Palm Springs is a true oasis escape in the California desert. This chic little city offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, stunning natural scenery, and revitalizing relaxation. Whether you’re looking to explore the desert landscape, indulge at a luxurious spa resort, or soak in some quirky roadside attractions, Palm Springs has you covered. Here are some of the highlights from my recent trip:
Downtown Palm Springs
The walkable downtown area is the beating heart of Palm Springs, lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and the city’s signature mid-century modern architecture. I loved wandering the palm tree-lined streets, ducking into shops, and stopping for poolside cocktails and fresh dates at one of the many hip hotels. Don’t miss a stroll along the Palm Springs Walk of Stars to see the golden handprints and footprints of celebrities who have helped make this desert city famous.
Aerial Tramway and Mt. San Jacinto
One of the most thrilling experiences in Palm Springs is riding the Aerial Tramway up over 8,500 feet to the pristine Mt. San Jacinto State Park. The tramcars slowly rotate as they climb high above the desert floor, providing stunning 360-degree views. At the top, you can set off on hiking trails through alpine forests, watch for bighorn sheep, or just take in the panoramic mountain vistas. The elevation makes for a refreshingly cool respite from the desert heat below.
Desert Adventures
Of course, you can’t visit Palm Springs without venturing out into the desert itself. One early morning, I went dune bashing in a Jeep tour through the San Andreas sandy hills, learning about the unique desert ecology. Another day, I enjoyed a leisurely guided hike through Indian Canyons, a lush oasis of palm trees and flowing streams. Whichever desert experience you choose, be sure to slather on sunscreen and stay hydrated!
El Morocco Resort & Spa
After adventuring in the desert all day, I was grateful to return and unwind at El Morocco Resort & Spa, a lush oasis nestled at the base of the mountains. This Moroccan-themed villa resort is the epitome of Palm Springs luxury and relaxation with its palm tree-ringed courtyard, bubbly fountains, and Moorish architecture. From the moment you step through the ornate entryway, you’ll feel utterly transported. The spa services utilize traditional Moroccan techniques and argan oil rituals. I indulged in a hammam black soap scrub treatment followed by an argan oil massage – sheer bliss! The resort’s multiple pools were also a perfect spot to lounge in a private cabana, cocktail in hand.
Salvation Mountain
You can’t leave Palm Springs without witnessing the colorful, unique art installation known as Salvation Mountain. This massive, hand-painted hillside sculpture covers over 5 stories high and spans across multiple acres of Colorado desert terrain. Created by the late Leonard Knight over the course of nearly 30 years, the Biblical folk art beckons visitors with its vibrant “God Is Love” painted message and maze-like adobe walls. Wandering through the winding corridors of this fantastically vivid creation and scaling the painted summit was a delightfully surreal experience. It’s one of those quirky, distinctly California roadside attractions you simply have to see.
Two day itinerary for visiting the top sights and experiences in Palm Springs:
Day 1:
9 AM – Start your morning downtown along Palm Canyon Drive. Stroll past the boutiques, art galleries, and mid-century modern architecture. Stop for a street-side brunch at one of the trendy cafes.
11 AM – Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the top of Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Spend a couple hours hiking along the trails and overlooks at the top, taking in the incredible views over the desert below.
2 PM – Head back down the tram and drive over to Indian Canyons for a guided walk through the palm oasis and canyons. Learn about the flora, fauna, and Native American heritage.
5 PM – Check into your resort, freshen up, and relax by the pool for a bit. The dreamy El Morocoo Resort is a perfect Palm Springs luxury retreat.
8 PM – Have dinner downtown at one of the excellent restaurants, like the historic Mexican spot Las Casuelas Terraza or rejuvenating California fare at Wildest Greens.
Day 2:
8 AM – Get an early start with a morning jeep tour to explore the sand dunes and off-road desert landscape around Palm Springs.
11:30 AM – Visit the cultural roadside attraction Salvation Mountain to wander through this unique, vividly painted folk art sculpture and hilltop creation.
1:30 PM – Have a casual lunch back in downtown Palm Springs, perhaps grabbing one of the iconic refillable hot dog specials at Babe’s Bar-B-Que and Brewhouse.
3 PM – Spend the afternoon pampering at one of Palm Springs’ excellent spas. The Moroccan-inspired treatments at El Morocoo’s spa are ultra-luxurious.
7 PM – For your final evening, stargaze over dinner on the patio of one of Palm Springs’ romantic, scenic restaurants like Spencer’s or The Barn.
Of course, you’ll also want to build in time to just lounge poolside, shop, and soak in the laidback Palm Springs vibe as well! Let me know if you’d like to modify this itinerary in any way.
Whether you come to Palm Springs to soak up sun, take in unique art and design, indulge at a luxurious resort, or get out and explore the great outdoors, this desert oasis offers something for every traveler. I can’t wait to return!
