Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Palm Springs, California

Last Updated on June 19, 2023 by Nikki Jain

There is a lot to look forward to when you visit the wonderful Palm Springs in California. Not only is this area known for its incredible hot springs, spas and golfing facilities but it also offer access to a host of excellent attractions. Whether you want a great family day out, a visit to a historical site, natural beauty, or fun and adventures, you will find it all in Palm Springs. Some of the great attractions you should try and visit during your time in Palm Springs include:

Things To Do in Palm Springs

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1: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Flickr/Don Graham
Starting out at over 2,600 feet this is a tram that transports passengers from Valley Station to the wilderness of Mountain Station, which has an elevation of more than 8,500 feet. When you alight at the station you will be able to enjoy visiting the gift shop and restaurant as well as various other facilities. Just a short journey on foot will bring you to Long Valley, where you can enjoy nature trails, picnicking, great views, and even a ski center.

Address: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

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2: Mount San Jacinto

Mount San Jacinto
Flickr/Luke Jones
With a summit that stands at nearly 11,000 feet above sea level, the San Jacinto Mountain is a towering landmark. For those that enjoy the outdoors, wilderness, and stunning natural beauty there is plenty to explore here from the mountain meadows to forests. Many people come here for backpacking and hiking and there are even camping facilities in the park so those wanting to enjoy a longer experience can do so with ease.

Address: 25905 CA-243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

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3: Palm Springs Air Museum

Palm Springs Air Museum
Flickr/Matt Kieffer
When it comes to aviation history, the Palm Springs Air Museum provides a wealth of education, information and excellent exhibits. This is a living history museum so those who come here can look forward to a full and exciting day as well as immersive experiences. You can learn more about how the world of aircraft had a profound effect on historical events. You can also see some aircraft from World War II and other major wars being flown. There is plenty to see and do here, making it an ideal attraction for people of all ages.

Address: 745 N Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262

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4: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Flickr/Chuck Coker
The desert location of this attractions means that those visiting can look forward to a unique experience. You will find attractions and points of interest to cater for all needs here. Whether you are into natural beauty and outdoor recreation, you want to see and learn more about animals, or you are into plants and natural beauty, you will find plenty to keep you busy here. This is a place where you can combine fascinating sights and fun with education making it ideal for people of all ages.

Address: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260

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5: Coachella Valley Preserve

Coachella Valley Preserve
Flickr/blmcalifornia
The Coachella Valley Preserve is a wonderful place to come if you want to explore, relax, enjoy tranquility and take in the wilderness. You will find more than twenty thousand acres of wilderness to explore as you make your way around. It is ideal for those that want to enjoy hiking while taking in fascinating surroundings as well as those who want to enjoy a relaxing picnic with loved ones. You can take some time to explore the Palm House visitor center or even set out on a guided hike with an experienced guide in order to make the most of your time here.

Address: 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA 92276

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6: Palm Springs Art Museum

Palm Springs Art Museum
Flickr/Werner Bayer
Any visitor to Palm Springs that is into the arts should ensure that the Palm Springs Museum is firmly on their ‘to do’ list. This is a venue that is packed with both permanent and temporary exhibitions so you can look forward to feasting your eyes on a diverse array of artwork. The museum aims to nurture creativity, enrich culture, and provide education for all those that visit. You will find works from world famous artists such as Picasso, Andy Warhol and Henry Moore amongst others. Dating back to the 1930s, the museum also boasts its own rich history for visitors to learn about.

Address: 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262

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7: Tahquitz Canyon

Tahquitz Canyon
Flickr/Joe Bielawa
Situated in the Coachella Valley in Palm Springs, the Tahquitz Canyon is not only striking to view but also steeped in legend. It has been continually inhabited for a minimum of two thousand years by members of the Native American Cahuilla tribe. Over recent years, wildlife has been brought back to the area and many people now head over to enjoy taking in the surroundings, exploring the history, and for the great hiking trails.

Address: 500 W Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, CA 92264

8: Agua Caliente Indian Canyons

Agua Caliente Indian Canyons
Flickr/Mitch Barrie
When you come to Palm Springs, you will be able to visit plenty of natural wonders including a variety of striking canyons. Many people interested in the great outdoors and history have been thrilled with a visit to the Indian Canyons, which are situated on Agua Caliente tribal land. This includes Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon. You can combine a love of nature and beauty with the chance to delve into the past and learn about the history of these natural wonders.

Address: 38500 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

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9: Palm Canyon

Palm Canyon
Flickr/Brian
One of Palm Springs’ Indian Canyons, Palm Canyon stretches for fifteen miles and boasts an abundance of natural beauty. You will find all sorts of stunning flora and fauna when you visit this canyon not to mention incredible views. There is a footpath that takes you down into the canyon, which is ideal if you really want to explore or even if you want to enjoy a relaxing picnic by the stream. If you love the outdoors and want to immerse yourself in natural beauty, you should make sure you pay a visit to this canyon.

Address: Palm Springs, CA 92264

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10: Moorten Botanical Garden

Moorten Botanical Garden
Flickr/Megan Hansen
Established in the late 1930s, the Moorten Botanical Garden is a place that is brimming with beauty, color and fragrance. This is a great place to find out more about different plant and animal species. You can also treat yourself to some of the beautiful nursery grown plants that are available. Taking a tour through the gardens will enable you to take in some wonderful floral wonders.

Address: 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

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