18 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs
Planning a trip to Palm Springs, California? From Joshua Tree hikes and sight-seeing tours to museums and spas, I’m sharing the best things to do in Palm Springs!
From endless Joshua tree lined highways that transition into fields of towering wind turbines, to retro mid-century modern architecture set to the backdrop of the red San Jacinto Mountains, Palm Springs is a uniquely beautiful desert oasis located in Southern California.
Whether you want to escape into the beautiful landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, ride the aerial tramway for iconic birds-eye views, or explore the city’s Hollywood past, there are so many things to do in Palm Springs that can easily keep you busy for over a week.
My husband and I took a Palm Springs trip a few years back for our anniversary and it was such a beautiful mix of relaxation, food, and fun—we can’t wait to go back. Since it’s just a 4 hour drive from Las Vegas, it’s the perfect road trip destination whenever we need an escape from the buzz of Vegas.
And If you live in California, Palm Springs is a great spot for a day trip from LA too!
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Things to Do in Palm Springs, California
Wondering what to add to your Palm Springs itinerary? I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Palm Springs that you should add to your list!
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Visit Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re spending time in Palm Springs, a visit to Joshua Tree National Park is an absolute must and easily one of the most memorable things you can do in the area!
Less than an hour’s drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its otherworldly rock formations, iconic Joshua trees, and wide-open California desert landscapes that feel completely surreal.
The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle and is valid for seven days, but if you plan on visiting multiple national parks throughout the year, the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass (offered through the National Park Service) is a great option and quickly pays for itself.
You can keep it simple with a scenic drive through the park, stop at a few viewpoints and pull-offs, take a guided tour, or make it a day trip and spend a couple of hours exploring and hiking at your own pace, depending on how much time you have.
Remember to bring more water than you think you’ll need, download offline maps before you go (cell service is limited), and plan your exploring for early morning or late afternoon if you’re visiting during the summer months.
Even a short visit to Joshua Tree feels special, and it’s one of those places that truly leaves a lasting impression!
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Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of those experiences that truly gives you a new perspective on the desert.
In just about ten minutes, the rotating tram car takes you from the Palm Springs valley floor up to the cooler alpine climate of Mount San Jacinto, offering incredible panoramic views the entire way up.
Tickets typically run around $30–$35 for adults, and the temperature difference at the top can be 20 to 30 degrees cooler, which feels especially refreshing during the warmer months.
Once you arrive, you can explore short nature walks, hike scenic trails, grab a meal at the mountaintop restaurant, or simply enjoy the views from the observation decks.
Try to go earlier in the day or on a weekday if you can to avoid long lines, and bring a light jacket (or cardigan) even if it’s hot in Palm Springs since the temps are lower in the higher altitudes.
Whether you’re there for the views, the cooler air, or a break from the desert heat, the aerial tramway is one of the most unique and memorable things to do in Palm Springs.
Himalayan salt room at The Spa at Séc-he
Taking of the Waters mineral bath at The Spa at Séc-he
Have a spa day at The Spa at Séc-he
During our anniversary trip to Palm Springs we decided to treat ourselves to a relaxing spa day at The Spa at Séc-he—and it did not disappoint!
I mean, there’s a reason The Spa at Séc-he is the #1 spa in the United States and has won multiple awards including “Best Day Spa in the Nation”.
If you’re craving a reset while in Palm Springs, I can’t recommend a spa day at The Spa at Séc-he enough. This stunning, modern spa is centered around natural hot mineral waters and rooted in the healing traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, which makes the experience feel both luxurious and meaningful.
Even if you don’t book a treatment, a day pass gives you access to multiple mineral soaking pools, saunas, steam rooms, and beautifully designed relaxation spaces that make it very easy to lose track of time. Pricing for day passes typically starts around the mid-$70s on weekdays and can be closer to $90+ on weekends, which feels well worth it for the experience.
We visited in August (off-season) on a Monday from 3pm-5pm so the spa was pretty empty, which made it feel like our own private experience! If you do visit during peak-season, make sure to book in advance and go earlier in the day for a quieter atmosphere. Also bring a bring a book/journal or plug into a meditation playlist so you can really lean into the slow, restorative vibe—it’s the perfect way to balance out hiking, sightseeing, and all that desert sun!
If you can’t make it to The Spa at Séc-he, you can book a spa pass in Palm Springs on ResortPass!
