Palm Springs' reputation as LA’s desert playground began in the 1920s when it became the destination du jour for Hollywood’s brightest stars. A century later, Los Angelenos and SoCal locals still flock to the Sonoran Desert city. Mid-century modern architecture, chic hotels, and pool parties are still top of the list for any itinerary. Hikes into the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains and Indian Canyons are becoming increasingly popular things to do in Palm Springs.
The blazing heat of Palm Springs lingers from May through September, often reaching past 100°F (38°C). Some local spots may not be open during this time. Daytime temperatures cool starting in November, but peak season is January through April. This is when visitors from colder climates come to the desert resort city to golf, lounge poolside, and hike.
The popular Modernism Week, showcasing the city’s iconic mid-century modern architecture, draws a crowd in February.
Like other Southern California cities, Palm Springs is best navigated by car, especially if you will be exploring farther-flung places such as Joshua Tree National Park or the Coachella Valley Preserve. However, if your plans are to hang poolside or keep within the pedestrian-friendly downtown, you can do without. Many hotels offer beach cruisers, which are great for cool morning rides. SunLine routes 1, 2, and 4 will get you around the city with fares around US$1.
Palm Springs is surrounded by natural desert beauty that is worth exploring on foot, by bike, on horseback, or via ATV. Head a few miles outside of town to find Indian Canyons on the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation. Here you’ll find a running river, palm oases, and skirted palm trees. There are several family-friendly hikes within Andrea, Murray, and Palm canyons that range from a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) loop to a 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) out-and-back trail.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone PST (UTC -8) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 14 | Tours 135 | Reviews 8,166 |
With its focus on leisure, including golf, spa treatments, and poolside lounging, Palm Springs is best known as a warm-weather getaway in Southern California. Hollywood celebrities popularized the destination in the 1920s. Another icon? The city’s mid-century modern architecture.
...MoreThings to do in Palm Springs include mid-century modern architecture touring, vintage shopping, and hiking in nearby Indian Canyons. And golf courses, spas, and pools abound in this warm-weather playground in Southern California. Head up the mountain on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the station that sits at 8,516 feet (2,596 meters) above sea level for cooler temperatures and to enjoy the San Jacinto forest.
...MoreYes, Palm Springs is a great getaway for creative inspiration and to soak up the sun. Visitors flock to this desert town for its stylish accommodations, funky personality, and upbeat charm. Consistently warm weather makes hiking, golfing, pool lounging, and mid-century modern architecture touring easy and accessible, especially in winter.
...MoreThe best part of Palm Springs depends on your interests. The small city’s neighborhoods are bisected by Indian Canyon and Palm Canyon drives, along which you’ll find popular hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Neighborhoods known for luxurious mid-century modern and contemporary estates include Vistas Las Palmas, the Movie Colony, and Deepwell Estates.
...MoreMost visits to Palm Springs will include the downtown area, which is hard to miss. Two parallel thoroughfares, Indian Canyon and Palm Canyon drives, bisect the city and are where most businesses are found. Along these streets is a popular farmers market and the weekly VillageFest street fair.
...MoreWhether you love mid-century architecture, spa treatments, or desert landscapes, there are plenty of things to do in Palm Springs during a day trip. Families love the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, while art lovers enjoy the Sunnylands Center and Gardens and Palm Springs Art Museum. Outdoor pursuits include hiking Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon and riding the aerial tramway.
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