Palm Springs is a popular desert getaway in Southern California. Visitors come here for warm weather, palm trees, mountain views, relaxing resorts, stylish hotels, and a laid-back atmosphere. While the city itself has plenty to offer, there are also many interesting places to explore nearby.

A short drive can take you from the relaxing streets of Palm Springs to desert canyons, mountain trails, shopping districts, mineral springs, and even a national park. This makes the area a great choice for travelers who want more than a typical resort vacation.

Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or on your own, there are several ways to make your Palm Springs trip more exciting. Here are some of the best things to do near Palm Springs.

Explore Indian Canyons

Indian Canyons is an excellent place to experience the natural beauty of the desert. The area features rocky canyons, palm oases, mountain views, and hiking trails.

Andreas Canyon is one of the better-known spots. The trail takes visitors through a landscape where tall palm trees grow beside rocks and desert vegetation. It is an interesting contrast to the dry scenery found in other parts of the region.

You do not need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the area. Some trails are easier than others, so you can choose one that fits your comfort level.

Indian Canyons is also a great photography location. Palm trees against a backdrop of rugged mountains can create impressive pictures.

Because temperatures can rise quickly in the desert, bring water and plan outdoor activities carefully.

Ride The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

For a completely different view of the region, take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

The tram carries passengers from the desert floor into the San Jacinto Mountains. As you climb, the scenery changes from warm desert surroundings to a cooler mountain environment.

The ride itself is part of the experience. Large windows provide wide views of the valley and surrounding landscape.

At the mountain station, visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, restaurants, and access to hiking trails. The higher elevation also means temperatures can be much cooler than in Palm Springs, so bringing an extra layer is a smart idea.

This is a particularly good activity for travelers who want to experience the mountains without committing to a long hike.

Spend Some Time In Palm Desert

Palm Desert is another nearby destination that is easy to add to your itinerary.

The city is known for shopping, restaurants, golf, art, and resort-style experiences. One of the most popular areas is El Paseo, where you can find boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and a variety of shops.

You can easily spend a few hours walking around the area. Stop for coffee, browse local stores, and enjoy lunch before continuing your trip.

Palm Desert also has a more relaxed feel than a typical busy shopping district, making it a pleasant place to spend part of the day.

For travelers who enjoy combining shopping with good food and outdoor scenery, Palm Desert can be a great addition to a Palm Springs vacation.

Take A Day Trip To Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most memorable places to visit near Palm Springs.

The park feels completely different from the resort atmosphere of Palm Springs. Instead of pools and downtown streets, you will find unusual rock formations, desert plants, Joshua trees, wide-open spaces, and dramatic landscapes.

There are several ways to enjoy the park. You can take a scenic drive, explore short trails, photograph the landscape, or spend more time hiking.

Popular areas include Keys View, Skull Rock, Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and the Cholla Cactus Garden.

Joshua Tree is also known for its dark skies, making it a popular place for stargazing.

Before heading into the park, prepare carefully. Carry plenty of water and food and do not assume that you will always have reliable phone service. Desert temperatures can also become extreme so check the conditions before your trip.

Relax In Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs is a good option when you want your trip to be more about relaxation.

The city is known for its natural hot mineral springs and wellness resorts. Many properties offer mineral pools, spa treatments, and quiet spaces where visitors can slow down.

You can visit Desert Hot Springs after spending a busy morning sightseeing in Palm Springs. Instead of filling your day with activities, spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

This can be especially appealing for couples and solo travelers who want a calm desert getaway.

You can also combine a wellness experience with a good meal and an early evening rather than trying to fit several major attractions into one day.

Visit The Living Desert Zoo And Gardens

Families looking for something different can visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert.

The attraction combines animal exhibits with desert gardens and educational experiences. Visitors can learn about wildlife and plant life from desert regions while exploring the grounds.

It is a useful option when you want to take a break from hiking or shopping. Children may particularly enjoy the animal exhibits while adults can appreciate the garden setting.

Plan enough time for the visit so you can explore at a comfortable pace. It can easily become a half-day activity depending on how much you want to see.

Discover Rancho Mirage

Rancho Mirage is another nearby community worth exploring.

The city is known for its resorts, restaurants, golf courses, and wellness experiences. It offers a quieter atmosphere that works well for travelers who want to slow down.

You do not necessarily need a packed sightseeing schedule here. A nice lunch, a relaxing resort afternoon, or a round of golf can be enough to make the visit worthwhile.