Credit: Visit Palm Springs
Hike Tahquitz Canyon
If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Palm Springs, Tahquitz Canyon is a great option, especially if you want something scenic without committing to a full-day trek!
Located right near downtown Palm Springs, this well-maintained canyon trail offers dramatic desert views, rock formations, and a seasonal waterfall at the end of the hike.
The trail is about 2 miles round trip and moderately challenging, with some elevation gain, making it doable for most people with basic hiking experience. There is an entrance fee (typically around $15 per adult), which helps support preservation of the canyon and its cultural significance to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. (Read the full Tahquitz Canyon guide here)
Try to go early in the morning to beat the heat, wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and check conditions ahead of time since the trail can close during extreme heat or weather.
Tahquitz Canyon is a rewarding hike that combines nature, history, and incredible views—all just minutes from Palm Springs!
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Visit the San Andreas Fault
Visiting the San Andreas Fault near Palm Springs is one of those experiences that can be as simple or as in-depth as you want it to be.
If you prefer to explore on your own, you can visit areas like the Coachella Valley Preserve, where easy walking trails and interpretive signs help explain how the fault shaped the surrounding desert landscape. You won’t see a dramatic crack in the ground, but you will notice subtle shifts in terrain, palm oases, and land formations created by tectonic movement.
If you want to learn more about what you’re seeing (or not seeing), guided tours are also a popular option and offer expert insight into the geology, history, and movement of the fault—often accessing areas you wouldn’t typically reach on your own.
Whether you opt for a quick self-guided visit or a more immersive tour experience, visiting the San Andreas Fault adds a fascinating layer to your Palm Springs trip!
Visit Moorten Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for an easy, low-effort stop that still feels very “Palm Springs,” Moorten Botanical Garden is such a fun one to add to your itinerary.
This small but beautifully curated desert garden is packed with cacti, succulents, and desert plants from around the world, making it a great place to stroll, snap photos, and slow down for a bit.
The garden typically charges a modest entrance fee (usually around $5), and you can comfortably explore the entire space in under an hour, which makes it perfect to pair with lunch or a downtown walk.
Try to go earlier in the day or closer to golden hour for softer light and fewer people, especially during warmer months.
It’s one of those charming Palm Springs spots that doesn’t take much time but still leaves a lasting impression—especially if you love plants, Instagram-worthy photography, or unique desert landscapes!
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See the iconic Palm Springs windmills
Seeing the Palm Springs windmills is a must if you love scenic Instagram-worthy photo spots and easy, self-guided experiences.
The windmills are located just outside of Palm Springs in the San Gorgonio Pass, and the best way to see them on your own is by using roadside pull-offs along North Indian Canyon Drive or near I-10, where you can safely park, snap photos, and take in the scale of the turbines against the desert mountains. For the best lighting, plan to visit around sunrise or sunset, when the sky softens and the windmills stand out dramatically against the surrounding landscape.
If you’re interested in learning more about how the wind farm operates or want a more in-depth experience, there are also guided windmill tours available that take you inside the wind farm for a closer look at the turbines and their role in renewable energy.
Whether you stop for a quick photo op or opt for a guided tour, the Palm Springs windmills are one of those iconic sights that are easy to visit and incredibly memorable!
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum
If you’re looking to mix a little culture into your Palm Springs itinerary, the Palm Springs Art Museum is a great place to do it.
Located right in downtown Palm Springs, this well-curated museum features a mix of modern and contemporary art, Native American works, photography, and rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh.
Admission is typically around $16 for adults, and it’s easy to spend one to two hours exploring at a relaxed pace, making it a perfect midday stop, especially when the desert heat peaks.
Make sure to check the museum’s calendar before you go, as they often host special exhibitions, free admission days, and evening events.
Whether you’re an art lover or just want a break from outdoor activities, the Palm Springs Art Museum adds a thoughtful, creative layer to any Palm Springs trip!
Palm Springs Air Museum
If you’re interested in history or aviation, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a fascinating stop that’s well worth your time.
Located near the Palm Springs International Airport, this museum is home to an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, with a strong focus on World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Admission is typically around $20–$25 for adults, and you can expect to spend one to two hours exploring the hangars, exhibits, and restored planes up close.
One of the highlights is that many of the aircraft are still airworthy, and on certain days you may even see planes taking off or landing.
Be sure to check the museum’s schedule before you go, as they often host special events, flight demonstrations, and guest speakers.
