Palm Springs, CA

Travel Guide

A sign reading "PALM SPRINGS" with palm trees and mountains in the background.
A sign reading "PALM SPRINGS" with tall palm trees in the background.
A mountain range with palm trees in the foreground.
Tall palm trees in front of snow-covered mountains under a clear sky.
A building with a red door, surrounded by palm trees and cacti.

Travel to Palm Springs for art, history, and outdoor adventures in its unique neighborhoods and stunning natural landscapes.

Palm Springs is an ideal destination for outdoor, family travelers. You can explore the Palm Springs Art Museum for its art collections, hike through Tahquitz Canyon to experience its natural beauty, and learn about local history at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. For activities, the Plaza Theatre offers theater performances, while the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides scenic views from above. You can also enjoy swimming at the Palm Springs Swim Center or play a round of golf at O'Donnell Golf Club. Nearby, the Coachella Valley Preserve and Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is known for outdoor activities, complemented by the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Spend some time exploring the different neighborhoods of Palm Springs. The Uptown Design District and Historic Tennis Club are known for outdoor adventure experiences. In Uptown, you can visit Ruth Hardy Park, enjoy a show at Palm Canyon Theatre, or appreciate local art at the Desert Art Center. The Historic Tennis Club also offers outdoor activities, including the South Lykken Trail for hiking. Another area to discover is Downtown Palm Springs, recognized for family-friendly city experiences. Here, you can see the Forever Marilyn monument, relax at The Spa at Se-che, or catch a performance at Annenberg Theatre.

The best time to visit Palm Springs is during the hot months from June to September, when temperatures typically range from 81 to 88°F. This period is mostly dry and often sunny, making it suitable for outdoor activities. However, it can also be quite busy, as many travelers flock to the area for the warm weather and various attractions. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider planning your visit outside of these peak months.

Palm Springs Travel Guide Video

Where to stay in Palm Springs

Find the best Palm Springs areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Palm Springs
Learn more about Palm Springs

Downtown Palm Springs

A noteworthy feature of Downtown Palm Springs is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Agua Caliente Cultural Museum and Plaza Theatre.

Uptown Design District

Uptown Design District is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to San Jacinto Mountains or Desert Art Center.

Warm Sands

Warm Sands might not have many top sights, but Plaza Theatre and Palm Springs Convention Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

The Movie Colony

While The Movie Colony isn't home to many top sights, Palm Springs Convention Center and Agua Caliente Casino are some notable places to visit nearby.

Tahquitz River Estates

Though Tahquitz River Estates might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Tahquitz Canyon and Moorten Botanical Garden.

Palm Mountain Resort and Spa

Palm Mountain Resort and Spa

3 out of 5
155 S Belardo Road Palm Springs CA
The price is $243 total per night from Nov 16 to Nov 17
$243 total
per night
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Stay at this hotel in Palm Springs. Enjoy a fitness center, onsite spa services, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,874 reviews)
"Great rooms"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Palm Mountain Resort and Spa
The Dunes Hotel

The Dunes Hotel

2.5 out of 5
390 S Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs CA
The price is $160 total per night from Dec 1 to Dec 2
$160 total
per night
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Stay at this hotel in Palm Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,457 reviews)
"Great hotel and very nice and welcoming staff. Only thing was the lobby had a VERY overpowering scent that made it hard to be in there."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

The Dunes Hotel
Hotel Zoso

Hotel Zoso

4 out of 5
150 S Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs CA
The price is $211 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$211 total
per night
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Palm Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,924 reviews)
"Great stay!"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Hotel Zoso
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
7 Springs Inn & Suites

7 Springs Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
950 N Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs CA
Stay at this aparthotel in Palm Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (4,210 reviews)
"We enjoyed the pool and spa grounds a lot, but if you want water, snacks, or a variety of dining- It’s a drive. Bed was 👍🏻 Air conditioning was 👍🏻 Quiet room👍🏻"

Reviewed on Nov 10, 2026

7 Springs Inn & Suites
Palm Springs Tennis Club

Palm Springs Tennis Club

4 out of 5
701 W Baristo Rd Palm Springs CA
Stay at this aparthotel in Palm Springs. Enjoy free parking, 3 outdoor pools, and 5 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (683 reviews)
"Excellent !"

