Palm Springs FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Palm Springs, Florida.
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
ROTATING SCENIC TRAM RIDE
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an exhilarating ride on the world's largest rotating tram car as it ascends over two and a half miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon. Visitors enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the pristine wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park at the top. At the mountain station, guests can hike, dine, or simply relax and take in the spectacular scenery.
2. Indian Canyons
HISTORIC DESERT OASIS CANYONS
Indian Canyons is a remarkable nature preserve that showcases the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. This picturesque area features Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon, each with lush palm groves, serene streams, and scenic hiking trails. Guided hikes offer insight into the region's Native American heritage, local wildlife, and ancient irrigation systems.
3. Palm Springs Art Museum
CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION
The Palm Springs Art Museum is a vibrant cultural hub featuring modern and contemporary artworks, glass sculptures, and photography. Its collection also includes Native American and Western art, making it a diverse showcase of creative expression. Visitors appreciate both the art inside and the museum's striking architectural design in downtown Palm Springs.
4. Moorten Botanical Garden
DESERT PLANT SANCTUARY
Moorten Botanical Garden is a family-owned arboretum specializing in cacti and desert plants from around the world. The garden features over 3,000 plant varieties beautifully arranged by geographic region, including rare specimens from the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. Visitors can stroll winding paths and explore the famed 'Cactarium,' an enclosed greenhouse for exotic succulents.
5. Palm Springs Air Museum
AVIATION HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Palm Springs Air Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of flyable World War II airplanes, with additional exhibits covering the Korean and Vietnam wars. Visitors can explore historic aircraft, interactive displays, and memorabilia, as well as watch planes take off from the adjacent runway. The museum offers educational programs and flight experiences for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
6. Palm Canyon Drive
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING & DINING
Palm Canyon Drive is the lively heart of downtown Palm Springs, lined with palm trees, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. This vibrant thoroughfare is perfect for strolling, people-watching, and discovering local treasures. Regular street fairs and cultural events add to the dynamic atmosphere day and night.
7. Joshua Tree National Park
ICONIC DESERT WILDERNESS
Joshua Tree National Park, just a short drive from Palm Springs, is renowned for its surreal landscape, striking Joshua trees, and impressive rock formations. The park spans nearly 800,000 acres and offers outstanding opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching, and stargazing. Its unique geology and biodiversity make it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
8. VillageFest
WEEKLY STREET FESTIVAL
VillageFest is a lively Thursday night street fair held along Palm Canyon Drive, featuring local artisans, food vendors, live music, and entertainers. The event transforms downtown Palm Springs into a festive pedestrian zone where visitors can shop for crafts and enjoy the vibrant community spirit. It's a favorite both for tourists and locals seeking an authentic experience.
9. Palm Springs Walk of Stars
HOLLYWOOD LEGENDS SIDEWALK
The Palm Springs Walk of Stars honors celebrities, cultural icons, and influential residents with golden stars embedded in the sidewalks of downtown. Visitors stroll along the route to spot familiar names from the worlds of film, music, politics, and local history. It's a fun way to appreciate the city's glamorous legacy and connections to Hollywood.
10. Tahquitz Canyon
WATERFALL & ANCIENT HISTORY
Tahquitz Canyon is renowned for its scenic beauty, featuring a dramatic 60-foot waterfall, rock art, and native wildlife. The canyon holds great spiritual and historical significance for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Guided hikes reveal ancient irrigation systems and the area's importance as a cultural heritage site.
11. Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
ICONIC CELEBRITY ESTATE
The Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, also known as the Alexander Estate, is a mid-century modern gem famous as the residence where Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymooned in 1967. Guided tours offer glimpses into Elvis's life and the distinctive architecture of the era. The house remains a popular spot for both music fans and design enthusiasts.
12. Sunnylands Center & Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE & GARDENS
Sunnylands Center & Gardens is an iconic 200-acre estate renowned for hosting presidents, royalty, and global leaders in tranquil, beautifully landscaped surroundings. Visitors can tour the historic Annenberg residence, stroll through desert gardens, and enjoy art exhibitions. The center's blend of mid-century modern architecture and peaceful outdoor spaces makes it a unique cultural destination.
13. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
WILDLIFE AND BOTANICAL PARK
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is dedicated to desert conservation and education, featuring animal exhibits, botanical gardens, and interactive attractions. Guests encounter wildlife from around the world's deserts, including giraffes, cheetahs, and meerkats. The park's scenic walking trails and immersive habitats offer a family-friendly adventure close to Palm Springs.
14. Palm Springs Windmills
RENEWABLE ENERGY LANDMARKS
The Palm Springs Windmills are a field of massive turbines that generate renewable energy and have become a symbol of the region's commitment to sustainability. Guided tours explain the history, technology, and environmental benefits of wind power. The backdrop of mountains and desert landscapes makes this a surprisingly photogenic and educational stop.
15. Coachella Valley Preserve
DESERT OASIS NATURE AREA
Coachella Valley Preserve is a sprawling natural sanctuary known for its lush palm oases, desert hiking trails, and unique wildlife. The preserve protects the rare California fan palm and offers guests a peaceful escape for birdwatching or picnicking. Guided walks reveal the fascinating ecology and geology of the Colorado Desert.