palm springs city tours

Greater Palm Springs Tours

Greater palm springs sightseeing.

Experience Greater Palm Springs with a guided tour into the best the oasis has to offer. From thrilling rides into the San Andreas Fault and remote nature preserves to exclusive looks at midcentury modern homes, Greater Palm Springs has the perfect tour to help you find your oasis. Walking tours, food tours, guided hikes, windmill visits and group bike rides round out the many guided tour offerings in the area.

Highlights. Greater Palm Springs

Discover everything, greater palm springs has to offer.

• VISIT GREATER PALM SPRINGS  
• Toll-free: 800.967.3767 
• p: 760.770.9000
• Visitor Center:  
• Monday – Friday  8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• 70100 Highway 111
• Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

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5 Amazing Palm Springs Tours + What You Need to Know (2023)

Whether you’re in Palm Springs for the first time or a frequent visitor, one of the best ways to discover all area has to offer is by taking one of the many Palm Springs tours. In this post, I’ll share 5 amazing Palm Springs tours that I highly recommend taking. Plus, I’ll also provide some insider tips about the area so you can make the most of your tour experience!

🌵 Short on Time? Here’s the Best Palm Springs Tour

San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour — Spend 3 hours driving through Coachella Valley, discovering the hidden desert oasis, and seeing the San Andreas Fault up close!

Table of Contents

Are there tours of palm springs, 5 best palm springs tours (2023), why do a palm springs tour, what to bring for palm springs tours, other things to do in palm springs, how to get to palm springs, where to stay in palm springs.

• Palm Springs: FAQ

Wrap-Up: 5 Best Palm Springs Tours (2023)

Palm Springs is located in Southern California’s Sonoran Desert. And when most people hear the word desert, the words, “dry” and “barren” are usually the first ones that come to mind.

However, the reality is that Palm Springs contains a lot of hidden gems and offers lots of exciting things to explore! So the answer, which you could likely tell based on the title of this post is a resounding yes!

There are all kinds of tours of Palm Springs to take that will allow you to immerse yourself in the vast desert landscape, discover the past, and catch stunning views of mountain peaks over the horizon!

So without further ado, here are some of my favorite tours that I would recommend to anyone visiting the area!

Oh! And just to hopefully make things easier: here is a list of the tours I’ll be explaining below.

• San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour
• Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour
• Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bike Adventure
• Palm Springs Hike to an Oasis
• Palm Springs Escape Room

1. San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour

✅ Check rates & availability for this highly-rated San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours

The San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour includes:

This is one of the highest-rated and most popular Palm Springs Tours . And unlike exploring on your own, the knowledgeable guides will take you to places that you would likely never venture to on your own. You also have the unique opportunity to connect with the past by visiting a Cahuilla Indian Village and learning about their lifestyle, culture, and survival techniques. So, if you’re ready to see the San Andreas Fault up close and discover the hidden gems in the surrounding area, then I recommend this fantastic jeep tour!

Incredible tour, so much to see and learn. Never realized how much happens at a fault and the canyon tours showing the effects on rocks at the fault were stunning.” Brian C. (see more reviews )

Other Palm Springs Tours to San Andreas Fault

Of course, if you prefer a longer tour, one that doesn’t involve visiting the recreated Native American site, or just want to have a bit more of an adventure off-roading…there are a few other tour options available! They just tend to be more expensive.

2. Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour

✅🌵Check rates & availability for this thrilling Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours

The Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour includes:

This tour is a great option for those ready to explore the hidden side of Joshua Tree that’s inaccessible to people in a regular car. You’ll experience all the rugged beauty and natural wonder that this area has to offer. And along the way, your guide will enlighten you about the unique flora and fauna of Joshua Tree, as well as its incredible history. You may even catch a glimpse of some fascinating wildlife, like bighorn sheep or goats! So, if you want to take a tour that’s off the beaten path, then this is definitely for you!

“ The tour was incredible. Our tour guide, Will was very knowledgeable, friendly and pleasant. We learned so much about Joshua tree and its surrounding communities. There’s a lot of history to be told.” Tour Guest. (see more reviews )

✅🌵Check rates & availability for this thrilling Joshua Tree National Park Off-road Tour

How Far Is Palm Springs to Joshua Tree?

Since both Palm Springs and Joshua Tree are massive, the distances can vary a lot depending on your starting and ending point.

But, from downtown Palm Springs to the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, it’s 40 miles or ~64km . It takes approximately 53 minutes to drive this distance when there’s no or minimal amount of traffic.

