Golf, swim, relax, these are all the activities you can enjoy when visiting Palm Springs, CA. It’s a hugely popular destination for locals who are looking for a weekend escape from Los Angeles or visitors from around the world.
While Palm Springs was once the playground for the rich and famous Hollywood elite it’s easy to see why it’s a popular hot spot still today.
In this post, we’re going to highlight some of the best things to see and do while spending time here.
Relax by the Pool
Palm Springs can get quite hot in the summer. It’s not unusual for the desert temperatures here to rise to triple digits. So it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise that Palm Springs has plenty of pools that serve as a spot to hang out and cool off. Many of the hotel’s offer day passes to their pools or you can enjoy a pass for the Palm Springs Swim Center too.
Coachella Valley Preserve
Coachella is more than just a big musical event in Palm Springs. Here you can visit the Coachella Valley Preserve has over 25 miles of hiking trails spread throughout 20,000 acres. Take a close look as you walk and see the variety of wetlands, wildlife, and plants you’ll be able to spot hidden in the desert.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Not many cities can boast a full gondola system. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is another way that makes this city unique. Hop on the tramway and you’ll get spectacular views of Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley.
Mt. San Jacinto State Park
You can visit two sites in one trip by taking the tramway to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. The station at Mt. San Jacinto State Park sites over 8,500 feet above sea level. It’s the perfect starting point to enjoy some of the many trails and observation decks the park has to offer.
Celebrity Tours
Sure, it’s a little bit touristy, but one of the coolest features of Palm Springs was the fact it was the place to see and be seen by some of the biggest celebrity names during the early to mid-1900s. Today, you can take tours that show off some of the coolest mid-century modern hot spots Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and Elizabeth Taylor enjoyed.
Palm Springs Air Museum
You might not imagine an air museum in a spot known for classic cocktails and poolside living but a visit to the Palm Springs Air Museum is time well spent. The museum has dozens of airplanes, including some retired WW II fighters. And for thrill-seekers, the museum also offers the opportunity to book flights on some of these old planes.
Regardless if you’re able to visit Palm Springs for a few hours or a few days, you won’t be disappointed spending time here. There are plenty of options for you to enjoy your time in the desert, from relaxing by the pool to hiking or checking out the famous architecture.
