories, it provides breathtaking vistas. By day, the atmosphere is light and airy, and a large bar serves traditional and vintage cocktails, as well as artisan beers from the Coachella Valley and crisp wines.
21. Drive out to Salvation Mountain
It takes roughly 1.5 hours to drive out of Palm Springs, via the Salton Sea, to “Slab City,” which is a kind of squatter town in the middle of the desert.
At the entrance to the town is the iconic Salvation Mountain. You can walk through it and climb up the stairs to the top. It is uniquely made out of scrap and waste material and offers an insight into what people can achieve with little to no money.
22. Visit Shields Date Farm
This is a great ‘stop off’ to see a working date farm and drink a date shake. The property’s tall date palms are a beautiful sight in the desert, and the cafe serves delicious meals, including date ice cream, in a comfortable setting.
It’s a convenient pit stop on the route to (or returning from) the Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain.
Best Places to stay in Palm Springs
When it comes to accommodation options in Palm Springs, the options are endless. Over the years, Palm Springs has witnessed an influx of hotels, including design-forward boutique hideaways, art deco homestays, villa-style resorts, and chic hangouts for a party-style getaway.
Villa Royale | Hotel
Villa Royale has been a Palm Springs classic since 1947, and it continues to be an ever cool, eclectic combination of classic California architecture. Relax by the heated pool, eat delectable cuisine and cocktails, soak in the beautiful desert mountain vistas, and live out your California fantasies at this luxurious resort.
Ace Hotel | Hotel
The Ace Hotel in Palm Springs is a 179-room hotel, spa, and resort that is within riding distance of downtown. Organic and bohemian in style, the property boasts two large pools, a vintage photo booth, a gym, among other amenities.
Midcentury house | VRBO
Located five minutes from downtown Palm Springs is this bright and airy 1960s style house. In addition to a saltwater pool, there are three bedrooms and two bathrooms in the home. The outside BBQ and fridge provide easy access to food and beverages for those lazy afternoons spent basking in the sun under the shade of the covered patio.
Midcentury Bungalow | VRBO
Three separate cottages make up this charming property, each recently refurbished and tastefully furnished by a well-known local interior designer. In addition to a private yard, hot tub, BBQ, and patio furniture, each casita has its own private entrance as well as a private yard. There is a heated shared pool, and the property is located a quarter block from the heart of downtown.
Rainbow Sherbet | Plum Guide
Colorful flowery walls and neon interiors give a nostalgic appeal to this stylish home. Cocktail hour is easy with a bar cart in the living room. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to the backyard pool and you can enjoy the Californian nights barbecuing on the BBQ or warming up by the fire pit under the starry desert sky. Just a short stroll from your front door you’ll discover the magnificent La Quinta Spa for a day of pampering, and a variety of top-rated eateries.
The light of morning | Plum Guide
The views of the Santa Rosa Mountains from the garden of this 4 bedroom La Quinta house are unbeatable whether you’re swimming, hammocking, or grilling. Bright white walls and stylish furnishings welcome you to relax within this clean and modern space. To beat the heat, this pad’s boho vibe and tiled fireplace are perfect.
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Aaron is one of the co-founders of The Dharma Trails. His background in marine eco tourism and writing have blended together to create the eco travel platform read by users around the world.
Dear Vivien & Aaron, thank you for putting this beautiful post together! I’ve rarly seen such a great post, with just enough detailed descriptions, fun ideas and of course great pictures! My family and I will be visting Palm Springs later this year and I’ve looked at many other posts. Yours truly stand out to me. I’m super excited to experience some of your recomondations 🙂
Hi Mary, thanks so much for the comment! We really hope that you have (or had a great trip). apologies for the delayed response. Palm Springs is one of our favorite places just because it’s so unique! And the places to stay are fantastic. We love taking photos so it’s perfect for it. Cheers