Ready to make the most of your time in Palm Desert? Whether you're here for leisure, adventure, or a bit of both, this three-day itinerary offers a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and local flavor to help you experience the best of this sun-soaked destination.

Day 1: Culture & Style on El Paseo

Ease into your Palm Desert getaway by immersing yourself in the city’s roots. Start at the The Historical Society of Palm Desert, open seasonally from October through May. Located in the city’s original fire station, this intimate museum is packed with exhibits and artifacts that showcase Palm Desert’s defining traditions: art, a deep appreciation for the desert landscape, entertainment, fashion, and resort living.

From there, you’re just steps away from El Paseo, a mile-long avenue known for its sophisticated charm. Explore upscale shops, dozens of art galleries, and more than two dozen restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. It’s a perfect blend of culture and luxury. To help make planning your shopping spree a little easier, use this as a guide to highlight the spots you don’t want to miss.

Day 2: Choose Your Own Adventure

Wild Encounters at The Living Desert

Head to The Living Desert Zoo, a truly one-of-a-kind experience that combines a world-class zoo with an immersive botanical garden. Wander around the two-square miles of this extraordinary space where you can discover and learn all about plants and animals from desert regions, including rare and endangered species you won’t find elsewhere. Want to give your feet a break? Hop on the guided tram tour and enjoy the sights with ease.

Hit the Trails

Prefer something a little more rugged? Swap your sneakers for hiking boots and hit the trails. Begin at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center to grab a trail map and learn more about local wildlife and desert landscapes. For a rewarding and accessible trek, try The Cross Loop, a 2.7-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a scenic cross overlooking Greater Palm Springs, a stunning sight at sunrise or sunset. If you're up for a challenge, take on the Bump and Grind Trail, a 3-mile route known for its incline and panoramic views. Just remember: hiking is best from October through May. Always bring water, sun protection, and keep dogs leashed if they’re along for the journey.

Day 3: Play & Performance

Tee Off with a View

Spend the morning at Desert Willow Golf Resort, a city-owned gem offering two championship courses surrounded by natural desert beauty. With water features, challenging layouts, and breathtaking views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, it’s a must for golfers of all skill levels. After your round, relax with a drink or meal on the clubhouse’s scenic patio.

Evening: Dine & Unwind

After a day of active fun, treat yourself to a delicious dinner! Palm Desert’s dining scene offers it all, from relaxed bites to elegant cuisine. Savor fresh seafood and sunset views at Pacifica Seafood Restaurant, enjoy globally inspired small plates and a modern vibe at Kitchen 86 + Bar, or opt for classic California cuisine in a chic setting at Porta Via. Following dinner, don’t forget to book a show at the McCallum Theatre, where the curtain rises on everything from concerts and comedy to Broadway hits.

Bonus Tips

1. Schedule a dinner at one of the restaurants at J.W. Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa and take a ride in the gondola. 

2. Go back in time with a hand-made milk shake (they give you the extra in the icy silver container) at Keedy’s Fountain Grill.

3. Take yourself on a self-care adventure to the Desert Serenity Float & Spa, where you have options of floating in a pod to relieve your mind and body, get that much needed massage, or feel fresh with a facial.