Unique Places to Visit Near Palm Springs, California

If you have been to the city of Palm Springs, you know there are many wonderful places to visit while in town, such as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Moorten Botanical Garden, and the Palm Springs Art Museum. But did you know there are many unique places to visit near Palm Springs? The area surrounding Palm Springs is diverse, beautiful, and filled with many incredible places to visit. There are several popular desert towns nearby, each with its unique charm. Joshua Tree National Park and the Coachella Valley Preserve are nearby. There are many things to do near Palm Springs and several off-the-beaten-path places to visit near Palm Springs as well. You can take a day trip or two to explore and enjoy one of the areas near Palm Springs. You will not be disappointed when visiting one of these nearby attractions while vacationing in Palm Springs. 

Explore Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of many National Parks in the state of California. It is located in Twentynine Palms, which is about 45 minutes east of Palm Springs and is one of the best places to visit near Palm Springs. Joshua Tree National Park is named after the Joshua tree, which grows abundantly in the park. The park spans over 795,000 acres.  

Joshua Tree National Park is unique because two distinct desert ecosystems come together to make up the park. It is made up of the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. Both ecosystems are responsible for the large variety of plants and animals that are found in Joshua Tree National Park.

Best Things to Do in Joshua Tree

There are a variety of activities that outdoor enthusiasts can do in Joshua Tree National Park. You can spend time exploring the National Park for a day by hiking the various trails. You can hike or drive through the unique rock formations found in the park and enjoy the twisted Joshua Trees that are found throughout the park. The landscape is unique, and you will have many opportunities to take amazing photos during your visit. 

You can camp overnight if you prefer to spend more time at the National Park. There are nine campsites located at Joshua Tree National Park. 

If you are at the park at night, spend time stargazing. Joshua Tree National Park is a perfect place to stargaze. You will see many stars at night. 

If you prefer not to explore Joshua Tree National Park on your own, there are a variety of tours to choose from. Group tours include scenic tours of the park and professionally guided star-gazing tours.

Joshua Tree National Park is a vast desert. During the summer, temperatures are hot and can easily exceed 100° F (37° C). The best time to visit is in the spring or the fall. Winter months can be chilly. The temperature can get very cold at night, dipping well into freezing temperatures.

Tour the San Andreas Fault by Jeep

California is known for having earthquakes almost on a daily basis. Many Californians are not bothered by them until they exceed a certain number on the Richter scale or if they are near the epicenter when one occurs. 

One of the more famous faults in California is the San Andreas Fault. Did you know that you can take a tour of the San Andreas Fault by jeep?

Well, now you do! You can book a guided jeep tour to explore part of the rugged terrain that makes up the San Andreas Fault. On this tour, you will go about a mile deep into the fault zone and will learn about the geology of the area. You will also learn a bit about the history of earthquakes in California. 

The tour includes spots to explore canyons and other off-the-beaten-path locations near the San Andreas Fault. This is a great tour to bring your camera and one of the unique places to visit near Palm Springs.

Jeep tours of the San Andreas Fault are located about a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs. 

Visit the Cabazon Dinosaurs

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a must-stop for many locals passing by the area. It is an iconic roadside tourist attraction that has been around for many years and has been featured in movies and music videos. It is easily one of the more well-known places to visit near Palm Springs. Reya was about 3 or 4 years old when we first visited the Cabazon Dinosaurs. 

The two largest dinosaurs are Dinny, a 150-foot-long Brontosaurus, and Mr. Rex, a 65-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus Rex. The site has about 100 dinosaurs, making for several incredible and memorable photographs.

Cabazon Dinosaurs is located in Cabazon off the 10 Freeway, about 25 minutes from Palm Springs. 

Visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a unique zoo that focuses on desert conservation through the preservation and education of wildlife. It is one of the best places to visit near Palm Springs. There are several habitats that you can visit that represent areas all over the world. 

