Top 10 Things to Do in Palm Springs (2026 Guide)
Looking for the best things to do in Palm Springs? This curated guide covers the top 10 experiences—from iconic desert adventures to walkable downtown favorites—all within minutes of your stay at The Dunes Hotel Palm Springs, perfectly located to explore it all.
This guide is regularly updated with the best things to do in Palm Springs.
Ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar from the desert floor to over 8,500 feet into Mt. San Jacinto State Park. At the top, enjoy cooler temperatures, scenic trails, and incredible panoramic views—making it a must-do for families and first-time visitors alike.
📍 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📞 (888) 515-8726
🔗 https://pstramway.com
💡 Pro Tip: Go in the morning and bring a light jacket—it can be 30–40° cooler at the top. Always check the weather at the top of the mountain prior to visiting.
A favorite for families, this museum features one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWII aircraft. Kids and adults can get up close to historic planes, explore hangars, and even see live flight demonstrations on select days.
📍 745 N Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📞 (760) 778-6262
🔗 https://palmspringsairmuseum.org
💡 Pro Tip: Visit earlier in the day—many planes are outdoors and it heats up quickly by midday.
A standout cultural destination featuring modern and contemporary art, sculpture gardens, and rotating exhibitions. It’s a great way to add a little culture to your trip while staying cool indoors.
📍 101 N Museum Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📞 (760) 322-4800
🔗 https://www.psmuseum.org
💡 Pro Tip: Pair this with a downtown walk—it’s just steps from shops, coffee, and restaurants.
Located just outside Palm Springs, this expansive zoo and botanical garden showcases desert wildlife from around the world. With wide walking paths, interactive exhibits, and giraffe feedings, it’s one of the most engaging experiences in the area.
📍 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
📞 (760) 346-5694
🔗 https://www.livingdesert.org
💡 Pro Tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler.
The heart of Palm Springs, perfect for an easy afternoon or evening out. Stroll along Palm Canyon Drive to discover shops, restaurants, ice cream spots, and lively street events like VillageFest on Thursday nights.
📍 Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📞 (800) 347-7746
🔗 https://www.visitpalmsprings.com
💡 Pro Tip: Plan your visit around sunset—the light is better, the heat drops, and the energy picks up.
Palm Springs is known for its iconic midcentury modern architecture. Explore the city’s design history through self-guided drives or curated tours that showcase some of the most famous homes and buildings in the area.
📞 (760) 469-9265
🔗 https://www.psmodsquad.com
💡 Pro Tip: Book a tour or rent bikes or do a slow drive—many of the best homes are tucked into quiet neighborhoods.
A beautifully designed midcentury shopping destination featuring a curated collection of boutiques, home goods, and art. It’s a great stop for design lovers and anyone looking for something unique.
📍 1345 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📞 (760) 464-0480
🔗 https://theshopsat1345.com
💡 Pro Tip: This is one of the best spots for unique Palm Springs gifts—plan extra time to browse.
Just minutes from downtown, Indian Canyons offers stunning desert landscapes, palm oases, and scenic hiking trails. It’s one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Palm Springs.
📍 38520 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
📞 (760) 323-6018
🔗 https://www.indian-canyons.com/
💡 Pro Tip: Bring more water than you think you need—shade can be limited on trails.
Palm Springs is incredibly bike-friendly, with flat streets and scenic routes. Rent bikes and cruise through downtown neighborhoods, stopping along the way for coffee, shopping, or a quick bite.
📍1590 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
📞 (760) 548-0500
🔗 https://bwbtours.com/
💡 Pro Tip: Start early or go in the evening for the most comfortable ride.
One of the most iconic desert landscapes in the world, Joshua Tree National Park offers stunning rock formations, surreal Joshua trees, and endless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and stargazing. It’s a must-visit for families and nature lovers looking to experience the raw beauty of the California desert.
📍 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
📞 (760) 367-5500
🔗 https://www.nps.gov/jotr
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or near sunset for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the best light for photos.
After a full day exploring Palm Springs, where you stay matters just as much as what you do.
Sometimes the best part of Palm Springs is slowing down. At The Dunes, enjoy spacious poolside lounging, sunshine, and a relaxed midcentury atmosphere—perfect for families looking to unwind and enjoy the moment.
📍 390 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📞 (760) 656-0021
🔗 https://www.dunesps.com
💡 Pro Tip: Plan at least one full pool day—some of the best vacation moments happen when nothing is scheduled.
The Best Palm Springs Itineraries
Palm Springs is best experienced over two to three days—just enough time to balance relaxation with exploration. A two-day stay lets you enjoy the essentials, while a three-day trip gives you time to dive deeper without ever feeling rushed. Staying at The Dunes Hotel Palm Springs keeps every stop on this list within easy reach.
🌴 2-Day Palm Springs Itinerary
Best balance of activity + relaxation
Day 1 — Arrival + Explore
Afternoon Check into The Dunes and head straight to the pool.
Evening Walk to Downtown Palm Springs for dinner, dessert, and a relaxed evening exploring shops.
Day 2 — Full Experience
Morning Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum for a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Late Morning Bike through midcentury neighborhoods and quiet streets.
Afternoon Head to The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens for a family-friendly experience.
Late Afternoon Return to The Dunes for pool time.
Evening Optional sunset at Indian Canyons or a relaxed dinner nearby.
💡 Pro Tip: Alternate indoor and outdoor stops to stay comfortable in the heat.
🌵 3-Day Palm Springs Itinerary
The full Palm Springs experience
Day 1 — Arrival + Ease In
Afternoon Check into The Dunes, spend the afternoon poolside, and enjoy dinner downtown.
Day 2 — Iconic Palm Springs
Morning Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Afternoon Palm Springs Art Museum + walk Palm Canyon Drive.
Late Afternoon Pool and downtime at The Dunes.
Evening Dinner and drinks downtown.
Day 3 — Nature + Design
Morning Explore Indian Canyons with a light hike.
Late Morning / Afternoon Midcentury architecture tour + stop at The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five.
Afternoon Final pool session at The Dunes.
Optional Swap the morning for a Joshua Tree National Park trip if you want a bigger adventure.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep Day 3 flexible—relax or explore depending on your energy.
Palm Springs FAQ’s
What are the best things to do in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs offers a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and relaxation. Top activities include riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, exploring Indian Canyons, strolling downtown Palm Canyon Drive, and relaxing poolside at local resorts like The Dunes Palm Springs.
What are the best things to do in Palm Springs with kids?
Family-friendly activities in Palm Springs include the Palm Springs Air Museum, The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, easy hikes in Indian Canyons, bike rides through downtown, and poolside movie nights or events at hotels. Many attractions are outdoor and great for all ages.
How many days do you need in Palm Springs?
Most visitors find that 2–3 days is ideal to experience Palm Springs. This allows time to explore top attractions, enjoy a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, and relax by the pool. A longer stay lets you fully unwind and explore more local gems.
Is Palm Springs walkable?
Downtown Palm Springs is very walkable, especially along Palm Canyon Drive where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and galleries close together. For exploring neighborhoods, hiking areas, or nearby attractions, biking or driving is recommended.
What is the best time of year to visit Palm Springs?
The best time to visit Palm Springs is October through April, when temperatures are warm and comfortable. Summer is much hotter, but offers fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and plenty of poolside relaxation opportunities.
Planning your trip?
Check availability at The Dunes Hotel Palm Springs.
