30 Things to Do in Palm Springs
Palm Springs radiates a unique desert cool, drawing visitors with its stunning mountain backdrop, swaying palm trees, and iconic mid-century modern architecture. While famous for stylish resorts and poolside relaxation, the area offers much more, including fantastic free things to do in Palm Springs like exploring vibrant downtown streets or hiking nearby trails. This desert oasis blends Hollywood glamour history with outdoor adventure and artistic flair.
Prepare to discover a destination that encourages slowing down while offering plenty to see and do. This guide presents 30 ways to experience the best of Palm Springs, from architectural gems and natural wonders to chic shops and unique local spots. Get ready to soak up the sunshine and the distinct atmosphere of this Southern California haven.
Mid-Century Modern Marvels
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar up Chino Canyon for incredible views and cooler temperatures atop Mount San Jacinto. Explore hiking trails or simply enjoy the panoramic vistas from the mountain station.
Architecture Self-Guided Tour: Drive or bike through neighborhoods like Vista Las Palmas or Twin Palms to admire iconic mid-century modern homes designed by famed architects. Pick up a map at the Visitor Center located in a former Tramway Gas Station.
Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center: Visit this dedicated center housed in a restored mid-century modern building, focusing on architecture and design exhibits. It offers insight into the aesthetic that defines Palm Springs style.
Palm Springs Visitor Center: Stop by this architecturally significant building, originally a gas station designed by Albert Frey, for maps and information. It’s a great example of modernist design and a perfect first stop.
Explore Residential Neighborhoods: Simply walk or drive around areas like Indian Canyons or Araby Cove to appreciate the concentration of well-preserved modernist homes set against the desert landscape. Respect private property while admiring the exteriors.
Desert Adventures & Nature
Indian Canyons: Hike scenic trails through ancestral Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians land, featuring palm groves, streams, and stunning rock formations. Choose from Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, or Murray Canyon for varying hiking experiences (entry fee required).
Tahquitz Canyon: Take a ranger-led or self-guided hike to a beautiful 60-foot waterfall within this canyon, also part of the Agua Caliente reservation. Learn about the canyon’s history and cultural significance along the moderate trail (entry fee required).
Moorten Botanical Garden: Wander through this unique “Cactarium” showcasing desert plants from around the world in concentrated displays. It’s a charming, family-run garden offering a close-up look at diverse cacti and succulents.
Coachella Valley Preserve: Explore the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, featuring palm groves fed by natural springs and boardwalk trails. It’s a peaceful natural area great for easy walks and bird watching, located slightly east of Palm Springs.
Hike the Araby Trail: Access this trail starting near the Southridge neighborhood for views of Bob Hope’s iconic mushroom-like house and the valley floor. It offers a good workout with interesting architectural sights.
Arts, Culture & History
Palm Springs Art Museum: Discover diverse collections including modern and contemporary art, Western American art, and glass, located downtown. Check their schedule for traveling exhibitions and cultural programs.
Palm Springs Air Museum: Explore one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWII aircraft housed in climate-controlled hangars. See vintage planes up close and learn about aviation history from knowledgeable docents.
VillageFest: Stroll Palm Canyon Drive every Thursday evening when it transforms into a vibrant street fair featuring artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment. It’s a great free community event to experience local life.
Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza (Opening phases): Keep an eye on the development of this major downtown project featuring a new museum celebrating the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and the Spa at Séc-he. Elements are opening progressively, promising a significant cultural destination.
Walk of Stars Palm Springs: Look down along Palm Canyon Drive and surrounding streets to find stars honoring celebrities and local personalities with ties to the area. It’s a fun way to spot famous names while exploring downtown.
Downtown & Village Vibes
Stroll Palm Canyon Drive: Walk the main downtown strip lined with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars housed in historic and modern buildings. Enjoy window shopping, people-watching, and soaking up the relaxed desert atmosphere.
Explore the Uptown Design District: Browse vintage furniture stores, chic boutiques, and art galleries along North Palm Canyon Drive. This area is known for its concentration of mid-century modern treasures and unique finds.
Palm Springs Historical Society: Visit the McCallum Adobe and Cornelia White House museums to learn about the city’s pioneer history and early development. Guided walking tours are also available seasonally to explore historic downtown sites.
Enjoy Outdoor Dining: Take advantage of the sunny weather by dining alfresco at one of the many restaurants with patios downtown or uptown. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the scenery and the local culinary scene.
Relax by a Public Fountain: Find spots like the entrance to the Palm Springs Art Museum or areas along Palm Canyon Drive to relax near public fountains. Enjoy the cooling effect and take a moment to pause during your explorations.
Unique Oasis Stops
Palm Springs Windmills: Drive near the San Gorgonio Pass entrance to the valley to see the iconic wind turbines generating renewable energy. Find designated viewing areas for safe photos of this impressive technological landscape.
Sunnylands Center & Gardens: Visit the visitor center and wander the beautiful desert gardens inspired by Impressionist paintings at the historic Annenberg Estate in nearby Rancho Mirage. Garden access is free, while estate tours require advance booking.
Shields Date Garden: Stop at this historic date farm in Indio (a short drive) to sample different date varieties and try their famous date shake. Watch the slightly kitschy film “The Romance & Sex Life of the Date” for a unique local experience.
Cabazon Dinosaurs: See the giant roadside dinosaur sculptures, featured in Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, located off the I-10 freeway west of Palm Springs. It’s a quirky photo opportunity on the way in or out of the valley.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Explore this unique zoo and botanical garden in Palm Desert focusing on desert animals and plants from around the world. See giraffes, cheetahs, and bighorn sheep in well-designed habitats.
Relaxation & Recreation
Lounge by the Pool: Embrace the quintessential Palm Springs activity by relaxing poolside at your hotel or renting a day pass at a resort. Enjoying the sunshine and cool water is essential to the vibe.
Play a Round of Golf: Choose from numerous world-class golf courses scattered throughout the Coachella Valley. Enjoy playing amidst stunning mountain and desert scenery.
Visit a Spa: Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Palm Springs’ many spas offering desert-inspired treatments. It’s a perfect way to unwind and recharge.
Go Vintage Shopping: Hunt for retro clothing, furniture, and decor in the many vintage shops, especially concentrated in the Uptown Design District. Find unique pieces that capture the mid-century aesthetic.
Catch a Show at the Palm Canyon Theatre: Enjoy live theatrical performances, including musicals and plays, at this local theater downtown. Check their schedule for entertaining evening options.
