Whether you’ve heard of Palm Springs for its music festivals or relaxing resorts, there is so much more to this desert getaway than meets the eye.
Located about two hours from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is a unique city in Southern California that will make all of your friends wonder why they haven’t ventured out to the desert.
From one of the country’s most popular music festivals to a date garden (more on that later), Palm Springs is a vibrant and special destination.
Here are just some of the features and activities that make Palm Springs a unique and exciting place to visit for a weekend or a few weeks:
One-of-a-kind Desert Oasis
Palm Springs: A city with old-time charm, modern amenities and outdoor activities galore. Enjoy the many resorts and spas year-round as winter temperatures are typically in the 70’s.
Hollywood stars of past and present have called Palm Springs home and famous hotels like the El Mirador have hosted Lucille Ball, Frank Sinatra and more.
Although the hotel is now a medical center, you can still stay in historic resorts like the charming Del Marcos Hotel, built in 1947. Relax in the heated saltwater pool and enjoy the view of the stars in the night sky during happy hour.
Then, you should check out the unique display of Cabozon Dinosaurs before you take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. As the largest rotating tramway in the world, you’ll feel on top of the world after a ride to the San Jacinto Peak.
There are even dining options on top of the tram including the table service dining experience at Peaks Restaurant. Try to think of any other place that offers high-end dining with a view, history and even a little bit of weird. It’s all here in Palm Springs, where the weather and people offer year-round unique entertainment.
A Prime California Location
Located within the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs grants access to surrounding cities like Indio, Rancho Mirage and more.
Not only is this desert getaway outside of Los Angeles, but it’s also just two and a half hours from San Diego and a four hour drive from Phoenix.
Palm Springs is a great location to call home while being able to explore all that Southern California has to offer. If you’re just visiting, the unique desert landscape and fun environment will make you want to come back year after year for more memories and good times in the Sonoran Desert.
Good Vibes Make Positive Memories
What truly makes Palm Springs a one-of-a-kind destination are the lively people and the variety of things to do in the area.
Start your weekend on Palm Canyon Drive where you can stop in vintage boutiques and find the perfect Instagram-able outfit. Then, grab breakfast or lunch (or brunch) at Cheeky’s, one of Palm Springs many quaint restaurants.
Let the good times continue while laying out by the pool and catching up on that reading list. Or, get a day pass at the trendy and always enjoyable Ace Hotel & Swim Club. This old motel was converted to have its now modern flare, a common trend in Palm Springs. Enjoy the Swim Club Pool for live DJs and drink specials or find yourself at the Commune Pool for more a laid back vibe.
Outdoor Activities Galore
You can spend an entire day exploring the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, where guests have the chance to feed giraffes and go on a private safari. The zoo also offers a botanical garden that gives information and perspective on native plants.
Even better, explore Palm Springs’ terrain by foot – or ATV! Adventurers can rent ATVs and ride on a designated course with full training included. On the ATV you will get magnificent views of the famous Palm Springs wind turbines and can even take a selfie in your oh-so fashionable helmet.
Another unique outdoor highlight is the Shields Date Garden in Indio. Make it a date and tour the stunning gardens, which are filled with fountains, exotic plants and more. Then, stop in the gift shop for delicious candy and a date shake made fresh from the garden.
We can’t talk about unique outdoor activities without of course mentioning the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Held annually in Indio, California, the party spreads out to Palm Springs each year where thousands of music and arts fans from around the world come together.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s your first time to Palm Springs or you’ve lived there all your life, there’s always something new and interesting to find in this diverse city.
Book your next camping trip or stay in one of its post-modern hotels to truly experience all this city has to offer. Then, fill your itinerary with fun activities unlike any vacation you’ve been on before! But beware, after one visit, you’re going to want to start searching for a home to call yours in this beautiful desert oasis.
Guest Post by Hailey Keiser.