Things to do in Palm Springs, California
- Palm Springs was originally settled by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who possess approximately half of the city's land through a checkerboard land-ownership pattern.
- The city is home to one of the world's largest collections of mid-century modern residential architecture, much of which was designed by influential architects like Richard Neutra and Donald Wexler.
- Palm Springs has a unique ordinance that prevents buildings from being tall enough to block the sun, contributing to its low-rise urban sprawl.
- The area experiences a 'rain shadow' effect caused by the San Jacinto Mountains, which prevents coastal storms from reaching the valley floor.
- During the mid-20th century, the city became an unofficial 'playground' for Hollywood celebrities due to the studio-enforced 'two-hour rule,' which kept stars within reach of Los Angeles while providing complete anonymity.
About Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is a mid-century modern architectural hub located in California's Coachella Valley, defined by its stark desert landscape and sprawling sunshine. It serves as a gateway to the San Jacinto Mountains via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which ascends into alpine wilderness. The city maintains a rich cultural legacy reflected in venues like the Palm Springs Art Museum and the mid-century pop aesthetic found at The Shag Store. Additionally, the historic Walk of the Stars Palm Springs commemorates the legacy of Hollywood stars who established the area as a legendary desert getaway.
Highlights of Palm Springs, California
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Natural attractions
The rotating tram car provides 360-degree views as it ascends 8,516 feet to the mountain peak.
Museums
This museum preserves significant military aircraft and honors the history of the Flying Tigers.
Museums
The museum features extensive collections of contemporary art, photography, and indigenous cultural artifacts.
Places of interest
This immersive installation features an expansive, eccentric collection of light displays and recycled sculptures.
Historical places
The sidewalk features hundreds of stars dedicated to entertainers who frequented or lived in Palm Springs.
Museums
This gallery is dedicated to the distinct, stylized mid-century modern artwork of artist Shag.
Venues
A historic venue that anchors the local theater scene with a diverse schedule of live performances.
Parks
A community-focused green space designed to emphasize health and wellness in the desert climate.
Top things to do in Palm Springs, California
The 28 highest-rated places in Palm Springs, California, ranked by travellers.
1
Natural attractions
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world's largest rotating tram car system, climbing 5,873 feet from the floor of t...
2
Museums
The Palm Springs Air Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of flyable World War II, Korea, and Vietnam er...
3
Museums
The Palm Springs Art Museum serves as the primary cultural institution in the Coachella Valley, focusing on modern and c...
4
Parks
Mount San Jacinto State Park features over 14,000 acres of high-altitude wilderness, including the 10,834-foot Mount San...
5
Parks
Ruth Hardy Park is an 8-acre municipal park located in the historic Movie Colony district of Palm Springs. The park feat...
6
Parks
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is an expansive desert oasis situated at the intersection of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts...
7
Places of interest
Robolights is a sprawling, immersive art installation created by artist Kenny Irwin Jr. that features millions of lights...
8
Historical places
The Palm Springs Walk of Stars honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment,...
9
Parks
Panorama Park is a 12-acre municipal recreational facility in Cathedral City featuring extensive desert-themed landscapi...
10
Parks
Desert Christ Park is a 3.5-acre hillside sculpture garden in Yucca Valley, California, featuring over 40 large-scale co...
11
Museums
The Shag Store is a dedicated retail gallery and exhibition space in Palm Springs showcasing the colorful, mid-century m...
12
Natural attractions
Mount San Jacinto stands as the second-highest mountain range in Southern California, reaching an elevation of 10,834 fe...
13
Museums
14
Natural attractions
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Museums
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Venues
17
Temples
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Parks
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Temples
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Parks
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Venues
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Natural attractions
28
Natural attractions
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Palm Springs, California on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Palm Springs, California
October to May, as summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F (38°C), making outdoor exploration difficult.
3-4 days to balance architectural tours, museum visits, and outdoor excursions.
A rental car is highly recommended for navigating the valley, though the downtown area is walkable and served by the SunLine Transit Agency.
The Uptown Design District is ideal for architectural enthusiasts, while downtown offers proximity to major restaurants and cultural institutions.
Expensive, particularly during the high season in winter and spring when demand for accommodations peaks.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 28 curated attractions in and around Palm Springs, California, ranked by traveller ratings.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the highest-rated place to visit in Palm Springs, California right now.
The largest category is parks, with 8 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Downtown Los Angeles, Bayonne, New Jersey, Washington, D.C..
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