Fall in Greater Palm Springs is one of the best times of the year to visit. When temps start to dip just about everywhere else, we're warming up in the best way possible. From awesome hotel packages and deals to incredible weather and a calendar of can't-miss events, this SoCal oasis is where you need to be this autumn.

Here are seven reasons why fall is one of the most magical times to visit Greater Palm Springs. 

Amazing Weather

Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas

As fall settles into this Southern California oasis, the weather begins to mellow, bringing pleasantly warm days and crips, cool nights — perfect for outdoor adventures. Whether you're strolling through downtown Palm Springs, browsing the boutiques and art galleries along El Paseo, or exploring the charming shops and eateries in Old Town La Quinta, the sun-kissed skies make it all the more enjoyable. This picturesque weather is also ideal for a round of golf, with many courses offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. And if you're craving a taste of the season, be sure to stop by one of several certified farmers markets, which start back up in October. For a true taste of Greater Palm Springs, don't miss out on trying a date shake, made with locally grown dates. We recommend the shakes at Shields Date Gardens. Interested in learning more about the sweet and nutritious fruit? You can even visit a date farm during your stay.


Oasis of Art 

Palm Springs Art Museum

From world-famous festivals and modern museums to art galleries, midcentury architecture tours, and live entertainment, the arts and culture scene in Greater Palm Springs is as vibrant as the landscape itself. Discover more than 100 outdoor public art installations throughout the region—from larger-than-life sculptures to colorful murals—perfect for exploring at your own pace on a self-guided art tour. 


Getaway Offers

HyTides Plunge Water Park at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa

Fall is a great time to plan a getaway that's easy on the wallet but big on experience. October and November fall between peak travel seasons, meaning you'll often find amazing deals on hotel stays and vacation packages. Start planning your fall escape and take advantage of seasonal savings!


Fun for the Whole Family

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Who says summer fun has to end? With family-friendly attractions and endless sunny days, Greater Palm Springs is the ultimate spot for a fall break escape the whole family will love. Make a splash at the new Palm Springs Surf Club or Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, which features its own 2-acre water playground with a lazy river and sandy beach, or enjoy multiple outdoor pools and side-by-side dueling waterslides over at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas. 

For a wile day out, head to The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, where little ones can feed a giraffe, pet goats, meet rhinos, and explore the immersive Australian Adventures exhibit—complete with free-roaming wallabies. Or step into history at the Palm Springs Air Museum, where kids (12 and under) get in free and families can get up close to vintage aircraft from World War II and beyond. Whether you're traveling during fall break or just sneaking in one more sunny getaway before the holidays, Greater Palm Springs is packed with family-friendly things to do. 


Scenic Hikes

Bump and Grind Trail in Palm Desert

Cooler fall temps mean one thing in Greater Palm Springs: hiking season is officially back. Fall is the perfect time to hit the trails and explore the area's natural beauty. Take your pick from a variety of trails ranging from leisurely walks to heart-pumping climbs. For sweeping views just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, head to the North and South Lykken trails, which offer moderate-level hikes and impressive views. For something a little more low-key, discover the Coachella Valley Preserve in Thousand Palms—a true hidden gem with a flat walkabout area that leads you to a lush palm tree oasis. Want a hike with a deep connection to the land? Explore the Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon, both located on the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation. These sacred sites feature scenic trails alongside mountain-fed streams, seasonal waterfalls, and native wildlife. 


Fall Events

The Annual International Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival

The autumn months always usher in a variety of fun things to do in Greater Palm Springs, and this season is no exception! Get ready to have an unforgettable fall vacation by attending these upcoming events and activities!

Modernism Week Fall Preview | October 16-19, 2025

Greater Palm Springs LGBTQ+ Pride | November 6-9, 2025

La Quinta Art Celebration | November 13-16, 2025

Hot Air Balloon Festival & Food Truck Fiesta | November 21-23, 2025

Props & Hops Craft Beer Festival | 2025 TBA


Rest & Relaxation

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels / Dive Palm Springs Boutique Hotel

If your ideal getaway includes slowing down, recharging, and soaking in the moment, Greater Palm Springs delivers, from world-class resort spas to natural hot mineral springs. In Palm Springs, The Spa at Séc-he invites you to unwind in style. This 73,000-square-foot luxury day spa features a fitness center, a full spa treatment menu and cafe, and private mineral baths fed by the Agua Caliente tribe's sacred hot mineral spring. 

Just up the road in Desert Hot Springs, you'll find an assortment of independently owned boutique hotels whose pools and hot tubs are filled with naturally heated, mineral-rich waters. These healing waters are said to soothe sore muscles, improve circulation, and increase metabolism—perfect for after a hike or just because. 


Need more reasons to plan your trip to Greater Palm Springs this autumn? Check out our things to do page for more information on top attractions and locales to experience while here.

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