Other Tours From Palm Springs to Joshua Tree

Again, if this tour doesn’t sound like the one for you, there is an assortment of other tours available. For example, you can opt for a tour that travels down smooth roads and hits up all the main attractions in the park.

3. Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bike Adventure

✅ 🚴‍♀️ Check rates & availability for this Easy Earthquake Canyon Bike Adventure Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours

The Earthquake Canyon Bike Adventure Tour includes:

This is the perfect tour for those who crave an active yet relaxing excursion. You’ll get to intimately travel along the San Andreas Fault and admire sweeping views of the desert at your own pace. It’s really a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty and vastness of the region.

“Captain Ron was fabulous, full of history & information. The ride through the canyon was beautiful. We rode at our pace, being met along the ride with plenty of water & snacks. I highly recommend this tour! Well done!” Lisa r. (see more reviews )

4. Palm Springs Hike to an Oasis

✅ 🌴 Check rates & availability for this beautiful hike to the hidden desert oasis

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.75 hours

The Palm Springs Hike to an Oasis includes:

This is an excellent tour for those who want to explore the desert landscape on foot but don’t want to run the risk of getting lost. Plus, Carlos is a very friendly and expert guide who will ensure your safety and comfort and keep you entertained with all the incredible sights to see. That said, this hiking tour is better suited for those with outdoor experience and who are in relative shape. Because while 5.5 miles isn’t that long, over rocky terrain it can take a bit out of yah!

“ Carlos, our guide was terrific! He was knowledgeable and had a fun personality! Hike was great, beautiful scenery and Carlos paced the hike perfectly according to our group! I would highly recommend.” Alison A. (see more reviews )

5. Palm Springs Escape Room

✅ 🔓 Check rates & availability for this exciting escape room in Palm Springs

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour

The Palm Springs Escape Rooms include:

These escape rooms put your problem-solving skills to the test as you complete immersive challenges. I know you’re not really exploring Palm Springs, but it’s such a memorable activity that I immensely enjoy doing with my friends and family. So, if you want to get out of the heat and exercise your mind instead, this is an awesome activity to try.

“This our first time attempting an escape room experience and we totally enjoyed the experience and the teams who helped us with clues. I think this would be a great team building or bonding exercise.” Janet C. (see more reviews )

✅ Check rates & availability for a fun escape room in Palm Springs

There are three main reasons why you should do a Palm Springs tour .

First, if you don’t have a car and want to explore the area , taking a tour is your best option. This is because it’s no secret that public transportation in California and the United States , in general, is less than ideal.

And rather than Ubering yourself around the city, you can just take a ride to and from the meeting point for the tour and then be shown around!

Another reason is so you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads ! This is especially true if you want to explore Indian Canyon, see the San Andreas Fault, find the desert oasis, or go hiking in the area.

And, as someone who has ended up stranded alone in Bratislava, a foreign country I intended to day trip to…there’s nothing that ruins a trip quite like getting lost, missing your transit, and becoming ridiculously panicked.

Lastly, taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide ensures that you actually gain insight into the areas that you visit .

I’ve always found that learning the history, culture, and relevance of an area from an educated person brings so much more meaning to the experience.

Plus, every tour guide I’ve ever interacted with has been more than willing to answer my questions and provide local recommendations on other key attractions to visit! So, if it’s in your budget and there’s time in your schedule, I cannot recommend enough taking a tour while staying in Palm Springs!

🌵 NOTE: For any fellow solo travelers, tours are the ultimate way to meet people and make new friends! And, you already have one commonality with everyone else on the tour — you all are interested in the subject of the tour!

Since I want to have the best experience, here are a few things to bring, regardless of your tour selection.

• 💧 Reusable Water Bottle — Do not underestimate the heat. Bring more water than you think you’ll need
• 🍎 Snacks — I normally carry granola bars, apple slices, and some salty foods, like pretzels, because you’ll likely sweat.
• 🌞 Sunscreen & Chapstick — Protect your skin. This is the travel-sized bottle of sunscreen I like to use and normally carry with me.
• 🥾 Closed Toe Shoes — It’s the desert, so expect lots of dirt and dust. No one likes grime-y feet mixed with sweat.
• 🥶 Jacket — A light jacket will probably suffice until you’re visiting during the winter. Since there’s little moisture in the air, once the sun dips behind the mountains, it becomes really cold, really fast. Even during the day, sometimes it gets windy and it can get cold.

In case you aren’t interested in the tours above, there are several other tour options available. I’ll also include a list of some places and additional activities my family likes to do when we go to Palm Springs

• The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens – A smaller zoo that’s home to African, North American, and Australian plants and animals. You can get up close with giraffes, pet adorable Nigerian dwarf goats, and learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts. For tips and ways to save money check out my dedicated post .

