Photography courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Spring

Palm Springs, California, conjures images of poolside glamour, Hollywood stars, and a bygone era. But this city is more than just its stereotypes.

Whether you’re an adventurer eager to explore natural beauty, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, it has a little something for everyone.

An outdoor oasis

Palm Springs isn’t just about lounging by the pool—although there’s certainly plenty of that to be done. The surrounding Coachella Valley is a diverse landscape of mountains, canyons, and desert ecosystems waiting to be explored. For breathtaking panoramic views of the area, you’ll want to ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which transports riders through Mount San Jacinto State Park. It ascends to a height of 8,516 feet, where you then have the chance to hike through pine forests, explore mountain meadows, or simply soak in the stunning desert vista. With over fifty miles of trails to choose from, there’s bound to be an option that’s perfect for you.

The area is home to numerous other outdoor activities, offering unique adventures around every corner. Put on your hiking boots and visit Tahquitz Canyon, which boasts a sixty-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, and much more. There’s also a variety of world-class golf courses that feature both challenging play and stunning views. Hit the links at Escena Gold Club, whose Nicklaus Design championship course fronts the San Jacinto Mountains.

Just forty miles away lies Joshua Tree National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers. Hike among the spiny trees the park is named for, climb the iconic rocks, and marvel at the star-studded night sky. For a more adventurous experience, you could even try rock climbing or horseback riding through the park. As a bonus, spring is considered an extra-special time to visit because of the often spectacular wildflower blooms that typically begin to blanket Joshua Tree in January.

Art, airplanes, and animals

The city offers a wide array of museums, galleries, and other experiences you’re not going to want to miss. For instance, the Palm Springs Art Museum is a world-renowned institution that houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Andy Warhol and Alexander Calder. And, although it’s not affiliated with the museum, the nearby twenty-six-foot-tall statue of Marilyn Monroe is bound to catch your attention. The statue, titled Forever Marilyn, has bounced around the country and even to Australia before finding its permanent residence in the city in 2021.

If you’re more of a history buff, consider spending a few hours exploring the Palm Springs Air Museum. Established in 1996, it contains an extensive collection of aircraft from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The museum even gives visitors the chance to purchase a flight over the Coachella Valley in one of its fully restored World War II warbirds. Or get up close to nature at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, which introduces you to some of the plants and animals that call the desert home. The institute manages over 1,200 acres of land, eighty of which are developed to allow visitors to explore hundreds of exhibits featuring rhinos, desert bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and more. The other 1,120 acres remain as preserved and undisturbed portions of the Sonoran Desert.

A midcentury marvel

Palm Springs’ golden age arrived in the mid-twentieth century, fueled by Hollywood’s elite seeking a desert getaway. To accommodate the influx of people, architects like Richard Neutra, Hugh Kaptur, and Albert Frey got to work designing midcentury-modern homes that fit with the environment and leisurely lifestyle. The architectural style, which came to be known as “desert modernism,” is characterized by clean lines, open floor plans, and a seamless blend between indoor and outdoor living.

Because the area has the largest amount of preserved midcentury-modern architecture, it’s no wonder people often flock to get a closer look at this ever-popular design style. In fact, Modernism Week, which is held annually in both February and October, is a festival that features tours of private homes, lectures by renowned architects, and special events that celebrate all things midcentury modern. 2025 marks the twentieth anniversary of the event, making it the ultimate pilgrimage for architecture enthusiasts.

Even if you don’t make it here for Modernism Week, a visit to Palm Springs isn’t complete without immersing yourself in this unique architectural legacy. Palm Springs Art Museum’s Architecture and Design Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the movement’s history through its rotating exhibitions; to get the most in-depth information, take its guided tour. Or experience the designs firsthand by doing a self-guided bike tour of Palm Springs neighborhoods to see them up close. Make sure to stop by the eye-catching Tramway Gas Station, which now serves as the city’s welcome center, the whimsical Kaufmann Residence, and the sleek Musicland Hotel, each of which stands as a testament to the midcentury-modern era.

Planning your getaway

While Palm Springs is a year-round destination, the early months of the year present an ideal opportunity to visit simply because of the weather. January through April generally reaches highs between 70 and 80 degrees, with May only just starting to push into the 90s. The consistently sunny days and cooler nights make it a great time to explore all the area has to offer.

The city has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, from chic hotels to retro motels. Whether you’re seeking an indulgent resort experience or a charming midcentury-mod retreat, Palm Springs has the perfect spot for you. Luxury resorts like the Parker Palm Springs and the Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage pamper guests with world-class amenities, sprawling pools, and impeccable service while boasting a unique old-Hollywood experience and stunning desert views.

For a taste of the renowned Palm Springs living, consider booking a stay at one of the many hotels unique to the area. The Monkey Tree, for instance, is the perfect space to relax and experience the area’s classic style. Designed by Albert Frey, the colorful adults-only hotel is a one-of-a-kind spot with sixteen distinct rooms to choose from. Meanwhile, the vibrant Saguaro, where each room includes a private balcony or patio with views of the mountains, city lights, or the hotel’s pool, garden, or courtyard, is a great option for a family-friendly escape. It has a quintessential midcentury-modern aesthetic with vibrant buildings, indoor-outdoor living, and picture-worthy spots around every corner. No matter your chosen accommodation, you’re guaranteed to find a comfortable and stylish base from which to explore all that makes Palm Springs so special.

Palm Springs possesses a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration you won’t find anywhere else. So pack your sunglasses and sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the magic of this timeless California oasis.

For more info, go to visitpalmsprings.com