Palm Springs, California is an iconic desert oasis that has long been a favorite getaway for those seeking sunshine, relaxation, and a touch of luxury. While visitors often flock to the area for its famous resorts, spas, and golf courses, there’s much more to Palm Springs than meets the eye. For those wanting to experience this vibrant city like a local, it’s all about embracing its unique blend of culture, history, outdoor adventures, and modern comforts. From quirky downtown spots to hidden gems in the surrounding desert, here’s how you can experience Palm Springs like a local thanks to these Palm Spring activities and attractions.
Start with the Palm Springs Farmers Market
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle is by spending a morning at the Palm Springs Farmers Market. Held every Saturday in the heart of downtown, the market is a true reflection of the city’s laid-back yet sophisticated vibe. Locals love to shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade items, while also enjoying a cup of coffee and a pastry from one of the many local vendors.
The market offers everything from organic fruits and vegetables to gourmet prepared foods, homemade soaps, and local crafts. It’s not just about shopping for food, but about enjoying the social scene of the community. Locals use the market to stock up on their weekly essentials while connecting with neighbors and fellow Palm Springs residents. The market is also a great place to enjoy live music or sit down and have a casual breakfast in the sun.
Hike in the San Jacinto Mountains With These Palm Spring Activities
Palm Springs is surrounded by the beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, and hiking is one of the locals’ favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you up to the top of the mountain, where you’ll find incredible hiking trails, stunning views of the valley, and cool mountain air. While the tramway is a popular option for tourists, locals often prefer to hike up the mountain themselves on trails like the Desert View Trail or Wellman Divide.
These hikes offer breathtaking views of the desert below, as well as opportunities to see the local wildlife, including bighorn sheep and desert cacti. For a more challenging experience, consider hiking up Cactus to Clouds, a grueling 10,000-foot ascent that offers some of the most stunning vistas in the area. No matter your hiking skill level, the San Jacinto Mountains provide a perfect way to spend the day outdoors.
If you prefer a less strenuous activity, take a walk around Indian Canyons, an area that features beautiful desert landscapes, unique rock formations, and serene palm oases. Locals often visit this area to escape the heat while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and beauty of the desert.
Discover the Local Art Scene
Palm Springs is home to a rich and diverse art scene, with several galleries, museums, and public art installations that reflect the city’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re into contemporary art or local history, you’ll find something to appreciate.
The Palm Springs Art Museum is one of the top cultural institutions in the city, and it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. It’s home to a wide range of art, from modern and contemporary to Native American and Western art. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events that showcase both emerging and established artists.
For a more eclectic experience, explore the many local art galleries dotted around downtown Palm Springs. Areas like North Palm Canyon Drive feature small galleries where local artists showcase their work. One of the best ways to experience the art scene like a local is to participate in First Wednesday Art Walk, a monthly event where galleries open their doors to showcase new exhibitions, offer wine and hors d’oeuvres, and invite visitors to meet the artists.
Another hidden gem is the Coachella Valley Art Center. While it’s a bit off the beaten path, this art center showcases works from local and regional artists, and it’s a great place to support the local art community. Visitors can often catch live performances, film screenings, and interactive art shows, making it an exciting place to visit year-round.
Explore Local Restaurants and Cafes
Dining in Palm Springs is as much about the experience as it is about the food. Local restaurants in Palm Springs reflect the eclectic mix of desert chic and laid-back charm that defines the city. Locals often head to Cheeky’s, a casual breakfast spot known for its inventive menu, including locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic breakfast dishes. It’s a favorite among locals who love the vibe and the fact that there’s always something new on the menu.
Another local favorite is El Mirasol for lunch or dinner, offering delicious, authentic Mexican food that locals swear by. With its fresh, flavorful dishes and vibrant ambiance, this place is always bustling with patrons, but it never loses its relaxed feel. For those looking for a more refined experience, the Purple Palm Restaurant offers elegant dining in a lush, poolside setting, serving up seasonal American fare and refreshing cocktails.
Don’t miss Trio Palm Springs, where locals love to go for a trendy, modern atmosphere and classic American food with a twist. Known for its mouthwatering dishes like Nashville chicken sliders and house-made biscuits, Trio is also famous for its decadent desserts, perfect for treating yourself after a day of adventure.
For something a little more casual, try Koffi, a popular local coffee shop with several locations around Palm Springs. Koffi is perfect for picking up a latte or a fresh pastry while enjoying the laid-back vibes of the desert. Many locals start their day at Koffi, catching up on work or meeting up with friends before heading out to explore the city.