• The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – To avoid the sweltering heat that Palm Springs normally experiences, ride a massive rotating “tram” to the top of San Jacinto peak, which is 5,783 feet (1,790 meters) above the desert floor! You’ll get to revel in breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley, and enjoy about 40°F cooler temperatures! Thus, dress appropriately and bring quarters to use the telescopes!
• Palm Springs Air Museum – This is an amazing museum that has lots of aircraft from WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terror. You can even fly in a vintage aircraft if you visit on a Saturday and pay ~$125 USD. Plus, what I love most is that almost everyone who works there is a veteran who can share their experiences and pass on their knowledge. Everyone can appreciate the museum.

For those traveling from overseas or who aren’t driving to Palm Springs, you can fly into the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) .

It’s a smaller airport that’s pretty easy to navigate and only 5 minutes away from downtown Palm Springs by car. Speaking of which, there are rental cars available for pick-up directly from the airport. Otherwise, your options are to take an Uber or take the bus, which is the city’s only form of public transportation.

✅ 🌴 Check the Availability of Rental Cars from Palm Springs

✈️ NOTE: For finding flights the cheapest flights, I recommend using Skyscanner and StudentUniverse . And if you’ve never heard of StudentUniverse, it’s because it’s the best-kept secret…I have a full review here explaining it.

If you’re coming from out of town, chances are you’re going to need housing. Here are a few hotels that are centrally located near downtown Palm Springs that I recommend checking out.

Low-Cost Stays

• Caliente Tropics Resort — 3-star hotel | ⭐️ 7.6 / 10
• Palm Canyon Resort — 3-star hotel | ⭐️ 7.9 / 10

Mid-Range Stays

• Hilton Palm Springs — 4-star hotel | ⭐️ 7.9 / 10
• Los Arboles Hotel — 3-star hotel | ⭐️ 8.7 / 10
• Hotel California — 3-star hotel | ⭐️ 9.4 / 10

Luxury Stays

• Arrive Palm Springs — 4-star hotel | ⭐️ 8.8 / 10
• La Maison Hotel — 5-star hotel | ⭐️ 9.6 / 10

Alternatively, you can also explore stays in other people’s homes with Vrbo , a platform like Airbnb… but in my opinion, better.

Palm Springs: Frequently Asked Questions

I believe Palms Springs, California is pretty in a different way than what many normally envision. For example, I admire all the palm trees lining the streets and the numerous sleek mid-century modern homes. However, I know other people need the coastal beaches like those in San Diego or in picturesque Nice, France for places to be pretty. So it all depends.

I do think it’s worth visiting for a few days unless you’re there for the BNP Paribas Open — then, of course, the full two weeks!

To avoid the blistering hot summers that give places like Red Rock Canyon a run for their money, I recommend going between November and April. During these months, the average high temperature doesn’t surpass 87°F and the average low is 44°F. That said, if I had to pick the best month to go to Palm Springs for a friend, I’d say either December or January. The weather is quite pleasant (high: 70°F, low: 44°F) during the winter, and you can see Christmas decorations!

No, they are separate cities located right next to each other.

Palm Springs is a city filled with all kinds of natural wonders and a fascinating past. And opting to discover these sites and hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide means you’ll be not only able to spectacular places but also learn about the local culture and history in a way that is simply not possible when traveling alone.

Whether it’s a jeep tour, a bike tour, a hiking tour, or a challenging escape room, there are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration in Palm Springs! So, if you’re ready to experience the understated beauty of Palm Springs, then I highly recommend taking a tour. And regardless of whether or not you decide to do a tour, I hope this post has been insightful in planning your perfect itinerary!

Read More About the United States

• Keen on visiting San Diego? Read about how to get around the city , all the mouthwatering food you can food forward to, and the one place all wine lovers have to go !
• Thinking of heading to Santa Cruz during the winter ? Make sure you know what to expect weather-wise and how to make the most of your time.

9 Best Spots for Surfing in San Diego for Beginners

In San Diego, surfing is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities to enjoy. From the adrenaline rush you get while taking off to the exhilarating feeling as you glide across the wave. To help you start your surfing journey on the right foot,  here are the 9 best spots for surfing in San Diego as a beginner!

Is Red Rock Canyon Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons to Visit

The Las Vegas region is home to one of the most beautiful desert landscapes, Red Rock Canyon. That said, being out in the desert region is understandably not for everyone. In this post, I’ll give you my honest opinion and tell you what to expect regarding all things Red Rock Canyon.

