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Palm Springs is a vibrant desert oasis celebrated for its natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and cultural history. With year-round sunshine and the stunning San Jacinto Mountains as a backdrop, it’s perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
The city’s iconic mid-century modern architecture, reflecting its glamorous past, includes homes once owned by stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe, giving a glimpse into Palm Springs’ Hollywood legacy. Beyond these celebrity residences, attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offer breathtaking views and scenic hikes in Mount San Jacinto State Park.
Downtown Palm Springs boasts eclectic shops, art galleries, and a lively dining scene, where visitors can enjoy diverse culinary experiences. The surrounding desert landscape is rich with cacti, palm trees, and wildlife, including bighorn sheep and desert tortoises. Palm Springs invites visitors to unwind, explore, and immerse themselves in a community that celebrates its unique beauty and storied heritage.
Getting to Palm Springs, California, is quite straightforward, whether you’re flying, driving, or taking public transportation. Here’s a guide on how to reach this desert oasis:
Palm Springs
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is situated just a few miles from downtown Palm Springs, offering convenient access to the city and its surrounding areas. The airport hosts flights from major airlines and includes a variety of car rental services. The quick drive to downtown Palm Springs can take as little as 10 minutes.
Ontario
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is located about 70 miles west of Palm Springs. It serves as a practical alternative to the busier airports in the region, with on-site car rental services and flights from major domestic and some international airlines. The drive from Ontario to Palm Springs typically takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 100 miles west of Palm Springs. As one of the largest international airports in the U.S., LAX offers extensive flight connectivity and a comprehensive range of services, including numerous car rental options. The drive to Palm Springs from LAX usually takes about two hours, though this can vary with traffic conditions.
San Diego
San Diego International Airport (SAN), located approximately 140 miles southwest of Palm Springs, features a wide array of both domestic and international flights and includes several on-site car rental agencies. The journey to Palm Springs generally takes about two hours and thirty minutes via Interstate 15 North and CA-79 North.
Traveling to Palm Springs by car is a popular choice due to the scenic routes and easy access provided by major highways. Here’s what you need to know about arriving in Palm Springs via automobile:
Los Angeles
Travelers from Los Angeles can reach Palm Springs by taking Interstate 10 East (I-10 E) directly to the city. This straightforward route provides a quick one and a half hour to two hour drive, depending on traffic, allowing visitors to easily transition from city life to the relaxing desert atmosphere.
San Diego
Those coming from San Diego can take Interstate 15 North (I-15 N), then transition to CA-79 North and CA-74 East, following signs toward Palm Springs. This scenic route takes approximately two and half hours and showcases some of Southern California’s beautiful mountainous and desert landscapes.
Las Vegas
Visitors driving from Las Vegas can take Interstate 15 South (I-15 S) to Barstow, then head east on Interstate 40 (I-40 E) before connecting to CA-62 East through Joshua Tree and finally to CA-111 South into Palm Springs. This four to five hour drive offers striking views of the Mojave Desert along the way.
Phoenix
From Phoenix, drivers can take Interstate 10 West (I-10 W) directly to Palm Springs. This roughly four hour drive is a straightforward journey, passing through the wide-open desert landscapes of Arizona and California, and making for a scenic and easy trip.
Getting Around
Palm Springs provides several transportation methods, though public transit options are limited. SunLine Transit Agency operates bus routes with hourly services—planning is recommended. For flexibility, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, along with traditional taxis, which may need booking in advance during off-hours. Many visitors prefer renting cars to explore beyond the city center, available at the airport and within the city. Palm Springs is also bike-friendly, offering dedicated lanes and complimentary bike rentals at many hotels. Walking is viable in downtown, and some hotels provide shuttle services to key attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Palm Springs has a wide variety of places to stay, ranging from luxury resorts to boutique hotels and budget-friendly options.
For a more upscale experience, luxury resorts provide top-notch amenities like spa services, fine dining, beautiful pools, and golf courses, all set against the stunning desert landscape. These resorts offer a full-service experience and are perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and indulgence.
Boutique hotels are a stylish alternative, often showcasing the unique mid-century modern design that Palm Springs is famous for. These hotels offer trendy decor, cozy social spaces, and vibrant pool areas, making them ideal for those who want a unique and intimate stay with plenty of character.
For budget-conscious travelers, Palm Springs has many comfortable, affordable hotels and inns. These options offer basic amenities, often including pools and patios, and are located conveniently near downtown and local attractions, making them a great choice for those looking to explore without overspending.
Fall in Palm Springs (October to November) offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F and fewer tourists, easing access to restaurants, golf courses, and trails. It’s an ideal time for a tranquil getaway. Winter (December to February) is the peak season, with temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, attracting visitors from colder climates. The season is bustling, so booking early is recommended to secure better rates and availability.
Spring (March to April) sees temperatures between 70°F to 85°F, with the desert blooming vibrantly, perfect for photography and nature walks. This season also hosts popular festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach, blending nature, culture, and entertainment. Summer (May to September) is intensely hot, often above 100°F, making it less crowded and offering lower accommodation rates. Activities are best enjoyed in the early morning or evening to avoid the peak heat, with plenty of poolside relaxation.
For a day trip to Palm Springs, start with the Palm Springs Art Museum, followed by a stroll along Palm Canyon Drive to explore unique shops and trendy cafes. Take the Aerial Tramway for stunning views from San Jacinto Peak, and finish with dinner at a celebrity-frequented restaurant.
During a weekend getaway, delve deeper into the area. Spend a day hiking in the Indian Canyons and take a guided tour of mid-century modern architecture, featuring celebrity homes. On your second day, visit Moorten Botanical Garden and relax at a luxury resort, perfect for lounging by the pool and star-spotting.
