fun things to do in palm springs
Palm Springs is a popular desert oasis in California known for its golf courses, hot springs, and mid-century modern architecture. Here are some fun things to do in Palm Springs:
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the stunning views of Palm Springs from above on a hot air balloon ride.
- Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum: This museum features a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as rotating exhibitions.
- Indian Canyons: Explore the beautiful hiking trails and ancient Native American rock art in Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Palm Canyon.
- VillageFest: Every Thursday evening, the city hosts VillageFest, a street fair with live music, food vendors, and shopping.
- Golfing: Palm Springs is famous for its golf courses, with over 100 courses in the area. Choose from courses designed by famous architects like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.
- Palm Springs Tramway: Take a ride on the world’s largest rotating aerial tramway, which takes you from the valley floor to the top of San Jacinto Peak.
- Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs: Cool off during the hot summer months at this water park, which features water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
- The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: This zoo and botanical garden is home to over 450 animals, including mountain lions, bobcats, and wolves.
- Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour: Explore the city’s iconic mid-century modern architecture on a guided tour, which takes you to famous homes and buildings designed by architects like Albert Frey and Donald Wexler.
- Shopping on Palm Canyon Drive: Browse the upscale boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops along Palm Canyon Drive, the city’s main shopping street.
- Spa Day: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at one of the many luxurious spas in Palm Springs, which offer massages, facials, and other treatments.
- Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park: Take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, which offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning desert landscapes.
- Palm Springs Air Museum: Visit this museum to learn about the history of aviation and see a collection of vintage aircraft on display.
- Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway: Tour the famous home where Elvis Presley and his bride, Priscilla, spent their honeymoon in 1967.
- Stargazing: Palm Springs is known for its clear skies and lack of light pollution, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and astronomy.
- The Riviera Palm Springs: This resort offers a luxurious pool, spa, and golf course, as well as a variety of dining options.
- Desert X: This annual art exhibition features large-scale installations and sculptures in the desert landscape.
- Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival: Attend this famous music festival, which takes place every April and features top performers and artists.
- Palm Springs International Film Festival: This festival showcases new and independent films, as well as awards ceremonies and industry events.
- Modernism Week: Celebrate mid-century modern architecture and design during this annual festival, which features tours, lectures, and exhibitions.
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Palm Springs. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this desert oasis.