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Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

THE 10 BEST Palm Springs Private Tours

Private tours in palm springs.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Photography Tours
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Shopping Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

2. Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour

3. Walking Palm Springs "Twin Palms" Private Tour

4. Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle

5. Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree

6. Palms to Vines Wine Tasting tour from Palm Springs

7. Indian Canyons Walking Tour by Jeep from Palm Desert

8. Private Shopping Tour from Palm Springs to Desert Hills Outlets

9. Private Shopping Tour from Palm Springs to Desert Hills Outlets

10. Palm Springs Puzzling Adventure

11. Joshua Tree Half Day Private Sunrise Hike

12. Private 10-hour tour to Palm Springs from Los Angeles - Hotel pick up

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Temecula wine tasting tour

Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!

Self Guided Joshua Tree National Park Driving Tour

Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour

Pies & Pickaxes: A Historic Walking Tour of Julian, CA

California Audio Tour Bundle Get 4 Audio Tours

100+ Self Guided Driving & Walking Tours by Action

Tour of California Self-Guided Driving Bundle

Private Big Bear Lake Jeep Tour with Light Lunch

Julian Puzzling Adventure

Private-36 Hour Adventure in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree's Hidden Valley Self-Guided Walking Tour

Guided Hiking Tour in Big Bear with Sunset Champagne toast on Private Dock

Private Hot Air Balloon Ride of Temecula Valley

Private Flight for Two - Temecula Hot Air Balloon Flight

Dirty American Freedom Off-Road Adventure Tours

Aerobatic and Vintage Discovery Flights over Wine Country

What travelers are saying.

• Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour
• Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
• Walking Palm Springs "Twin Palms" Private Tour
• Joshua Tree Half Day Private Sunrise Hike
• Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle
• Modern & More Bike Tours Palm Springs
• Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours
• Adventure Hummer Tours
• Palm Springs Celebrity Tours
• Palm Springs Windmill Tours
• Sunny Cycle

City Tours in Palm Springs, CA: Sightsee Like a Local

Magic cart ride featured sightseeing trip.

You can book your tour by filling out the booking information below. Or Call 442-234-5727

The passionate locals behind our service, book a city tour today.

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Modernism Mega Tour

About the modernism mega tour.

This is the tour for those looking to go in-depth on Palm Springs architecture and modernism—and the best value tour in the city. A combination of our Top 10 Tour and the Modern Homes & Buildings 101 Tour, the Mega Tour boasts nearly double the number of tour stops than a regular tour, for 2-3 hours of enjoyment. You’ll learn about modernism and modern architecture though some of the most important and iconic examples of homes and public buildings. We packed this tour with ALL the best homes, buildings and architectural sights to see in palm Springs so you don’t need to choose one tour over another.

Tour Highlights

• 21 stops—2 tours in one!
• Enjoy this tour all at once, or split it into morning and afternoon or even take it over a couple of days; you’re in the driver’s seat!
• Get to know hidden gems in the heart of mid-century Palm Springs with visits to some stunning homes & buildings.
• See the Top 10 most iconic buildings & home
• Stops include the most important and well-known buildings in Palm Springs including Edris House and Kaufmann House, a Hollywood mega-star home and even an iconic family home that may be cursed!
• See stunning converted banks and find out where the architects’ inspiration came from
• Marvel at quirky Tiki architecture
• Navigate iconic neighborhoods like Vista las Palmas, Old Las Palmas and Deepwell Estates, and you’ll see plenty of other amazing homes and architecture as you travel through these areas. Have your camera ready!
• Reflect on the architectural beauty of the city from up close
• Explore buildings many visitors and even some locals don’t know about in Palm Springs
• Learn how these homes and buildings came to be so important—and why Palm Springs wasn’t always the modern architectural and celebrity playground it is today.

What to Know Before You Go

You will need your own vehicle for this self-driving tour (car, van, or bicycle, unicycle, skateboard). This tour features an audio tour guide with interactive real-time mapping and directions that guide you from stop to stop, plus many photos of interiors and exteriors, so you’re fully able to appreciate Palm Springs architecture & modernism—at your own pace.

In some cases you will see the home facades and outdoor spaces, in others, we will get you as close as possible to private, gated or other spaces. We are unable to grant access to gated communities, and some homes are off limits, but we want you to enjoy great spaces and great stories. (Please note that some public buildings including hotels may be temporarily barring visitors from entry due to COVID-19)

All of our audio tours are self-guided and self-driving, so you can see things quickly, or slow it down and really savor the views.

