Joshua Tree National Park
Located less than an hour’s drive from Palm Springs, outdoors lovers will find Joshua Tree National Park. The park is one of the most famous in the United States southwest. Many travelers use Palm Springs as a base and visit Joshua Tree National Park for hiking and mountain biking.
Not only is it an excellent site for trekking, but the park is also a popular camping area for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Opened in 1963, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating aerial tramway. It takes visitors from the Coachella Valley up to the top of San Jacinto Peak.
At the top of the mountain is the Peaks restaurant. Travelers can sit above the clouds to delicious meals while enjoying the breathtaking views of Palm Springs. The San Jacinto Peak is also a perfect place for hiking and camping.
BMW Ultimate Driving Experience
In the nearby city of Thermal, visitors will find the BMW Ultimate Driving Experience. It offers an opportunity to sample a variety of BMW vehicles at the exclusive Thermal Club.
Experiences include the M Drive, which allows participants to get behind the wheel of an M BMW and the Track Meet, which offers a unique opportunity to meet other BMW owners and network. The half-day event offers a gourmet lunch along with three driving sessions.
Palm Springs Art Museum
Dedicated to art crafted in the American southwest, the Palm Springs Art Museum has been in operation since it was founded in 1938. If you love art, then you will have plenty of reasons to explore the museum. Sculptures and contemporary art make up the lion’s share of items on display, but there is more to the museum than the two art disciplines.
The Annenberg Theater is located onsite and regularly hosts events. Archaeology, biology, and geology exhibits are also on display at the museum.
Palm Springs VillageFest
One of the great things about Palm Springs is its relatively small size. Thanks to this, it has a cozy atmosphere. Fewer than 50,000 people live in the desert city, making it feel neighborly.
The Palm Springs VillageFest is one event that brings out the city’s quaint appeal. The street fair occurs every Thursday night and attracts locals for food, entertainment, and shopping via street stalls. Located on Palm Canyon Drive, a variety of food, drink, and artisan stalls open up when the sun goes down. In addition, many of the brick and mortar stores along the street also remain open late.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Home to more than 500 animals, here's a zoo that's doing things right. The owners and staff pride themselves on providing their animals with the best and most ethical care. They prioritize conservation and breeding programs intending to expose visitors to the glory of desert habitats and wildlife. Be sure to check out the four-acre Rhino Savanna during your visit.
Coachella Valley Preserve
If you prefer to see wildlife in its more natural habitat, the Coachella Valley Preserve is for you! These dunes formed over thousands of years from the winds over the San Bernadino Mountains. The area is home to unique species, such as the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, and giant palm-boring beetle. The 20,000-acre sanctuary is also home to several oasis habitats filled with luscious green vegetation.
Palm Springs Air Museum
Educating visitors on air travel's impact on some of American history's most significant events, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation. The museum gives those visiting the chance to experience the beauty of its WW2 aircraft firsthand, with passenger flights available to purchase.
Palm Springs is a small city with a big appeal. It is an excellent destination for travelers who love the outdoors. Whether driving the turns of Thermal Club or soaring high over the city in the tramway, Palm Springs is a paradise worth exploring.
Weather
Local Favorite: Parma Sandwich
A mouthwatering Parma sandwich can be found at The Real Italian Deli, one of the top lunch spots in Palm Springs. The American-created sandwich was inspired by Italian meats and cheeses. The main ingredient is Parma ham which is layered onto ciabatta or panini bread. Mozzarella, tomato, pesto, olive oil, and arugula are added to the sandwich to deliver a one-of-a-kind taste. The Parma sandwich has been around for a long time and although we know its roots are in Italy, its true origin is lost to history. The Parma sandwich available at The Real Italian Deli is served on the restaurant's own torpedo bread. Order up a Parma sandwich at the deli's counter and take it with you as you explore the city.
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