You will learn about the animals and their status as endangered species. You can interact with the animals in some habitats while viewing others from a safe distance. The different types of animals you can see at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens include giraffes, gazelles, black rhinoceroses, Cheetah, Wallaby, Desert Big Horn Sheep, African Painted Dog, and many others. 

The zoo has over 50 gardens to explore that represent desserts from all over the world. There are over 1200 different plant species throughout the different gardens. The different desert ecosystems include regions such as Baja California, East Africa, Madagascar, Mexico, and several other areas.

Hiking at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

There are also several nature walks and hiking trails that you can enjoy. The nature walks and hiking trails will take you through the gardens. There are three trails at the Living Desert that range from easy to challenging. Each trail will pass by the San Andreas Fault Exhibit. 

If you decide to go on any of these hikes, it is important to have sufficient water and sun protection, as you will be hiking through a desert area. It will get hot during your hike. The hiking trails are available from October through May. The trails open at 8:00 AM and close at 4:00 PM.

The Discovery Loop

The Discovery Loop is an easy half-mile trail. There is no elevation on this trail. On this trail, you can explore the fauna and flora of the surrounding desert area. The trail will pass by the San Andreas Fault exhibit, where you can learn about the famous fault. 

The Adventure Loop

The Adventure Loop is a moderate 1.5-mile hike through the desert region. There is a small amount of elevation on this trail. During your hike through the Adventure Loop, you will be able to see more of the surrounding desert landscape. You will also be able to see parts of the San Andreas Fault during your hike. 

The Wilderness Loop

The Wilderness Loop is a strenuous 5-mile hike through the desert region. This hike has about 730 feet of elevation. There are rocky areas where you will need to traverse some boulders. The prize at the end of the rocky area includes stunning views of the Coachella Valley.

Planning Your Day at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is located at 47900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert. It is a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the months of October through May. During the months of June through September, the Living Desert is open from 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM. 

Visit One of the Many Casinos Near Palm Springs

You can visit several casinos near the Palm Springs area and the surrounding towns. Several casinos have large resort-style hotels, which are a great getaway if you would like to spend a couple of days at the casino. 

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino is a Las Vegas-style casino that also has a golf course and bowling alley. The casino is located in Indio, which is a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs. 

The Casino floor has over 1800 slot machines and tables where you can try your luck. After spending time in the casino, you can enjoy a nice meal at one of their dining options, which range from fine dining at The Bistro to an excellent buffet at the Fresh Grill Buffet. If you’d like a quick bite, you can visit the Pizza Kitchen or Lique, which offers hamburgers and other sandwiches. 

The Eagle Falls Golf Course at Fantasy Springs is a beautiful 18-hole course that is open to the public. You should make your tee-time reservations well in advance.

The Fantasy Lanes Bowling Center has 24 lanes available for play. There is also an arcade available in the bowling alley. If you are visiting with family, this is a great place to entertain the kids.

There are several entertainment options at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Many well-known artists perform at the Special Events Center. There is also outdoor entertainment at the Rock Yard, with live entertainment by many different tribute bands.   

Agua Caliente Resort and Casino

Agua Caliente Resort and Casino is a large Las Vegas-style casino. It is located in Rancho Mirage, a 16-minute drive from Palm Springs. There are three different casinos that are part of the Agua Caliente Family: one is located within Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and the large Resort in Rancho Mirage. 

At Agua Caliente Resort and Casino, you can enjoy the day playing in the large casino, relaxing and unwinding with one of the many spa treatments available at Sunstone Spa, or enjoying an evening out at their music venue. There are a variety of dining options, including The Steakhouse and Waters Cafe, which overlooks the large swimming pool.

Sunstone Spa offers day passes for visitors. They have a variety of treatments, and it is easily one of the best spas in the area.  

The Show at Agua Caliente is the resort’s music venue. Many well-known artists play at The Show. Since Agua Caliente Resort and Casino is a short drive from Palm Springs, you can take in a great show at The Show for a great evening out. 