This Tour Includes

• Guided driving tour—at your pace and when you want to depart!
• Detailed directions to some of the most interesting & important architecture in Palm Springs
• Integrated Google maps to help you get around
• Enjoy clear voice narration from your expert guide
• Factual and fascinating information about mid-century architecture
• Original photographs of iconic buildings
• *We will get you as close as possible to private homes, gated areas or other spaces for the best views, however we are unable to grant access to gated communities or private property. (Please note that some public buildings including hotels may be temporarily barring visitors from entry due to COVID-19)

Health & Safety

We take the health and safety of our guests and all Palm Springs residents seriously. We have set a series of standards that we hope you’ll welcome in the spirit of ensuring everybody is safe and comfortable and can courteously enjoy the lifestyle of the desert together.

• Please be safe while cycling or driving.
• In your car, obey all traffic laws.
• On a bike, use recommended safety gear.
• Don't drive or cycle while distracted; use your phone only while stopped.
• Please do not trespass or bother the homeowners.
• Be sure to drink plenty of water. Desert heat can sneak up on you. While fainting was cool back in old Hollywood, it’s not today, so stay safe!

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Biking and Walking Tours call 760-844-2242 to arrange | Museums: Closed for the summer | Research: By Appointment

Walking Tours

Join us for an entertaining stroll through Palm Springs, enjoy tours full of history, fun stories, famous architecture and intrigue!

We offer historical tours focusing on Palm Springs' historic neighborhoods, distinguished by a combination of the celebrities and local pioneers who called them home and the architects and builders who shaped their development.

Palm Springs is renowned for having the largest concentration of midcentury modern architecture in the country. See these stunning gems up close but also hear the history and great stories that makes our city so revered. 

View the tour calendar by month or daily

How Do I Choose? click for help

Sun + Mon + Thu

Golden Era Hollywood Homes

Rat Pack Playground

Frank Sinatra's Neighborhood

Stars of the Movie Colony

Giants of Architecture

Cherished Legacies

Twin Palms Estates

Inns, Architecture and Glamour

Heart of the City

Shangri-La of the Stars

Hidden Paradise

Celebrity Haven

Modernist Treasures

Desert Stardust

You Choose Day

Tours - Private

October 24 - 27, 2024

Tours - Modernism Week

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Palm Springs   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Allard Schager | Getty Images

16 Best Things To Do in Palm Springs

Updated Feb. 6, 2024

This isn't a place where you should pack your schedule: Embrace Palm Springs' relaxed mentality by enjoying time by the pool and at the spa. But if you're interested, there's more to do than just sunbathing and unwinding with a

• All Things To Do

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The city of Palm Springs rests in the shadows of the San Jacinto Mountains. The towering, snow-topped peaks of Southern California's second-highest mountain range are beautiful to behold from the valley floor, but many visitors say that a mountaintop experience is incredible. To reach the summit, you'll take a 10-minute ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Once you rise 8,516 feet to the top, you can hike (there are more than 50 miles of trails, including to San Jacinto Peak ), or snowshoe and cross-country ski during the winter, before heading back down the mountain via its rotating tram cars.

To avoid waiting in long ticket lines, several travelers recommend purchasing your tram passes in advance on the attraction's ticket page. If tickets are not available online for your arrival date, you will need to buy them on-site. Adults will be charged $28.95 for standard tram tickets; tickets for children ages 3 to 10 cost $16.95. Keep in mind: The weather at the top is typically 30 to 40 degrees cooler than the desert floor, so you'll want to wear layers to stay comfortable.

Coachella Valley Preserve Coachella Valley Preserve free

The Coachella Valley Preserve may seem like a barren desert, but keep your eyes peeled and you'll see that its 20,000-plus acres are more than just sand and brush. The preserve encompasses the smaller, 880-acre Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, which boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails. Along the trails you'll spot rare wildlife, such as the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, lush palm woodland oases and desert wetlands, which at different times of the year blossom with wildflowers.

Previous visitors said a stop here is worth a few hours of your time to view the unique geography of the Thousand Palm Oasis and to hike the trails. Reviewers also appreciated the free admission. Additionally, some suggested arriving early before temperatures become unbearable and the small parking lot fills up.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is part zoo and part botanical garden, all in the extraordinary setting of the desert. Along with animals like rhinos, bighorn sheep and meerkats, there are a handful of gardens that showcase more than 1,600 species of plants, including multiple varieties of cacti, prickly pear and agave. If you're visiting between October and May, you can also explore the attraction's three trail loops.

