Heading to Greater Palm Springs for Labor Day Weekend? There’s plenty to do in Southern California’s most storied resort oasis, which is surrounded by stunning scenery and four picturesque mountain ranges. Whether you’re eager to dive into your sense of adventure and explore Greater Palm Springs’ unbeatable outdoors or relax and unwind at its many restorative spas, diverse and unforgettable experiences await your visit.

Looking for fun things to do Labor Day Weekend? Here’s a guide to the best destination offerings, including outdoor activities, family-friendly adventures, and shopping opportunities.

Explore the Outdoors

Although daytime temperatures can be quite high this time of the year, spending a day outdoors in Greater Palm Springs is still a must-do during Labor Day Weekend! Consider spending an evening out for ample stargazing opportunities of the California desert’s endless sky. If you're still keen on a summertime hike, we recommend taking the Palm Springs  Aerial Tramway and exploring some of our nature at higher altitudes, where you can benefit from cooler temperatures!

Are you eager to try your hand at pickleball or tennis? Sign up for some family-friendly competition, or book a private lesson to improve your skills. Looking for the perfect date night or evening adventure? Guided horseback rides depart daily from the historic Smoke Tree Stables and traverse the gentle mountain streams and cool palm tree oases of Indian Canyons, where you can take in the colorful sunset.

Discover Dining and Culinary Options

Greater Palm Springs is home to a diverse dining and culinary scene that includes everything from casual, charming cafes in downtown Palm Springs to elegant, fine dining establishments in Palm Desert’s El Paseo shopping district. Brunching is one of the best ways to soak up the beautiful weather and sunshine that the area has to offer. Farm-to-table eateries that source ingredients from local farms include Farm and Truss & Twine, while some of the most popular brunch spots with doggy-friendly patios are EUREKA! and Boozehounds Palm Springs.

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Pop into one of the area’s numerous artisanal sweet and ice cream shops, such as the family-owned Gelato Granucci or Monster Shakes, the latter of which serves up out-of-this-world shakes topped with sprinkles, cotton candy, and beyond. 

Live Music and Entertainment 

Greater Palm Springs has an electrifying live music scene that encompasses everything from intimate shows to world-class festivals and events. Simply pop into local establishments like Cork & Fork, which features live music and one of the best happy hours in town. Or, experience the area’s exciting nightlife at PS Air Bar, an aviation-themed cocktail and dining speakeasy, and the famous Village Pub in downtown Palm Springs, where dancing goes late into the night.

Family-Friendly Activities for Labor Day

For things to do on Labor Day Weekend that are perfect for the entire family, look no further than one of the many excellent cultural attractions in the area. Kids will love interacting with the animals at The Living Desert, rated as one of the top 10 zoos in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler. Or check out Red Jeep Tours, which offers thrilling adventures as you explore the twisted landscape of the San Andreas Fault by Jeep (learning about wildlife along the way).

Seeking the cool and air-conditioned refuge of the indoors? Head to the revered Palm Springs Air Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWII aircraft. You can also get your game on at Boomers!, where the entire family can race to victory on the go-kart tracks or practice their swing on one of three unique 18-hole mini golf courses.

Relax and Unwind this Labor Day at Local Spas

Treat yourself to some much-deserved rest and relaxation this Labor Day Weekend at one of the many local wellness spas or centers in Greater Palm Springs. Whether you're seeking to unwind from the daily grind or simply pampering yourself, you'll find the perfect escape here.

Immerse yourself in the healing hot mineral spring waters at The Spa at Séc-he, known for its therapeutic benefits and serene environment. The spa offers a range of luxurious treatments designed to soothe the mind and body, including hydrotherapy baths and mineral-rich facials that rejuvenate your skin and spirit.

Alternatively, escape to the Moroccan-style paradise of El Morocco Inn & Day Spa, where you'll be transported to an exotic world of tranquility. Indulge in their signature clay body wraps, which detoxify and nourish your skin, leaving it feeling soft and revitalized. The famous Marrakesh Melting Massage is a must-try, combining traditional techniques with aromatic oils to melt away tension and stress, ensuring you leave feeling completely rejuvenated and restored.

Labor Day Weekend Shopping in Palm Springs

From vintage finds to unique local boutiques, Greater Palm Springs offers both thrifty and high-end shopping for all tastes and budgets. More than 250 storefronts make up the El Paseo Shopping District, where you can easily spend a day hopping from shop to shop. Farmers markets and street fairs are another excellent way to support Greater Palm Springs vendors, who serve up everything from freshly squeezed fruit juice to locally-made soaps and skincare.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Many day trips and attractions are easily accessible from Greater Palm Springs via car or organized tour. Arguably the most popular is Joshua Tree National Park, which has a sprawling 1,200 square miles of untouched natural beauty. Arrive early to capture the stunning sunrise over the desert for an Instagram story, then visit the famous Arch or Skull Rock rock formations. Or make your way west to Los Angeles to explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, or even Disneyland in Anaheim, CA all of which are roughly two hours from Greater Palm Springs.