When the festive season is on the horizon, the holidays are the ideal time of year to pack up the family and head to Palm Springs, California in the name of fun and adventure. In Palm Springs, it’s an easy thing to leave all thoughts of falling snow and dropping temperatures behind because daily highs throughout December typically linger in the 70s with plenty of sunshine included! While Palm Springs is always packed with incredible activities, attractions, entertainment, and history to discover no matter when you arrive, a holiday trip this way comes with the benefit of lights, décor, seasonal events, and more. There’s a good chance that no matter what you add to your lineup, you’re going to want to capture those special moments together on camera. When you’re looking for where to take family holiday Palm Springs photos this year, the following list is a great starting point.
Snap a Photo or Two on El Paseo
El Paseo is always a treat to explore but during the holiday season, this glitzy area takes the illuminating effect to greater heights. Throughout the festive season, the towering palm trees located along the principal shopping street of El Paseo are strung with holiday lights from top to bottom! When the sun goes down, this makes for an incredible photo backdrop for your family to gather in front of and snap some amazing angles on the area and of course, those you love most. If you head over here closer to sunset when the lights have just come on, but the mountain silhouettes are still visible against the sky, you’ll get an even more dramatic photographic effect for your holiday snapshot.
Attend the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade
Since the early 1990s, the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade has been delighting locals and visitors alike looking for a reason to embrace the beauty and fun of the holiday season. This annual parade is always hosted on the first Saturday in December and is a family-friendly affair that as originally designed to bring the community together and celebrate in style. Since its initial kick off, the parade has only continued to grow in popularity and today, it includes dancers, marching bands, festive floats, music, horses, and visits by Mickey and Minnie Mouse as well as Snoopy, Santa, and Mrs. Claus. The Macy’s style balloons are always a highlight of the parade and offer up a fantastic and impressive backdrop for fun family holiday photos in Palm Springs. Bring your entire crew and get a great spot early so you can enjoy the fun while also getting the best angle on it all through the camera.
Check Out Wild Lights
You won’t have to go far from Palm Springs to find yet another fantastic opportunity for taking great family holiday photos at the Wild Lights event held each year at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert. This event runs separately from general admission, so you’ll want to be sure to purchase your select night tickets in advance. When you arrive, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing holiday light tunnels to explore paired with holiday music and impressive seasonal displays that illuminate the night alongside life-size animal lanterns. It’s an event everyone in your family is sure to love and a great place to take your time and set up just the right backdrop to fit your needs and preferences for that annual holiday photo.
Infuse the Best of Palm Springs into your Holiday Photo Ops
While there are plenty of places and events across Palm Springs during the holidays that make it easy to infuse seasonal inspiration into your family photo, those who are looking to make the most of a quintessential Palm Springs vibe this holiday season will find that’s within easy reach too. Consider heading over to the neighborhood around Indian Canyons when you want to take a photo of your family this holiday season that showcases the best of that gorgeous mid-century architecture Palm Springs hosts so well. Each cul-de-sac in this neighborhood features beautiful and meticulous desert landscaping as well as homes that speak to intricate architectural details. It’s also packed with towering palms and surrounding mountains that create a dynamic backsplash for the moment you’re looking to capture on camera.
Take a Trip Up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a Camera in Hand
For a new view of Palm Springs this holiday season and a great opportunity to get a one-of-a-kind family photo, consider taking a trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This is the world’s largest rotating tram car and as you travel the 2.5 miles up over the Chino Canyon, you’ll be treated to Mt. San Jacinto State Park views from a bird’s eye view that makes for a thrilling photo backdrop. The journey only takes about 10 minutes so if you don’t capture just the right view from the tram itself, you’ll have opportunities to take photos at the top at observation points overlooking the valley floor at 8,516 feet in elevation.
Book Your Palm Springs Journey Today
Elevate your holiday stay in Palm Springs in impeccable style when you book your vacation rental through Ryson Vacations. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting property options and how we can help you make it a festive getaway to remember in California!
Spending quality time in Palm Springs is something travelers have been doing in the name of fun, wellness, and glamour since as far back as the early 1900s. These days, Palm Springs remains an endless haven of opportunity for those with a passion for mid-century architecture, amazing weather, desert recreation, and luxury dining experiences as well! If you happen to be someone who finds their vacation state of mind most easily when there’s world-class retail therapy included in your getaway, Palm Springs is a place on the map that never fails to impress. Whether you’re on the hunt for upscale merchandise, unique apparel, vintage wares or home décor that reflects the mid-century design standard the city is best known for, you’ll find it all here with ease. The following are just a few of the best places to have a fantastic day shopping in Palm Springs when you’re ready to revamp your home, jewelry box, or closet.
