The Best Things to Do in Palm Springs (2022)

Palm Springs is the epitome of the glamourous desert resort paradise usually seen on screen. If you’re going there, I’m already jealous! To help you plan your trip, I’m sharing the perfect Palm Springs itinerary.

With its oasis-like landscapes and incredible mid-century modern architecture, this southern California city outside of Los Angeles, definitely has its own unique charm.

Palm Springs is truly the city to be in for its fantastic vintage vibes, relaxing resorts, mid-century modern architecture, exciting activities, and booming nightlife.

If you want to feel like you’re always on vacation, you’re sure to feel it here!

Don’t worry! This list has got you covered on the best things to do in Palm Springs, CA.

Pssst, heading to Palm Springs soon? Don’t miss these travel guides to help you plan your trip!

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Known for its relaxed vibe, trendy boutique hotels, and mid-century modern architecture, Palm Springs makes the perfect year-round getaway. While I generally enjoy a packed itinerary, there is something about being in Palm Springs that makes me want to slow down, ditch the itinerary, and lounge at the pool instead. No matter what you are looking for, this Palm Springs Travel Guide highlights some tried and true Palm Springs favourites to help you plan the perfect trip!

Read on for the best things to do in Palm Springs California

Sip a boozy cocktail at Bootlegger Tiki

Tucked into the former home of tiki bar Don the Beachcomber—and named for the tiki pioneer’s original career—this petite cocktail bar is a celebration of Polynesian pop. Grab a booth under a blowfish lamp and order powerful drinks made with passion fruit, lemongrass, and lots and lots of rum.

Another notable mention is The Tonga Hut on the drive.

Wander the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium

Created in the 1930s as a private family garden, this 1.5-acre property is now a public oasis, where visitors pay $5 to explore a wonderland of cacti from around the globe. More than 3,000 species are on view at Moorten, where master gardeners lead daily tours, Instagrammers pose among the thorny residents, and shoppers pick up succulents to take home.

This is perfect if you want to see some desert flora, but don’t want to venture into the actual desert.

Explore Joshua Tree National Park

Less than an hour from downtown Palm Springs is the Joshua Tree National Park, where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts intersect in a landscape of prickly cactus gardens, sculpted boulders, meadows of wildflowers, and, of course, Joshua trees.

Bookmark a day for exploring or stay the night to take in spectacular starlit skies. Don’t forget to pack practical shoes, water, sunscreen, and food!

Palm Canyon Drive

In the heart of the city, Palm Canyon Drive provides the perfect getaway for all your shopping needs.

Featuring palm trees strung with lights, it’s a dreamy location where you can spend hours of your time—stopping off for coffee, dining at trendy restaurants, and browsing vintage boutiques, and art galleries.

It’s basically the most popular street in town!

You can’t really go to Palm Springs, California without exploring Palm Canyon Drive.

Some icons to look out for are the Palm Spring Visitor Center—a spaceship kinda looking building (great for Insta!)—and the Art Deco-style Plaza Theatre. Even the Bank of America here, inspired by Le Corbusier, is architecturally interesting. Wander the neighbourhood behind the drive and find some stunning properties!

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Providing a link between Palm Springs and the top of San Jacinto Peak—the highest of the San Jacinto Mountains—the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is more than just transport; it’s a cool thing to do just by itself!

This amazing ride over the sheer mountain face covers a vast array of different habitats and ecosystems.

But what makes it cooler still is the fact that the car you’re in, as it trundles up towards the peak, actually moves around for 360-degree views. Trust me; you’ll want to see it all!

Palm Springs Art Museum

This cool art museum is located in Downtown Palm Springs and was first opened in 1938.

There is an interesting selection of artwork displayed at the Palm Springs Art Museum, with 24,000 objects ranging from Native American Art and photography to fine art and contemporary pieces.

It’s a treat to go visit this place. You may be pretty surprised at the depth this place goes—you could even call it an oasis of culture!

Go on an Architecture Tour

Palm Springs is known for its gorgeous mid-century modern houses and architecture. Book an architecture tour like this one.

Take a Hike

One of the most popular activities in Palm Springs and surrounding areas is hiking! There are 69 scenic trails you can find, from easy, to experience trails. You can see desert oasis and waterfalls or breathtaking views of the valley!

Find them listed here.

There you have it, people! My travel tips for the best time ever in Palm Springs. You may think it’s all hot springs and golf, but as you can see, there’s more to this popular destination than that. There are also fantastic cocktail bars, restaurants, photo ops, and plenty of pools to dip in!

Let me know what awesome stuff you wind up doing in Palm Springs by tagging me in your Insta pics and stories (I’m @alifewellconsumed btw!). I can’t wait to see your content!

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