Greater Palm Springs, California
A Desert Oasis of Mid-Century Glamour and Natural Beauty
A Desert Oasis of Mid-Century Glamour and Natural Beauty
4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Greater Palm Springs is a collection of nine desert resort cities in California's Coachella Valley, known for its year-round sunshine, stunning mountain backdrop, and iconic mid-century modern architecture. While not a cruise port, it serves as a popular inland destination for those seeking a stylish and relaxing getaway. The area offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, Old Hollywood glamour, and vibrant arts and culture.
A day trip to Greater Palm Springs is a journey into a sun-drenched oasis. Visitors can ascend to cooler climes on the world's largest rotating tramway, explore a vast desert landscape, and wander through a town filled with architecturally significant buildings and palm-lined streets. From boutique shopping and art galleries to hiking trails and mineral hot springs, Palm Springs provides a perfect escape into a world of relaxed sophistication and natural wonder.
Experience a spectacular view of the entire valley by taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The world's largest rotating tram car travels up the cliffs of Chino Canyon to the San Jacinto Mountains. At the top, you'll find hiking trails, observation decks, a museum, and restaurants.
Tip: The temperature at the top of the tramway can be significantly cooler than in the valley. Bring a light jacket or sweater, even on a hot day.
Palm Springs is a mecca for mid-century modern design. Take a self-guided tour or a professional tour to admire the clean lines, glass walls, and iconic flat roofs of homes and buildings designed by legendary architects. Don't miss the Palm Springs Visitors Center, a great example of this style.
Tip: Many of the most famous homes are in residential neighborhoods. Please be respectful of private property and do not enter private driveways.
Stroll along the palm-lined Palm Canyon Drive, the main thoroughfare of downtown Palm Springs. This vibrant street is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, antique stores, and a wide array of restaurants and cafes. It's a great place to people-watch and soak in the desert vibe.
Tip: Visit on a Thursday evening for the VillageFest, a weekly street fair with vendors, food, and entertainment.
Discover a unique side of the desert at the Indian Canyons, located on the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation. The canyons, particularly Palm Canyon, are home to one of the largest California fan palm oases in North America and offer a network of scenic hiking trails.
Tip: Go in the morning to beat the heat, and bring plenty of water. The canyons can be significantly hotter than the surrounding areas.
Visit The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens in Palm Desert, a unique zoo and botanical garden dedicated to the deserts of the world. It features a variety of desert wildlife and beautiful botanical exhibits, providing an educational and engaging experience.
Tip: Check the feeding schedules for the animals, especially the giraffes, for a memorable experience.
If you're looking for a shopping fix, head to Desert Hills Premium Outlets, located just off the I-10 freeway. This massive outdoor shopping center features a vast collection of designer and brand-name outlet stores, offering significant savings.
Tip: Go on a weekday if possible to avoid the crowds, and wear comfortable shoes as the center is very large.
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