There are lots of things to do in Palm Springs aside from just lying around in the pool and having a spa treatment! This side of California is also a haven for arts and nature. If you’re already checking out Palm Spring hotels, then you better also take a look at what not to miss out on when you’re there.
Things to Do in Palm Springs | A Nature and Art Trip to Remember
In this article:
- What Time Is It in Palm Springs?
- Free Things to Do in Palm Springs
- Things to Eat in Palm Springs
- Most Popular Restaurants in Palm Springs
- Most Popular Places to Shop in Palm Springs
- Most Popular Destinations in Palm Springs
- How to Get Around in Palm Springs
- Travel Tips for Palm Springs
1. What Time Is It in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs, California follows Pacific Standard Time or UTC -8 hours. It also follows daylight savings time. Pacific Daylight Time will start on March 11 and end on November 4.
2. Free Things to Do in Palm Springs
Whether you want to enjoy the sunny side of Palm Springs or take your relaxation in the indoors, there are loads of stuff you can do here that won’t cost you a cent!
Take a hike at the Coachella Valley Preserve and take delight in its lush greenery. You may even find yourself sharing the trail with some horses. They offer several trails which you’ll enjoy whether you’re a newbie hiker or a more experienced one.
If you’re an art and culture lover, you must not miss out on a visit to the Palm Springs Art Museum. It features both the regions unique culture and contemporary art. Another stop art lovers must visit is the Backstreet Art District which features collections from local artists. You can even buy some of the artwork there!
3. Things to Eat in Palm Springs
The food scene in Palm Springs constantly evolves and every visit can get you trying out new dishes. Sink your teeth in some potato tacos or mushroom chorizos. You can also hit the bar and get yourself some avocado tartine.
4. Most Popular Restaurants in Palm Springs
There’s a surge of restaurants, hotels, and bars in Palm Springs, which makes choosing where to eat quite difficult! According to TripAdvisor, Purple Room is among the best restaurants in Palm Springs. It’s a great place for a cocktail night and listen to their live music.
For some French feels, head on over downtown to Peninsula Pastries. This French bakery will have you longing for pastries any time of the day!
5. Most Popular Places to Shop in Palm Springs
What’s a vacation without a little shopping, right? Luckily, Palm Springs has a variety of shops for your retail therapy. If it’s high-end brands you’re looking for, the Gardens on El Paseo will be a good choice for a shopping spot. While you’re taking a break from all the shopping, you can also take the time to relax and smell the roses! For a unique shopping experience, also try The River, which also offers popular brands!
Now if you’re a fan of street fairs, head on over to the parking lot of the College of the Desert which turns into the COD street fair every weekend!
6. Most Popular Destinations in Palm Springs
A vacation in Palm Springs just won’t be complete without a ride in the Aerial Tramway! Make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to ride the largest rotating tram in the world and have your breath taken away by the view over the desert. If you want to enjoy the desert by hiking, you definitely want to do that in the Indian Canyons!
7. How to Get Around in Palm Springs
The easiest way to get around Palm Springs is by car, especially if you want to get to the Coachella Valley and Joshua Tree. If you’re trying to get as much exercise as you can, you can also grab a map of Palm Springs, a bottle of water, and slip on some comfortable shoes and explore downtown. Biking is also a good option if the weather is nice.
8. Travel Tips for Palm Springs
Palm Springs is one of the United States most luxurious destinations, but there are ways to save money on your trip. First, you can schedule your trip in July or August when hotel and restaurant rates are lower. Plus, you can also check for deals and discounts in their Bureau of Tourism’s website.
For more things to do in Palm Springs, check out this video from Jamie Banks:
Palm Springs has been seen as one of the most luxurious vacation spots in the U.S. but more than luxury, this side of California has a lot to offer for nature lovers and art lovers. So what are you waiting for? Get packing and hit the road on to Palm Springs!
Have you been to Palm Springs? What was your favorite experience? Let us know in the comments section below!
Up Next: Tips For Traveling Alone: Skills For Solo Adventures
Let Us Know What You Think