Explore Palm Canyon Drive
There’s a little bit of everything waiting to be discovered by shoppers who set their sights on time spent on Palm Canyon Drive. This shop-lined destination in town is loved for the towering palms that adorn the street, making opportunities to pop in and out of boutique shops that much more appealing. Along Palm Canyon Drive, you’ll find stores to explore that host everything from home décor items and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to designer apparel, locally made clothing, and antiques too. The beauty of a day of shopping along Palm Canyon Drive is that when cravings come calling and you need to refuel, you’ll find there are just as many inviting restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy in this area too!
Discover the Uptown Design District
North Palm Canyon Drive plays host to what’s known as the Uptown Design District and it’s a place you won’t want to miss when you’re looking for that ever-appealing mid-century modern flair. The Uptown Design District has earned a reputation for excellence as a premier shopping hub by day while the evening hours here are must-visits for those who are looking for elegant dining options at night. When you arrive in the sunny daytime hours with shopping bags in hand, the Uptown Design District is a great place to purchase apparel with a focus on vintage fashion, as well as furniture that still speaks to a bygone era. There are also plenty of wellness shops in the Uptown Design District showcasing scrubs, soaps, lotions, fragrances, and beyond. Destinations here like The Shops at 1345 are a must visit when you’re looking to browse unique hand-glazed pottery, and mid-century-inspired home goods to give your residence a touch of Palm Springs style once you return from your vacation.
Spend Time Browsing the El Paseo Shopping District
Sometimes referred to as the Rodeo Drive of Palm Springs, the El Paseo Shopping District is an elegant must-visit stop on the itinerary when shopping adventures bring you to sunny Palm Springs. This iconic strip is home to an array of upscale shops where you might be just as likely to run into a celebrity as you are to find that elusive designer brand clothing item you’ve been longing to add to your collection. This shopping district has been around for more than 60 years but continues to be the pinnacle of elegance in shopping when you spend time in Palm Springs. In total, the El Paseo Shopping District hosts over 200 storefronts but it’s just as appealing on the fine-dining front too. Once you’ve browsed the jewelry, art, and apparel, you can settle down for a sophisticated meal served up by world-class chefs in this area.
Check Out the Antique Galleries of Palm Springs
While new products on the market can be fun to shop for, sometimes, a little antiquing can go a long way toward the fun of your Palm Springs stay too! When you’re in the mood to search for hidden gems, the Antique Galleries of Palm Springs is calling your name. Located at 505 E. Industrial Place, the Antique Galleries of Palm Springs offer visitors access to two stories of antique shopping opportunities hosting more than 40 vendors across 12,000 square feet of space. This is a shopping destination in town worth setting aside several hours of your day for, because you’re bound to encounter thousands of items on-site. Whether you’re looking for maritime collectibles, vintage apparel, fine art, furniture, photographs, jewelry, military memorabilia or something in between, you’re sure to find it here as long as you’re dedicated to the hunt. The Antique Galleries of Palm Springs is conveniently open to shoppers daily between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
Book Your Fun Shopping Trip to California Today
There’s always an adventure waiting to be found in Palm Springs and when you know you want to top your stay off in style and luxury, the team at Ryson Vacations has you covered. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting lineup of vacation rental options available across Palm Springs and how we can help you plan an unforgettable stay.
When the holidays come around once again, some look forward to a Christmas season filled with snow. Others are more drawn to opportunities to head out and enjoy a place that’s packed with sunshine in December and when this sounds like you, Palm Springs, California is certainly the place to be! Boasting daily highs in the 70s through the end of the year, a trip this way over the holidays is one filled with warm weather fun at every turn. That said, it’s also a city that knows how to deck the halls when it comes to setting up fabulous Christmas lights and displays for locals and visitors alike to enjoy. When you’re excited to add some holiday light admiring to your to-do list, make sure the following Palm Springs CA Christmas stops sit at the top of your itinerary.
