3-Day Solo Adventure: Outdoor Activities & Sightseeing in Palm Springs
Palm Springs, California
3 days
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 2
Botanical Garden Visit and Mount San Jacinto Adventure
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium, a unique garden showcasing desert plants from around the world.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local café. Palm Springs has a variety of cafes offering fresh, locally-sourced food.
Afternoon
Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mount San Jacinto State Park. Enjoy the breathtaking views and explore the hiking trails.
Dinner
Have dinner at a restaurant with a view. Many restaurants in Palm Springs offer stunning views of the desert and mountains.
Evening
Experience Palm Springs' vibrant nightlife. There are numerous bars and clubs, offering everything from live music to DJ sets.
Day 3
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and Palm Springs Air Museum Visit
Morning
Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, a unique zoo and botanical garden that specializes in the deserts of the world.
Lunch
Have lunch at a restaurant in Palm Desert. The area offers a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining.
Afternoon
Explore the Palm Springs Air Museum, home to one of the world's largest collections of World War II aircraft.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Palm Springs at a restaurant offering local cuisine. Try some of the region's specialties, like date shakes or citrus dishes.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Palm Springs VillageFest, a weekly street fair featuring arts, crafts, food, and entertainment.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Indian Canyons
A group of canyons that are home to Palm Springs' indigenous people, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning desert landscapes.
2Palm Springs Art Museum
A regional art, natural science and performing arts institution for Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.
3Palm 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.
4Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium
A family-owned botanical garden that specializes in cacti and other desert plants, founded in 1938.
5Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The world's largest rotating tram car, travelling over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon.
6Mount San Jacinto State Park
A vast state park home to the second highest mountain range in Southern California, offering hiking, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
7Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
A zoo and botanical garden representing the desert environments of North America and Africa.
8Palm Springs Air Museum
A museum dedicated to educating the public about the role air power played in preserving American liberties and way of life.
9Palm Springs VillageFest
A weekly street fair that offers a range of products from artisans, merchants and food vendors.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Small tacos typically served on corn tortillas with meat, onions, cilantro, and salsa. They're a popular street food in Palm Springs.
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Car Rental
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
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.
Public Transportation
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.
Biking
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.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Palm Springs. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks.
Shuttle Services
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.
Pedestrian
Palm Springs is a walkable city, especially downtown where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance of each other.
Tramway
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.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Palm Springs, California
Joshua Tree National Park
A vast protected area characterized by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes.
Salton Sea
A shallow, saline, endorheic rift lake located directly on the San Andreas Fault.
Big Bear Lake
A small city in Southern California, known for Bear Mountain ski resort.
San Diego Zoo
A popular attraction featuring over 3,500 rare and endangered animals, and more than 700,000 exotic plants.
Disneyland Park
The first of two theme parks built at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, opened on July 17, 1955.
Universal Studios Hollywood
A film studio and theme park in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles County, California.
Santa Monica Pier
A large double-jointed pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California.
Getty Center
A campus of the Getty Museum and other programs of the Getty Trust.
SeaWorld San Diego
An animal theme park, oceanarium, outside aquarium, and marine mammal park.
Legoland California
A theme park, miniature park, and aquarium located in Carlsbad, based on the Lego toy brand.
