Things to Do: Attractions & Activities in Greater Palm Springs

There’s something for everyone to do in Greater Palm Springs. Area activities and attractions range from the free and family-friendly to thrilling outdoor adventures—and just about everything in-between.

Greater Palm Springs is a vibrant playground of natural discovery, cultural gems, and unexpected adventures. From bucket-list hikes through canyons and panoramic tramway rides to quirky date farms and immersive museums, this oasis is packed with experiences that delight every type of traveler.

Pro Tip: Schedule your most strenuous activities for the early morning or late afternoon, especially in the warmer months.

Explore by Category

Wild Adventures & Outdoor Wonder

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar high into alpine pines and panoramic views.
Indian Canyons & Tahquitz Canyon: Step into shady palm oases and discover waterfalls, totem poles, and ancestral Cahuilla sites.
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens: Get up close to giraffes, cheetahs, and desert flora in a world-class zoo desert museum.

Arts, Museums & Nostalgia

Palm Springs Art Museum: From contemporary exhibits to cowboy art and glass collections, this cultural space is a must-see.
Palm Springs Air Museum: Marvel at restored WWII aircraft and climb into cockpits with interactive exhibits.
Sunnylands & Murals: Wander graceful grounds at Sunnylands or enjoy the public art scene with larger-than-life murals downtown.

Local Flavors & Day Trip Fun

Date Farms: Soak up the sweetness at local farms — try a date shake or book a seasonal farm tour.
Hot Springs & Mineral Spas: In Desert Hot Springs, your getaway can include soaking in rejuvenating mineral pools surrounded by desert serenity.

Play & Recreation

BMW Performance Center: Rev your engine with a luxury driving experience hosted on a professional course.
Acrisure Arena: Catch a concert, sports event, or community festival at our multi-purpose indoor venue.

Category	Best For	Top Spots
Outdoor Adventures	Hiking, scenic views, wildlife	Palm Springs Tramway, Indian Canyons, The Living Desert
Arts & Culture	Museum lovers, art fans	Palm Springs Art Museum, Air Museum, Sunnylands
Day Farm & Nature	Family fun, relaxation	Date Farms, Hot Springs
Unique & Thrilling	Luxury, novelty seekers	BMW Performance Center, Acrisure Arena

Coachella Valley Firebirds AHL Hockey Team play their home games at Acrisure Arena. Western Conference Champions Seasons 2022-23 and 2023-24

November in Greater Palm Springs

November in Greater Palm Springs is full of excitement. As the temperatures cool, the events start

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More FAQs: Attractions & Activities in Greater Palm Springs

🎟️ Do I need to buy attraction tickets in advance?
For popular attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, advance tickets are highly recommended—especially on weekends and holidays. Many venues offer online reservations to skip the line and secure your preferred time slot.

🚌 Are there guided tours or shuttle options to get around?
Yes! You’ll find a variety of local tour companies offering guided hikes, mid-century architecture tours, and shuttle transportation between major attractions. Some hotels also partner with tour operators for package deals.

📸 What are the most Instagrammable attractions in the area?
Top photo spots include the mountain views from the Tramway, the oversized Marilyn Monroe statue in Palm Springs, art murals around town, and the Moorten Botanical Garden’s cactus greenhouse.

♿ Are attractions wheelchair accessible?
Many major attractions — including the Tramway, Living Desert, Air Museum, and Art Museum — offer wheelchair accessibility and ADA-compliant facilities. It’s always best to check individual attraction websites for specific access information.

🗺️ What’s a good day trip itinerary for first-time visitors?
Start your morning at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, then explore Indian Canyons or The Living Desert. Break for lunch downtown or in El Paseo, and spend your afternoon at a museum or relaxing at a hot spring spa.

📍 What are the most iconic attractions in Greater Palm Springs?
Some standout must-see attractions include the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, The Living Desert, Indian Canyons, the Art Museum, and the historic date farms.

👨‍👩‍👧 Are there attractions that are family-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the zoo and train ride at The Living Desert, desert hikes in shaded canyons, and frozen treats at date farms. Several museums also offer hands-on exhibits for younger visitors.

☀️ How warm does the desert get and what are attraction hours?
Summer daytime temperatures frequently rise above 100°F. Outdoor activities are best during early morning or late afternoon. Check each attraction’s website online hours—they often shift seasonally.