The Perfect Day Trip To Palm Springs, California
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A day trip to Palm Springs is the perfect way to experience this retro desert oasis! Nestled in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is framed by stunning mountain views, making even the drive around the city stunning. Its unique mix of style, outdoor adventures, and relaxing vibes makes it an ideal stop, whether you’re on a road trip from LA to Joshua Tree (like we were) or just looking for a quick getaway.
Regardless of if you’re into design, nature, or just a serene escape from the city, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Palm Springs!
Palm Springs Day Trip Activities
Coffee at 4 Paws Coffee Co
Fuel your day trip to Palm Springs with a stop at 4 Paws Coffee Co! It’s a local favorite that serves mouthwatering coffee and unique drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cup of coffee or something a little more adventurous, this spot is the perfect place to kickstart your day.
I highly recommend the vanilla marshmallow iced latte—it was a sweet treat, and their bagel sandwich made for the perfect grab-and-go breakfast!
Andreas Canyon Palm Springs Trail
Being surrounded by towering mountains, hiking just feels like the natural thing to do in Palm Springs! One of the best spots to explore is the Andreas Canyon Palm Springs Trail. This easy yet scenic 1-mile loop is perfect for anyone looking to connect with the desert landscape. It does cost $12 per person, but you get access to this trail and several others in the area.
When we visited in January, we had the trail all to ourselves on a weekday morning. The weather was in the high 60s, so we were comfortable in sweatshirts and athletic pants. The hike took about 30 minutes, making it the perfect addition to a day trip to Palm Springs. If you’ve got more time, there are plenty of other amazing trails in the area you can also check out!
Thrift Shopping
One of the best parts of our Palm Springs day trip was checking out Revivals! It’s a local thrift shop with four locations around town. I scored some amazing finds, including two leather jackets that ended up being my go-to pieces for the rest of the trip. I wore them with pretty much every outfit!
Whether you’re looking for clothes, home decor, or something quirky, Revivals is a goldmine for pre-loved treasures, each with its own story to tell. It’s definitely worth a stop if you’re into thrift shopping!
Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum is home to a variety of exhibits, from contemporary art and Native American artifacts to modern sculptures.
The museum itself is a piece of art, and the displays offer a look into the creative energy that has shaped the area. Tickets are $16 for adults, but if you’re around on Thursday evenings between 5-8 PM, you can visit for free!
They are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Casino
If you’re feeling lucky, Palm Springs has a handful of casinos where you can put it to the test! Many offer promotions and free play for first-timers, so you don’t have to dive in with your own money right away!
While it might not be Las Vegas, it’s a fun way to add some extra thrills to your Palm Springs day trip. I walked away $20 ahead after using my $10 free play, so who knows, maybe you’ll be the next lucky winner!
Explore Downtown Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is packed with a mix of quirky shops, art galleries, and stylish boutiques, making it a perfect spot to wander and soak up the local vibe. As you stroll down Palm Canyon Drive, you’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing and local art pieces, perfect for picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your day trip.
The palm-lined streets also lead to some great places to eat and drink, with plenty of trendy cafes and restaurants to choose from. Plus, if you’re interested in getting a deeper taste of the city, don’t miss checking out the architecture—you’ll see lots of mid-century modern buildings that Palm Springs is known for.
Visit Forever Marilyn
While you’re wandering through downtown Palm Springs, be sure to stop by the iconic “Forever Marilyn” statue. This larger-than-life tribute to Marilyn Monroe immortalizes the moment from her famous scene in The Seven Year Itch, with her dress blowing in the wind.
It’s a favorite spot for photos and a perfect representation of the old Hollywood glamour that’s been part of Palm Springs’ charm for decades!
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Even if you just have one day in Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-do! You’ll get a ride from the desert floor to the San Jacinto Mountains with stunning views of the Coachella Valley along the way. Once you reach the mountain station, you’ll be greeted with incredible panoramic views and a variety of hiking trails.
While there is a $15 parking fee and a $30 tram ride fee per person, the breathtaking views and the experience of riding the world’s largest rotating aerial tramway make it worth every penny.
If you plan to hike once you reach the top, be sure to dress warmly—temperatures can drop significantly! When we visited in January, it was a chilly 22 degrees at the top, so we opted to skip the trails and just enjoy the tram ride. Even without hiking, the scenic ride up and down was well worth it!
