3-Day Family Adventure: Outdoors, Shopping & Sightseeing in Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

3 days

Welcome city sign
Modern architecture in desert landscape
Winter in the city
View of the Saguaro hotel
Mid century modern architecture

About Palm Springs, California

Experience the charm of Palm Springs, California, a desert oasis that blends natural beauty with mid-century modern culture. Nestled at the base of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains, Palm Springs offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication. Explore the Indian Canyons on foot or horseback, or ride the world's largest rotating tramcar at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Discover the city's rich history at the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Enjoy world-class golfing, shopping, and dining, or relax at a luxury spa. With over 350 days of sunshine, Palm Springs is an ideal destination for those seeking a warm, sunny getaway. Whether you're an art enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or just looking for a relaxing retreat, Palm Springs has something for everyone.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heights and Arts of Palm Springs

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding desert as you ascend to the top of San Jacinto Peak. Once at the top, there are hiking trails suitable for all ages.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of San Jacinto Peak. There are picnic areas available, or you can choose to dine at one of the restaurants at the peak.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a guided tour of the Palm Springs Art Museum. The museum features a diverse collection of art, including contemporary and modern pieces, as well as traditional Native American art.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a family-friendly restaurant in downtown Palm Springs. There are many options to choose from, offering a variety of cuisines.

Evening

End your day with a stroll through the Palm Springs VillageFest. This weekly street fair features arts, crafts, food, and entertainment, and is a great way to experience the local culture.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. This unique zoo features animals and plants from deserts around the world, and offers interactive exhibits and activities for kids.

Lunch

Have lunch at a café in the El Paseo Shopping District. This area is known for its upscale shops and restaurants, and is a great place to relax and people-watch.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and galleries in the El Paseo Shopping District. You'll find a wide variety of items, from high-end fashion to unique local crafts.

Dinner

Dine at a restaurant in the Uptown Design District. This area is known for its mid-century modern architecture and design, and offers a variety of dining options.

Evening

After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the Uptown Design District. The area is beautifully lit at night, and there are many interesting shops and galleries to explore.

Morning

On your final day, visit the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium. This family-owned garden features a unique collection of desert plants and cacti, and offers guided tours.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood. This area is known for its historic homes and palm tree-lined streets, and offers a variety of dining options.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Palm Springs Air Museum. This museum features one of the world's largest collections of World War II aircraft, and offers interactive exhibits and activities for kids.

Dinner

Have your final dinner in Palm Springs at a restaurant in the Downtown area. Choose from a variety of cuisines, from traditional American to international fare.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. This sidewalk tribute features stars dedicated to the many celebrities who have lived in Palm Springs.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

1
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The world's largest rotating tram car, travelling over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon.

Attractions
Tours
San Jacinto Peak

2
San Jacinto Peak

San Jacinto Peak, located in Palm Springs, is the highest peak in the San Jacinto Range. It's a popular destination for hiking, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The peak can be reached via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, making it accessible for all levels of hikers.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Palm Springs Art Museum

3
Palm Springs Art Museum

A regional art, natural science and performing arts institution for Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Palm Springs VillageFest

4
Palm Springs VillageFest

A weekly street fair that offers a range of products from artisans, merchants and food vendors.

Attractions
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

5
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

A zoo and botanical garden representing the desert environments of North America and Africa.

Attractions
Gardens
Tours
Uptown Design District

6
Uptown Design District

The Uptown Design District is a shopping destination in Palm Springs known for its mid-century modern architecture and design shops.

Neighborhoods
Shopping
Architecture
Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium

7
Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium

A family-owned botanical garden that specializes in cacti and other desert plants, founded in 1938.

Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Old Las Palmas

8
Old Las Palmas

Old Las Palmas is a historic neighborhood in Palm Springs. It's known for its beautiful homes, many of which are in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The neighborhood has been home to many celebrities over the years, adding to its charm and appeal.

