Immortalised as the setting for countless novels, TV shows and movies, the desert landscape of Palm Springs offers an array of natural wonders. A picturesque area in Southern California, Palm Springs is home to a number of art galleries and vintage shops, combined with scenic hiking trails, slot canyons and waterfalls.

Things to do

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, Palm Springs offers incredible access to the outdoors. Joshua Tree National Park is 45 minutes away, while the natural beauty and rugged landscapes of nearby San Bernardino National Forest and Mount San Jacinto are both excellent hiking destinations.

With its distinctive mid-century modern aesthetic, Palm Springs has a special charm. Driving through Palm Springs offers dozens of architectural gems, with the most notable being the Wexler steel houses and the Kaufmann House.

Don’t miss out on the area’s fascinating museums, such as the Palm Springs Air Museum, which showcases nearly 60 historic planes and is considered one of the world’s top museums. If you want to appreciate fine art, visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to admire pieces from Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol, while families will find interactive exhibits at the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert.

Looking for local cuisine? Try The Rooster and the Pig for delicious Asian-fusion food, while Felipe’s is a classic go-to spot for Mexican dishes. Pamper yourself with one of the many spas in the area or head to the nearby hot springs for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Getting around

Palm Springs is located around two hours from Los Angeles, depending on traffic, and is about 30 minutes further from San Diego. The easiest way to get to Palm Springs is to fly into LA/Ontario International Airport and make the hour drive to the city. Within Palm Springs, a local bus system makes it simple to get to most attractions.