Enjoy the Exciting Palm Springs Festival of Lights
One of the most highly anticipated annual events around Christmastime in Palm Springs that takes holiday illumination to the next level of excellence is the Palm Springs Festival of Lights. This is an experience that began back in the early 1990s at the hands of former Mayor Will Kleindienst and continues to be a fan-favorite moment on the holiday calendar today. It’s typically hosted on the first Saturday in December and is a unique tourism event downtown featuring a parade with everything from giant balloons and groups of performers to marching bands and signature floats dripping in thousands of holiday lights. The parade often gets underway around 5:45 pm and lasts until around 8:00 pm. The Palm Springs Festival of Lights is designed to inspire holiday spirit in everyone who attends and continues to be a beloved local tradition that brings thousands of attendees to the Coachella Valley in December each year. There’s no cost to attend the Palm Springs Festival of Lights, making it a great addition to your itinerary when you’re in town with the entire family in tow.
El Paseo Comes to Life in Illuminated Style at Christmas
A popular place to take a stroll near Palm Springs when you’re looking to enjoy traditional holiday lights and Christmas displays at their very best is El Paseo in nearby Palm Desert. While this area is a top-rated shopping and dining stop in the area on any day of the year, around Christmas, the storefronts are decked out in illuminated style much to the delight of passerby’s. Even the local palm trees get treated to layers of lights, so when dusk falls, the entire street is aglow for the holidays! It’s a beautiful scene to set your sights on whether you’re dropping by to do some last-minute shopping or you’re exclusively here for the incredible display of holiday décor.
Embrace the Best of the Holiday Spirit Along Candy Cane Lane
Over in nearby Cathedral City, the area fondly referred to as Candy Cane Lane is yet another must-visit location to enjoy when holiday travel plans bring you to Palm Springs. Candy Cane Lane sees Minerva Lane transformed into a full-fledged homage to the holiday spirit as every house on the block is decorated from top to bottom in lights, displays, and whimsical Christmas attire. You’ll find Candy Cane Lane covering a single city block between Avenida La Vista and Tachevah Drive and you’ll want to plan on walking through due to the crowds that head this way after sunset. It’s a great place to enjoy the lights with kids, and it doesn’t take too long to navigate making it great for visitors of all ages.
Experience Wildlights with the Entire Family
Pair wild encounters and holiday fun at the annual Wildlights event in Palm Desert this year alongside family and friends. When you make your way over to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens on select evenings throughout December, you’ll be treated to a dazzling display of lights that cover the venue and provide guests with festive photo opportunities at every turn. The event typically runs from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm and requires a separate ticket from general admission to be purchased in advance. With a ticket in hand, you and your crew can enjoy walking a space saturated in more than three million holiday lights at a time. There are animal-inspired holiday displays to explore and illuminated tunnels and trains to check out as well. When cravings come calling, make time to drop by the s’mores station before taking in some live entertainment.
Book Your Palm Springs Getaway Today
When you’re heading to Palm Springs over the holidays, make sure you have the luxurious accommodations in place you deserve to top off your stay in style by booking through Ryson Vacations. Our impressive portfolio of property options is designed to inspire so take some time to reach out today to learn more and to start planning!
When it’s an endlessly sunny getaway you’re after and you have a love for fantastic shopping, dining, and sightseeing in place as well, making time for a trip to Palm Springs is always a treat. This beautiful California vacation destination is one that delights visitors year-round who can’t wait to make the most of incredible desert hikes, mid-century architecture, and upscale surroundings that speak to luxury and style every step of the way. If during your stay you find yourself longing for a refreshing moment you can enjoy with family and friends, you’ll quickly discover Palm Springs is also a fantastic hub of flavor! The following are a few great places to grab a drink in good company the next time your travel plans bring you in this direction. Check out all about the best bars in Palm Springs!
Enjoy Time at The Heyday
Located at 1550 N. Palm Canyon Drive, The Heyday is a popular bar and restaurant in town that keeps visitors close to the heart of the city while enjoying some well-deserved downtime at their leisure. The Heyday is a casual hangout where you can easily pair burgers and sandwiches with craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and red, white, and sparkling wine selections alike. The vibe is welcoming whether you settle in at a table or cozy up to the bar. You’ll find that many evenings at The Heyday include great music too, making the experience as entertaining as it is delicious.
