Discover Greater Palm Springs with iBestTravel
In its early days as a capital of cool, Greater Palm Springs attracted screen legends, the Rat Pack, and a steady stream of studio executives, earning it the nickname “Hollywood’s playground.” While this reputation still holds true, the region now offers a wide array of attractions and experiences that appeal to different types of travelers.
Greater Palm Springs is a prime destination for outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences, a vibrant wellness scene, and epic festivals—making it a must-visit in 2024. With its stunning backdrops of peaks, palms, and starry night skies, the region is ideal for all kinds of escapes.
Notably, several restaurants in Greater Palm Springs have received Michelin recommendations, reflecting the area’s thriving culinary scene. Each of the mini-guides below pairs suggested activities with popular dining spots, creating a feast for all the senses.
Outdoor Adventures
Home to an astonishing variety of ecosystems—from palm-fringed canyons and pine forests to multiple desert landscapes—Greater Palm Springs is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. To begin, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides breathtaking views as it ascends over 2.5 miles from the desert base to the conifer forests at an elevation of 8,516 feet. Upon disembarking, explore over 50 miles of scenic trails in Mt. San Jacinto State Park, where stunning vistas await.
For more adventures, consider hiking or horseback riding in the famous Indian Canyons. You can encounter towering palms, beautiful water features, and even venture to Tahquitz Canyon, home to a seasonal 60-foot waterfall. This area is sacred to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, so joining ranger-led interpretive hikes can enhance your experience.
For those seeking to cover more ground, local jeep tours take you through Indian Canyons and nearby Joshua Tree National Park. Exciting bike trails are also available, making it a cyclist’s dream.
After a day of adventure, consider dining at mountainside locations like La Quinta Cliffhouse, known for its picturesque setting and delightful Happy Hour. For breakfast, the extensive crepe menu at Farm Palm Springs offers a delicious starting point, while the Café at Shields Date Garden is a must for its date-themed dishes.
Spa and Wellness
Renowned as a center for self-care, Greater Palm Springs is elevating its wellness scene. The new Spa at Séc-he allows visitors to soak in the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring for the first time in years. Featuring a vast 73,000-square-foot spa, it boasts 22 spring-fed mineral baths, enhancing the overall wellness experience.
Nearby Desert Hot Springs also contributes to the wellness trend, with places like Two Bunch Palms offering new luxury accommodations and soaking options. Newcomers like The Good House and Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort are expanding their offerings, providing healthy dining options that pair well with wellness experiences.
Sound bathing has also gained popularity in the area, with various locations offering serene experiences using Tibetan bowls and gongs. Many venues in the region offer yoga sessions ranging from outdoor classes to hot yoga environments.
Arts and Culture
Architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, with midcentury icons like Sunnylands, the former estate of diplomats Walter and Lee Annenberg, offering tours. Other notable sites include Kaufmann House, Elvis’s Honeymoon Hideaway, and Frey House II, which highlight the rich architectural history of the region.
The Palm Springs Art Museum showcases not only contemporary collections but also special exhibits such as the So Picasso retrospective (available through April 2024). Additionally, public art is thriving throughout Greater Palm Springs, with murals and installations that can be explored via the Arts GPS app.
Signature Events
Greater Palm Springs hosts a variety of iconic festivals and events throughout the year, particularly in the early months. January brings the star-studded Palm Springs International Film Festival, while February is marked by the lively Modernism Week, which attracts over 120,000 attendees for a celebration of midcentury design.
From the thrilling BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in March to the exciting Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April, there’s always something happening. No matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy, from culinary delights to cultural experiences.