Even if you’re not an aviation expert, the Palm Springs Air Museum offers an engaging, educational experience that adds depth and variety to a Palm Springs itinerary.
Credit: Visit Palm Springs
Visit Indian Canyons
If you want to experience Palm Springs’ natural beauty up close, a visit to Indian Canyons is a must.
Located at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, this protected area is home to palm-filled oases, flowing streams, and some of the most scenic hiking trails in the region.
The entrance fee is typically around $12–$15 per adult, and once inside you can choose from several trails depending on how much time and energy you have, including Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon. (Read the Indian Canyons trails guide here)
Try to go early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, wear sturdy shoes since some trails are sandy or rocky, and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Whether you opt for a short walk or a longer hike, Indian Canyons offers a peaceful, lush contrast to the surrounding desert and is one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in Palm Springs!
Poolside at Yara Hotel - Book The Yara Hotel on ResortPass
Book a day pass at a hotel pool
One of the best ways to experience Palm Springs’ iconic pool culture without staying overnight is by booking a hotel pool day pass through ResortPass.
ResortPass makes it easy to browse and reserve access to some of the most beautiful hotel and resort pools in Palm Springs, complete with loungers, towels, and often optional upgrades like cabanas or daybeds.
Pricing varies by property, day of the week, and season, but most pool day passes typically range from $30 to $100+, with weekdays offering the best value and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Make sure to book in advance during spring and summer, and check what’s included before you reserve, as some passes come with food-and-beverage credits or guaranteed seating.
If your ideal Palm Springs day involves sunshine, palm trees, and hours spent poolside with zero stress, ResortPass is hands-down the easiest and most flexible way to make it happen.
Credit: Visit Palm Springs
Tour the Walk of the Stars
Touring the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars is a fun and flexible way to explore the city’s Hollywood history.
The stars are spread throughout downtown Palm Springs, particularly along Palm Canyon Drive, and can easily be explored on a self-guided walk using the free Walk of the Stars app, letting you stop whenever a familiar name catches your eye. The app offers behind-the-scenes stories about the celebrities, performers, and local icons honored along the route.
Try to go in the morning or early evening to avoid the midday heat, and wear comfortable shoes since the stars aren’t concentrated in one single area.
The Walk of the Stars is definitely one of the easiest, and free things to do in Palm Springs!
Credit: Visit Palm Springs
Take a Palm Springs Celebrity Homes Tour
If you’re curious about Palm Springs’ glamorous past, a celebrity homes tour is a fun way to see where Hollywood legends once escaped to the desert.
Many of the city’s most famous mid-century modern homes are tucked into residential neighborhoods, and you can explore them either on a self-guided drive (using this post) or by joining a guided Palm Springs celebrity homes tour.
A self-guided option lets you cruise through areas like Twin Palms and Old Las Palmas at your own pace, while guided tours add stories, history, and context about the stars, architects, and design details behind the homes. Please remember that these are private residences, so photos should be taken from the street and respectfully.
Whether you prefer a casual drive-by or a fully narrated tour, exploring Palm Springs’ celebrity homes is a uniquely local experience that highlights the city’s iconic architecture and Hollywood roots.
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Visit the Forever Marilyn sculpture
Visiting the Forever Marilyn sculpture is a quick, fun stop that adds a playful dose of Hollywood nostalgia to your Palm Springs itinerary.
This larger-than-life statue of Marilyn Monroe is located in downtown Palm Springs and is easy to visit while you’re exploring shops, restaurants, or nearby attractions.
You can view it on your own for a casual photo stop, or spot it as part of a guided walking or city tour that shares more about Marilyn’s connection to Palm Springs and the city’s film history.
Try to go earlier in the morning or closer to sunset for better lighting and fewer crowds, especially if you want photos without a lot of people around.
The Forever Marilyn sculpture is a lighthearted, iconic stop that doesn’t take much time but feels very on-brand for Palm Springs.
Credit: Cabazon Dinosaurs via Facebook
See the World's Biggest Dinosaurs at Cabazon Dinosaurs
Seeing the Cabazon Dinosaurs is one of those quirky, classic California stops that’s especially fun if you love roadside attractions or are traveling with kids.
Located just outside Palm Springs in Cabazon, these massive dinosaur statues are easy to spot from the highway and make for a quick, memorable photo stop on the way to or from the desert.
You can explore the grounds on your own, snap photos with the towering T-Rex and Brontosaurus, and browse the dinosaur-themed gift shop, or opt to go inside the attractions for a more interactive experience.
