Change things up this holiday season by gifting an experience! Not only will you give someone a chance to experience something they may have not done before, but you will also be giving them a reason to enjoy this Southern California oasis. Greater Palm Springs winters include beautiful blue skies and enjoyable temperatures, as well as endless adventures to experience and relaxation to enjoy! Whether you are looking to buy an experience gift for a solo traveler or a whole family, consider giving the gift of an experience in Greater Palm Springs! Let the adventuring begin.

GIFT EXPERIENCES FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS

INDIAN CANYONS & TAHQUITZ CANYON ANNUAL PASSES

The Agua Caliente Indian Reservation’s Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon both boast incredible history, views, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife, plants, and seasonal waterfalls. Annual passes, are available for purchase at each location.

BMW PERFORMANCE CENTER

Give the drive of a lifetime by booking an adrenaline-pumping afternoon at the BMW Performance Center in Thermal. There are a number of exhilarating driving experiences available on the track—perfect for adrenaline junkies.

JOSHUA TREE ANNUAL PASS

Joshua Tree Rocks and Trees

Visit the trails and open spaces whenever you’d like with an annual pass to Joshua Tree National Park. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, rock climbing, biking, and stargazing, among other outdoor activities.

GOLFING

When you think of the Greater Palm Springs region, you can’t help but also think of golf, which makes it a top gift to give. Popular places to book some tee time include The Golf Club at Terra Lago, Indian Wells Golf Resort and Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort. Find more out about the endless greens offered in this golfer's paradise. 

HORSEBACK RIDING AT SMOKE TREE STABLES

Located in Palm SpringsSmoke Tree Stables offers the opportunity to get away from it all with custom-guided horse rides by the hour, as well as full-day adventures on over 150 miles of open land.

OUTDOOR TOURS

Big Wheel Tours and Red Jeep Tours provide adventure seekers the chance to experience the Greater Palm Springs outdoors by hike, jeep, or bike—the choice is yours! Book your excursion and get to explore the open air! Find more outdoor tours here

 

GIFT EXPERIENCES FOR FAMILY FUN

THE LIVING DESERT MEMBERSHIP

The Living Desert

Give the gift that keeps on giving with a membership to The Living Desert! As a gift that’s great for everyone in the family, the membership gives access to the unlimited zoo and garden good times, invitations to special events, 10% discounts at Living Desert shops and eateries, as well as discounts on programs, classes, trips, and events. Plus, you will give them the chance to meet the newest residents, the black rhinos, Jaali and Nia! Discover more about them and their home in the Savana Habitat here.  All memberships support the Living Desert's mission of conservation and educational programs. 

VISIT THE PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY

At the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, visitors can enjoy a day of beautiful hiking trails in the pristine alpine wilderness or a full-on snow adventure at 8,516 feet above sea level.

 

GIFT EXPERIENCES FOR ART & MUSIC LOVERS

PALM SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM ANNUAL PASS

For those history lovers and airplane pros, gift them an annual pass to the Palm Springs Air Museum and let them live their dreams vicariously through those who are here to tell their stories! They will receive unlimited free admission, a subscription to the newsletter, a complimentary guest pass, and 10% off at the gift shop. 

PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM ANNUAL PASS

Art enthusiasts will enjoy an annual membership to the Palm Springs Art Museum. There are a few membership levels to choose from with great benefits and perks. As a member, you'll receive unlimited admission all year long to all locations, and access to groundbreaking exhibits. If you gift the Individual membership level, benefits include a complimentary guest pass and a 10% discount at the museum stores.

MODERN TOURS

Unveil the history, architecture, and artistry that lies within Greater Palm Springs by hopping on one of these modern tours. This makes the perfect gift for someone who is interested in design and architecture, or has lived in the area and wants to learn about the history behind the buildings and more. 

Acrisure Arena

Whether your special someone wants to see the hottest concert act coming to town, laugh all night with one of the world's best comedians, witness an adrenaline pumping event, or 'chill' at a Firebirds game, there is no shortage of fun to be had at Acrisure Arena.

 

GIFT EXPERIENCES FOR WELLNESS

SPA TREATMENTS/SKINCARE

Impress by gifting a spa treatment at Spa Esmeralda at Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, or by picking up some amazing gifts at The Body Deli in Palm Desert, which offers an array of skin-care items, hair sets, and aromas for at-home spa experiences. Shoppers can also visit Kiehl's in Palm Springs for top-notch skin care and hair products. Choose from the vast range of spas offered in Greater Palm Springs – maybe you'll decide you deserve one, too! 

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa

DAY PASS TO SOAK IN HOT SPRINGS 

Give the gift of relaxation by gifting a day pass or stay at one of the many places offering hot springs and natural mineral waters to soak in like Azure Palm Hot Springs. Relax under the sun at Sagewater Spa, The Spa at Sec-He or take in the beautiful views at The O Spa. There are treatments ranging from personalized massages to mud baths – relaxation is a gift that will go unforgotten! 

When it comes to gifting this holiday season, why not consider the joy of giving the gift of an experience in Greater Palm Springs? If you are searching for gift ideas for an experience gift for an adventure seeker, history buff, nature lover, or someone in need of relaxation, Greater Palm Springs offers a wealth of options to choose from. From thrilling concerts and events at Acrisure Arena to exploring the natural beauty of Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon with annual passes, or indulging in a high-speed drive at the BMW Performance Center, the possibilities are endless.

So, this holiday season, give the gift of unforgettable memories and experiences that will be cherished for years to come. 

If you're planning a holiday trip to Greater Palm Springs this season, check out our list of featured places to stay, as well as our local deals so you can save more on your next relaxing getaway.