From my many travels to Palm Springs, I have developed a list of my personal favourite activities to do in this remarkable city. Personally, I love traveling to Palm Springs as it is the perfect getaway for relaxation, shopping, hiking, and site-seeing. I hope my recommendations help you have a memorable and gratifying vacation!!!
Indian Canyons
Indian Canyons is my favourite hike that I have ever been on in the state of California. There are a variety of trails that range in difficulty and length of completion. There is a gift shop as well as a snack shack, so you can grab a cold ice cream bar for your hike, that is, if it doesn’t melt first. The hike starts off with shaded coverage from the hundreds of Palm trees towering over you and ends in the dry California sun rays beating down on your skin. Bring water! Lots of water!
Located: 38520 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park has numerous hiking trails, rock climbing, and stargazing. This escape is filled with flowers, cactus, and unique rock formations, including “Skull Rock”. Outstanding skies from sunrise to sunset. Come for the day or camp overnight.
Located: 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA
The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo is a gorgeous and glamorous two story shopping centre in Palm Desert. This shopping strip is lit up and beautifully kept with flowers, fountains, and cacti. Walk a whole mile of home, jewelry, clothing and shoe stores. Shop luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Juicy Couture, and Burberry. The Gardens also are home to many local shops and boutiques. Do not forget to keep an eye out for celebrities. If you’re going to see a celebrity on your vacation in the greater Palm Springs area, The Gardens of El Paseo is where it’s at.
Dine out or have a drink on one of the many exquisite patios on El Paseo. I highly recommend the Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Lounge. You won’t regret trying their Piña Coladas and Pineapple Creme Brûlée.
Located: 73545 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA
The Cross Hike
The Cross Hike’s main attraction is the huge illuminated cross at the top of the mountain. Perfect for taking photos or enjoying a scenic view of Palm Desert. The climb is moderate in difficulty, and only takes a hour or two to complete, depending on your speed of course. There is a picnic table and a drinking fountain at the start of the trail. Happy hiking!
Located: 72500 Thrush Rd, Palm Desert, CA
Downtown Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is perfect for a night out. Stroll along the streets and be entertained by exquisite street performers and live music. Pop in and browse at various local shops and boutiques. Enjoy a wide variety of delicious food and drinks. Come across the giant Marilyn Monroe sculpture standing 26 feet tall. Enjoy your “walk of fame” as your saunter across the engraved stars in the sidewalk that give recognition to the celebrities past and present that have lived in the greater Palm Springs area.
Windmills
Curious why I recommend taking time out of your vacation to see windmills? I am talking about a 360 degree view of thousands of windmills towering around 500 feet tall and spread out across miles of desert and mountain terrain. There are tours offered for those interested, but I suggest just driving on the highway. It really is a sight worth seeing.
Located: 62950 20th Ave, Palm Springs, CA