Neighborhoods
Architecture
Cultural Experiences
Palm Springs Air Museum

9
Palm Springs Air Museum

A museum dedicated to educating the public about the role air power played in preserving American liberties and way of life.

Museums
Palm Springs Walk of Stars

10
Palm Springs Walk of Stars

A series of sidewalk plaques dedicated to the celebrities who have lived in Palm Springs, contributing significantly to the city's development and reputation as a major resort destination.

Landmarks
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Date Shake

Date Shake

A popular drink in Palm Springs made from locally grown dates, milk, and ice cream. It's a sweet, creamy, and refreshing treat perfect for the desert heat.

Fish Tacos

Fish Tacos

A Southern California staple, these tacos are typically made with grilled or fried fish, cabbage slaw, and a creamy sauce. Palm Springs' proximity to the ocean ensures fresh and delicious seafood.

California Roll

California Roll

A sushi roll that originated in California. It typically includes avocado, crab meat, and cucumber. Given Palm Springs' location in California, it's a must-try.

Avocado Toast

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish in California, it's made with ripe avocados and various toppings on toasted bread. It's a healthy and delicious start to the day.

Carnitas

Carnitas

A Mexican dish of slow-cooked pork, often served with tortillas and salsa. Given Palm Springs' proximity to Mexico, this dish is a local favorite.

Chiles Rellenos

Chiles Rellenos

A traditional Mexican dish made of stuffed, roasted, fresh poblano peppers filled with cheese and sometimes meat, covered in an egg batter and fried. It's a popular dish in Palm Springs due to its Mexican influence.

California Burrito

California Burrito

A style of burrito that originated in Southern California. It typically includes carne asada, cheese, sour cream, and French fries or potatoes. It's a filling and satisfying meal.

Churros

Churros

A sweet dessert of fried dough coated in sugar, often served with chocolate dipping sauce. This dessert is popular in Palm Springs due to its Mexican influence.

Craft Beer

Craft Beer

Palm Springs has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and flavorful brews. It's a must-try for beer lovers.

Street Tacos

Street Tacos

Small tacos typically served on corn tortillas with meat, onions, cilantro, and salsa. They're a popular street food in Palm Springs.

Guacamole

Guacamole

A traditional Mexican dip made from ripe avocados, lime, cilantro, and other fresh ingredients. It's a popular appetizer in Palm Springs.

Local Wine

Local Wine

California is known for its wine, and Palm Springs is no exception. There are many local wineries producing high-quality wines that are worth trying.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Palm Springs, California as a tourist is from January to April. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This is also the peak season for tourism, so there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, consider visiting in the fall, from October to December, when the weather is still comfortable and the city is less crowded.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 15

Mon

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February 19

Mon

Presidents' Day

May 27

Mon

Memorial Day

June 19

Wed

Juneteenth

July 4

Thu

Independence Day

September 2

Mon

Labor Day

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 11

Mon

Veterans Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Palm Springs. There are several car rental companies located at the Palm Springs International Airport and throughout the city. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available in Palm Springs. These services can be accessed through their respective smartphone apps and provide a convenient way to get around the city.

Palm Springs has a public bus system, operated by SunLine Transit Agency, that covers the city and nearby areas. The buses run daily, with reduced service on weekends and holidays.

Palm Springs is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in the city.

Taxis are readily available in Palm Springs. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks.

Several hotels and resorts in Palm Springs offer shuttle services to and from the airport, as well as to popular tourist destinations. Check with your accommodation to see if this service is available.

Palm Springs is a walkable city, especially downtown where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance of each other.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a unique way to see the city. It takes you from the valley floor to the top of Mount San Jacinto, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding area.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Palm Springs, California as a first time visitor

1

Palm Springs is located in the Sonoran Desert, so it's important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially during the summer months.

2

The city is known for its mid-century modern architecture, so take some time to appreciate the unique buildings and homes.

3

Palm Springs has a dry desert climate with over 350 days of sunshine per year.