Check Out Bootlegger Tiki
If a tiki bar experience is what you’re hoping for when it’s time to cheers to an amazing stay in Palm Springs, the Bootlegger Tiki is calling your name. You’ll find this colorful and vibrant locale at 1101 N. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs and showing up earlier in the evening is always recommended as it tends to draw larger crowds later on in the night. The Bootlegger Tiki is a terrific place to grab a drink with friends whether you find yourself craving a guava-colada or a mai tai. Their specialty is handcrafted cocktails and there’s always something new on the menu to try no matter when you drop by. Selections like the Mexican Safari pair Mezcal and Ancho Reyes Verde with grapefruit, lime, lemongrass, hopped grapefruit bitters, and salt while the Thai Iced Tiki is a must when you’re up for Thai tea-infused Smith & Cross paired with macadamia nut liqueur, vanilla liqueur, coconut cream, evaporated milk, honey, and nutmeg. Yet another original drink you won’t want to overlook while you’re here is the Spice Trade Swizzle which matches Rittenhouse Rye with Becherovka, lime, ginger, cinnamon, and Herbastura bitters. Bootlegger Tiki is loved by many for its daily Happy Hour specials too and if you just can’t make up your mind on what to order, the Dealer’s Choice option lets the on-site staff choose something exciting for you! Before you go, make sure you look into the customized merchandise on-site so you can commemorate your delicious drink experience with a pin, mug, or hat to match.
Savor the Moment at Amala Restaurant & Bar
When temperatures rise in Palm Springs, you can cool off with a drink and a trip down the waterslide at Amala Restaurant and Bar. Located at 1500 South Gene Autry Trail, this Palm Springs hot spot is found within the greater Palm Springs Surf Club. The property revolves around a waterpark where inner tubing, waterslides, and surfing define a day under the California sun. Afterward, Amala Restaurant and Bar provides a lounge space for visitors to enjoy access to an impressive cocktail list, a wide variety of wines, and more than 15 beers on draft too. Amala’s is a picture-perfect place to sip an evening away with friends whether you order up a lychee martini, a smokin’ peach margarita, or a desert mirage that pairs turmeric-infused rum and lime with pineapple, orgeat, and Mahina dark rum float. Draft beers here span lagers and IPA to golden ales and citrus blends too. Guests can pick and choose from indoor and outdoor seating while the cozy bar area features large televisions and oftentimes, live music to be enjoyed by patrons too.
Spend Quality Time at Paul Bar/Food
Located at 3700 E. Vista Chino, Paul Bar/Food is an unassuming destination for drinks in town that treats visitors to incredibly inspiring flavor options with every sip! This bar is popular among locals and visitors alike and provides guests with a casual hangout to enjoy with plenty of beer and wine options as well as unique cocktail selections to try. Settle in at the mahogany bar and order up a Cosmo or a margarita if you’re craving something more traditional. When you’re looking for a drink with a unique twist, the Black Manhattan pairs old Overholt rye and Averna amaro with orange bitters. Don’t hesitate to pair your drink at this bar with savory bites like steak frites, burgers, hummus, or salads to round out your experience in flavorful style.
Book Your California Getaway Today
Now is the very best time to turn Palm Springs travel plans into a reality. Reach out to Ryson Vacations today to learn more about our luxurious home-away-from-home options available that keep you close to the fun and living in comfort and style every day of your stay!
Before you know it, a new school year will be here once again, and schedules are bound to get busy with a long lineup of activities and events on the calendar. Before the pace picks up, consider making time for a back-to-school vacation to Palm Springs when you and your family could use some downtime before jumping back into the hustle of life. Palm Springs, California is a beautiful, sunny, and always welcoming vacation destination to enjoy whether you’re a traveling group with a passion for outdoor fun, architecture, amazing views, or you’re looking to restaurant hop and shop your way through a memorable stay. In Palm Springs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy making it a great place to find yourself to celebrate before heading back to the classroom once more. When you plan a trip this way, the following are a few family-friendly activities you won’t want to leave off your list.
Hop Onboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Vacation is all about getting a new perspective on life and when you’ve made plans to enjoy a Palm Springs getaway as your back-to-school adventure, it starts with a trip on the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This impressive experience is an easy way to get a bird’s eye view out over the Chino Canyon as you travel 2.5 miles upward in the world’s largest rotating tram car. Not only is it a fun journey to check off your list of unique experiences and share with friends back home, but it’s also a sure way to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness including Mt. San Jacinto State Park. The journey to the summit might only be 10 minutes long, but as you capture the sights from above, there’s a good chance you’ll want to ride a time or two while you’re in town.