Dinner at Azucar
To wrap up your day trip to Palm Springs, treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner at Azucar. It had a really lovely atmosphere and a delicious menu. The Azucar salad and my mocktail were the perfect start, and the King Salmon we had for dinner was phenomenal!
The intimate vibe at Azucar makes for a cozy dining experience, though keep in mind it can fill up quickly. If you’re visiting on the weekend or during peak season, definitely make a reservation in advance!
More to Explore in Palm Springs
Palm Springs Pool Party
Palm Springs is famous for its legendary pool party scene, but the best time to catch one is during the warmer months. Since we visited in January, we missed out on the action.
If your trip falls during the summer, you’ll find plenty of hotels and resorts hosting epic poolside parties. Expect great music, refreshing drinks, and an electric atmosphere—the ultimate way to soak up the California sunshine!
Palm Springs Spas
If relaxation is on your agenda, Palm Springs is home to an impressive selection of luxurious spas perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re looking for a massage, a facial, or a full spa day, you’ll find plenty of options to melt your stress away.
Be sure to check ahead for availability and specific treatments to make the most of your visit.
Observatory at the Rancho Mirage Public Library
If you’re visiting on a Thursday or Saturday you can experience Observatory Public Exploration Night at the Rancho Mirage Public Library. You’ll get to look through powerful telescopes and explore the wonders of the night sky with the guidance of knowledgeable astronomers!
If stargazing isn’t on the schedule, they also offer behind-the-scenes Observatory tours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 3:00 PM.
Check out this epic 3-day Los Angeles itinerary
Drag Brunch
Palm Springs and Drag Brunch go hand in hand! These lively events combine fabulous performances with delicious food and drinks, creating an atmosphere full of glamour and pure entertainment.
Sadly, our trip fell on weekdays, so we missed out, but if you’re lucky enough to be in town on the weekend, don’t skip this iconic Palm Springs activity!
Visit Joshua Tree
Just an hour away from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree is a desert oasis full of towering Joshua Trees, stunning rock formations, and unforgettable hiking trails. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Need tips for your visit? Check out my Joshua Tree day trip guide!
Where to Stay in Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs has a range of accommodations to match any vibe or budget. Whether you’re looking for a colorful, budget-friendly spot or a luxurious retreat, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few top picks:
- The Saguaro Hotel— This hotel has a lively and colorful energy. It’s a budget-friendly hotel and great for adventurous travelers. While it’s not the most luxurious option, its vibrant atmosphere and summer pool parties make it a fun and memorable choice!
- The Palm Springs Hotel— If you want a touch of luxury without overspending, this chic and sophisticated retreat has upscale amenities and a relaxing atmosphere at a reasonable price.
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel— If you’re craving full-on luxury, this hotel delivers. With a sleek design, a rooftop pool offering incredible desert views, and top-tier service, it’s the ultimate destination for a stylish and comfortable stay.
Check all available options available in Palm Springs for your dates here.
Additional Palm Springs Tips
- Parking and Logistics: Some spots offer designated parking, so it’s worth checking ahead. Luckily, we had no trouble finding parking, and even discovered free parking in certain downtown areas—super convenient for exploring!
- Seasonal Considerations: Palm Springs enjoys sunshine year-round, but activities like pool parties can vary depending on the season. Be sure to check for seasonal events or promotions during your visit.
- Navigating Attractions: Some info online about Palm Springs may be outdated. For example, the Desert X art installation wasn’t around during our trip. Stay flexible and ready for surprises or tweaks to your itinerary.
- Robolights Art Installation: We hoped to visit the quirky Robolights, but it’s now relocated to a private residence. Visits may require an appointment, though our attempts to schedule one weren’t successful. Be sure to confirm details before including it in your plans.
Ready for an epic day trip to Palm Springs?
A day trip to Palm Springs is the perfect escape, offering everything from desert hikes and cultural gems to fantastic food and unique shopping experiences. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, exploring downtown, or indulging in a spa treatment, there’s always something to do that captures the charm of this desert oasis. I hope this guide helped you plan your visit—let me know in the comments what you’re most excited to check out!
Before you go be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other West Coast blog posts:
4-day Seattle, Washington itinerary
Hacks to do Las Vegas on a budget