Top things to do in Palm Springs

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 6/20/2024

Best places to visit in Palm Springs

Palm Springs, nestled in the desert of Southern California, is like a sun-soaked oasis teeming with mid-century charm, natural beauty, and batches of resident celebrities. But today, we're setting the stardom aside and diving into the authentic and breathtaking gems this desert paradise has to offer.

Joshua Tree National Park

First on our list is the wondrous Joshua Tree National Park. Now, my friends, if you haven't yet taken in the surreal spectacle of Joshua Trees stretching as far as the eye can see, you're certainly in for a treat. There's a peculiar kind of magic here and you can experience it to the fullest by hopping on numerous hiking trails or setting camp under the starry night sky. Striking granite formations, a multitude of wildlife, and rugged landscaped shaped by extreme climate conditions, the park is a hearty serving of awe-inspiring nature for the finest of outdoors aficionados.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Hold onto your hats, and hop onto the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway! We are about to embark on the world's largest rotating cable car journey, climbing over two and a half miles of awe-striking wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. As our trip concludes, we find ourselves brimming with joy in a winter wonderland.

Must see places in Palm Springs

Beyond its charming diners and eclectic boutiques, Palm Springs harbors treasures that transport you to another time and space.

Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum, my friends, is undoubtedly an enriching visit for any culture enthusiast. Tucked away in the heart of downtown, this monument of enthusiasm for human creativity houses an expansive collection of modern and contemporary art, glass, photography, architecture, and design. The museum is wrapped in a mix of sophistication, creativity, and breathtaking beauty whispering stories of the generations that passed.

Sunnylands

Finally, let's tip-toe into a world of noble allure at Sunnylands. Once the winter retreat for billionaire couple Walter and Leonore Annenberg, this place is permeated with a Grand-Canyon-esque feel of magnificence. Touched with a rich history and staggering visual beauty, it serves as a serene background for high-level summits between global leaders. The meticulously manicured gardens, lush walkways, and the collection of brilliant artworks inside are enough to turn anyone into a history buff overnight.

So, there you have it. From the surreal natural landscapes to the enchanting vestiges of human ingenuity and culture that stretch back generations, Palm Springs really does have something for every discerning traveler. So why are you still here? Get out there and start exploring!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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