Start your adventure in Palm Springs, a desert oasis filled with stunning midcentury modern architecture and a vibrant art scene. In the morning, head to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley. Afterward, visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to see a varied collection of contemporary and modern art. For lunch, grab a bite at the Workshop Kitchen + Bar, known for its farm-to-table cuisine. In the afternoon, hike to the Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall or take a dip in the natural hot springs. End your day with a sunset hike at the Indian Canyons.
Take an early morning drive to Joshua Tree National Park to capture the surreal landscape of twisted Joshua trees and boulder formations. Start with a hike to Hidden Valley, a one-mile loop surrounded by towering rock walls, perfect for rock climbing and bouldering. Next, head to Barker Dam, a short hike that leads to a historic dam built by cattlemen in the early 1900s. For lunch, stop by Crossroads Cafe, a local favorite for its vegan and gluten-free options. Spend the afternoon exploring the Cholla Cactus Garden, a unique desert wonderland filled with thousands of spiky cacti. End your day with a sunset hike to the Keys View Overlook for panoramic views of the Coachella Valley.
Spend your last day exploring Joshua Tree Town, a quirky desert community filled with vintage shops, art galleries, and eclectic eating establishments. Start with breakfast at the Joshua Tree Saloon, known for its hearty American fare and live music. Next, visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Sculpture Museum, a unique outdoor art exhibit featuring large-scale installations made from found materials. For lunch, try natural and organic food at Natural Sisters Cafe. In the afternoon, visit the famous World Famous Crochet Museum, a tiny roadside attraction that showcases crocheted objects from around the world. End your day with a visit to the Integratron, a unique sound bath experience that claims to provide physical and mental relaxation.
If you have more time, consider extending your trip to explore the Salton Sea or take a hot air balloon ride over the desert. Another popular side trip is a visit to the Pioneertown, a western-themed movie set that now serves as a quirky desert community. To maximize your fun, we recommend planning your trip in the cooler months between October and April to avoid the scorching summer heat. Additionally, be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen for your desert adventure. Lastly, we suggest staying overnight in the Joshua Tree area to maximize your time in the park and town. Book your hotels and flights here.