10 Best Places To Visit In Palm Springs, United States

10 Best Places To Visit In Palm Springs, nestled in the Coachella Valley of California, is renowned for its year-round sunshine, stunning desert landscapes and mid-century architecture. This vibrant city, which once served as the ultimate retreat for Hollywood icons, continues to attract visitors with its unique blend of luxury, relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast or simply looking to relax, Palm Springs offers a range of attractions that promise unforgettable experiences. Here are the ten best places to visit in Palm Springs to make the most of your stay.

1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

For breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an absolute must. As the world’s largest rotating tramcar, it takes you from the desert floor up to the cooler heights of Mount San Jacinto State Park in just ten minutes. Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with endless trails, scenic viewpoints and even snow during the winter months. Hikers and nature lovers will find a variety of trails catering to all levels, while visitors can enjoy a meal at the mountain-top Peaks Restaurant or the Pines Café.

2. Joshua Tree National Park

Just a short drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a natural wonder with its surreal landscape of twisted Joshua trees, massive boulders and rugged mountains. The park’s unique ecosystem, where the Mojave and Colorado deserts converge, makes it an ideal destination for camping, rock climbing, stargazing and hiking. Hidden Valley, Barker Dam and Keys View are some of the must-visit spots within the park. Whether you’re exploring by car or on foot, Joshua Tree offers endless opportunities for nature photography and adventure.

3. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

For those fascinated by desert flora and fauna, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in nearby Palm Desert provides an immersive experience. This expansive zoo showcases animals and plants native to the deserts of North America and Africa. From giraffes, cheetahs and camels to native plants like ocotillos and agave, visitors can get up close with the diverse life of desert habitats. Additionally, the Living Desert offers unique experiences like giraffe feeding, camel rides and a replica of a desert oasis garden. With beautiful trails and shaded pathways, it’s a fantastic stop for families and nature lovers.

4. Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum is a cultural gem in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. With a rich collection of modern and contemporary art, Native American artifacts and stunning desert landscapes, this museum caters to art lovers of all backgrounds. The museum’s sculpture gardens and striking architecture make it a visually appealing space and rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to explore. For those interested in mid-century modern design, the nearby Architecture and Design Center is a must-see extension of the museum.

5. Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium

The Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium is a one-of-a-kind experience, housing more than 3,000 varieties of desert plants. Established in 1938 by the Moorten family, this historical garden showcases a wide array of cacti, succulents and other desert plants arranged in a peaceful, picturesque setting. The Cactarium, a greenhouse filled with rare and unusual specimens, is a highlight for plant enthusiasts. Strolling through the pathways lined with spiny giants and colorful blossoms, visitors can appreciate the beauty and resilience of desert flora.

6. Indian Canyons

Indian Canyons is a sacred and picturesque site, historically significant to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The canyons feature lush palm groves, streams and scenic hiking trails like the Murray Canyon, Palm Canyon and Andreas Canyon trails. Palm Canyon, one of the world’s largest natural palm oases, is especially popular for its stunning landscapes and towering fan palms. These trails range from easy to moderately challenging and offer a unique view of the region’s natural beauty, cultural history and geological wonders.

7. Downtown Palm Springs and VillageFest

Palm Springs’ downtown area is a lively hub filled with boutique shops, art galleries, vintage stores and trendy eateries. A visit here is incomplete without experiencing VillageFest, a vibrant street fair held every Thursday evening. Featuring local vendors, artists, musicians and food stalls, VillageFest brings the community together in a festive atmosphere. Downtown Palm Springs is also known for its mid-century architecture, with many buildings showcasing the distinctive designs that make the city famous. A leisurely stroll through the streets is a delightful way to explore Palm Springs’ unique character and culture.

8. Coachella Valley Preserve

For a serene escape from the city, the Coachella Valley Preserve offers a peaceful oasis in the desert. Home to the rare California fan palm and the threatened desert pupfish, this 20,000-acre nature preserve is ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. The area features several easy hiking trails, with the McCallum Trail leading to the beautiful McCallum Pond, where visitors may see endangered species. Guided nature walks are available for those interested in learning more about the unique ecosystem of the Coachella Valley.

9. Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Once the retreat of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and other world leaders, Sunnylands Center & Gardens in nearby Rancho Mirage is an estate renowned for its stunning modern architecture and 9 acres of beautifully landscaped desert gardens. Visitors can tour the Sunnylands estate, enjoying the art collections and history within its walls or stroll the free public gardens designed to reflect the desert landscape. Sunnylands is a cultural and historical treasure, often hosting art exhibits, lectures and garden walks, making it an enriching stop for those interested in history, art and nature.

10. Tahquitz Canyon

One of the most stunning natural sites in Palm Springs, Tahquitz Canyon is known for its seasonal 60-foot waterfall, ancient petroglyphs and picturesque hiking trails. Managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, this canyon offers guided tours that provide insights into the history and culture of the Native American tribes that have inhabited the area for centuries. The hike to the waterfall is a moderate two-mile round trip and offers beautiful views of the surrounding rock formations, making it a perfect outdoor excursion for nature lovers and history buffs a like.