Palm Springs is a bit of a quirky destination: retro resort chic meets desert hippie. Add a sprinkle of pool party thrown in for good measure. With an undeniably cool vibe, it comes as no surprise that tourists flock here for decades, from celebrities such as the likes of Frank Sinatra to the ultra-hip Instagram influencers that take over the Coachella Valley at the springtime eponymous music festival. If you are planning on visiting the Palm Springs area anytime soon, but aren't too sure how to make the most of your time there, we got you covered.
Continue reading to find out how to spend your weekend in Palm Springs, CA.
A 4-Day Weekend in Palm Springs Complete Guide
Day 1
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The most impressive way to view all of Palm Springs is via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world's largest rotating tram car. This method of transportation transports visitors over 2 1/2 miles long over Mt. San Jacinto State Park. The elevation at the final destination is 8,516 ft. The tram ride isn't the best part of visiting this park, the top area has restaurants, 50+ miles of hiking trails, stunning views, and two documentary theaters.
Indian Canyons—Palm Canyon—Andreas Canyon
Both the Indian Canyons and Palm Canyons offer easy walking areas with tall bushy palm trees, making it a dream. Here, walk amongst history and learn about the Cahuilla Indians who built complex communities in the Palm, Murray, Andreas, Tahquitz, and Chino canyons. It is even on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is the world's largest palm oasis. There are trails throughout the canyons, most notably Andreas Canyon.
Day 2
El Paseo Shopping
After a good breakfast to start your day off, relax and do some shopping. El Paseo Shopping District has over 300 fabulous shops, like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co, Sephora, Anthropologie, and more.
Sam Cobb Date Farms
If you are interested in supporting a local black-owned farm, then this spot is for you. At the Sam Cobb Date Farm, you can find out all you need to know about dates and the story of how Sam Cobb started his farm. What makes this place stand out are the fantastic endless rows of date trees that are Instagram-worthy.
Desert Adventures— Red Jeep Tours
If you are interested in an adventurous experience, then you need to check out the Red Jeep Tour. This company is the only one that has access to wonderful spots in Palm Springs and Palm Desert, stopping at significant areas and letting you walk around and explore The San Andreas Fault.
Day 3
Joshua Tree National Park
The Joshua Tree National Park shouldn't be missed during your visit to Palm Springs, CA. The cacti and rocks are something you won't want to miss and can't witness anywhere else. You don't need to be an avid hiker to enjoy it all. There are tons of pul-offs with viewpoints and extremely easy hikes. Some of the things to see while visiting the Joshua Tree National Park:
- Skull Rock
- Cholla Cactus Garden
- Hidden Valley Trail
- Barker Dam Trail
- Arch Rock Trail
- Hall of Horrors Trail
Day 4
Indian Wells Golf Resort
The Indian Wells Golf Resort is open to the public and is home to two 18-hole championship courses. The Players Course is ranked number 16 in California, while the Celebrity is ranked number 30. Whatever course you choose it will never disappoint. This golf course is breathtaking at every corner. With palm trees surrounding you, lakes, lush green grass, and mountains galore, this area truly is a Palm Spring oasis.
Anza Borrego State Park
The Anza Borrego State Park is a bit farther than Joshua Tree National Park, but if you have already seen Joshua Tree, then this is another excellent option. Anza Borrego State Park is the largest state park in California and is around 585,930 acres.
Big Rock Golf and Pub at Indian Springs
After a long day of activities, treat yourself to some excellent bar food at Big Rock Golf and Pub, where the food is fantastic, enjoy the onion rings, Brussels sprouts, and buffalo cauliflower. The decoration at the restaurant is decked out in rock and roll art, so if you are a fan, then you will need to eat here.
Check out the best things to do in Palm Springs using this article as a guide to a long weekend in Palm Springs, CA.