Nestled in a cozy oasis in the desert of Southern California, Palm Springs has a unique, cosmopolitan sensibility combined with an adventurous spirit. There are tons of things to do when it comes attractions and sightseeing. The city became a popular holiday destinations for the rich and famous in the 1950s, although its popularity slightly declined during the 1980s. Today, it’s just as popular among retired people and also among a younger crowd. It’s very hot in summer, averaging 105° degrees, and it can even reach up to 120°. Surprisingly, it’s also a popular weekend getaway from the much cooler areas of Los Angeles (about 90 miles away) and San Diego (80 miles away).
We want to provide a different perspective of Palm Springs with a unique guide to the city. We’ve visited and done almost everything the city has to offer. here is my perspective of the city guide to Palm Springs.
WHAT TO DO
1.Visit San Andreas Fault. The world’s most famous fault line, where you can put one foot on both sides and enjoy the amazing views.
2. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. A place take in the stunning views of the Coachella Valley and the enjoy the only rotating cable car in the world that gives you a 360-degree view on the way up (1 Tramway Rd.)
3. Palm Springs Art Museum. Enjoy the beautiful art work
4. Agua Caliante Canyons. Get lost in nature with a hike through Desert Canyonland
5. Villagefest. The best festival in town takes place every Thursday of the year, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. during the season, and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. off-season.
6. Air Museum of Palm Springs. Named one of the best in the country and the best in California, it’s a great place to enjoy airplanes and aviation history at a amazing location.
7. Star-Studded Streets. Follow the signs along the streets in downtown to find your favorite celebrity’s humble abode.
8. Moorten Botanical Gardens and Cacterium. This is a one-of-a-kind, privately own location not to miss.
9. Visit the wind turbines. Palm Springs is the second windiest place on earth. Sign up with a tour company to see them up close.
10. Visit a city park. Recommended parks include Sunrise Park and Demute Park.
11. Self-guided tours of Hollywood Homes in the Movie Colony Neighborhood.
12. Organic Farmers Market on Saturdays. Check the opening times, as they change for peak and off-season.
You can find more in 101 things to do in Palm Springs.
GETTING THERE
By Plane: Palm Springs International airport (PSP) is fiv miles from downtown, connecting over one hundred cities worldwide. Location: 3400, E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springgs, California. Phone: 760- 318- 3800
Here’s a list of airlines that serve Palm Springs:
By car: From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east towards San Bernadino, then take the exits for Highway 111 or Indian Canyon Drive. Palm Springs is about a two-hour drive from most Southern California destinations when there isn’t much traffic.
By train: The Amtrak station is at 300 North Indian Canyon Drive.
GETTING AROUND
Palm springs isn’t a big city. It’s easy to get around, and you won’t get lost. The downtown area is very pedestrian friendly with paths and walkaways.
Rent a car: at the airport or you want to visit the city as a vip, rent a Limo, there are several Limo companies available such as West Coast Transportation, Cardiff Limousine and A-1 Sahara Limo.
By bus: Use the city’s Sun Bus. You can also take the Buzz, a free shuttle service that runs every 10 minutes from Thursday to Sunday on a designated route.
Rent a bike: There are several bike rental companies, and most of them are open during the season from September to June. Summer months aren’t really a time to rent one in the city.
WHERE TO STAY
The Riviera Palm Springs is famous for its mineral spa baths and luxury rooms.
The Hyatt, Renaissance, The Willow Historic Palm Springs Inn, The Saguaro, The Colony Palm Springs, Parker Hotel, Avalon Hotel, and the Hard Rock Hotel are the most touted hotels in town.
Budget hotels are: Best Western Inn, Motel 6, El- Rancho Lodge, Hotel California.
There are also hotels only for GLBT such as Barefoot Inn, Canyon Club Hotel, All World’s Resort, Helios, El Mirasol Villas, and La Joya Inn.
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many bars and restaurants available for anyone’s taste. Here are some locales that are great to take a seat and dig in.
The best seafood: Fisherman’s Market & Grill is considered to have the best and freshest seafood in town (235 S. Indian Canyon Dr.).
The best pastries: Sherman’s Deli & Bakery (401 E. Tahquitz Canyon Rd.).
The best food: LULU’S California Bistro. It’s always busy, so make a reservation (303 N. Indian Canyon Dr.).
The best hamburgers: Tyler’s Burgers (149 S. Indian Canyon Dr.).
The best steak: Riccio’s Steakhouse & Seafood (495 N. Palm Canyon Dr.).
The best pizza: Bill’s Pizza (119 S. Indian Canyon Dr.).
SPORTS
Golf: The courses in Palm Springs are classified as some of the best in the nation. Although they’re busy in season there are great deals to be found off season(summer). Here are the most famous and easily accessible courses in the city.
Cimerron Golf Resort, Tahquitz Creek Golf resort, Indian Canyon Golf Resort, Escena Golf Resort, PGA West
Tennis: Most city parks, such as Ruth Hardy Park and Dimuth Park, have tennis courts. If you want something prestigious, then play at the Racket Club Tennis Courts.
EVENTS
There are events all year round. Check out the event calendar on the Palm Springs city website for the latest.
SURROUNDINGS
2. El Paseo shopping district
3. East Jesus
4. Salton Sea
5. Slab City
6. Joshua Tree National Park
7. Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon
8. Dinosaures in Cabazon
9. Idyllwild
10. Living Desert Zoo
11. Noah Purify Outdoor art Museum
12. Desert Christ Park, Yucca Valley
MEDICAL
Desert Regional Medical Center is the best. It’s located on Indian Canyon Way in the historic El Mirador Hotel.
OTHER DESERT CITIES NEARBY
Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Indio, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs
Very unique and cool guide. Thanks for the insights.
We loved Palm Springs, such a unique place and I really loved the retro vibe it had!