Palm Springs is a true desert oasis; waving palm trees, balmy weather, sun that never stops, and some of the best food, drink, and activities in all of SoCal. We’ve spent our fair share of time there (have to learn the lay of the land for you guys), so read on for our favorite Palm Springs activities and things to do.
Moorten Botanical Garden
Jetlag got you down? Feeling a little prickly? Moorten Botanical Garden is the perfect place to walk around and unwind after your voyage to Hollywood’s playground. Founded over 60 years ago and considered the world’s first “Cactarium,” these gardens are home to over 3,000 different cacti species and a plethora of small desert animals. It’s winding pathways and quirky Wild West setting make this sea of green a prime backdrop for your next desert photoshoot, and if you trip, oh well beauty is pain after all.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
It’s no secret that Palm Springs is a literal desert. Don’t worry though, we found the perfect way to cool you off, spin you around, and lift you up! The idea for Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was first concocted on a particularly hot day in 1933 when Francis Crocker gazed upon the misty mountaintop above and dreamed of being just as tall and cold. What can we say; the man was vertically challenged and we’re very grateful for his attempt at compensation. The ride lasts about 12 minutes and provides unbelievable views of the desert below.
Bacon Flight at Cheeky’s
Oversleep this morning? No worries, Cheeky’s serves breakfast all day! One of Palm Spring’s top-rated brunch spots, Cheeky’s offers freshly squeezed juices and breakfast cocktails, unique breakfast entrees (the menu changes weekly), homemade pastries and a bacon bar. Whether you’re recovering from a night out or just love breakfast that much (we do), you’ll have a hard time deciding what to order. We recommend their Bacon Flight Sampler…with five different flavors, you’ll definitely find a favorite. Need some sweet to go along with all that savory? How about one of Cheeky’s famous cinnamon rolls? They’re handcrafted from layered croissant dough and twirled in brown sugar and cinnamon. No, the mimosas are not bottomless, but they are made with a selection of fresh juices (try the Pomegranate).
Social Cycle
What’s the best way to tour downtown Palm Springs and get a taste of local color? Social Cycle of course! Voted the #1 activity on Palm Springs TripAdvisor, our party bike will take you to some of Palm Springs’ hottest spots for specialty cocktails and local brews! As you pedal through the heart of downtown along Palm Canyon Drive, your Captain will guide you to a selection of Palm Springs’ favorite and famous watering holes. From tiki bars to tapas restaurants, roadhouse pubs to outdoor patios, rooftop lounges to nightclubs–you’ll get to sample it all and quench your thirst! Hop on a public tour or book a private tour for your party.
Indian Canyons
Need a nature break from Palm Springs city life? Just a few miles south of downtown, Indian Canyons on the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation offers the chance to beat the desert heat while exploring winding canyons shaded by groves of native California Fan Palm trees. Make sure you check out Tahquitz Canyon while you’re there–it’s home to an exquisite 60-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife, and plants, which you’ll learn all about at the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center.
Kimpton Rowan Hotel
After long days of exploring everything Palm Springs has to offer, you’ll want to put your feet up and relax! At Kimpton Rowan Hotel, “urban enchantment meets epic scenery.” You’ll enjoy California’s legendary sunsets from their rooftop bar and pool, sample fresh, local foods at their restaurants, and take it all in at the end of the day in front of the two-story windows in their lobby. Choose from their guest rooms, specialty guest rooms, and suites for your stay, but know that whatever you choose, you will enjoy Palm Springs’ finest luxury restoration.
Backstreet Art District
In an environment like Palm Springs’ arid desert, artists are sure to find inspiration. Admire their creations in the Backstreet Art District where you’ll find paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and more. Visit Artize if you’re looking for some inventive contemporary pieces, and don’t miss Galleria Marconi’s stunning, one-of-a-kind glass creations.
Doors of Palm Springs
Doors of Palm Springs is a passion project started by Gré, a lover of world-travel and film photography. As she documents the many colorful and artistic doors in Palm Springs, you’ll want to do some Insta-stalking and see if you can’t go find a couple of the doors for yourself! Afterward, visit Gré’s Coffeehouse and Art Gallery downtown to grab a copy of her gorgeous coffee table book, containing all of the images she’s gathered over the years.
Tonga Hut
If you hop on a tour with us, we’ll make sure we take you to Palm Springs’ favorite Tiki bar, Tonga Hut, for some handcrafted island cocktails. If you can’t join us, make sure you try their specialty Mai Tai. This refreshing cocktail is based on the original Trader Vic’s recipe, and blends Jamaican and Puerto Rican rums with orgeat & orange curaçao and finishes with citrus notes.
Vintage Thrifting
Palm Springs has an eclectic population, and their thrift stores reflect it! No matter what your style is, you’ll find pieces to suit your fancy at one of their vintage thrift stores. For clothing, swing by Gypsyland and The Frippery. Our favorite thing about The Frippery is the variety of occasions you’ll find apparel for! Whether you’re poolside or headed out for a night downtown, they’ve got the perfect outfit waiting!
