If you’re spending Thanksgiving in Greater Palm Springs, you’ll find plenty to savor beyond the holiday table. The long weekend is the perfect opportunity to indulge in outdoor adventures, gather for cultural experiences, and carve out time for a bit of relaxation. In short, Greater Palm Springs serves up a Turkey Day getaway that’s as warm and memorable as your favorite Fall traditions!
Thanksgiving Shopping & Black Friday Deals in Greater Palm Springs
Once the turkey is carved and the leftovers packed away, it’s time to embrace a Thanksgiving tradition: shopping. Visitors will find everything from the high-end fashion on El Paseo to Antique and Vintage Markets with rare finds and unique handmade goods. Palm Springs Boutiques like Trina Turk, Iconic Atomic, or The Shag Store each offer a uniquely curated selection of apparel and home goods to explore. Stroll through charming Old Town La Quinta for stylish boutiques and locally made treasures, or head to The Place in Indio, where local artisans and vendors showcase everything from art to fashion in a vibrant setting.
If you’re a Black Friday enthusiast, you’ll discover plenty of deals while also supporting local businesses and artisans. Greater Palm Springs offers a shopping scene as diverse as its desert landscapes.
Turkey Day Outdoor Adventures
Kick off your Thanksgiving with the Palm Springs Wild Turkey Trot 5K, a festive fun run (or walk) through downtown. The race is scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025, starting at 8 a.m. at the corner of Tahquitz and Palm Canyon. As always, costumes are encouraged!
Then again, Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and there’s no better way to feel thankful than by connecting with nature. This holiday, lace up your hiking boots and explore the Indian Canyons, where palm groves and running streams provide a gorgeous backdrop for a morning trek. Local trails, such as Palm Canyon and Andreas Canyon, are ideal for taking in the crisp fall air while surrounded by stunning desert landscapes.
For those who enjoy pairing fresh air with a bit of history, consider joining a Palm Springs Historical Society walking or biking tour. These guided journeys take you through charming neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s unique architecture and its links to Hollywood's golden age. It’s a fun (and informative) way to walk off that Thanksgiving dinner while learning about California’s heritage.
Looking for a grand finale to your outdoor explorations? Hop aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which whisks you up to the cooler climates of Mount San Jacinto State Park. It’s definitely a more elevated way to top off your Thanksgiving in Palm Springs!
Family-Friendly Fun this Thanksgiving
Looking for some basketball action over Thanksgiving weekend? Head to the Acrisure Series, where over 20 NCAA Division I teams will face off in a packed schedule of thrilling matchups from November 25 to 28, 2025. It’s your chance to catch future basketball stars and cheer from courtside seats.
The holiday weekend is all about creating memories with loved ones, and Greater Palm Springs offers numerous opportunities for family fun. The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is a must-visit, combining wildlife encounters with lush desert gardens. Stroll past giraffes, cheetahs, and camels, and be sure to check out seasonal exhibits designed to spark wonder in both kids and adults.
Families also enjoy casual outings, such as visiting local parks or attending one of the region’s Thanksgiving weekend events. Check out our events calendar for seasonal festivities, from holiday markets to live music performances. These community experiences make it easy to soak in the warmth and joy of the season and offer plenty of things to do for Thanksgiving weekend.
Arts & Culture
If your best Thanksgiving weekend includes a side of inspiration alongside indulgence, explore Greater Palm Springs’ vibrant art and culture scene. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum, where you can browse galleries filled with contemporary works, Native American art, and rotating exhibitions. View world-class artists at CODA Gallery, and explore local artist-owned galleries in the Backstreet Art District. Don’t miss the nearby Architecture and Design Center with ever-growing archives and design collections, or hop on a guided architecture bus or walking tour.
Thanksgiving weekend is also an excellent time to enjoy cultural events, live performances, or art walks across the valley. And if you’re in Palm Springs a few days before Thanksgiving, don’t miss the La Quinta Art Celebration. Held at the scenic La Quinta Civic Center Park, this juried fine art festival runs November 13-16, 2025, and features 200 artists, live music, craft cocktails, and gourmet bites.
Relaxation & Wellness
Of course, Thanksgiving is also a time to slow down and savor the moment. If you’re searching for Thanksgiving activities for adults, treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at one of Greater Palm Springs’ renowned spas and wellness resorts, where treatments like hot stone massages and mineral baths melt away holiday stress.
Prefer something outdoors but tranquil? Stroll through the Moorten Botanical Garden, a hidden gem where desert plants thrive in a peaceful setting. It’s a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and embrace some inner gratitude during the holiday weekend.
A Thanksgiving Feast to Remember
No Thanksgiving is complete without a festive meal, and Greater Palm Springs doesn’t disappoint. From gourmet dinners to classic turkey spreads, local restaurants and resorts roll out special menus for the occasion.
For a roundup of the best spots to enjoy your holiday feast, check out our blog that covers Thanksgiving dinners in Greater Palm Springs.
Plan Your Thanksgiving Escape to Palm Springs
With endless sunshine, welcoming communities, and a feast of experiences, you’ll leave with memories to be grateful for long after the leftovers are gone. Check out this guide for more kid and family-focused activities that will make your holiday fun for the whole crew!
