Palm Springs is an inviting travel destination, thanks to its swaying palm trees, stunning desert vistas, and distinctive mid-century architecture that seems frozen in time. This southern California destination has recently gained popularity among travelers of all kinds. But you might wonder: Is Palm Springs worth visiting? Let’s explore what this desert oasis has to offer so you can decide if it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
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Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting? Introduction
Palm Springs Location
Palm Springs is in the Coachella Valley, about two hours east of Los Angeles.
The city is easily accessible by car from major cities in California. If you prefer to fly, Palm Springs International Airport offers convenient flights from many locations in the U.S.
Palm Springs Weather
If you love warm weather, Palm Springs is the perfect place to enjoy over 300 days of sunshine annually.
The winter months (November through April) are gloriously mild. Daytime temperatures typically range from 70 to 80°F, making it a perfect escape from colder regions.
The summer months, however, bring intense heat, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, sometimes rising to 115°F or higher.
Palm Springs History
Palm Springs first rose to prominence as a travel destination in the 1920s when Hollywood movie stars discovered it as the perfect getaway. It was just far enough from Los Angeles to escape studio contracts (which often required actors to remain within two hours of the studios), yet close enough for a quick retreat.
Fun fact: Notable figures like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Lucille Ball built homes in Palm Springs.
What Makes Palm Springs Special
Palm Springs Mid-Century Modern Architecture
Perhaps nothing defines Palm Springs’ unique appeal quite like its mid-century modern architecture. The city has one of the world’s largest and best-preserved collections of this architectural style.
Mid-century modern architecture is characterized by clean lines, indoor-outdoor living spaces, and innovative designs that harmonize with the desert landscape.
The iconic butterfly roofs, breeze blocks, and vibrant colored doors have become symbols of Palm Springs style.
Tip: Many Palm Springs hotels offer bicycle rentals, a pleasant way to explore the city and admire the architecture at a leisurely pace.
If you’re an architectural enthusiast, you can take architecture tours to view these masterpieces.
Some notable highlights include the Kaufmann Desert House, Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway, and the distinctive Twin Palms Estate (Sinatra’s former home).
Palm Springs Natural Beauty
While the architecture may be human-made, the natural setting of Palm Springs is truly spectacular. The city sits in the shadow of the towering San Jacinto Mountains, which create a stunning backdrop.
Unique Experiences in Palm Springs
For an unforgettable experience, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-visit. It is the world’s largest rotating tramcar, and ferries visitors from the desert floor up 8,500 feet to Mountain Station, where alpine forests, mountain trails, and sweeping views await.
The dramatic temperature change (often 30-40 degrees cooler at the top) offers welcome relief during warmer months.
Palm Springs Resort Culture
This desert city has perfected the art of relaxation with its resort culture. There are over 100 hotels in Palm Springs (and the surrounding areas), ranging from intimate boutique properties to sprawling luxury resorts.
The pool scene is legendary and essential in this desert climate. There are many great hotels with Instagram-worthy pool areas, including cabanas, poolside service, and mountain views.
We stayed at the JW Marriott Resort & Spa in the nearby Palm Desert. Check out our review here.
Spa culture also thrives in Palm Springs. World-class wellness facilities offer treatments that often incorporate local elements, such as date scrubs, desert herbs, and hot stone therapies.
The emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation makes Palm Springs particularly appealing if you’re seeking an escape from a hectic daily life.
Palm Springs Activities for Different Types of Travelers
For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Despite (or perhaps because of) its desert setting, Palm Springs is a paradise for outdoor adventurers.
The Indian Canyons, ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, feature palm oases, seasonal waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails through stunning desert terrain.
The nearby San Jacinto Mountains offer more challenging hikes with dramatic elevation changes and cooler temperatures.
If you are a golf enthusiast, you can choose from the best golf courses in the Coachella Valley. Indian Canyons Golf Resort and Tahquitz Creek Golf Course consistently rank among the top golf courses in California.
For Social Scene, Art and Culture Lovers
Palm Springs has a lot to offer for art and culture enthusiasts. The Palm Springs Art Museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art, glass, photography, and Native American artifacts.
Its Architecture and Design Center focuses specifically on design and architectural exhibitions.
Public art is prominent throughout Palm Springs, from the larger-than-life Marilyn Monroe statue to the numerous galleries and sculpture gardens dotting the downtown area.
The city’s commitment to the arts is also evident in the numerous cultural events, including the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Palm Springs Arts Festival, and Modernism Week.
