Family Fun in Palm Springs

Known for its signature palm trees, luxurious hotels and world-class golf courses, Palm Springs has long been a playground of the rich and famous. More and more families are learning it isn’t just a haven for celebrities, but a fun getaway for them as well. Here are just a few of the exciting activities that await visitors.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

This family favorite takes visitors on a 2.5-mile trip from the desert floor up the side of San Jacinto peak. The largest tramway of its kind, this rotating car provides a 360-degree view of the Coachella Valley while it ascends more than 8,000 feet and takes passengers into San Jacinto State Park. Once there, enjoy a meal or a cocktail with a stellar view at one of the restaurants or take a hike along one of the wilderness trails.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Photo: Jeff Whyte | Dreamstime

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Take a ride through the sky for a one-of-a-kind view of the desert in a beautifully decorated hot air balloon. These rides provide guests with stunning views of the Coachella Valley and the San Jacinto Mountain Range. Each ride is unique as the flight path is determined by the wind pattern, so be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by the whims of nature. Flights are available at sunrise and sunset, depending on your needs and desires.

Coachella Valley Preserve

This desert oasis is a welcome surprise to visitors of the hot desert city of Palm Springs. Its beautiful fan palm trees provide shade and tranquility for a picnic or a nature hike through this desert wilderness where you can observe local wildlife in a natural habitat. Located along the San Andreas fault line, this unique location is one of the few places to find naturally occurring ponds and creeks in the otherwise arid desert terrain. There is no charge to visit the preserve, but donations are helpful in maintaining the grounds and services.

Shopping and Dining

Spend some time strolling along Palm Canyon Drive, the main drag through the city. Packed with unique shops, restaurants, bars and art galleries, this palm tree-lined street is a perfect place to spend an afternoon shopping or relaxing in a sidewalk cafe with a drink and people watching. While you are there, check out the Palm Springs version of the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame, with stars dedicated to celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Chevy Chase, all of whom called Palm Springs home.