Morongo Casino Resort & Spa

Morongo Casino Resort & Spa is a large Las Vegas-style casino. It is located in Cabazon, a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs. The resort has over 300 rooms and a large casino floor with over 2000 slot machines and tables. 

The resort is also known for its popular buffet, along with several other dining options, such as Cielo Steakhouse and Wahlburgers.

Morongo Casino also has a full-service spa where you can enjoy a variety of spa treatments.  At Morongo’s Sage Spa, you can enjoy services such as facials, deep tissue massages, as well as hair and nail services.    

Relax at a Luxurious Spa

There are several spas that you can visit near Palm Springs. Take a day trip to a spa for some relaxation and pampering. Along with the spas at the resorts I just mentioned, there are other spas that you can visit. The spas in the greater Palm Springs area are varied. Some are expensive, while others have more affordable prices. Some spas offer day passes, allowing you to maximize your rest and relaxation time.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is a luxury spa in Rancho Mirage, about a 16-minute drive from Palm Springs. Ritz-Carlton Spa offers many spa services, including massages, facials, and body treatments. Spa services can be booked in advance on the Ritz-Carlton Spa website.

Two Bunch Palms is also a luxury spa located in Desert Hot Springs. Desert Hot Springs is known for its natural hot mineral springs. Two Bunch Pals offers day passes for $345.00, which also includes a spa service. 

Take a Soak in a Natural Hot Spring

One of the best things about visiting the Coachella Valley is enjoying the natural hot mineral springs found in Desert Hot Springs. Desert Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit near Palm Springs. There are several resorts and spas in the area that offer day passes to enjoy the natural hot springs. Many of them are very affordable.

Miracle Springs Resort and Spa

Miracle Springs Resort and Spa is located about 20 minutes north of the Palm Springs Airport. This wonderful Resort and Spa offers a pool day pass that allows you to enjoy their natural hot mineral pools for the day. They have eight natural hot mineral pools on site. 

While enjoying their natural hot springs, you can get a bite to eat from the Capri Italian restaurant.

Reservations are not accepted for the day pass and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The pools are available from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 

Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel

Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel is a short 20-minute drive from Palm Springs. The resort also offers a day pass to use their natural hot mineral pools for the day. Both Desert Hot Springs and Miracle Hot Springs are located very near each other. You can also have lunch at Capri Italian restaurant or have a poolside lunch from Road Runner Cafe & Bar.

Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Spa

Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Spa is a luxury resort where you can enjoy the area’s natural hot mineral springs for a day. The resort is also located in Desert Hot Springs and is only a 20-minute drive from Palm Springs.

The resort has a full menu of spa services, including spending the day at their natural hot springs. You can make reservations on the Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort’s website to book your relaxing spa day.

Golf at One of the Desert’s Famous Courses

Palm Springs and the greater Palm Springs area are well known for their many golf resorts. There are golf resorts within Palm Springs, such as Escena Golf Club, Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, and Indian Canyons Golf Resort. There are even more golf resorts in the towns surrounding Palm Springs. 

You can book a tee time at one of the desert’s many golf courses, such as the Indian Wells Golf Resort in Indian Wells and JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert. You can also visit the Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage. 

As you golf at any of the nearby courses, you will enjoy scenic views of mountains and palm trees as a backdrop to your game. Many golf courses have been beautifully designed, which adds to the perfect ambiance while you golf. It may not improve your golf game, but at least you will have great views!

If you are new to golf and would like to learn how to play, some resorts have golf academies where you can learn to play golf. 

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

If you are adventurous, you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Coachella Valley. Hot air balloon rides are popular in Southern California. You will find them in towns near Temecula and other wine regions, such as in Central California. 

During your hot air balloon ride, you will have breathtaking aerial views of the Coachella Valley and the beautiful desert landscape surrounding Palm Springs.

Hot air balloon rides are usually scheduled early in the morning. You can schedule your hot air balloon ride with Balloons Above, which is located in Indio, about a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs. 

Discover Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Sunnylands Center & Gardens is a 15-acre estate with a fascinating history. The estate hosted several United States Presidents and world leaders. Many historic meetings have been held at the Sunnylands Center.  

