Discover Budget-Friendly Activities in Palm Springs
With its mid-century charm, scenic vistas, and connections to old Hollywood, Palm Springs is a dream destination. Beyond the city’s cutting-edge restaurants, chic boutiques, and reputation for luxury and high-end living, there are numerous free and budget activities to choose from.
Whether you’re exploring the area’s hiking trails, attending an outdoor rock concert, or enjoying local art, you can have a memorable experience in Palm Springs without spending a fortune.
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the Palm Springs Art Museum is a Coachella Valley institution, being the only major art museum between Los Angeles and Phoenix. Founded in 1938, it hosts compelling art exhibitions and is home to the 433-seat Annenberg Theater. The museum’s permanent collection features modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design. On Thursday evenings from 5 to 7 pm, the museum is free to visitors, but advance reservations are recommended.
While you’re at the museum, don’t miss Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar, which has partnered with Nickerson-Rossi Dance to present Drink, Dance, and Dine, a weekly dance program. Relax with a glass of wine in Meyerman Sculpture Garden and enjoy free professional performances.
Explore the Hiking Trails
The 4-mile Araby Trail hike serves a dual purpose—getting your blood pumping while taking you on a mini celebrity home tour. Ascend through steep, rocky terrain, often adorned with wildflowers after it rains. You’ll soon spot iconic homes like Bob Hope’s flying saucer-shaped residence and Steve McQueen’s mid-century modern creation. Don’t forget to bring sun protection as there is little shade overhead—early morning is the best time for this hike, starting from the unpaved lot at Rim Road.
For a different experience, join the Friends of the Desert Mountains for guided night hikes. The Monument Night Adventures venture through the desert basin, searching for nocturnal creatures like scorpions. They also offer full moon hikes and interpretive day hikes, with an optional donation requested.
Tour Outdoor Public Art
From visionary murals to awe-inspiring sculptures, Palm Springs is rich in outdoor art. Notable pieces include the infamous Forever Marilyn statue and the Rainmaker Fountain at Frances Stevens Park. The Woman in Glasses mural on North Palm Canyon Drive offers another glimpse into local creativity.
The city of Coachella has also commissioned murals as part of its Coachella Walls project to honor the local population and farming community. One highlight is Los Cosecha del Futuro, which commemorates civil rights activist Cesar Chavez. Explore more in Indio, where scenic murals on Miles Avenue narrate local history.
Take a Self-Guided Architecture Tour
Architecture enthusiasts can partake in a self-guided architecture tour that showcases mid-century modern architecture in Palm Springs. Starting at the Palm Springs Visitor Center, visitors can explore Racquet Club Estates, featuring Alexander Steel houses and Krisel-designed homes. The iconic Kaufmann House can be viewed from the sidewalk in Chino Canyon neighborhood.
Other noteworthy homes include the Dinah Shore estate and the Frank Sinatra Estate, where Sinatra famously signaled his guests for cocktails by hoisting a Jack Daniels flag.
Attend a Rock Yard Concert at Fantasy Springs Casino
If you’re in the mood for rock ‘n’ roll, The Rock Yard at Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio features free live music concerts from spring through fall. The event showcases tribute bands across various music genres on Friday and Saturday evenings, offering a great way to unwind.
Window-Shop at Uptown Design District
If you’re aiming to keep expenses low, the Uptown Design District is filled with vintage clothing boutiques, mid-century modern furniture shops, and art galleries. Be sure to check out Shag Store for original art. You may also visit Trina Turk, known for its stylish clothing and home goods.
For mid-century modern furnishings, explore Modern Way, showcasing an array of unique treasures. Afterward, enjoy a wood-fired pizza at Workshop Kitchen + Bar, set in a 1920s building.
Soak in the Sights on the Palm to Pines Scenic Byway
The Palm to Pines Scenic Byway is regarded as one of California’s most breathtaking drives. This route winds through the San Bernardino National Forest, offering stunning views from the desert floor to lush mountain forests. Spanning 67 miles, it is best enjoyed during daylight hours, with highlights such as Lake Hemet and the charming town of Idyllwild along the way.
Make sure to allow extra time for stops, as the drive can be completed in under two hours without stops, but four hours is ideal for exploring detours.
Visit Shields Date Garden
Shields Date Garden in nearby Indio is more than just a shop—it offers a complete date experience. Known for its iconic knight sign, the venue features a walking trail weaving through 17 acres of date groves. Visitors can sample the famous date shake and check out the free movie The Romance and Sex Life of the Date, filled with interesting facts about the fruit.
The garden is home to a series of biblical statues hidden among aloe plants and olive trees, creating a serene atmosphere for exploration.
Watch a Polo Match
Every Sunday from January to March, the Empire Polo Club in Indio hosts complimentary polo matches. Guests can enjoy the experience of stomping divots during intermission and a celebratory champagne toast. This family-friendly event allows you to enjoy a day outdoors, and you can bring your own food or dine at Tack Room Tavern after the match.
Attend a Free Festival
Whether it’s the vibrant Greater Palm Springs Pride or the lively VillageFest, there’s no shortage of free festivals celebrating local culture. The International Tamale Festival in Indio each December is a must-visit for food lovers, featuring countless vendors and exciting live entertainment. Adventurous attendees can even participate in a tamale-eating contest!
