Best Things to Do in Palm Springs
Are you wondering, what is there to do in Palm Springs? Palm Springs is the ideal vacation destination when planning a weekend getaway in California. From delicious restaurants and bars to outdoor activities of all kinds to shopping and spas, there is never a shortage of things to do in Palm Springs, CA. Located near some of the best national and state parks including Mount San Jacinto State Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Moorten Botanical Garden, and the Coachella Valley Preserve, Palm Springs is the perfect place for hikers, bikers, and those who want to experience nature. Palm Springs is also home to a number of cultural and artistic destinations, including a number of galleries, museums, and live show opportunities. Our top favorite attractions, activities, restaurants and events in Palm Springs are listed in the tabs above. Don’t forget to check out our blog entries for updated information on everything Palm Springs!
Palm Springs Activities
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the many ways to enjoy the great outdoors of Palm Springs during your visit. Known as the world’s largest rotating tramcar, this Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking views of the sheer cliffs of Chino Canyon. The ride lasts 10 minutes beginning at the Valley Station with an elevation of 2,643 ft. and ending at the Mountain Station with an elevation of 8,516 ft. View the sites of the Chino Canyon with this amazing Palm Springs activity.
Big Wheel Bike Tours
For those who love the outdoors and biking, the Big Wheel Bike Tours is the perfect Palm Springs activity for you! The main bike tour is The Earthquake Canyon Express, a 20 mile tour that descends through the heart of the San Andreas Fault zone to the heart of grape country near Mecca. This sightseeing ride allows riders views of the beautiful Colorado and Mojave Deserts, the Box Canyon, the Salton Sea, Mr. San Jacinto, the All-American Canal, and the Coachella Valley.
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is one of the best Palm Springs activities to enjoy for families visiting the area. The Living Desert focuses on conservation through preservation, education and appreciation by educating guests about the Colorado Desert and more.
Palm Springs Spas
Many guests, upon visiting, enjoy a day at one of the many Palm Springs spas located in the area, where pampering is doled out without hesitation. Whether you’re looking for your wedding day glow or just a chance to kick back with your sweetheart or a group of friends on a getaway trip, you will surely find all the services you desire in the area. With Palm Springs’ numerous professionals in skincare, massage, cosmetology and much more, not only will you find what you want, but the service will be excellent and often surrounded by beautiful views.
The Shopping in Palm Springs is Fantastic!
Shopping is a key part of any vacation! You never know what kind of unique or distinctive treasures you’ll discover in a new environment. Among the countless activities Palm Springs offers is a remarkable selection of amazing places to shop. No matter what you’re looking for, whether it’s an antique serving bowl or a fashionable scarf, Palm Springs has it! Browse our list to see the best places for all kinds of shopping in Palm Springs, CA.
Hiking in Palm Springs
One of the finest qualities of this gem of the West is its endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. With wonderful weather year-round, as well as magnificent scenery and world-famous parks, the great outdoors of Palm Springs is unlike any other destination, and the hiking in Palm Springs is superfluous. Be sure to explore Joshua Tree National Park; here is an excellent Joshua Tree guide to the adventures that await you there!
Check out our Blog Entries for updated information on attractions in Palm Springs!
Palm Springs Restaurants
El Mirasol
If you’re looking for some of the best Mexican food available in Palm Springs, look no further than El Mirasol Cocinca Mexicana. Choose from a large variety of piping hot plates of artfully prepared Mexican regional cuisine, while enjoying deliciously tangy Margaritas. House specialties include Chicharron en Salsa, Spinach Enchiladas in Chile Verde, and Carne Asada.
LuLu California Bistro
For deliciously fresh and affordable meals, visit LuLu California Bistro, one of the best Palm Springs restaurants. LuLu’s combines talent, expertise, and passion to create amazing plates of delectable food for guests. Choose from menu items ranging from lettuce wraps, to fresh oysters, and pizza. Follow up your entrees with a decadent dessert made daily and a complementing cappuccino, latte, or endless pot of fresh brewed coffee.
Trio Restaurant
One of the most well-known restaurants in Palm Springs, Trio is lively and upbeat, as well as delicious. Located in the Uptown Design District, Trio combines traditional Midwest comfort food with California contemporary edge like Yankee Pot Roast, Calamari with Thai Dipping Sauce, and Braised Lamb Shank. With good pricing, good food, and a colorfully fun atmosphere, Trio is the ideal place to dine while visiting Palm Springs.
Our Blog Page also has updated information on Dining in Palm Springs.
Palm Springs Events
Palm Springs Pride
This year’s Palm Springs Pride Parade and Celebration takes place in early November, carrying on a long tradition of spreading education and awareness around the Coachella Valley’s LGBT community. If you have yet to enjoy this uplifting and downright entertaining time of year here in Palm Springs, it is certainly worth the trip, as it is arguably the biggest celebration taking place here all year round.
The CareerBuilder Challenge
Calling all golfers! By signing up for the CareerBuilder Challenge, you’ll receive the opportunity to compete against famous golfers, win prizes, and participate in daily events, all in the beautiful deserts of California.
Palm Springs Film Festival
The annual Palm Springs Film Festival occurs every January and is one of the biggest of its kind in North America, drawing over 136,000 film enthusiasts annually.
Palm Springs VillageFest
The Palm Springs Villagefest is where visitors and locals alike frequently flock to get a taste of the local dining, shopping, and entertainment. This extravaganza is great for finding gifts for friends and family or just starting the weekend early with some amusing activities.
Palm Springs Festival of Lights
The Palm Springs Festival of Lights is a holiday tradition that attracts both visitors and locals of all ages. Always held the first Saturday of December, this annual event features all kinds of entertainment, from drum squads to prancing horses. Proudly presented by the City of Palm Springs, this famous parade has been voted as one of the Top 10 Holiday Parades nationwide by an AOL survey.
The White Party in Palm Springs
Find your best swimsuit and get ready for the celebration of the year! The White Party in Palm Springs (presented by Jeffrey Sanker) is, without a doubt, the world’s premier gay dance festival. Get ready to rock all weekend at this blowout; with an unbelievable DJ lineup, fantastic events, and entertaining activities, you’ll never want to leave this California paradise.
Check out our blog page for updated information on Palm Springs Events.