The vibrant history of Palm Springs is preserved in several museums, including the Palm Springs Air Museum. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of flyable World War II aircraft.
Palm Springs’ local social scene is lively, hosting numerous festivals and events, like Village Fest and Modernism Week, which draw large crowds.
Tip: Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals are typically associated with Palm Springs. However, they are actually held in the nearby city of Indio, approximately 21 miles from Palm Springs.
Palm Springs For Foodies
The restaurants in Palm Springs embrace creative, chef-driven concepts that often highlight local ingredients.
The craft cocktail culture thrives here too, with tiki bars, speakeasies, and rooftop lounges serving creative concoctions perfect for sipping under the desert stars.
When Palm Springs Might Not Be Worth Visiting
While there are several reasons why Palm Springs is worth visiting, there are some factors that may make it a less-than-ideal travel destination.
Summer Heat
The summer heat cannot be overstated. From June to September, the average daytime temperatures regularly exceed triple digits. This makes outdoor activities uncomfortable or even dangerous during the day.
If you’re sensitive to heat or hoping for active outdoor adventures, summer visits can be challenging. However, great deals on accommodations might offset this drawback.
High Costs
Some of Palm Springs’ accommodations can be expensive, particularly during peak tourism season and major events.
Large Crowds
Palm Springs can get crowded, especially on weekends and during festivals. This may detract from your experience if relaxation is your goal.
Limited Travel Experience
If you’re looking for specific experiences, such as beach access, major metropolitan amenities, or family-friendly theme parks, Palm Springs may not be the right place for you.
The nearest beaches are about two hours away, and while the city offers sophistication, it intentionally maintains a smaller-town atmosphere compared to major urban centers.
The Best Times to Visit Palm Springs
The best time to visit depends on your tolerance for the heat, your budget, and the types of activities and events you want to experience.
Best Time To Visit Palm Springs Based on Weather
The best time to visit Palm Springs based on the weather is from September to November or from January to April.
September to November: The summer heat begins to dissipate, and temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (23°C to 30°C). The weather is perfect for golfing, hiking, or exploring the city’s attractions.
January to April: This period offers pleasant winter weather, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (18°C to 23°C). It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities, such as visiting the Indian Canyons or enjoying the city’s festivals and events.
Best Time to Visit Palm Springs Based on Events
Several major events are held in (and near) Palm Springs in the spring. These include the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January, Modernism Week in February, the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament, and the Coachella Music Festival, all in April.
Best Time to Visit Palm Springs Based on Cost
The best time to visit Palm Springs based on cost is during the summer, when hotel and resort prices drop due to the high temperatures. You can also find deals during the fall shoulder season by booking midweek stays.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Summer (June-August): This is the low season with the best deals on hotels. August is the cheapest month; however, be prepared for very hot weather, often exceeding 100°F.
- Fall Shoulder Season: Midweek stays in the fall can still offer good deals.
- Spring (February-April): This is the most popular and expensive time to visit due to the pleasant weather. April is the most expensive month for hotels due to events like Coachella.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: For the best rates, consider visiting during the week. Monday typically offers the lowest rates, while Thursday has the highest.
How to Make the Most of Your Palm Springs Visit
For a perfect getaway, balance relaxation with a bit of exploration. For example, spend the morning hiking in the Indian Canyons or touring architectural landmarks before temperatures rise.
Dedicate afternoons to pool relaxation or museum visits, followed by evening dining and perhaps stargazing in the remarkably clear desert sky.
For longer stays, consider taking day trips to Joshua Tree National Park, Idyllwild, or Pioneertown—a preserved Old West movie set with a renowned music venue.
Consider experiencing local events like VillageFest, a Thursday night street fair featuring art, crafts, and food vendors along downtown’s Palm Canyon Drive.
Transportation-wise, having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region, but the downtown area is also quite walkable, and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Final Verdict: Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?
Palm Springs is worth visiting if you appreciate unique architecture and natural beauty, enjoy outdoor activities, and are looking for a relaxing getaway with a touch of retro glamour. It’s particularly appealing during the cooler months, when you can fully enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme heat.
However, if you’re looking for a bustling urban environment or a beachside retreat, you might find other destinations better suited to your tastes.
So, is it a great place to visit? In my opinion, yes, it is. Ultimately, weigh the options and determine if you are buying what Palm Springs is selling as a travel destination. Visiting this popular spot may potentially be the beginning of a lifelong love affair. Or not.
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