Did somebody say “don’t worry darling?” 🌴
Palm Springs, the idyllic Hollywood hideout, just under a 3-hour drive away from Los Angeles, is known to be a desert oasis full of mid-century modern architecture and design, mountainscapes, and a scenic abundance of palm trees.
If you only have a short amount of time to spend here, this guide will give you some of the top activities to do that you can get to in just two days. Make sure to save this post for your next Palm Springs excursion!
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[SEE RELATED: HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN JOSHUA TREE]
DAY 1
AERIAL TRAMWAY
If you want to get the best view of Chino Canyon and the Coachella Valley, you have to go up the Aerial Tramway. This popular attraction will take you over 8,500 feet up on a rotating, 360°-view tram to the San Jacinto State Park. The tram ride takes about 10-15 minutes (one way). Once you reach the top there will be a four-story building with a visitor center, eateries, a souvenir shop, a museum, and some small theaters that play educational films. Around the building are various lookout points where you’ll be stunned to see the most incredible views!
Pro tip: Purchase your tickets beforehand either through Viator or GetYourGuide! You can purchase tickets upon arrival but may be subject to waiting on standby.
📍Address
1 Tramway Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Entrance Fees
| Adults | $29.95 |
| Children (ages 3-10) | $17.95 |
| Seniors (65+) | $27.95 |
| Summer Pass *Available April 1 | $85.00 Adults & Seniors (65+) $45.00 Children (ages 3-10) |
| Annual Pass | $165.00 Adults & Seniors (65+) $95.00 Children (ages 3-10) |
| Ride N Dine – Adult *Available after 4PM | $38.00 |
| Ride N Dine – Child *Available after 4PM | $24.50 |
POOL AND RELAXATION TIME
Of course you’ll want to squeeze in some good relaxation time while you’re in Palm Springs! Bask in the sunshine, take in the gorgeous the mountain and palm views, and get your tan on! Palm Springs is truly one of the best places to unwind.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs
Book your flights and hotel through Expedia
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with a group of less than 4, it might be more cost efficient to get a hotel. However, if your travel group is 4+ or more look into Airbnbs – there are some cool ones!
DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS
SHOP
Once you find yourself pooled-out, head to downtown Palm Springs where there is something for everybody. The downtown area is full of shops, restaurants, and relics.
Browse through the eclectic fashion and luxury stores, as well as novelty and gift shops. You will be sure to find aesthetic mid-century modern trinkets, clothes, and home decor!
EAT AND DRINK
Downtown Palm Springs is packed with local and chain eateries that you can enjoy. Some top recommendations are:
- El Patron
- The Front Porch
- Jalama Wines (cutest winery, friendly owner!)
- Toucan’s Tiki Lounge
- Farm
- Ernest Coffee
- Amigo Room
- Revel Public House
EXPLORE
- Walk of Stars
- Marilyn Monroe Statue
- Bike Rentals
- Palm Springs Art Museum
VILLAGEFEST
Make sure to check out the VillageFest, a weekly outdoor street fair held on Thursdays. Here you’ll find food trucks, vendors, art, and plenty of good vibes. Villagefest starts at 6PM and goes through 10PM.
DAY 2
EXPLORE THE NEIGHBORHOODS
The city of Palm Springs is home to the largest amount of mid-century modern buildings and architecture. The unique and unmatched collection of homes and buildings bring a vintage and artistic vibe to the city. There are multiple ways to strategically and respectfully peruse the neighborhoods, but here are some tips if you’re trying to maximize your time:
- Consider booking a Mid-Century Modern guided tour where you can efficiently get to iconic homes and locations.
- If you’re doing self-guided, have specific houses, buildings, or neighborhoods you want to see. Below are some suggestions:
- Kaufmann House (Don’t Worry Darling House)
- Saguaro Hotel
- Marilyn Monroe’s House
- Liberace House
- The Party Lion House
- Mod Circles Blue Door House
- The Parker Hotel
- Make sure to be respectful to the home owners and residents of the city. I suggest driving rather than walking (you might get some weird looks if you walk) and discreetly taking photos, and only if allowed! Some houses have a ‘no photography’ sign. Also try to avoid taking photos of people! Don’t forget these are people’s actual homes.
INDIAN CANYONS
If you’re in the mood to spend sometime outside for a light hike, you’re in for a tropical treat if you head a few minutes out of downtown Palm Springs to the Indian Canyons! The Indian Canyon grounds are home to multiple hiking trails: the Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Palm Canyon.
The entrance fee is charged per person and not per vehicle. We paid $12 each for an adult ticket. You can also book personalized jeep tours!
PALM CANYON TRAIL
This fun trail is located in the Indian Canyons. The entire hike takes about 2 hours total, and is approximately 3-4 miles long. The trail’s highlight is the one-of-a-kind Palm Tree Oasis. We stayed on the walking path which ended up being fairly flat, easy, and easy to follow.
MURRAY CANYON TRAIL
If you’re in the mood to do about a 4.2 mile desert hike, Murray Canyon Trail should be on your list! Full of water streams and creeks, palm trees, and striking desert landscapes.
ANDREAS CANYON TRAIL
Also inside the Indian Canyon grounds is the Andreas Canyon Trail where we embarked on a quick and easy, one-mile loop. You’ll find cool rock formations, see more palm trees, and gorgeous landmark scenery through the Andreas Canyon.
POOL AND RELAXATION TIME
Grab a drink, some snacks, and a pool floaty and don’t forget to spend your time relaxing!
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
- Moorten Botanical Gardens
- Golf
- Desert Hills Premium Outlet Mall
ENJOY!
I hope you enjoy your time in Palm Springs! It truly is a blissful gem of a place that is nothing short of beautiful and paradisal.
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