Head Over to the Palm Springs Art Museum
Palm Springs-bound travelers looking to infuse arts and culture into their back-to-school vacation will find it waiting for them at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Situated right in the heart of downtown, this museum is easy to access and always an inspiring place to spend an afternoon in good company. When you drop by, you’ll have the opportunity to spend some time browsing exhibits and displays that showcase contemporary artists hailing from across the country and the globe alike. While the museum hosts a large permanent collection, every trip this way is unique thanks to their ever-rotating lineup of special exhibits on-site. If you stop by with kids in tow, be sure to check out the art camps in the summertime as well as the hands-on projects that are hosted in the kid’s section of the museum. It’s also good to note that the third Sunday of every month at the museum is designated Family Day which means you can count on enjoying a custom activity that everyone in your group can enjoy together while you visit.
Get Into Nature on Horseback
Palm Springs is definitely a place that brings luxurious shopping, delicious dining, and mid-century architecture to mind, but if you’re traveling this way for a back-to-school trip and you have a passion for the great outdoors, you’ll find it’s also a destination with options for getting into nature on horseback! Head over to Smoke Tree Stables on South Toledo Avenue to enjoy an afternoon of full day of guided riding near the Indian Canyons. Alongside your knowledgeable and friendly guide, you’ll learn the basics of riding and how to handle your horse before jumping in the saddle and exploring the more than 150 miles of riding trails that are found in this scenic area. This activity is designed for participants seven years of age and up and is offered every day of the week except for Wednesdays.
Dine at Farm for French Cuisine
After all of that adventure, you’ll want to be sure to treat your traveling crew to something savory. That’s when you’ll want to make time for a meal enjoyed at Farm. Located at 6 La Plaza, Farm is a vibrant and friendly place to dine in town where you can experience French dining at it’s best. It’s a popular place to enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner when you’re looking for a unique dining experience. A beautiful patio garden is complimented by the aromas of sweet and savory crepes alike. Or enjoy a delicious eggs benedict or sandwich.
Book Your Getaway Today
Now is the perfect time to start planning your back-to-school getaway to Palm Springs and when you do, Ryson Vacations can help you find the home-away-from-home experience to top it all off in style. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting vacation rental selection available, and how we can help you elevate the fun every step of the way!
When you think of Palm Springs, there’s a good chance you picture a vacation filled with ample sunshine, warm weather, and scenic views to match. The good news is that this view is refreshingly authentic! That makes Palm Springs a prime getaway locale for travelers hailing from across the map year-round. The inviting climate that Palm Springs boasts makes it a place where agriculture thrives as well. Many might be surprised to learn that just behind tourism, agriculture is the area’s second-largest industry. Here, fresh fruits and vegetables abound meaning that when you head this way in the name of fun, there’s no reason to leave a farmers market or two off the to-do list. It’s common to find farmers markets in the area are paired up with craft vendors so you have even more opportunities to browse local goods and support the community you’ve come to enjoy. Whether you’re just looking or excited to shop for goods and souvenirs, adding a local farmers and craft markets in Palm Springs to your itinerary will surely elevate your stay.
Spend Time Enjoying the Palm Springs Villagefest
If you have a Thursday evening to spare during your stay in Palm Springs, heading downtown to the Palm Springs Villagefest is always a good idea. This evening gathering functions as an entertainment experience and a farmers and craft market where you can enjoy live music, international cuisine served up by local vendors, and opportunities to browse stands showcasing fresh flowers, vegetables, assorted fruits, and more. There are handcrafted goods to purchase at the Palm Springs Villagefest too and if you have a sweet tooth to satisfy, you’ll be pleased to learn this event always hosts an array of delicious treats to try. Palm Springs Villagefest can be found on the iconic Palm Canyon Drive meaning after you’ve had time to browse, you’ll also be within easy reach of famed local shops, clubs, and restaurants. If you’re visiting Palm Springs with your favorite canine companion as part of your traveling crew, you’ll be happy to know that Palm Springs Villagefest is a pet-friendly experience!
Take time to Check Out the Street Fair at College of the Desert
Yet another great farmers and craft market to check out in the greater Palm Springs area during your stay is the Street Fair at College of the Desert. This beloved event is hosted every Saturday and Sunday from October through May between the hours of 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. At The Street Fair at College of the Desert, you’ll have easy access to the area’s premier open-air shopping destination that’s been a staple in the greater Palm Springs region for more than 40 years. A visit here is often considered a top activity to add to any itinerary, and when you see the setup, you’ll quickly understand why.