Rancho Mirage also gives visitors another chance to enjoy the mountain scenery surrounding the Coachella Valley.

Go Hiking In The Mountains

The area around Palm Springs offers plenty of hiking opportunities.

You can find desert trails at lower elevations as well as mountain trails at higher elevations. This variety allows travelers with different experience levels to find something suitable.

The trails around Indian Canyons are a popular choice, while the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides access to higher-elevation hiking areas.

Mountain hiking can be very different from desert hiking. Temperatures may drop significantly at higher elevations, even when Palm Springs feels hot.

Always check trail conditions before heading out. Carry water, wear appropriate shoes, and give yourself enough time to finish the hike safely.

Enjoy A Scenic Desert Drive

Not every Palm Springs adventure needs to involve hiking.

A scenic drive can be an enjoyable way to see more of the surrounding desert. You can stop at viewpoints, take photographs, explore small communities, or simply enjoy the changing landscape from the road.

This is a good choice for travelers who want to take things slowly or who are traveling with people who may not be comfortable with long walks.

The desert scenery changes throughout the day. Morning light can feel soft and peaceful while late afternoon can create stronger colors across the mountains.

A sunset drive can be a simple but memorable way to finish the day.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Beyond hiking, there are several other ways to enjoy the outdoors around Palm Springs.

Depending on the season and local conditions, visitors can explore the area by bicycle, take part in horseback riding, enjoy photography, or simply spend time outdoors at a scenic location.

Water and sun protection are important for most outdoor activities. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water can make a big difference.

During hotter months, early morning is often a better time for outdoor activities than the middle of the afternoon.

When Is The Best Time To Explore?

The best time to explore near Palm Springs depends on what you want to do.

Fall, winter, and spring can be comfortable for outdoor adventures such as hiking and sightseeing. Winter is especially appealing to travelers looking for sunshine and milder desert temperatures.

Summer can be very hot, but it does not have to ruin your trip. You can schedule outdoor activities early in the morning and spend the hottest part of the day at a pool, restaurant, museum, or other indoor attraction.

Always check the weather before heading into the desert or mountains. Conditions can vary significantly depending on elevation and location.

Tips For Exploring Near Palm Springs

Planning your day around location can save you a lot of time. Some attractions are close to one another while others are better treated as full-day trips.

Carry water whenever you are going outdoors. Do not rely completely on your phone because reception can be limited in remote desert areas.

Check opening hours and access information before visiting attractions. Some locations may have seasonal schedules, reservations, or weather-related restrictions.

It is also helpful to avoid overplanning. You do not need to visit five attractions in one day to have a great trip.

Leave some space in your schedule for a relaxed lunch, a scenic stop, or an unexpected place that catches your attention.

Final Thoughts

There are many things to do near Palm Springs, and the variety is one of the biggest reasons to visit the area.

Indian Canyons is a great choice for hiking and desert scenery. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an easy way to experience the mountains. Palm Desert is ideal for shopping and dining while Desert Hot Springs is perfect for travelers focused on relaxation.

Families can spend time at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, while adventure seekers can make the trip to Joshua Tree National Park.

You do not need to choose just one type of experience. A well-planned trip can include outdoor adventures, shopping, good food, relaxation, and scenic drives.

The most important thing is to plan according to the weather and give yourself enough time to enjoy each place. Palm Springs is surrounded by some incredible landscapes, and exploring beyond the city can make your Southern California trip even more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do near Palm Springs?

Popular options include Indian Canyons, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, Rancho Mirage, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, and Joshua Tree National Park.

Is Joshua Tree worth visiting from Palm Springs?

Yes. Joshua Tree offers a very different desert experience with rock formations, Joshua trees, hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities for stargazing.

Can you hike near Palm Springs?

Yes. Indian Canyons and the mountain trails around the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway are popular choices for hiking.

What is a good relaxing place near Palm Springs?

Desert Hot Springs is a popular choice for travelers who want mineral springs, spa experiences, and a quieter atmosphere. Rancho Mirage is another good option for resort-style relaxation.

Is Palm Desert worth visiting?

Yes. Palm Desert has shopping, restaurants, golf, art, and a relaxed atmosphere. El Paseo is especially popular with visitors.

How long should I stay near Palm Springs?

A three- or four-day trip can give you enough time to explore Palm Springs and visit one or two nearby destinations. A longer stay allows you to add Joshua Tree, hiking, shopping, and other day trips without rushing.