Past visitors enjoyed seeing The Living Desert's animals, but recommended arriving early, since the park offers little shade and temperatures often rise above 100 degrees in the summer. Many also suggested paying an extra $8 to feed the giraffes, and if you're traveling with little ones or don't want to walk between exhibits, consider purchasing a ticket for a two-hour private tour. Passes start at $79 for adults and $49 for children between 3 and 12 and include general admission, a guide and a shuttle.

Popular Tours

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket

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from $ 30.00

Joshua Tree Open Air Hummer Adventure

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from $ 179.00

Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Tour

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from $ 149.00

Joshua Tree National Park Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an oasis in the center of the desert. From Hidden Valley (which features a nice, easy hike) to the Cholla Cactus Garden (home to many a photo-op at sunset), Joshua Tree caters to a variety of active travelers. Meanwhile, with its perch in the Little San Bernardino Mountains, the Keys View lookout is another great place for a spectacular view of the Coachella Valley.

Whether you're planning on hiking or just driving through, the park rangers recommend bringing plenty of water – this is the desert, after all. What's more, recent travelers suggested bringing food to enjoy at one of Hidden Valley's picnic tables.

Indian Canyons Indian Canyons

Located 6 miles south of central Palm Springs, these canyons, which consist of Palm Canyon, Murray Canyon and Andreas Canyon, sit on the reservation lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. All three canyons offer hiking trails with breathtaking desert scenery, but other activities are also available. At Palm Canyon, purchase authentic Native American artwork or pottery at the trading post. Andreas and Murray canyons, meanwhile, are best for wildlife-watching; if you're lucky, you may even spot endangered species like the Peninsular desert bighorn sheep and the Least Bell's Vireo bird while exploring Murray Canyon. The new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, Tahquitz Canyon and three resorts – Indian Canyons Golf Resort, the Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage and Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs – are also situated on or near the reservation.

According to recent travelers, the Indian Canyons are "peaceful" and "stunningly beautiful." Some, however, cautioned that temps often soar above 100 degrees in the summer, so bring lots of water and sunscreen. Many also recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes and skipping the Murray Canyon Trail if you don't want to get your feet wet as it ends at the Seven Sisters Waterfall.

Palm Springs Art Museum Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum, which was founded in 1938, contains a stunning collection, like works from the landscape painter Thomas Moran and glass artist Dale Chihuly. You'll also find an ever-changing list of rotating exhibits, which have included studies of impressionism, contemporary sculpture, pop and graphic art, and architecture. The facility's permanent collection is not to be missed either as it contains more than 12,000 works across its 28 galleries. The museum also owns the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, which sits less than a mile south of the art museum, as well as Frey House II, the longtime residence of architect Albert Frey.

According to recent visitors, the Palm Springs Art Museum is a "cultural oasis" with "wonderful" exhibits. Many also appreciated its small size, adding that it's easy to see everything in an hour or two. Plus, the property offers free entry every Thursday evenings, no reservations required.

Palm Springs Air Museum Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum boasts an extensive collection of aircraft from World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars, including aircraft that range from the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress to the Grumman F7F Tigercat to the Douglas DC-3 Skytrain. The aircraft are positioned throughout the museum, not unlike the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C .

Several previous visitors said this attraction was "one of the best museums in Palm Springs" and served as a "great place to beat the heat," adding that its kids area, where children can sit in airplane cockpits, is a must if you're visiting with little ones. What's more, many appreciated the property's informative and friendly volunteers.

Tahquitz Canyon Tahquitz Canyon

For stunning scenery and a look at Native American history and culture, check out the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indian's Tahquitz Canyon. Situated less than 2 miles southwest of downtown Palm Springs, this area of the reservation boasts the 60-foot Tahquitz waterfall (accessible via the Tahquitz Canyon Trail), rock art and a variety of flora and fauna. You'll also find the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center, where you can watch a movie about the canyon, peruse various artifacts, buy souvenirs and take a guided walk. Additional facilities, including three resorts, the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum (opening soon) and the Indian Canyons , can be found on or near the reservation as well.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking the nearly 2-mile-long Tahquitz Canyon Trail, which past visitors said was relatively easy to traverse, despite its lack of shade and occasional changes in elevation (as much as 350 feet). What's more, temps can climb into the 100s at times, so pack plenty of water. Several previous travelers recommended carrying at least one liter of water per person.

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Palm Springs Golf Courses Palm Springs Golf Courses

With 300 days of sunshine and more than 100 courses – many designed by celebrity architects like Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus – Palm Springs is a golfer's paradise. No matter where you decide to play, you'll be surrounded by stunning mountain and desert vistas and towering palm trees.