The Sunnylands estate is open to the public. The main building has rotating exhibits that visitors can enjoy, as well as a cafe and gift shop. During your visit to the Sunnylands Center, you can visit the artistic desert garden. There are nine acres of walkable gardens at the center. The paths throughout the gardens are one and a quarter miles long. You can take a self-guided audio tour through each of the gardens. The tour will give you information on the gardens, including the plants found within the gardens. You can take the self-guided tour using your mobile phone. 

Sunnylands Center & Gardens is located in Rancho Mirage, a 20-minute drive from Palm Springs. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Visit Shields Date Garden and Try a Date Shake

Shields Date Garden is a 17-acre date grove with a cafe and a garden store. You can take a self-guided tour through the garden. The garden has 23 statues that depict 14 scenes that chronologize the life of Christ. The statues were once part of a biblical garden in Vancouver, Canada. 

Shields Date Garden has a small theatre that shows a movie about the date cultivation process. The movie is playing all day long in their theatre.

The main draw to Shields Date Garden is the different varieties of dates available for purchase. You can taste different varieties at their sample corner and take a few home with you. If you are hungry, there is a cafe on site where you can grab a bite to eat.

While you are there, don’t forget to taste their famous date shake. Date shakes are a popular draw to the town of Indio, and Shields Date Garden is one of the best places to try a date shake. Date shakes are delicious and are a great way to cool off from the desert heat. 

Shields Date Garden is located in Indio, which is about a 30-minute drive from the city of Palm Springs. 

Explore the Coachella Valley Preserve

The Coachella Valley Preserve is a 3700-acre protected wilderness area north of Palm Desert. It is made up of several preserves, such as the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve. There are several hiking trails throughout the preserve where you can explore the unique ecosystem of the Coachella Valley.  

There is a variety of wildlife that you can see at the Coachella Valley Preserve, including the endangered Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, desert birds such as the Swainson’s hawk, bobcats, and desert pupfish. 

Because it comprises different preserves, using a program such as AllTrails is best. The trails begin at the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve. Some trails, like those leading to McCallum Pond, are currently closed. 

There can also be different public access times. Currently, the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Trailheads that start within this area are not available for public access outside of this time. 

Take a Day Trip to Salvation Mountain

Salvation Mountain makes for a unique day trip. Salvation Mountain is located in Niland, near the eastern shore of the Salton Sea. The Salton Sea itself and a few areas around the Salton Sea are interesting to see as well. However, this would require more than a day trip and caution, as some areas can be dangerous at night. 

Salvation Mountain is about an hour and a half drive from Palm Springs and is part of the Imperial Valley Desert. It is a very photographed site that is popular on social media apps such as Instagram. Because of the long drive to reach Salvation Mountain, it’s a site to visit if you absolutely want to see it. 

Salvation Mountain is an art sculpture by artist Leonard Knight. It is a colorful outdoor installation that was built over a 30-year period. The art installation is a hillside that was constructed with adobe clay, straw, and old tires. The art includes biblical messages painted on a hillside as well as a variety of murals painted on different parts of the hillside. The artist wanted to spread the message of God’s unconditional love and thus painted messages of God’s love on the hillside. 

It is free to visit Salvation Mountain. Donations are appreciated. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about visiting the greater Palm Springs area and nearby towns. We hope these answers will help you as you plan your visit to the Coachella Valley.

Is Visiting the Greater Palm Springs Area and Nearby Towns Worth It?

Yes! Visiting the greater Palm Springs area and nearby towns is worth it! There are many incredible towns and places to visit near Palm Springs. There are also plenty of things to do. Each town is unique and has its own special quality. By visiting the different areas of the Coachella Valley and beyond, you will be able to appreciate the different towns and the unique ecosystem that makes up the desert in this region. You can also enjoy the natural mineral hot springs that are found in this desert sun-soaked oasis. The towns in this desert oasis are beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

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