The Street Fair is located at the College of the Desert campus on the northwest corner at Monterey Avenue. Guests are invited to stroll this open-air shaded destination which is packed with merchandise and goods that are suitable for all ages and budgets. There are hundreds of items for sale at this event including produce, fresh flowers, unique gifts, plants, pet accessories, homemade crafts, leather goods, luggage, cosmetics, footwear, pottery, furniture, patio items, art, clothing, accessories, jewelry, and more! There’s even a chance you’ll come across vintage cars at this market and the options to enjoy gourmet food on-site paired with live entertainment makes it much more than your traditional farmers and craft market experience.
Visiting the Street Fair at College of the Desert is even more meaningful when you know that a portion of all proceeds here go towards helping college students reach their educational goals and dreams. You’ll be playing a part in supporting the destination and education every time you drop by.
Explore Markets in Indio and Rancho Mirage
When you want to expand your farmers and craft market experiences in the Palm Springs area, you won’t have to go far to do exactly that. The Indio Certified Farmers Market is hosted at the intersection of Bliss Avenue and Towne Street on Sundays from 9:00 am until l2:00 pm between October and May. Here, you can browse chef-prepared fresh foods, and locally harvested fruits and vegetables, or make time to browse creative goods crafted by local artisans. There’s no cost to attend and live music and food trucks are built into the experience as well. The Rancho Mirage Certified Farmers Market is hosted on Fridays from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm year-round. It’s a one-stop shop for fresh produce, flavorful fare, and handcrafted gifts that are sure to inspire.
Explore the Original Coachella Valley Certified Farmers Market
One of the larger certified farmers markets in the area is the Original Coachella Valley Certified Farmers Market which functions as a Palm Spring Cultural Center program. Between October and May, this farmers market is hosted on Saturdays between 8:00 am and 1:00 pm at the Palm Spring Cultural Center parking lot on E. Baristo Road. Between June and September, you can enjoy the fun while beating the heat by moving to their indoor location at the Palm Springs Pavilion on Saturdays from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm. If you’re spending time in the Palm Desert area, they have a market to check out there as well between October and April at 72559 Highway 111 on Sundays from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm.
Book Your California Vacation in Luxury and Style Today
Elevate your Palm Springs stay in comfort, luxury, and style by booking your vacation rental through Ryson Vacations. Reach out today to learn more about our inviting options and to start planning your next trip to California.
No matter what time of year you plan a trip to sunny Palm Springs, you’ll find a long list of amazing activities, sights, attractions, and outdoor adventures waiting to be enjoyed. Those who are heading this way in the summertime will find clear blue skies waiting to greet them as well as low chances for rain. However, the city’s sunny reputation means that this time of year comes with rising temperatures as well. In June, the city of Palm Springs sees midday highs heading towards 100 degrees Fahrenheit with evening temperatures dipping into the upper 80s. By July and August, midday highs can reach as high as 108 degrees, with sunset temps still lingering in the 90s. That means when you travel this way this time of year, it’s important to have some Palm Springs summer activities on your itinerary for cooling off when you need to refresh and unwind. The following are a few great ways to beat the heat when summer travel plans bring you this way.
Spend Time Cooling Off at the Palm Springs Art Museum
There’s no better way to balance out warm temperatures with a cool and creative moment than to plan on spending some quality time at the Palm Springs Art Museum when you’re in town. Located at 101 N. Museum Drive, the Palm Springs Art Museum is a great place to immerse yourself in carefully curated collections of sculpture, painting, photography, and contemporary art of all kinds. The museum is open from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Thursday through Monday and is a place where you’re guaranteed to find air conditioning on full blast in the summer.
Get a New View of It All
Sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to get a new perspective on your surroundings. This is best achieved when you take a ride on the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway when you’re here. This exciting and scenic experience is one that takes you 8,516 feet up the San Jacinto Mountains in good company where you can count on cooler temperatures upon arrival. Enjoy an afternoon of savoring the tramway sights before lingering mountain top and enjoying observation decks, restaurants, museums, and hiking trails that come with higher-altitude comfortable temperatures included.
Take a Home Tour
You can escape the rising temperatures in Palm Springs while still exploring the area’s rich history when you book a place on a home tour. Options to enjoy a guided experience at local places like Sunnylands offer up a trip through a historic estate without having to remain outside the entire time. Instead, you’ll be touring the grounds Palm Springs socialites and celebrities once called home in climate-controlled style. It’s a look at mid-century architecture in the area that surely won’t keep you sweltering.