The Palm Springs VillageFest
Locals flock to Palm Springs VillageFest every Thursday evening, where the main street in downtown Palm Springs is closed off for an open-air market filled with local artists, musicians, food vendors, and craftspeople. It’s a great opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs, taste local delicacies, and enjoy live entertainment in a vibrant, festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, vintage clothes, or artisanal food, VillageFest has something for everyone.
While many tourists pass through Palm Springs without realizing how special the VillageFest is, the event is a weekly ritual for locals. It’s the perfect way to experience the community spirit of Palm Springs while exploring local art, culture, and food.
Discover the Rich History of Palm Springs
Palm Springs is more than just a chic desert retreat; it’s a city steeped in history. For those looking to explore Palm Springs like a local, dive into the rich cultural heritage that shaped this iconic city.
The Palm Springs Historical Society offers a glimpse into the city’s past, with guided walking tours that take you through the mid-century modern architecture that defines Palm Springs. These tours highlight the work of famed architects like Richard Neutra and Albert Frey, who helped establish the unique aesthetic of the area. The Frey House II is another local treasure, offering a peek into the innovative architecture that blends seamlessly with the desert landscape. It’s a favorite stop for design enthusiasts and those looking to understand the architectural evolution of Palm Springs.
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, located near the downtown area. This museum celebrates the history and culture of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and provides a deep dive into the Native American history of the area. The museum often hosts rotating exhibits and offers educational programs that showcase the significance of the local tribes in shaping the region.
For a truly immersive experience, visit the Palm Springs Walk of Stars, where you can stroll through downtown Palm Springs and discover the stars honoring the legendary figures of Palm Springs, including Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, and Elvis Presley. Palm Springs was once home to many Hollywood icons, and their legacy is still alive in the city today. Many locals enjoy a leisurely walk along this historic path, paying tribute to the famous residents who helped shape the city’s allure.
Explore the Coachella Valley’s Unique Desert Beauty
When most people think of Palm Springs, they imagine lush resorts, swaying palm trees, and luxury shopping. However, locals know that the true beauty of the area lies in its unique desert environment. To truly experience Palm Springs like a local, take time to venture beyond the city to explore the natural wonders of the Coachella Valley.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in nearby La Quinta is a hidden gem for those who appreciate the region’s plant and animal life. The Living Desert is home to hundreds of species native to deserts around the world, and it offers visitors a chance to learn about desert ecosystems while walking through beautifully curated desert gardens. Locals often take their families to the zoo for a fun, educational experience, or visit the garden to enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by the desert’s natural beauty.
For those enjoying adventure, the Coachella Valley Preserve is a must-visit. This area is home to lush, seasonal wetlands, serene hiking trails, and the famous Thousand Palms Oasis. The preserve offers a great opportunity to explore the desert in its rawest form, providing a more authentic experience for those looking to explore Palm Springs like a local. During a visit, you might spot local wildlife, like desert tortoises, roadrunners, and bighorn sheep, making it a wonderful spot for nature lovers.
The Beauty of Staying in a Vacation Rental
One of the most important aspects of experiencing Palm Springs like a local is staying in a vacation rental. While there are plenty of hotels to choose from in the area, renting a home or condo gives you a more authentic, comfortable experience. Staying in a vacation rental allows you to feel like you’ve truly stepped into the lifestyle of a local, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace and live like a Palm Springs resident.
At Ryson Vacation Rentals, we offer a range of vacation homes that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on a solo getaway, we have the perfect home for you. Our homes are designed to meet your needs and offer a level of comfort that makes you feel like you never left home. Our vacation rentals come with amenities like private pools, fire pits, and spacious balconies, ensuring that you can fully unwind and enjoy your time in Palm Springs.
Staying in a vacation rental allows you to take full advantage of the local experience. You can spend your mornings sipping coffee on the balcony, afternoons lounging by the pool, and evenings enjoying home-cooked meals with friends or family. Many of our properties are conveniently located near top attractions, dining, and shopping areas, making it easy to access everything Palm Springs has to offer. At Ryson Vacation Rentals, we strive to offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of home with the luxury of a vacation getaway.
Unlike staying at a hotel, a vacation rental provides a much more personalized experience. You get a private space to call your own, whether it’s a cozy condo or a spacious house with a garden and pool. With options ranging from intimate getaways to large homes perfect for group vacations, we ensure that your stay is as comfortable as possible, leaving you with lasting memories of your time in Palm Springs.
Book Your Stay and Experience Palm Springs Like a Local
Book your stay with Ryson Vacation Rentals today and begin your journey to experiencing Palm Springs like a local. Whether you’re looking for a private pool, a cozy bungalow, or a luxurious home for a family or pet friendly vacation, we have the perfect property for you. Let us help you create an unforgettable Palm Springs getaway that feels like home!