Some of the top-rated courses include Indian Wells Golf Resort , which offers 36 holes and sits next to the Indian Wells Resort Hotel, originally founded in 1957 by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Players say Indian Wells is in excellent condition and enhanced by the incredible views. For golfers staying in downtown Palm Springs, the Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort offers two 18-hole golf courses that recent visitors called challenging.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens Sunnylands Center & Gardens free

For a curated desert landscape that hosted royalty, world leaders and old Hollywood stars, explore Sunnylands Center and Gardens, the 15-acre parcel that's part of the 200-acre Rancho Mirage estate of former ambassador Walter Annenberg and his wife, Leonore. The Sunnylands Center and Gardens features a 9-acre garden with reflecting pools and more than 50,000 arid-adapted plants, some from North and South America, Africa and the Mediterranean. Along a 1.25-mile walking trail, visitors can enjoy views of the nearby mountains and several free audio tours are available for download on smartphones. The Sunnylands Center and Gardens features free activities throughout the year, such as a guided 60-minute birding walk on Friday mornings from November to May. The main house, a midcentury modern classic, is located within the 200-acre estate that also includes 11 human-made lakes and a nine-hole golf course. The home is open by tour only (reservations are required several months in advance) and other guided tours are also available.

Recent visitors marvel at the precision of the gardens, where " no flower or bush or cactus is out of place." Other visitors added that the Sunnylands Center and Gardens offered lots of bird-watching opportunities, in addition to plenty of benches for resting. Reviewers also encouraged visitors to plan ahead and book tickets to the home tour well in advance, as tickets are often sold out.

Palm Canyon Drive Palm Canyon Drive free

With shoulder-to-shoulder restaurants (many with outdoor dining), designer boutiques, locally owned shops and galleries, Palm Canyon Drive is a pedestrian-friendly destination in downtown Palm Springs. Anchoring downtown, Palm Canyon Drive is also the home to the Palm Springs Walk of Stars, a collection of more than 400 granite squares embedded in the sidewalk bearing the names of celebrities and well-known locals. Sprinkled along the Palm Canyon Drive sidewalk, artists have painted more than 50 concrete benches for a splash of color and a place to sit. Palm Canyon Drive also hosts the weekly street fair known as VillageFest, where vendors take over the street and the thoroughfare is closed to cars every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m.

Nearly every visitor enjoyed walking up and down Palm Canyon Drive seeing the sights and window-shopping. However, reviewers warn that drivers need to take care when parking in the area as parking limitations are strictly enforced.

Cabot's Pueblo Museum Cabot's Pueblo Museum

Drawing inspiration from the Hopi Native American tribe, Cabot Yerxa, a homesteader in the area that became known as Desert Hot Springs, spent decades creating a four-story, 35-room pueblo. Using reclaimed and found materials from the surrounding Coachella Valley, Yerxa did everything from dismantle abandoned cabins to craft adobe-style sun-dried bricks. Visitors are drawn to the home not only because of the meticulous craftsmanship, but also because of the artifacts on display. The home is filled with Native American art and artifacts, souvenirs of Cabot's travels and Cabot's own works of art. Another highlight of Cabot's Pueblo Museum is Waokiye. Lakota for "traditional helper," Waokiye is a 22-foot-tall sculpture made from donated Sequoia redwood.

A self-guided, 45-minute audio tour is accessible on mobile devices. The tour guides visitors through the building while explaining how it was constructed, as well as Yerxa's role in developing Desert Hot Springs.

Moorten Botanical Garden Moorten Botanical Garden

Established in 1938 by former actor Chester "Cactus Slim" Moorten and his wife, Patricia, Moorten Botanical Garden is a 1-acre privately owned botanical garden and plant nursery. When not tending to their botanical garden, the couple designed gardens for a who’s who of Palm Springs, including Walt Disney. Meander the garden's nature trail to marvel at more than a dozen biodomes and more than 3,000 desert plants. For gardeners, the plant nursery is located on the property and offers a knowledgeable staff.

Recent visitors enjoyed the setting of Moorten Botanical Garden and felt it offered an escape from the surrounding development. Others described the attraction as small and not worth more than an hour of your time.

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San Jacinto Peak San Jacinto Peak free

As the backdrop to the Coachella Valley, San Jacinto Peak is part of the San Jacinto Mountains and the second-tallest peak in Southern California. Unique to this summit – and a benefit to mountaineers – is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway that carries hikers up nearly 6,000 feet on the way to the 10,834-foot summit. When climbers exit the tram at the mountain station at 8,516 feet, the elevation gain is just over 2,300 feet to the summit.