4

The city experiences very high temperatures in the summer, often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), so plan your outdoor activities accordingly.

5

Winter is the peak tourist season in Palm Springs, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time.

6

Palm Springs is a popular destination for retirees and has a slower pace of life compared to larger cities.

7

The city is very LGBT-friendly, with numerous events and venues catering to the community.

8

Palm Springs has a strict noise ordinance, so be mindful of your noise levels, especially at night.

9

The city is located near several natural attractions, including Joshua Tree National Park and the San Jacinto Mountains.

10

Palm Springs is a great place for outdoor activities, including hiking, golfing, and tennis.

11

The city has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and art festivals throughout the year.

12

Palm Springs has a wide range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to casual diners.

13

The city is known for its vintage shopping, particularly for mid-century modern furniture and decor.

14

Palm Springs has a small airport, Palm Springs International, which offers flights to several major cities.

15

The city is very walkable, but it also has a free trolley service, the Buzz, that runs through the main areas of town.

16

Palm Springs is a popular destination for music festivals, including Coachella and Stagecoach, which take place nearby.

17

The city has a number of luxury spas and wellness centers, many of which use natural hot springs.

18

Palm Springs has a dress code that leans towards casual, but some restaurants and events may require more formal attire.

19

The city is home to the world's largest rotating tramcar, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

20

Palm Springs is just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, making it a popular weekend getaway for Southern Californians.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Evening wear

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Shorts

  • T-shirts

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Driver's license or photo ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Car rental confirmation

  • Health insurance card

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Portable power bank

  • Travel adapter (if coming from abroad)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Books or e-books for leisure reading

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • First aid kit

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Tissues

  • Travel guide and map

Weather Conditions

Palm Springs, California, is known for its hot desert climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year. The city experiences high temperatures, especially during the summer months, which can reach up to 108°F (42°C). Therefore, if you're planning a summer trip, it's essential to stay hydrated and wear sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The winter months, from December to February, are much milder and can be a great time to visit. Daytime temperatures typically range from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or golfing. However, the desert can cool down significantly at night, with temperatures dropping to around 40°F (4°C), so packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather conditions, with temperatures typically ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). These seasons are ideal for exploring the city's many outdoor attractions, including the Joshua Tree National Park and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Palm Springs is located in a desert region, which means the climate can be quite dry. Be sure to pack moisturizer and lip balm to prevent dry skin and lips. Also, always carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during your visit. While Palm Springs is generally sunny, it can occasionally experience sudden weather changes, including rare rainstorms and wind gusts.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

20° / 7°

January is the coldest month in Palm Springs, but it's still relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius.

February

22° / 9°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 9 to 22 degrees Celsius, making it a pleasant time to visit.

March

24° / 11°

March is the start of spring with temperatures ranging from 11 to 24 degrees Celsius, perfect for outdoor activities.

April

28° / 14°

April is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 14 to 28 degrees Celsius, ideal for enjoying the beautiful desert scenery.

May

32° / 18°

May is the start of the hot season with temperatures ranging from 18 to 32 degrees Celsius, remember to stay hydrated.

June

37° / 22°

June is very hot with temperatures ranging from 22 to 37 degrees Celsius, perfect for poolside relaxation.

July

40° / 26°

July is the hottest month with temperatures ranging from 26 to 40 degrees Celsius, make sure to protect yourself from the sun.

August

40° / 26°

August continues the heat of summer with temperatures ranging from 26 to 40 degrees Celsius, a great time for indoor activities.

September

36° / 22°

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 22 to 36 degrees Celsius, making outdoor activities more comfortable.

October

30° / 17°

October is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 17 to 30 degrees Celsius, ideal for exploring the city.

November

24° / 11°

November is the start of the cooler season with temperatures ranging from 11 to 24 degrees Celsius, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

December

20° / 7°

December is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius, a great time to enjoy the holiday festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Palm Springs, California is known for having over 350 days of sunshine each year?

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