Welcome to Palm Springs! Start your trip by checking in at one of the fantastic hotels in the area and relax after your journey. Take this time to familiarize yourself with the city and plan for the exciting days ahead.
In the morning, take a scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which offers breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley. Spend the afternoon exploring the Mount San Jacinto State Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails and beautiful vistas. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Est. cost - $26.95 (adult), Time spent - 3-4 hours
Mount San Jacinto State Park: No entrance fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Dinner: Est. cost - $30-$50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Tropicale is a vibrant breakfast spot known for its lively atmosphere and delicious menu options. With an average cost of $15 per person, you can enjoy a delightful breakfast experience.
For lunch, head to Elmer’s Restaurant, a local favorite offering classic American dishes with a charming diner ambiance. You can expect to spend around $10-$15 per person for a satisfying meal.
For dinner, try Spencer's Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine. With an average cost of $30-$50 per person, you can indulge in a memorable dining experience.
Monday, October 23: Joshua Tree National Park
Spend the day exploring the stunning Joshua Tree National Park. Start your morning with a scenic drive through the park, admiring unique rock formations and Joshua trees. Take a hike through one of the many trails, such as Hidden Valley or Barker Dam. As the sun sets, witness the breathtaking beauty of the desert landscape.
Joshua Tree National Park: Entrance fee - $30 per vehicle, Time spent - Full day
Restaurants
Breakfast: Elmer's Restaurant
Lunch: Crossroads Café
Dinner: Workshop Kitchen + Bar
Tuesday, October 24: Palm Springs Architecture Tour
Discover the mid-century modern architecture that makes Palm Springs famous. Start your day with a visit to the Palm Springs Visitor Center to pick up a map of the architectural highlights. Spend the morning exploring famous buildings and neighborhoods, such as the Twin Palms Estates and the Kaufmann Desert House. In the afternoon, relax by the pool at one of the retro-chic hotels.
Palm Springs Visitor Center: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1 hour
Palm Springs Architecture Tour (self-guided): No cost, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Hotel pool time: No cost, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cheeky's
A local favorite known for its creative brunch dishes, Cheeky's offers a variety of options including pancakes, eggs benedict, and seasonal specials. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Lunch: Workshop Kitchen + Bar
For a modern twist on classic American cuisine, Workshop Kitchen + Bar is a great choice. Their lunch menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as their popular bacon cheeseburger and roasted chicken. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Dinner: Tropicale
Step into a tropical paradise at Tropicale, a vibrant restaurant offering a fusion of California and global flavors. From seafood to steak, their menu has something for everyone. Don't miss their signature coconut cake for dessert. The average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Immerse yourself in the desert ecosystem at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Spend the morning exploring the zoo exhibits, including desert animals and botanical gardens. Enjoy a picnic lunch on-site before continuing your adventure. In the afternoon, take a short drive to the Indian Canyons for a scenic hike among palm oases and ancient Native American sites.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Est. cost - $24.95 (adult), Time spent - 3-4 hours
Indian Canyons: Entrance fee - $10 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, you can try Elmer's Restaurant, a local favorite known for its classic American breakfast options. Expect to spend around $10 per person for a meal.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, head to The Sandwich Spot, a popular sandwich shop in Palm Springs. They offer a variety of fresh sandwiches and salads, with an average cost of $12 per person.
For dinner, make a reservation at Lulu California Bistro, a trendy and vibrant restaurant with an extensive menu featuring American and international cuisine. The average cost for a meal at Lulu California Bistro is about $25 per person.
Thursday, October 26: Golfing and Spa Day
Indulge in a day of relaxation and pampering. Palm Springs is renowned for its world-class golf courses and spas. Play a round of golf on one of the championship courses in the morning. Afterward, treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa session, whether it's a massage, facial, or a soak in natural hot springs. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant.
Golfing: Est. cost - $100-$300 (varies), Time spent - 4-5 hours
Spa session: Est. cost - $100-$200 (varies), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Dinner: Est. cost - $30-$50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Wilma & Frieda in Palm Desert. Enjoy their famous benedicts and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Elmer's Restaurant in Palm Springs. Indulge in their classic American comfort food like burgers and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a delectable dinner, visit Birba in Palm Springs. Their modern Italian menu features handcrafted wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Friday, October 27: Palm Springs Art Museum
Explore the art and culture of Palm Springs at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Spend the morning browsing the impressive collections featuring modern and contemporary art, as well as Native American and Western artworks. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch in downtown Palm Springs and take a stroll along Palm Canyon Drive, known for its stylish shops and galleries.
Palm Springs Art Museum: Est. cost - $13 (adult), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Lunch: Est. cost - $20-$40, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Palm Canyon Drive: No cost, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Wilma & Frieda: A charming breakfast spot known for its modern takes on classic dishes like buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict. Average cost for a meal is about $15-$20 per person.
Native Foods Café: A popular lunch spot offering delicious plant-based fare including sandwiches, bowls, and salads. Average cost for a meal is about $10-$15 per person.
Eight4Nine: A stylish dinner destination with a diverse menu featuring creative dishes like lobster mac and cheese and truffle roasted chicken. Average cost for a meal is about $30-$40 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
In addition to the main attractions, Palm Springs has some hidden gems loved by locals. Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden to explore the desert flora and learn about the region's plant life. Take a scenic drive along the Palm Springs Windmills to appreciate the majestic wind turbines that contribute to the city's sustainability efforts. Lastly, don't miss the chance to savor a date shake, a local specialty, at Shields Date Garden.