After exiting the tramway's mountain station, hikers start their 5.5-mile one-way hike to the San Jacinto Peak as they enter Long Valley. After hiking along Long Valley, hikers enter Round Valley, a more open section of the trail. Wellman's Divide is home to the steepest section of the trail, with a 600-foot elevation gain over one mile. According to past visitors, the San Jacinto Peak Trail is well marked to the summit.

Cabazon Dinosaurs Cabazon Dinosaurs

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Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert

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Take a Palm Springs Bike Tour

Plan your fun-under-the-sun bike adventure.

Fall and winter offer the best weather to explore Palm Springs on a bike. Instead of cranking up the heat and bundling up on those cold days, come warm up in Palm Springs. With our blue skies and endless sunshine, it's an ideal place for catching a little fresh air and enjoying an outdoor biking adventuring.

A bike tour is a great way to see the city. You can either do your own, or book one with a local biking tour guide.

Find Your Ride

If you want to rent a bike, stop by Bike Palm Springs to kickstart your adventure. Bike Palm Springs is centrally located right downtown and offers a range of styles, including electric bikes. It's easy to spot with their candy-colored rainbow window, matched only by its mid-century modern storefront. Choose from a variety of bike options with help from owner, Tony Torrez, who prides himself on being a savvy guide who will help you ride with pride. Big Wheel Tours also rents a range of bikes. They also have a bike child seat and an easy to use bike trailer add-on option.

Many hotels and resorts also offer complimentary bikes.

Choose Your Biking Experience

Now for the fun part- choosing your Palm Springs biking experience. For the experienced and spirited, maybe a long ride on a mountain bike. For an easier ride, take a bike tour through some of the beautiful neighborhoods.

Midcentury Modern Bike Tour

Palm Springs is home to the largest concentration of mid-century modern architecture. Marvel at these works of art up close and personal by biking through the neighborhoods.

For this easy self-guided bike tour, we recommend biking through the Vista Las Palmas and Old Las Palmas neighborhoods, where you'll find an abundance of famous mid-century modern homes all in close proximity of each other. Vista Las Palmas is where you'll find “The House of Tomorrow” Elvis Presley's famed Honeymoon Hideaway, the Swiss Miss A-Frame homes designed by Charles Dubois, and the Dinah Shore Estate, which Leonardo DiCaprio acquired in 2014.

Then, if you're really adventurous, take a long trek down to the Indian Canyons neighborhood to see the renowned colorful doors!

If you're a mid-mod enthusiast and all this architecture talk is giving you the travel itch, consider diving deeper into the Palm Springs neighborhoods with a little help from this Mid-Century Architecture Self-Guided Tour . Or, visit during Modernism Week and experience an 11-day festival featuring more than 350 events including the Palm Springs Modernism Show & Sale, tours of iconic homes in more than 30 neighborhoods, and the popular Signature Home Tour on both weekends.

San Andreas Fault Bike Tour

For more rugged terrains and experienced bikers, chart a course with Big Wheel Tours . The 20-mile Earthquake Canyon Express Bicycle Tour will showcase the San Andreas Fault zone on this geological adventure. You will see the start beauty of the desert as you descend a total of 1,600 feet over the route.

Indian Canyon Bike Tour

This Palm Springs Bike Tour can be self-guided or guided.

Big Wheel Tours offer a guided Indian Canyon Bike and Hike Tour. As the name implies, you will first bike through some Palm Springs older neighborhoods including Canyon Country Club. Then you enter Indian Canyons, home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, where you will take a scenic nature walk in Andreas Canyon.

If a tour isn't your style, Palm Springs is home to hundreds of trails you can explore yourself. The Indian Canyons offer numerous trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and sightseeing. Find the canyons just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, where admission gives you access to the Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon and Murray Canyon.

Palm Canyon Epic Trail Bike Tour

If you're an experienced mountain biker, take on The Palm Canyon Epic Trail (PCE). This trail is known all around the world and is one of the longest continuous single tracks in California. Enjoy epic views along the trail and if you're lucky, sightings of longhorn sheep and tortoises. The PCE is a 28-mile route with 2400 ft of climbing and 5000 ft of descending (not for beginner riders)

Bike Like a Star Tour

Ready, set, let's ride..

Palm Springs is very bike friendly and bike lanes well marked. Download the Palm Springs Bicycle Map for a listing of bike lanes and bike racks to create your own Palm Springs biking tour.

Regardless of your travel style, Palm Springs is home to an adventure just for you. Get outside, enjoy a breath of fresh air and bask in the sunshine this winter.

Alright, who's ready for some 'wheel' fun!