Ultimate 5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Palm Springs, CA

Day 1: Desert Discovery

Palm Springs, CA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cheeky's

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cheeky's, known for its farm-fresh ingredients and innovative dishes.
Located in the Uptown Design District.
USD15, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Take a scenic ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views of the Coachella Valley.
Drive to Tramway Rd.
USD28, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Sandwich Spot

Refuel with a hearty sandwich at The Sandwich Spot, where options range from classic to creative.
Return to downtown Palm Springs.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum

Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum featuring contemporary and modern art.
A quick 5-minute drive from lunch.
USD14, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Take a break and unwind at your hotel pool as the sun starts to set.
Walk back to your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Spenser's Restaurant

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Spenser’s, known for its romantic atmosphere and exquisite cuisine.
Located at the base of the mountains.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature's Majesty

Joshua Tree National Park, CA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Donut Den

Grab a quick but indulgent breakfast featuring fresh donuts and coffee before departing.
Located just off Palm Canyon Drive.
USD8, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Drive to Joshua Tree National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its unique desert landscapes.
It's about a 1-hour drive, following CA-62 E.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Hidden Valley

Hike the Hidden Valley trail, which is a relatively easy loop filled with stunning rock formations.
Head to Hidden Valley Campground.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe

Recharge at Crossroads Cafe, famous for its homemade soups and hearty sandwiches.
Exit the park and head to Joshua Tree Village.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Cholla Cactus Garden

Stroll through the mesmerizing Cholla Cactus Garden and take in the enchanting views.
Return to the park along the main road.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Palm Springs

Enjoy the scenic ride back to Palm Springs, reliving the beautiful landscapes.
Follow CA-62 W.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tommy Bahamas

Savor a tropical-themed dinner with delicious seafood and handcrafted cocktails.
Back in downtown Palm Springs.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Relax & Recharge

Palm Springs, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Elmer's Restaurant

Start your day with comfort food at Elmer's, known for its pancake breakfasts and friendly service.
Just off the main street.
USD12, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Explore the Living Desert Zoo, featuring native plants and animals in a beautiful setting.
Easy drive, about 20 minutes away.
USD20, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Des Beaux-Arts

Enjoy a relaxing lunch featuring French-inspired cuisine and a lovely atmosphere.
In the same area as the zoo.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Spa Time at Your Hotel

Indulge in spa treatments or simply relax by the pool at your chosen hotel.
Use the hotel facilities.
Varies, 3 hours

5:00PM

Shopping on El Paseo

Stroll the luxurious shopping district known as the Rodeo Drive of the desert.
Head to El Paseo Drive.
Free to browse, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Truss & Twine

Cap off the day with an upscale American dining experience focusing on seasonal ingredients.
Located in central Palm Springs.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 4: Desert Adventures

Coachella Valley, CA

7:30AM

Breakfast at Farm

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes at Farm, a quaint restaurant with a charming courtyard.
Located in the Palm Springs area.
USD20, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley from above during a hot air balloon ride.
Meet at designated launch area, typically around 30 minutes from Palm Springs.
USD200, 3 hours (including prep and ride time)

12:00PM

Lunch at La Copine

Head to La Copine for a delightful menu filled with fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes.
Drive to nearby Flamingo Heights.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Coachella Valley Preserve

Go for a refreshing hike through the Coachella Valley Preserve to experience the desert flora.
Drive from lunch, it’s about a 30-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Palm Springs

Make your way back to Palm Springs and enjoy the scenic drive.
Returning along the same route.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Azul Latin Kitchen

Wrap up your day with lively Latin cuisine and delicious margaritas.
Located near downtown Palm Springs.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 5: Final Explorations

Palm Springs, CA

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Omelette Tree

Enjoy a classic breakfast with delectable omelets and hearty sides.
A local favorite near downtown.
USD15, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Palm Springs Windmills

Take a drive to see the iconic windmills, a symbol of renewable energy in the valley.
A short 20-minute drive from Palm Springs.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Cabazon Dinosaurs

Visit the famous giant dinosaur sculptures and explore the small museum.
Another 15 minutes drive from the windmills.
USD12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Enjoy a casual dining experience with a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
Drive to Cabazon.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Return to Palm Springs

Head back to Palm Springs for a final adventure in the city.
Drive back through I-10 E.
Free, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Last-minute Shopping at Palm Springs Premium Outlets

Take advantage of discounts and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
Located near I-10 E exit.
Free to browse, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Purple Palm Restaurant

Celebrate your final evening with an elegant dinner surrounded by lush gardens.
Back at your hotel neighborhood.
USD45, 2 hours
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