Plan this as a short stop rather than a full outing, and visit earlier in the day if you’re traveling during warmer months since much of it is outdoors.
It’s a fun, slightly kitschy break from the desert scenery that adds a bit of nostalgia and novelty to a Palm Springs-area trip.
Visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Visiting The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a great way to experience the desert’s wildlife and landscapes in a more immersive, family-friendly setting.
Located in nearby Palm Desert, this unique zoo and botanical garden focuses on desert animals and plants from around the world, with spacious habitats, walking trails, and beautifully maintained gardens.
Admission typically runs around $35–$40 for adults, and it’s easy to spend a few hours exploring at a relaxed pace. Highlights include giraffes (you can hand feed them!), rhinos (you can hand feed them too!), cheetahs (no hand-feeding obvs haha), desert bighorn sheep, and the scenic nature walks that wind through the property.
Try to go earlier in the morning when animals are most active, especially during warmer months, and wear comfortable shoes since the grounds are fairly spread out.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or just want a slower-paced outdoor experience, The Living Desert is definitely one of the many fun things to do in Palm Springs!
Credit: Desert Hills Premium Outlets
Go shopping at Desert Hills Premium Outlets
If shopping is part of your Palm Springs itinerary, Desert Hills Premium Outlets is worth the short drive, especially if you love scoring designer finds at a discount.
Located in Cabazon, this open-air outlet mall is home to a large selection of luxury and popular brands, including high-end fashion houses alongside everyday favorites.
Try to visit on a weekday morning for lighter crowds and better parking, wear comfortable shoes since the complex is spread out, and check the mall’s website for additional sales or coupons before you go.
Whether you’re hunting for a specific item or just browsing, Desert Hills Premium Outlets is a fun way to mix shopping into your Palm Springs trip.
Credit: Leland S. via Yelp
Try the best Date Shake in Palm Springs
Trying a date shake is a must on the list of things to do in Palm Springs, and there’s no better place to do it than Windmill Market—considered the #1 spot for date shakes in the area!
Made with locally grown Coachella Valley dates, these creamy, naturally sweet shakes are a true desert classic and a fun way to taste a local specialty. Windmill Market has been serving date shakes for decades, and their version is simple, rich, and incredibly satisfying, especially after a day of sightseeing or hiking.
Stop by earlier in the day to avoid lines, and don’t be surprised if you end up grabbing extra dates or local treats to take home.
Whether it’s your first date shake or you’re coming back for another, Windmill Market is the go-to place to experience this iconic Palm Springs treat!
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Popular Palm Springs Tours
Thinking of adding a tour to your list of things to do in Palm Springs? Here are some of the most popular tours in Palm Springs to choose from!
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Best time to visit Palm Springs
The best time to visit Palm Springs really depends on what kind of trip you’re planning, because the experience can feel completely different depending on the season. The weather in Palm Springs plays a big role in deciding when to plan your trip as well!
Spring in Palm Springs (March–May) is considered peak season, with daytime temperatures in the 70s to mid-80s, perfect weather for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor dining. That said, it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, with larger crowds, booked-out resorts, and higher hotel rates—especially in April during Coachella.
Fall in Palm Springs (October–November) is another great option, offering warm but more comfortable temperatures in the 80s and low 90s, along with fewer crowds than spring.
Summer in Palm Springs (June–September) is Palm Springs’ true off-season, but it’s also when you’ll find the lowest prices and least amount of crowds. Temperatures regularly climb into the 105–115°F range, which makes midday outdoor activities tough, but it’s an ideal time for pool days, spa visits, and slow mornings indoors. I personally visited in late August, and while it was definitely hot, it was surprisingly enjoyable thanks to the quiet atmosphere, empty pools, and easy access to spas and restaurants without reservations. If your goal is relaxation over sightseeing, summer can be a hidden gem!
Winter in Palm Springs (December–February) brings mild, sunny days in the 60s to low 70s, making it a popular escape for snowbirds and travelers looking for warm-weather relief. Crowds tend to increase around holidays, and evenings can feel cool, but it’s a great time for hiking and exploring without the extreme heat.
No matter when you visit, make sure to book accommodations early during peak season, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon in summer, and always stay hydrated in the desert climate. With the right expectations, Palm Springs is a destination that truly shines year-round!
Author
Nicole Neissany - Founder of Wear She Wanders. Connect with Nicole: Instagram | Pinterest