Visit the Palm Springs Cultural Center
Yet another option for beating the summer heat in Palm Springs is to head over to the Palm Springs Cultural Center at 2300 E. Baristo Road during your stay and enjoy an indie film or two. The center typically hosts an array of films, performances, and exhibits throughout the summer season that can be enjoyed with a healthy dose of air conditioning included in the experience. They’re open from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm so you’re free to linger well into the evening hours when you drop by.
Explore the Palm Springs Air Museum
Situated at 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a must-add to your lineup when you’re looking for a place to cool off while still enjoying learning about Palm Springs this summer. The air museum features incredible exhibits to browse on-site featuring aircraft from World War II, the Vietnam War, and the war in Korea as well.
Pop In and Out of Air-Conditioned Shops in Town
In those moments when some retail therapy would go a long way, Palm Springs is a city filled with fantastic shops to explore and many of them come with the benefit of being air-conditioned. Head over to what’s known as the Uptown Design District along Palm Canyon Drive to check out what’s available to purchase at destinations like The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five and Trina Turk. This area is packed with charming boutiques to check out and vintage stores as well. As you move from one to the next, you’ll stay cool, comfortable, and inspired by the possibilities.
Book Your Palm Springs Getaway in Style Today
When you know you want your Palm Spring getaway any time of year to include the elevated standards of luxury, comfort, and style you deserve, the team at Ryson Vacations is here to help make it happen. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our amazing portfolio of rental properties across Palm Springs and how we can help you get settled into a home-away-from-home that’s one-of-a-kind with every booking.
There’s nothing more refreshing or exciting than knowing you have an upcoming trip to scenic Palm Springs, California on the calendar. While this sunny and inviting locale is a lovely place to set your travel sights year-round, a summer vacation in this direction comes with a guaranteed vibrant atmosphere and tons of fun. From the mid-century architecture and sophisticated shops to the fantastic eateries and amazing views, there’s no shortage of options for customized fun. When you’re planning a Palm Springs summer getaway, be sure to keep the following in mind to make it a successful trip from start to finish.
How to Get Here with Ease
If you don’t live close enough to Palm Springs to simply drive in, many travelers make plans to fly into either Los Angeles International Airport or San Diego. From both locations, you can rent a car to use during your stay and make the scenic two-hour drive into the city at your own preferred pace. If you’re looking to maximize your time in Palm Springs and want to fly direct, Palm Springs Airport serves around 11 airlines with itineraries out of Dallas, New York, Boston, Toronto, and San Francisco to name a few.
Getting Around Once You Arrive
When you’re planning a summer getaway to Palm Springs and you have every intention of spending as much time as possible out and about exploring, you’re going to want a rental car to get around. Picking one up at the airport is a breeze and there are options to rent in the city as well. Either way, being able to hop in the car and go whenever you’d like can help you tailor your plans so you can make sure to check every must-see destination off the list while you’re here. Alternatively, if your plans are keeping you exclusively city-center, you can get away with renting a bike for making the most of downtown fun. This is a wonderful choice for enjoying the summer sunshine and exploring at your own pace. Bike rentals can also be paired with local rideshare services like Uber or Lyft if you need to head further out of town on a whim.
Weather Expectations
For those who have a heart for warm-weather locales, Palm Springs in the summer is a dream. That said, it’s good to remember that the city does get extremely hot midday and higher temperatures tend to linger through early fall as well. This means you’ll want to be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses to make exploring as comfortable as possible. If you have plans to hike at all during your summer stay, early morning outings are a must as well as packing a ton of water for the journey.
Keep an Eye on the Seasonal Event Calendar
If you’re someone who loves to participate in local festivals, events, and gatherings, checking the seasonal event calendar in Palm Springs for summer fun is sure to thrill. This is the time of year that Modernism Week comes to town which is wonderful for those who are design-savvy and have a passion for era-specific architecture. Palm Springs Pride is another summer event to look forward to alongside the iconic Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals. If you plan to attend, be sure to book your place far in advance as these inevitably fill up fast!
Summer Fun Activities to Add to the Itinerary
While Palm Springs has a seemingly endless array of options for fun to boost your summer itinerary, there are a few you won’t want to miss. Be sure to make time for a stop by the scenic Moorten Botanical Garden where you can stroll through desert landscapes and admire plant species of many kinds. If you’re up for a bit of retail therapy, Palm Springs has as many fun vintage shops as it does luxury boutiques. Gypsyland on North Palm Canyon Drive is highly recommended as a starting point. History buffs will enjoy every moment spent at places like Pioneertown where you can step into the authentic Old West and take whimsical photos. The Palm Springs Art Museum is a great place for creative inspiration and if you drop by on a Thursday, admission is free between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. For the best views around, make at least one trip up the incredible Palm Springs Aerial Tramway while you’re in town.
