With its sun-kissed landscapes, luxurious resorts, and a plethora of outdoor activities, Greater Palm Springs offers an array of experiences to make your spring break memorable. It's the perfect season to soak up the destination's wide-open spaces, chill poolside vibes, and endless blue skies — not to mention the colorful wildflowers that often blanket the mountains during this time. Looking for fun places to stay and things to do? We've got you covered with trip inspiration for the whole family! 

 

Make a Splash

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

Surrounded by a 425-foot lazy river and featuring two 100-foot-long waterslides, Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spas Splashtopia waterpark is fun for all ages. Adults can relax in the cliff-side hot tub while the younger ones play at the sandy beach or splash around in the watery play zones.  

Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas

Hy Tides at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells

Over at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas, the HyTides Waterpark is perfect for water thrills. Slide down two dueling waterslides, a splash pad, and a lazy river are only a few of the cool amenities you'll find on-site. 

 

Embrace Cabana Culture

If under a shady cabana is more your speed, there are plenty of poolside hangs and chill cabana spots for an adults-only escape to Greater Palm Springs. Relax and enjoy the view at the luxurious pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. For family fun, enjoy the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells, whose exclusive beach room cabanas and many amenities will keep you cool when you need a break from the sun. If you're looking for an outdoor experience near a spa, check out Sunstone Spa at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage for a more secluded ambiance. Take things to the next level at The Spa at Séc-he where for over 12,000 years, these legendary waters have dwelled in an ancient aquifer deep underground. For those seeking sun-soaked days, enjoy a relaxing day at Chiki Palm Pool's cabanas at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells. And you can't go wrong taking in the breathtaking views of the Santa Rosa Mountains at La Quinta Resort & Club. If you're looking for an intimate experience with a pop of pink, stay at the Villa Sierra, also known as "That Pink Door" by Natural Retreats (as seen in the header above). For more homes away from home with an ultra-luxe ambiance, check out this full list of vacation rentals in Greater Palm Springs

 

Arcade Zone

Dave & Buster's Rancho Mirage

Indulge in the ultimate Spring Break escapade at Dave & Buster’s in Rancho Mirage, where the excitement never ends! From the moment you step into Dave & Buster’s at Rancho Mirage, prepare for an abundance of fun! Get greeted with a sea of over 100 awesome video games, including virtual reality fun! From classic arcade favorites to the latest in virtual reality experiences, there's something for every thrill-seeker here. Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit, challenge your friends, and create unforgettable memories.

 

JW Entertainment Zone at Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

Unique and filled with energy, the JW Entertainment Zone is a gaming emporium featuring new and retro arcade games. This vibrant gaming haven offers a captivating blend of new and retro arcade games, ensuring an adrenaline-fueled adventure for guests of all ages. Test your skills, challenge your friends, and embark on thrilling gaming quests as you compete for fantastic prizes and rewards. From classic favorites to cutting-edge experiences, there's no shortage of fun to be had at the JW Entertainment Zone. Whether you're seeking family-friendly entertainment or an exhilarating solo experience, this dynamic destination promises endless thrills and excitement for everyone.

 

The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at Pinz and Pints, located within the prestigious Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa. This dynamic entertainment destination offers a perfect blend of fun and relaxation for guests of all ages. Lace up your bowling shoes and aim for a strike at our state-of-the-art bowling alley, where the laughter never stops and memories are made. Keep the entire family entertained at Pinz and Pints at the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa.


Explore Outdoors

For adventure enthusiasts, Greater Palm Springs offers a myriad of outdoor activities to satisfy your craving for excitement. From hot air balloon rides over the desert to off-road Jeep tours through rugged canyons, there's no shortage of adrenaline-pumping adventures to embark on.


The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens

Rhino eating grass at The Living Desert

Many visitors may be familiar with The Living Desert’s breathtaking desert flora and fauna. However, over the past year, they've welcomed a couple more guests to their sprawling facility, including two black rhinos, Nia (pronounced Ny-a) and Jaali (pronounced Jolly). Their new exhibit, the Rhino Savanna, is also home to 12 African species, including waterbucks and pelicans. Stop in to feed the giraffes, walk with wallabies, and more!


Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in Palm Springs

Get up, up, and away from it all by taking a trip on the world’s largest rotating tramcar. Your journey on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway runs from the desert floor more than two-and-a-half miles along the rugged crags of Chino Canyon, depositing you safely at Mountain Station (elevation 8,516 feet) and among the pristine alpine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park.

The ride takes about 10 minutes, with the cars rotating slowly to give you a bird’s-eye view of the nine cities of Greater Palm Springs below. Once you’ve arrived, enjoy a bite at one of the two restaurants, snap some photos from the sweeping observation decks, step inside the fascinating natural history museum and two documentary theaters, or head out on foot to explore over 50 miles of hiking trails.

 

Joshua Tree National Park  

Joshua Tree Rocks and Trees

Just a short drive from Greater Palm Springs lies the otherworldly beauty of Joshua Tree National Park. Explore its rugged terrain, iconic Joshua trees, and stunning vistas. From scenic hikes to rock climbing adventures, Joshua Tree offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

 

Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours

If you want to get even closer to nature, Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours is the way to do it. Step up into one of the company’s signature open-air red Jeeps and enjoy the ride as your expert driver takes you through spectacular desert lands. Marvel at geologic forces, amazing desert plants, and awe-inspiring landscapes up close. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the area, so come prepared to ask any burning questions.


Discover Greater Palm Springs Arts & Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant art and culture scene of Palm Springs. Explore the city's eclectic art galleries, discover mid-century modern architecture, and stroll through quaint downtown streets lined with boutiques and cafés.


Modern Tours Palm Springs
Twin Palms PS Neighborhood Midcentury Modern Estate

Modern Tours Palm Springs lets you take one of its self-driving tours at your own pace and in your own vehicle. Select your tour, and the built-in mapping will steer you from one stop to the next to see some of the most iconic modernist homes, buildings, and celebrity homes in Greater Palm Springs. Helpful and fascinating voice narration at each stop will fill you in on the (sometimes scandalous!) history.

 

Palm Springs Vintage Market

palm springs vintage market vendor

The first Sunday of each month from October to May, vendors set out their best vintage and collectible wares at the Palm Springs Cultural Center for the Palm Springs Vintage Market. This market is a treasure trove of retro finds ranging from clothing and furniture to jewelry and even classic cars.


Farmers Markets 

Spend your mornings hitting up the farmers markets that happen almost daily throughout Greater Palm Springs. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and you'll be fascinated by everything the vendors have to offer, from locally grown fruits and vegetables to homemade treats and handcrafted wares. You'll also want to check out Palm Springs VillageFest, held every Thursday evening — it's like a farmers market, but with food trucks, street performers, and lots of local vendors. 


Play Golf Under the Stars

Shots in the Night


Indian Wells Golf Resort’s popular Shots in the Night is back! With special lighting and golf technology, this after-dark experience offers a whole new take on the game. Try glow-in-the-dark golf on the driving range or take in the laser light show as you tap it out on the putting green. Food truck dining and bar service makes this outdoor activity perfect to enjoy with friends. Because it’s not at all like a traditional round of golf, Shots in the Night is also ideal for getting kids into the game or for pals who don’t normally have the time to commit to a full round. 

As you plan your Spring Break 2024 getaway to Greater Palm Springs, prepare to be captivated by the natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless opportunities for adventure that await in this enchanting SoCal oasis. 

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