Palm Desert

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Palm Desert's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Relaxing in Palm Desert
morning
:

Start your day at the Palm Desert Community Park to enjoy a scenic walk and fresh air. Grab coffee at a nearby cafรฉ to energize yourself for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to explore the beautiful wildlife and stunning landscapes. The interactive exhibits provide a fun learning experience for all ages.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering delicious California cuisine and enjoy the views of the mountains. End your evening with a stroll down El Paseo, Palm Desert's elegant shopping street.

day 2
Nature Adventure
morning
:

Begin your adventure with a hike at the Indian Canyons, where you can witness stunning palm oases. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the desert.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a picnic area within the canyons or return to town for a meal. Afterward, head to the Coachella Valley Preserve for more exploration of its unique trails.

evening
:

Wind down with a sunset view at a nearby lookout point, soaking in the vibrant colors of the desert sky. Enjoy dinner at a cozy spot that highlights local ingredients.

day 3
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Palm Desert Art Museum to appreciate diverse art pieces and exhibitions. The museum opens early and offers a quiet atmosphere to absorb the creativity.

afternoon
:

Explore the El Paseo district for its galleries and boutiques featuring local artists. You can spend time shopping for unique souvenirs or artwork to take home.

evening
:

Attend a performance at the McCallum Theatre, where you can catch a show based on the evening's schedule. Finish off with dinner at a nearby eatery to recap your cultural experiences.

day 4
Desert Exploration
morning
:

Embark on a guided tour of Joshua Tree National Park to experience its striking rock formations and unique flora. It's an early start, but the beauty of the park makes it worthwhile.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch either at a local cafรฉ in Joshua Tree or pack a picnic to enjoy in the park. Continue exploring the park's trails and hidden gems until late afternoon.

evening
:

Return to Palm Desert and relax with dinner at a laid-back diner. Consider stargazing post-dinner since the desert offers some of the clearest skies.

day 5
Golfing Getaway
morning
:

Spend your morning teeing off at one of Palm Desert's world-class golf courses. Enjoy the serene surroundings as you play a few rounds.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the clubhouse, enjoying the view of the greens. Then, take a leisurely stroll around the course or practice your swing at the driving range.

evening
:

Treat yourself to a dinner at a fine dining restaurant known for its extensive wine list and gourmet dishes. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at your accommodations or hitting the nightlife.

day 6
Culinary Tour
morning
:

Kickstart the day with breakfast at a famous local diner known for its hearty portions. Fuel up for a full day of culinary exploration.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour that takes you to various local eateries to savor Palm Desert's unique flavors. Try a variety of dishes and learn about the local food culture.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dessert at a well-known bakery to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the atmosphere of an evening cafรฉ as you unwind.

day 7
Sunrise to Sunset
morning
:

Watch the sunrise at a designated viewpoint in Palm Desert to bask in the awakening desert landscape. Bring along a thermos of coffee for a serene experience.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning panoramic views after a scenic ride. Enjoy some lunch at the top while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

evening
:

Return to Palm Desert and find a restaurant with outdoor seating to admire the evening ambiance. A casual dinner will be perfect after a full day of adventure.

day 8
Active Day Out
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride along the scenic trails around Palm Desert to get your blood pumping. Enjoy the fresh air as you take in the desert's beauty.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch in one of the local parks or grab a bite at a trendy cafรฉ. After lunch, consider joining a local fitness class or yoga session to keep the active vibe going.

evening
:

Unwind with a muscle-soothing massage at a local spa to recover from a busy day. Opt for a light dinner that keeps you feeling relaxed and revived.

day 9
Pet-Friendly Palm Desert
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local dog park where your furry friend can run free. It's a great way for both of you to meet locals and make new friends.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a dog-friendly patio restaurant so you can dine together. Afterward, take a scenic walk on the pet-friendly trails around town.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a pet-friendly evening event, such as a movie in the park. Choose a casual spot for dinner that welcomes pets.

day 10
Chill and Unwind
morning
:

Sleep in a bit and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your resort or hotel. The calm morning vibe sets the tone for a relaxing day.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun, and reading a good book. You can also enjoy snacks and refreshments from poolside service.

evening
:

Have a relaxing dinner at your hotelโ€™s restaurant or a nearby spot with a relaxed ambiance. Spend the evening watching the sunset and reminiscing about your trip.

Discover Palm Desert

Read more in our Palm Desert 2024 Travel Guide.

Palm Desert Travel Guide