For longer stays, consider day trips to Joshua Tree National Park or the Coachella Valley, frequented by artists and celebrities. With additional time, indulge in golf at renowned courses or explore chic neighborhoods, experiencing the full spectrum of Palm Springs’ natural beauty, celebrity allure, and opulent relaxation.
To avoid crowds in Palm Springs, consider visiting during the off-season or shoulder months, such as late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and visitor numbers are lower. Mid-week visits are also ideal, as weekends attract more people from nearby areas.
Arriving early in the morning or exploring later in the afternoon lets you enjoy popular spots like the Aerial Tramway and Indian Canyons without the peak crowds. Seeking out lesser-known attractions like the Coachella Valley Preserve or local parks also provides a quieter experience.
For a peaceful stay, opt for smaller boutique hotels away from central tourist areas, and consider booking restaurants and attractions in advance for flexible, less crowded time slots. With these strategies, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and crowd-free experience in Palm Springs.
The Marilyn Monroe House is a historic property once home to the iconic actress. The residence reflects the glamour and elegance of Monroe’s life, offering a glimpse into her private world. With its beautiful architecture and serene ambiance, it continues to attract admirers of Monroe’s legacy. The house remains a private residence, but visiting the area provides an opportunity to honor the life and career of this legendary Hollywood star.
Elvis Presley’s Palm Springs home, purchased in 1970, was a sanctuary from celebrity life. Located in the prestigious Movie Colony neighborhood, this residence was his retreat and social hub, hosting legendary gatherings with other stars. The home, where Elvis blacked out windows to recover from nightly revelries, also doubled as a creative space where he recorded several songs. It played a significant role in his musical legacy, remaining under his ownership until his death.
Elvis Presley’s Honeymoon Hideaway in Palm Springs, also known as “The House of Tomorrow,” showcases mid-century modern architecture with its futuristic, angular design. This iconic 5,000-square-foot estate built in 1960 features four circles across three levels, offering panoramic views of the Santa Rosa Mountains and Coachella Valley. Elvis and Priscilla Presley spent their 1967 honeymoon here, enhancing its allure.
Robolights, an outdoor art installation by Kenny Irwin Jr., turns a four-acre residential space into a vivid display featuring millions of lights, recycled robots, and unique sculptures. Set around the artist’s family home, it presents a quirky blend of post-apocalyptic Christmas themes and neon robotics.This exhibit combines creativity and eccentricity, offering a distinctive experience that lights up the desert city with its imaginative use of everyday items.
Palm Canyon Trail provides a 2-mile hike with minimal elevation gain, typically completed within an hour. This accessible path allows visitors to enjoy unique canyon views and lush palm groves in their untouched form. Showcasing the heritage of the Agua Caliente people, this trail explores their historical use of the land for agriculture and medicinal purposes. It’s also a viewing spot for the Peninsular bighorn sheep, common around the trail’s water sources.
Located in the Agua Caliente Reservation near Palm Springs, the Andreas Canyon Trail offers an accessible, scenic hiking experience. This easy 1-mile loop, with a modest elevation gain, takes about 30 minutes to complete. The trail features a rich variety of over 150 plant species, numerous palm trees, and distinctive rock formations, along with Andreas Creek and historical grinding stones used by the Cahuilla people.
Ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar up to Mount San Jacinto State Park, ascending over 8,500 feet. At the summit, you’ll be met with panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and access to scenic trails, picnic spots, and the cool mountain air, a refreshing contrast to the desert heat below.
Palm Springs is famed for its preserved mid-century modern architecture. Take a self-guided or guided tour through neighborhoods like Twin Palms and Vista Las Palmas, where you’ll see sleek, angular homes and iconic designs by architects like Albert Frey and Richard Neutra, celebrating the city’s unique architectural heritage.
Discover the lush beauty of the Indian Canyons, a tranquil oasis featuring palm groves, flowing streams, and impressive desert landscapes. Hike trails like Andreas Canyon, where you’ll encounter California fan palms and rich Native American history, or head to Palm Canyon for a longer, scenic walk.
Palm Springs is known for its poolside relaxation and luxurious spas. Many resorts offer pool day passes, perfect for lounging, swimming, and sipping cocktails. For deeper relaxation, book a desert-inspired spa treatment like a clay wrap or aromatherapy massage, available at many upscale hotels and resorts.
Just a short drive away, Joshua Tree National Park offers a landscape of striking rock formations, sprawling deserts, and unique Joshua trees. The park is ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in California. Spend the day exploring, and don’t miss the sunset views over this surreal desert landscape.
Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable layers like cotton or linen for warm days, and bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don’t forget swimsuits for pool time, comfortable walking shoes for exploring downtown, and sturdy hiking boots if you plan to hike in Indian Canyons or Joshua Tree. A sun hat or cap is essential for sun protection, and if you’re dining out, a casual evening outfit can come in handy.
Sun Protection: The desert sun is intense, so bring sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, polarized sunglasses to reduce glare, and lip balm with SPF. A wide-brimmed hat or cap will give extra coverage.
Toiletries and Personal Care: Desert air can be very drying, so pack a good moisturizer for face and body, along with aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion to soothe any sun exposure. A reusable water bottle is a must for staying hydrated, and insect repellent can be helpful for evenings outdoors.
Accessories: A daypack or small backpack is perfect for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks. Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenic views and a portable charger for longer outings.
Adventure Extras: Consider binoculars for wildlife viewing, a guidebook or map for exploring areas with limited cell service, and some snacks for hikes or day trips.