15 Things to Do in Palm Springs, California

Today, I’m sharing travel destinations and Things to Do in Palm Springs, CA.  First, San Diego and Palm Springs are two of my favorite travel destinations.  I simply can’t get enough of either.  As a result, I’m encouraging you to visit both.

However, today I’m going to give tips on Palm Springs.  There’s so much to see and do.  Walking or biking provides the best experience for seeing everything around Palm Springs.  Lets get started:

Tahquitz Canyon – It’s approximately two-miles and loops along the Tahquitz River to a 60-foot Tahquitz Falls.  It is located in Coachella Valley near Palm Springs, California, and inhibited by the Cahuilla tribe of Native Americans.  It is lead by a park ranger who has great knowledge of the canyon.  Additionally, it has a beautiful water fall, which makes the hike worth it.  In addition, it is filled with wild flowers, cactus, rock ledges providing great views, history of the Indians, and more.  The mortar below was used to grind corn by the Cahuilla Indians.

Walk of Stars – Located in downtown Palm Springs, CA.  The walk has stars from many of the older legends like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, and James Earl Jones.  The walk is unique, it honor celebrities and writers who have resided in the area.  So, if you love TMC and older movies, the Palm Springs Walk of Stars is worth the trip.

See’s Candy –  One of my favorite places to visit in Palm Springs.  The samples are worth the trip alone.  But, pick up a box to bring home.  You’ll be sorry if you don’t.

Statutes  –  Next, set a few hours aside and go on a search for the bronzed statutes that line the Palm Springs streets.  Some of the statutes include Lucille Ball, Sonny Bono, Gene Autry, Marilyn Monroe and more.

Bike Tours – If you love bike riding, consider renting a bike for the day.  You can ride through the celebrity neighborhoods or downtown Palm Springs on the bike loop.  If you need a break, park your bike and grab a bite to eat.  Check with your hotel to see if they offer free bicycles.  If not, there are rental companies that will rent them for a reasonable rate.

Palm Canyon Drive –  Palm Canyon Drive is the place to be for great food, people watching and great photo opportunities.  There are few  chain stores in Palm Springs.  So, dining is a unique experience.  Furthermore, there are plenty of boutiques, restaurants, and places to get ice cream or beverages if you’re out taking in the sights.  We where able to find a parking space with no problems.

Wind Turbines –  I took this picture of the wind turbines heading into Palm Springs from San Diego.  The Coachella Valley is peppered with thousands of wind turbines.  They are used to generate electricity for the city.

Ariel Tram –  May I suggest,  the tram to Mt. San Jacinto State Park.  You can hike a few trails, have a snowball fight or grab a bite to eat at the Pines Café.  Before you head up, grab a warm coat or jacket.  It’s 8,500 foot elevation to the top of  Mt. San Jacinto State Park, and takes about 10 minutes.  It’s an amazing experience!  The tram rotates 360 degrees while heading up and down the mountain.

LG’s Steakhouse –  If you’re into fine dining,  LG’s Steak House is a must.  It’s considered one of the best steakhouses in California.  Personally, I agree.  As a result, whatever you select will be delicious.  However, I would recommend the Caesar Salad and the T-Bone or Filet Mignon.  Not into red meat, try the seafood platter.  LG’s Steakhouse is perfect for date night or an office party.

McCormick’s Palm Springs Exotic Cars –  So, if you’re into exotic and muscle cars you must check out McCormick’s.  They auction cars from the 50’s, 60’s, convertibles, Rolls Royce, Porche and more.  Great photo opportunity, and a fun way to spend the day.

Celebrity Homes –  Also, I enjoyed searching for celebrity homes in Palm Springs.  So, grab a map of the homes and head out.  I loved that the homes were not huge mansions that celebrities live in today.  The homes are actually relatable, and much simpler in style.  This is a picture of Jay Leno’s Palm Springs home.  I also have photos of the homes of Natalie Cole, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Sammy Davis Jr. and more.

Take photographs of  the Mountains  – Do you love the mountains?  I do!  I believe these are the San Jacinto or Santa Rosa Mountains.  You can find photography opportunity of the mountains just about anywhere in Palm Springs.  As a result, I captured this photo from the balcony of my room at the Riviera Hotel.

Cabazon Outlets –  Furthermore, if you love to shop or want to pick up a special gift before you head home check out the outlets.  The Cabazon Outlets has luxury shops like Le Creuset, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and more.  For $25, you can purchase a Shop & Play bag which includes: our VIP Savings Card, a shopping tote, lip balm, Under Armour gift, voucher for an Auntie Anne’s pretzel, water bottle with lanyard, and a rechargeable power bank.

Big Horse Carriage Company –  Also, take a carriage ride through the historic district, celebrity neighbors or an evening ride in a horse drawn carriage.  It’s perfect for the family or adding a little romance to your date night.

Lunch at the Riviera  Hotel –  The Riviera Hotel used to be old Hollywood.  However, it has been updated to a more modern décor.  I’ve stayed at the Riviera several times and I love it, and their lunch menu.  Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop frequented the Riviera.  Additionally, Elvis Presley performed and escaped to the Riviera when he need to be out of the limelight.  Also, Sonny and Cher were performers there as well.

So, make a note of what you want to see in Palm Springs and get to it.  It’s one of my favorite places to visit, and I hope to return in the near future.  Finally, you may also like Visit Parrot Mountain in Sevierville, TN.