Things to Do in and Around Palm Springs: Must-See Attractions
Palm Springs is the ultimate Southern California desert oasis — just two hours from Los Angeles or San Diego. Famous for year-round sunshine, mid-century modern architecture, luxury resorts, and the dramatic backdrop of Mount San Jacinto, this Coachella Valley gem offers far more than golf courses and celebrity homes.
From family-friendly attractions and scenic hikes to date shakes, downtown shopping, and easy desert adventures, here are some of the best things to do in Palm Springs and the surrounding area for a memorable day trip (or weekend getaway).
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Epic Mountain Views & Adventure
If you’re planning a trip to Palm Springs, include a visit to the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It’s a must-see attraction that takes you to the peak of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering breathtaking views of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. Be sure to allocate at least half a day for your visit to fully appreciate the experience. Afterward, cap off your Palm Springs adventure with a relaxing dinner and shopping on Palm Canyon Drive.
Palm Canyon Drive: Downtown Shopping, Dining & Vibrant Nightlife
Palm Canyon Drive is at the center of downtown. Nestled along Palm Canyon Drive and intersecting side streets is the central shopping district with numerous designer shops, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, museums, and one-of-a-kind stores. Everything is within walking distance, so park your car and start shopping. After exploring downtown, move on to the evening options and nearby attractions that keep the area lively.
Palm Springs Air Museum: WWII Aircraft & Hands-On History for Kids
Palm Springs Air Museum is home to one of the nation’s most extensive World War II flying aircraft collections. The Air Museum is a great place to bring the kids, and they are encouraged to explore and participate in the various programs geared toward children. Wander through the museum and surround yourself with thousands of artifacts and memorabilia.
Palm Springs Walk of Stars: Celebrity Sidewalk Tribute
As you weave through downtown Palm Springs, you will see 330 sidewalk stars honoring various show business celebrities, pioneers, civic leaders, humanitarians, and congressional medal awardees. Golden Palm Stars celebrate people who have lived in the greater Palm Springs area, including several United States presidents—a map of the Stars.
Palm Springs VillageFest: Thursday Night Street Party & Pub Crawl
One of the best ways to experience downtown is VillageFest. Many of the shops stay open late, and you can end the day with a pub crawl to one of the many upscale nightclubs along Palm Canyon Drive, including The Hair of the Dog, a small English pub and a favorite hangout of late entertainer and former mayor of Palm Springs, Sonny Bono. Website.
Moorten Botanical Gardens: Hidden Desert Plant Paradise
The Moorten Botanical Gardens in Palm Springs is a hidden gem. It’s a serene place where guests can stroll and appreciate the stunning collection of more than 3,000 desert plant varieties. The gardens are conveniently located just a few blocks from Palm Springs City Hall and are worth visiting.
Whitewater Preserve: Scenic Hiking & Desert Wildlife Spotting
Whitewater Preserve is a natural treasure and a great place to escape with miles of hiking trails. Wildlife enthusiasts will get their fill as they enjoy catching a glimpse of Bighorn sheep, bobcats, coyotes, bears, and deer that live on the Preserve lands.
Shields Date Garden: Iconic Date Shakes Since 1924
Shields Date Garden has stood at the same location as a historic landmark since 1924. It opened its doors on Christmas Day of that year and has provided high-quality dates, citrus, and organic food products to customers worldwide. Don’t forget to try their delicious date shake and take home some date samples or gift packs. 80225 CA-111, Indio, California.
Tahquitz Canyon: Easy Waterfall Hike & Cahuilla History
Before leaving the area, Tahquitz Canyon is another great spot to explore — a short, easy two-mile loop hike with lovely scenery and a spectacular seasonal 60-foot waterfall. Families could easily do this hike with children, which takes less than two hours. Parking is free, but there is a small admission fee. Hiking sticks are available at the Visitors Center near the entrance.
Indian Canyons: Family-Friendly Desert Oasis Hiking Trails
Indian Canyons is just a short drive from downtown Palm Springs. The Agua Caliente Cahuilla Indians preserve four canyons. The canyons are open – for a fee – to the general public for hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. It is a moderate hike, good for the entire family, with a gradual grade and a partially paved footpath that winds down into the canyon.
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens: Giraffes, Wildlife & Affordable Family Fun
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is 15 miles southeast of Palm Springs, California. This family-friendly attraction is a breathtaking day trip and a worthwhile visit. Tickets are very affordable compared to many other Southern California attractions. Add The Living Desert Zoo to your Palm Springs to-do list if traveling with kids. 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, California.
Why One Day Is Never Enough in Palm Springs
Palm Springs and the greater Coachella Valley deliver the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, history, shopping, and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking to a desert waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon, riding the Aerial Tramway into the mountains, feeding giraffes at The Living Desert Zoo, or soaking up the vibes at VillageFest, there’s truly something for every type of traveler.
Tips for Your Palm Springs Day Trip:
- Best time to visit: October through May for milder temperatures. Early mornings and late afternoons beat the summer heat.
- Getting there: Approximately 2 hours east of Los Angeles and San Diego via I-10. Traffic can be heavy on weekends — plan accordingly.
- Where to stay if extending your trip: Consider mid-century boutique hotels downtown or resorts in Palm Desert for easy access to everything.
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, and cash for some smaller spots.
Don’t forget to save this guide and follow on X or Facebook for more hidden gems, day trip ideas, and updates across California and the Southwest.
Related Day Trips from Palm Springs:
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Desert Hot Springs Spa Getaway
- Cabot’s Pueblo Museum & Pioneertown
- Desert Hills Outlet Mall
- Hadley Fruit Orchards
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The General Patton Museum was not mentioned in your list of interesting things to do. I was there today It was a bit of a trip but worth the drive.
Thanks for the info. We will check out the Patton Museum next time we are in the area.
Is there a hotel stay that you recommen ? Also, if we can take this trip by an Amtrak ?
Hello
There is no direct train service to Palm Springs, however, Amtrak does offer a bus service.
I would suggest booking a hotel on or near South Plam Canyon Drive.
Is there a shuttle or bus from Palm Springs to universal studios for a 1 or 2 day trip?
Hello Nancy
That is a good question. I did some research and it looks like no tour bus service runs a shuttle bus to Universal Studios from Palm Springs.
You can take a tour with Southern California Gray Lines to Universal from Anaheim.
Bus departs at 9:00 a.m. returns around 9:00 pm. These tours include admission to Universal Studios.
The problem would be getting to Anaheim if you do not have a car.
Amtrak trains run daily from PS to Anaheim.
You could rent a car or perhaps use Uber to get to Anaheim by 9 am. Sounds like a very long day so consider spending a night in the Los Angeles area.
Hope this helps