Photo by Taylor Simpson on Unsplash |
Though
Palm Springs is definitely known for its golf courses – it hosts many
tournaments each year – it has much more to offer, especially if you love
outdoor activities. The desert location makes it an ideal destination for
hiking and biking. The city has a long list of canyons and parks with outdoor
trails. San Jacinto Mountain is one of the most popular points of interest in
Palm Springs. Excellent hiking is available in the summer, and winter
activities, like skiing and snowshoeing, when the mountain gets snow. Ride the
aerial tram – the world’s largest rotating tramcar – the 8,500 feet to the top
for stunning views of the city and the Coachella Valley and the chance to
engage in some fine dining in the clouds.
Photo by Jess Joyce on Unsplash |
By now, you know I'm not a hiker or much of an outdoor person at all. My speed is more viewing it from the aerial tram and a restaurant at the top. There's a museum and gift shops up there to explore if you don't plan on hiking, and of course there's the view. The weather can be drastically different up top than from the valley, so dressing warmly and bringing a coat is suggested.
You’d
probably expect a place like Palm Springs to have some great museums, and you’d
be right. Aviation fans can marvel at America’s largest collection of World War
II flying aircraft at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Learn all about your destination at the Coachella Valley History Museum, that also features an early 1900s schoolhouse and home, plus a Sunday farmers' market. There's free admission the first weekend of every month. Visit the Palm
Springs Art Museum to view some of the world’s most gripping art. The museum
has 28 galleries, two sculpture gardens and more. Second Sundays and parking
are free.
Photo by mark tulin on Unsplash |
For travelers who love shopping at their destination, Palm Springs offers something for them too. From local artwork and antiques to upscale fashion stores and vintage furniture, you’re sure to go home with some great treasures. The downtown area is full of trendy and specialty shops and is easily walkable. Parking is also free and plentiful. I'll definitely be hitting up the Shag Store to indulge in my love of all things mid-century modern. I'll also be coffee shop hopping, because there are a ton of great ones on the main strip, including one that is dog-themed that donates to a local rescue.
Photo by Cesar Cid on Unsplash |
Pretend
you’re in Hollywood by exploring the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. Take a walking
tour of the famous residents of the city who had contributed in some way to the
community. Each of these former occupants have their own star on the Walk with
their name and a golden palm tree and these stars can be found on Palm Canyon
Drive, Tahquitz Canyon Way and Museum Drive. Go online to find an audio guide
for an even more informative tour.
Photo by Bob Osias on Unsplash |
I'm looking forward to to just seeing the gorgeous 50s homes and other buildings. I see that famous drag queen Trixie Mattel has a beautiful pink hotel in the city called the Trixie Motel. There's also a former hotel that Liberace purchased and turned into a lavish home. It's now a private residence, but you can still walk by and enjoy the gates and piano mailbox. I'm excited about seeing some new and creative street art as well. The city is full of murals and large art pieces.
Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash |
If local
cuisine is a passion of yours, many of Palm Springs’ fine dining establishments
are chef-owned. You can find food from all over the globe made with fresh and
local ingredients. Experience more restaurants offerings during Restaurant
Week, where you can eat a three-course meal for a set price. This usually
happens during the first week of June.
I've been to quite a bit of California, but neither of us have been to Palm Springs, so we're excited to check out the sites, the outskirts, and possibly hit up a beach at nearby Salton Sea, a large lake with a wildlife refuge.
If you'll be taking time to travel this winter, where will you be headed?