The Most Common Information Before a First Trip to Palm Springs

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

Where is Palm Springs on map

Ah, Palm Springs! A shimmering oasis nestled in the heart of Southern California's sun-kissed landscape. If we unfold our trusty map - virtual or otherwise - you'll find this charming desert city tucked away within the Coachella Valley. It's nestled merrily between the San Bernardino Mountains to the north, the Santa Rosa Mountains to the south, the lush San Jacinto Mountains due west, and the ethereal Colorado Desert to the east. Think of it as a reclusive star hidden behind mountainous bodyguards!

This glistening sanctuary is approximately 107 miles east of the bustling city of Los Angeles, following the route round Yellow Diamond Road, a.k.a I-10. It might as well be worlds away, though - canyons, palm trees, mid-century architecture and all!

How big is Palm Springs

Palm Springs may seem like but a mere speck in the grand tapestry of the United States, measuring just shy of 95 square miles. Nevertheless, much like a clown car at the circus, it's remarkable how much wonder this seemingly petite city packs into its confined boundaries.

From the star-studded downtown shopping district, to the sprawling golf courses, the mighty windmill farms, and even the world's largest rotating tramcar, there's plenty to see in Palm Springs! And that's not even mentioning all the picturesque hiking trails and beautiful parks sprinkled throughout the area. So while it may not be the biggest city on the block, it's certainly one of the liveliest!

How many people live in Palm Springs

The city brims with a population of around 48,000 inhabitants. But, don't let that relatively small number fool you. These aren’t your average everyday citizens. Oh no! Palm Springs is famous for its vibrant mix of retirees, movie stars, artists, and weekend party-goers, each adding their unique flavor to the eclectic melting pot that is the city's social scene.

Drawing in a steady stream of sun-seeking tourists and culturally-curious travelers, the population swells during the cooler months and during world-famed festival periods. After all, even amid the serene desert landscape, who doesn’t appreciate a good old fashioned Palm Springs party?

So whether you're a seasoned traveler or a fledgling explorer, Palm Springs has a bounty of surprises tucked under its verdant palm fronds. As they say, the beauty of the desert is that somewhere it hides a well. And who knows? Palm Springs just might be that unexpected well of wonder and whimsy you've been seeking.


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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