Palm Springs, California is a popular weekend getaway due to its Hollywood history, amazing resorts, and picturesque landscape.
My husband had a work trip in the area, and I decided to join him to see what all the hype was about over Palm Springs. Since we wanted to keep our expenses low, we aimed to make it a budget-friendly trip. You may be wondering if Palm Springs, being a popular destination for celebrities, is an affordable getaway. The answer is yes – there are several cost-friendly and free things to do in the area.
While we were in Palm Springs, we made a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park. If you have some extra time for a day trip, I recommend visiting Joshua Tree, as it is absolutely stunning.
Common Questions about Palm Springs
What is so special about Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is so special because of its nostalgic retro atmosphere, world class, spas, and a beautiful desert landscape.
When not to visit Palm Springs?
During the summer months Palm Springs can be quite miserable to visit due to the heat.
Why do celebrities like Palm Springs?
Celebrities like Palm Springs because it is a laid back getaway, but its still within 2 hours of LA.
The Basics
Getting Around Palm Springs
- Is Palm Springs walkable?
- The downtown area is easily walkable, but other transportation is necessary to reach more distant areas.
- Public Transportation: Sunline Transit
- For all the routes in the area, click here
Best month to go to Palm springs
The best time to visit Palm Springs is between November and April. Unfortunately, my husband and I had to visit during the extreme heat in August. We made the most of our trip, but the heat was pretty unbearable, and I highly suggest visiting at a different time.
How many days do you need in Palm Springs?
Two nights is enough time to see all the major sites in the area. With Palm Springs being centered around rest and relaxation, the majority of things to do are catered to your leisure. Depending on how you want to plan your getaway, choose enough time that will make you feel restored.
Accommodations
- Downtown Palm Springs
- Luxury: Colony Palms Hotel
- Mid Range: Movie Colony Hotel
- Affordable: Las Brisas Best Western
- La Quinta
- Luxury: La Quinta Resort and Club
- Affordable: Residence Inn La Quinta
- I would also check Airbnb as La Quinta is more residential and offers some great home options.
Perfect Palm Springs Getaway
This itinerary is a mix of adventure, relaxation, and sight seeing. Read below for a full weekend itinerary highlighting all major sites and activities in Palm Springs.
Day 1
Aerial Tramway Palm Springs to San Jacinto State Park
Begin your Palm Springs getaway with some adventure! We wish we could have spent more time at this park, but even if you only take the tram for the view, it’s worth it! Especially on a hot summer day, this is a great way to cool off, as San Jacinto is typically 20 degrees cooler.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Besides a 8-mile hike to the top, the only way to get to Mount San Jacinto State Park is by taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This rotating tram climbs 8,500 feet, providing jaw-dropping views of the Chino Canyon.
Tramway Admission
- $34.95 for adults
- $20.95 for children 3-10
Once you reach the top, there are several overlooks where you can get magnificent views of the canyon and mountains. I highly suggest exploring beyond the visitor’s center into the state park to admire the sudden change in nature and landscape from the desert to a lush forest.
Mount San Jacinto Activities
As I mentioned, this park is so beautiful. We wished we could have spent more time here. We packed a picnic and were able to enjoy lunch without suffering in the intense August heat. Mount San Jacinto is the second highest peak in California, and it offers amazing views of the Coachella Valley.
Listed below are some great activities once you reach Mount San Jacinto State Park:
- Hiking
- Discovery Nature Trail: 1.3 miles
- Desert View Trail: 1.9 miles
- Willow Creek Trail to Hidden Lake and Round Valley Loop: 5.0 miles
- Camping
- There are two developed and four backcountry campgrounds within the state park. For more information about these campsites, visit California State Parks’ Site. Listed below are the different options:
- Developed Campgrounds
- Idyllwild Campground
- Stone Creek Campground
- Backcountry Campgrounds
- Round Valley
- Little Round Valley
- Tamarack Valley
- Strawberry Junction
- Developed Campgrounds
- There are two developed and four backcountry campgrounds within the state park. For more information about these campsites, visit California State Parks’ Site. Listed below are the different options:
- Snow Activities
- Due to the significant change in elevation, you may encounter snow, depending on the timing of your arrival. If you are fortunate enough to reach the snowy peak, you can partake in enjoyable activities such as sledding, tubing, and cross-country skiing.
Self-Guided Palm Springs Mid-Century Modern Architecture Driving Tour
After visiting San Jacinto, I recommend stopping at the Palm Springs Visitor Center to begin your mid-century modern architecture tour. There are several maps available for purchase, but we chose a free self-guided tour that showcases the iconic homes in Palm Springs.
Day 2
Downtown Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is quite small, making it easy to visit all the main attractions within a couple of hours. I recommend starting early, having breakfast, and taking a leisurely walk down Palm Canyon Drive. While exploring downtown, you’ll come across the following major attractions in Palm Springs:
Unique Shops
- There are several different shops along the main stretch of Palm Canyon Drive and Uptown Design District.
Sculptures
- There are several different sculptures and statues scattered throughout the downtown area. Listed below are some major art pieces to look out for:
- Marilyn Monroe Statue
- Sonny Bono Statue
Walk of the Stars
- As mentioned, Palm Springs was and still is a popular vacation destination among celebrities. Walk along the walk of the stars to see the iconic names that helped form Palm Springs’ reputation.
Downtown Park
- I think calling this area a park is a bit of a stretch, but the palm trees make for a cute photo opportunity.
Palm Springs Art Museum
- Because Palm Springs has historically been a hub for architecture and art, this museum is very fitting for the area.
- Admission
- $16 for Adults
- Free for children 18 and under
Find a Spa and Resort Pass
At the end of your Palm Springs getaway, I highly recommend unwinding at one of the several spas in the area. If your accommodation does not include a spa, then I suggest using a resort pass or looking at day pass options for spas in the area. Part of Palm Springs’ appeal is the opportunity to relax, so what better way than by going to the pool or spa?
Additionally, Palm Springs is also known for their mineral hot springs. If this pique’s your interest, then I would check out The Spa at Sec-He.
THANK YOU
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this article by Squeeze with Louise. I’m very passionate about sharing my travel tips and recommendations with you. I would love to know your thoughts on how I can enhance my blog. Please feel free to comment below with any questions regarding this itinerary or general questions about Squeeze with Louise.
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