Explore Palm Springs and Beyond
These photos will inspire you to explore the California desert and venture far beyond the resort pool.
Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a remarkable engineering achievement; the first ride was in 1963. Updated in 2000, the tram cars now hold the title of the largest rotating tram cars globally. In just 10 minutes, passengers ascend from an elevation of 2,643 feet to 8,516 feet. Once at the top, several areas await exploration on the mountain, offering stunning views, educational exhibits, two restaurants, and a bar within the visitor center.
Indian Canyons
Home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Indian Canyons feature three distinct canyons ripe for exploration. Traces of ancient irrigation systems, food preparation sites, and housing foundations are found throughout the canyons, showcasing the heritage of the Agua Caliente society. Andreas Canyon exemplifies a desert oasis, with towering fan palms providing shade alongside the soothing sound of flowing water. Palm Canyon offers hiking and horseback riding trails leading to the world’s largest oasis of Washingtonia filifera (California fan palm), allowing visitors to witness the contrast of rocky desert landscapes against lush greenery.
Shields Date Garden
Agriculture significantly shapes the valley, making Shields Date Garden in Indio a quintessential stop. Visitors can enjoy lunch at The Cafe and stock up on fresh dates and date crystals while discovering the fascinating history of date farming in the area. For a deeper understanding of local agricultural history, a trip to the Coachella Valley History Museum is recommended. Driving through Indio, you will encounter numerous date groves and the hardworking farmers behind them.
Palm Springs Windmills
For over 40 years, the Palm Springs windmills have greeted visitors as a symbol of sustainable energy. These impressive wind turbines not only serve a functional purpose but also provide a captivating sight as they spin gracefully in the desert breeze.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Unveiling a different kind of wildlife experience, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert features open, sprawling spaces designed for animal exhibitions. Giraffes peeking over hills and free-flying birds create an enchanting environment. The zoo’s mission centers on the conservation of desert life, ensuring that visitors leave inspired and educated about diverse wildlife.
San Andreas Fault
The San Andreas Fault traverses the Coachella Valley, providing a unique opportunity to view the fault line closely with Red Jeep Tours. This engaging tour offers insights into the geological impacts of the fault, enhanced by an optional sunset cocktail reception featuring breathtaking views of the starry sky.
Sunnylands Center & Gardens
A serene garden envelops the Sunnylands Center in Rancho Mirage, featuring 70 native and arid-adapted plant species meticulously designed by landscape architect James Burnett. The stunning arrangement of cacti, succulents, and drought-tolerant grasses creates an atmosphere of calmness and wonder—drawing inspiration from the Annenbergs’ renowned Impressionist art collection. Walking through the 15-acre garden, visitors are treated to a stunning view of Mount San Jacinto.
Joshua Tree National Park
Finally, the iconic Joshua Tree National Park awaits exploration. Located just an hour from Palm Springs Airport, this national park spans the Colorado and Mojave Deserts, offering an extensive array of diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, being recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, it serves as an ideal location for capturing astrophotography. Be sure to hike the Keys View trail for a panoramic glimpse of the enchanting Coachella Valley.
