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5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Palm Springs, California

Viewed by 115 travelers

Day 1: Explore Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cheeky's

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cheeky's, known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and exceptional brunch menu.
Head to Cheeky's, located in the heart of Palm Springs.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Take a breathtaking 10-minute ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to enjoy stunning views and hiking opportunities atop Mount San Jacinto.
Drive east on Tramway Road to the tramway entrance.
USD28, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Farm

Indulge in a farm-to-table experience at The Farm, featuring fresh salads and gourmet sandwiches in a delightful garden setting.
Drive back into Palm Springs, located downtown.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum

Immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art at the Palm Springs Art Museum, which hosts a fantastic collection of art and sculptures.
A short drive south from The Farm.
USD15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through Palm Springs Walk of Stars

Take a leisurely stroll and discover the stars of prominent figures who have contributed to the entertainment industry, all while enjoying the warm Palm Springs sun.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at LuLu California Bistro

Finish your day with vibrant American cuisine at LuLu California Bistro, where the atmosphere and flavors come together perfectly.
A quick drive back toward the main downtown area.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Joshua Tree Adventure

Joshua Tree National Park, California

7:00AM

Breakfast at Caffe Italia

Fuel up for your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Caffe Italia, featuring authentic Italian pastries and coffee.
Located near the center of Palm Springs.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Joshua Tree National Park

Begin your journey to the one-of-a-kind Joshua Tree National Park where the unique desert landscape awaits.
Take CA-62 E for about 45 minutes.
USD0, 45 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Hidden Valley

Hike through Hidden Valley, an easy 1-mile loop trail surrounded by stunning rock formations and beautiful desert flora.
Park at Hidden Valley Trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe

Grab a delicious lunch at Crossroads Cafe, known for fresh sandwiches and local charm, just outside the park.
Exit the park and head towards Joshua Tree town.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Cholla Cactus Garden

Visit the Cholla Cactus Garden and take a short walk to marvel at the dense population of unique cholla cacti.
Drive back to the park north toward Cholla Cactus Garden.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Skull Rock

Stop by the iconic Skull Rock for photo ops and to stretch your legs with a short walk through fascinating rock formations.
Continue driving through the park.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return Journey to Palm Springs

Wrap up your day as you begin to drive back to Palm Springs, reflecting on the sights you’ve seen.
Follow the same route back to Palm Springs.
USD0, 45 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Original Szechuan

Savor authentic Szechuan cuisine at The Original Szechuan, where the bold flavors will delight your palate after a day of adventure.
Head back into downtown Palm Springs.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park

Day 3: Relax in Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

8:30AM

Breakfast at Farm

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at The Farm once again, relishing the farm-fresh ingredients and laid-back atmosphere.
Located downtown, easy to access.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Moorten Botanical Garden

Wander through the enchanting Moorten Botanical Garden, home to a vast collection of desert plants and cacti.
A short drive to South Palm Canyon Drive.
USD5, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax at a Pool

Spend the late morning lounging by your hotel's pool; enjoy the warm sun and perhaps sip on a refreshing cocktail.
Returning to your accommodation.
Free (if you are a guest), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Jake's Palm Springs

Delight in an upscale lunch at Jake's, known for their innovative dishes and chic environment.
A short drive to Palm Springs Area.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit The Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Explore the beautifully landscaped grounds of The Sunnylands Center, offering serene walking paths and cultural exhibits.
A quick drive over to Sunnylands.
USD10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Shopping on El Paseo

Stroll through shopping on El Paseo, known as the Rodeo Drive of the desert, with upscale boutiques and art galleries.
Drive to El Paseo.
Free to browse, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Steakhouse at Agua Caliente Casino

Indulge in a top-notch steak dinner at The Steakhouse, offering a classic dining experience with a twist.
A brief drive to the casino.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Hiking Day

San Jacinto Mountains, California

7:30AM

Breakfast at Koffi

Grab a quick breakfast at Koffi, famous for its fair-trade coffee and delicious pastries.
Head toward the original Koffi location.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hiking at Mount San Jacinto State Park

Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway again and embark on hiking trails in Mount San Jacinto State Park, surrounded by captivating views.
Take the tram to the top once more, and start your hike.
USD28, 4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at the Summit

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit, surrounded by stunning mountain views and fresh air.
No travel needed for this activity.
USD12 (for picnic provisions), 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Hiking

Continue your hike and explore beautiful trails down from the summit while soaking in the natural beauty.
Follow the trail markers.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return via Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

End your hiking day with the scenic tramway ride back down.
Follow the signs to return to the tramway.
Included in previous tram cost, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Enjoy some relaxation time back at your hotel, perhaps lounging by the pool with a drink.
Head back to your accommodation.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Spaghetteria

Enjoy a taste of Italy at Spaghetteria, where homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes await.
Drive to the restaurant location is near downtown.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Jacinto Mountains

Day 5: Culture and Relaxation

Palm Springs, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Elmer's Restaurant

Savor a hearty breakfast at Elmer's, a local favorite known for homestyle breakfast dishes and friendly service.
Head to Elmer's located centrally.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum

Explore the amazing collection of vintage aircraft at the Palm Springs Air Museum, a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts.
A short drive northeast from Elmer's.
USD20, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pinocchio in the Desert

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Pinocchio, known for its creative breakfast options served all day.
A short drive back towards downtown.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at the Spa

Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment at one of Palm Springs’ premier spas.
Head to a nearby spa of your choice.
USD100 (varies by treatment), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Indian Canyons

Spend your afternoon exploring the tranquil beauty of Indian Canyons, complete with fascinating hiking trails and rich history.
Drive to the Indian Canyons visitor center.
USD12, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at sole' Restaurant

Conclude your Palm Springs adventure with a gorgeous dinner at sole', offering exquisite Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
A short drive from the Indian Canyons.
USD40, 2 hours
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