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2026

Palm Springs Tennis Club
Vista Mirage Resort

Vista Mirage Resort

3.5 out of 5
400 S Hermosa Dr Palm Springs CA
Stay at this condo in Palm Springs. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
Vista Mirage Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around Palm Springs

Palm Springs itself is reasonably compact and easy to get around, with a highly walkable downtown area and a decent public bus system. However, the attractions and activities that most visitors come for are very spaced out, with many being outside the city boundaries. You really do need to rent a car to get around, but fortunately there are plenty of rental companies catering to this need. Visit the Morongo Basin Transportation AuthorityOpens in a new window website.Browse Palm Springs rental cars.

Stay near popular Palm Springs attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Palm Springs worth visiting?
Palm Springs is worth visiting for its unique attractions, including the scenic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining options, from North American to Latin American cuisine, and explore distinct neighborhoods like Downtown Palm Springs and Sonora Sunrise.
When is the best time to visit Palm Springs?
The best time to visit Palm Springs is from November through March, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. For fewer crowds and better value, the warmer months of June through September are a good bet, with afternoons perfect for enjoying the pool.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Palm Springs?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Palm Springs depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Palm Springs features cultural spots like the Plaza Theatre and Palm Springs Art Museum, plus Baristo Park.
  • Sonora Sunrise is known for recreation, including the Mesquite Golf and Country Club.
  • Canyon Corridor offers residential areas and the Canyon Country Club Estados.
  • Baristo provides resort options such as Vista Mirage Resort, alongside Hermosa Villas.
  • Araby includes residential communities like Los Compadres and Park Imperial South.

What is Palm Springs known for?
Palm Springs is known for its iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the Palm Springs Convention Center, and the Historic Tennis Club. Travelers can explore neighborhoods like Downtown Palm Springs and Sonora Sunrise, and find a variety of North American food.
What is a good itinerary length for Palm Springs?
A good itinerary length for Palm Springs is two to three days to experience key highlights like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and explore Downtown Palm Springs. An extended stay of four to five days allows for more activities such as a Drag Brunch or the Bank Heist Escape Room, and time to discover neighborhoods like Sonora Sunrise. See Palm Springs Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Palm Springs?
Palm Springs offers unique experiences, from aerial views and desert nature to adventurous activities:

  • Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for panoramic desert views.
  • Explore Palm Canyon, a beautiful natural area.
  • Embark on an Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure.
  • Take a Drag Queen Hosted Mobile Theater Sightseeing Tour.
  • Challenge yourself with a Bank Heist Escape Room Game.

How do I plan a trip to Palm Springs?
Plan your Palm Springs trip by booking flights and a hotel in areas like Downtown Palm Springs or Sonora Sunrise. For outdoor activities, aim for early morning or late afternoon. Consider booking experiences such as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or a Drag Brunch in advance. A rental car offers flexibility, and bus and train options are also available for getting around.
What cuisines can you find in Palm Springs?
In Palm Springs you can find New American cuisine, featuring dishes like gourmet burgers, artisanal pizzas, and farm-to-table creations. Travelers also enjoy Latin American options, including Mexican tacos and South American flavors. Additionally, you'll find Italian, French, and various Asian dishes such as Japanese and Thai.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Palm Springs?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Palm Springs by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Palm Springs with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Palm Springs trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Palm Springs?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Palm Springs can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Palm Springs trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Palm Springs trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Palm Springs trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Palm Springs trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Palm Springs?
If it's your first trip to Palm Springs, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Palm Springs hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Palm Springs hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Palm Springs

Other places like Palm Springs

Explore a world of travel with Expedia