The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you on a breathtaking journey from the desert floor to the top of Mount San Jacinto, a distance of 2 ½ miles. The fourteen-minute wonder of a trip gives you an incredible view of the Coachella Valley below. What makes it amazing is not only the view, but also the change in temperature - it is typically 40° cooler at the top.
The ascent to the top, in the sleek Swiss made cable cars, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Palm Springs. The cars rotate to give everyone a panoramic view of the desert below. At the top, it is like a different world, akin to the Alps, especially during the winter when the mountains are covered with snow. It is not as spectacular during the summer, but there is always an awesome view from the mountain top restaurant. Once at the top, there are opportunities for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.
2. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree Park
This amazing park of more than a million acres is just a fifty-minute ride from Palm Springs and features the desert in its splendor. The rocky, rugged mountains and the granite monoliths seen here are evidence of the very active earth forces, which, over the centuries, have shaped this place. It is also home to a variety of cactus, creosote bushes, and the Joshua Trees, abundantly found in the western parts of the park at elevations above 3000 feet. The park has much more to offer, such as the numerous hiking trails; abundant wild life, including roadrunners and coyotes; camping sites, and of course rock climbing. It is also ideal for horseback-riding, picnics, and walks. Cool nights in the park are great for star gazing, as well.
3. Spas and shopping
Spas & Shopping
Going to a health spa is an important part of the itinerary of a trip to Palm Springs; it was, after all, the mineral springs that attracted everyone here in the first place. You can pamper your body and mind and come out refreshed and rejuvenated at some of the most expensive and posh spas around. This is the best thing to do on hot afternoons-well, so is shopping. Palm Springs is a shopping paradise and most of the big names in the fashion industry have outlets here, thanks to its association with Hollywood and frequent visits by the rich and famous. However, you can end up with good bargains on designer cloths, shoes, house wares, etc.
4. Casinos and nightlife
Slot machines
Of late, casinos have come up in Palm Springs in a big way. There are many Las Vegas-style casinos, with slot machines and game tables, where you can try your luck. Nightlife in Palm Springs is never dull. Apart from the usual entertainment and theater, there are village fests and special events to engage the tourist. There are many live shows and variety acts with renowned guest stars. The Cirque Dreams at the Pavilion Theater and the Fabulous Palm Spring Follies at the Plaza Theater are fabulous shows. The Village Fest on Thursdays is a regular event with live entertainment, display of arts and crafts, and great food.
5. Golf and tennis
Nearby Gold Course
Palm Springs is known as the golf capital of the world. There are more than a hundred spectacular golf courses. You have probably seen many of their nationally televised tournaments. However, you do not need to be a pro to enjoy time out on the golf courses. There are a number of golf clinics, schools, and practice ranges in Palm Springs. You can always have fun learning the intricacies of golf with instructors dedicated to help your game; you can even get personalized instructions. Tennis is another game you will enjoy in Palm Springs. Years ago, many of the Hollywood stars came here to play tennis at the famous Racquet Club started by stars, Ralph Bellamy and Charlie Farrell.
6. Hiking and horseback riding
Mt. San Jacinto Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant in Palm Springs and hiking is a good way to see the desert at close range and observe the flora and the wild life. You have a choice of easy or strenuous trails. Those at Joshua Tree National Park, Indian Canyons and at Mount San Jacinto are very good with signs along the way providing information on the terrain, habitat, and history. Horseback riding is another favorite with tourists who come to Palm Springs. Riding among the beautiful mountains and canyons is a great experience. Other activities to indulge in are jeeps tours, or thrilling hot air balloon trips, which give you a bird's eye perspective of the area. Biking is another option for those who like to flex those leg muscles.
7. Canyons and a bit of history
Indian Canyon
The Indian Canyons, ancestral home of the Indian tribes, are places of great scenic beauty and history. Remnants of ancient life, such as artwork, pictographs, stone houses, and shelters are still seen in these canyons.
For a bit more history, you can visit The Palm Springs Desert Museum, which gives you an insight into traditional Indian life and the history of the desert. It has a nice collection of relics, tools, and art. Plays and lectures are presented at the museum's Annenberg Theater. It is worth a visit; moreover, it would be a shame if you went back from Palm Springs without taking in a bit of history. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens at Palm Desert is another learning experience, this time, about the habitat of the desert. You will see an interesting array of plants and wildlife that thrive in the desert.