Why You Should Book With Ryson Vacations
Taking time to enjoy Palm Springs is always a good idea and when you need amazing accommodations to top off your stay in style, Ryson Vacations has you covered. Our collection of condos and homes is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small and large groups alike. We also offer various concierge services, including event celebrations. One of our team members will reach out and ask if you’re celebrating anything special for your Summer vacation: a birthday, an anniversary, or college graduation. You name it. We can throw in some special decorations to your rental to make your stay even more memorable. We’ll even stock your fridge with some yummy treats. Let us sweat it out while you enjoy the cool air of your rental.
Reach out to our team today to learn more about our many rental options to elevate your summer stay in California.
Spending time in Palm Springs is a relaxing and refreshing way to reset in a place filled with sunshine. While Palm Springs is a picture-perfect vacation destination year-round, heading this way over Memorial Day is a wonderful option when you’re looking to get out of town in May and want to make the most of a long weekend. The following are a few of the many options available for enhancing our itinerary when you’re ready to celebrate Memorial Day in Palm Springs this year.
Spend Some Quality Time at the Palm Springs Air Museum
Memorial Day is an important time to reflect on those who have made stunning sacrifices for freedom while working in the military. A great place in town to honor that legacy while you’re here is the Palm Springs Air Museum. Here, you’ll find inspiring aircraft displays ranging from planes that were utilized during World War II, to those that played an important role in the Vietnam and Korean Wars. There are also opportunities to tour a B-17 bomber in an air-conditioned hangar and many of the docents who provide on-site tours have served in the military so they’re able to offer up personalized insight. You can find the Palm Springs Air Museum just 10 minutes from downtown Palm Springs near the Palm Springs International Airport making it an easy addition to any Memorial Day itinerary.
Get Out on the Greens
Memorial Day is a wonderful time to get out on the greens and enjoy a round of golf with family and friends. When you visit Palm Springs this time of year, you’ll find you have easy access to a wide variety of golf courses that are suitable for new golfers and experienced pros alike. Across Palm Springs and nearby Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, La Quinta, and Indian Wells, there are over 100 championship-level golf courses available to enjoy and in Palm Springs, the vast majority are public courses. With 300 days of sunshine on the calendar each year in Palm Springs, there’s very little chance of getting rained out of your game over Memorial Day. Many of the courses here are not only great to play but come with gorgeous surroundings showcasing meticulously maintained fairways as well as beautiful mountains. Start with booking a tee time at PGA West which hosts the American Express Desert Classic when you want to kick off your golf fun on a great note.
Access Artistic Inspiration at the Palm Springs Art Museum
If you’re looking for indoor fun to add to your Memorial Day stay in Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Art Museum is a must. Here, you’ll enjoy a collection of fine art on display as well as exhibits that showcase local natural history. There are also displays dedicated to Native American art and modern art exhibits to check out too. The natural science collection hosts fossils and bones and is a popular stop in the museum among families. After you’ve seen everything indoors, the Palm Springs Art Museum has an outdoor sculpture garden to explore. Be sure to check the event calendar before you head this way in case your visit matches up with one of the many interactive programs that are hosted on-site throughout the year.
Take a Scenic Trip Up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A new view of the terrain might just be the highlight of your Memorial Day stay in Palm Springs this year when you make time to enjoy it from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The tramway first opened in 1963 and today hosts the world’s largest rotating aerial tram cars. Suspended from cables, the tramway takes passengers upward like a ski lift toward the mountain summit offering up breathtaking panoramic views along the way. The trip only takes 10 minutes but it’s well worth photographing because your bird’s eye view is one-of-a-kind. Once you reach Chino Canyon at 8,500 feet in elevation, you’ll find yourself at Mountain Station where you can enjoy access to restaurants, observation decks, historical displays, and more than 50 miles of hiking trails if you’re up for trekking your way back to the base.
Visit the Moorten Botanical Gardens
Infuse tranquility and beautiful moments into your Memorial Day stay in Palm Springs by heading over to the Moorten Botanical Gardens while you’re in town. Located on South Palm Canyon Drive, this beautiful space is a great place to stroll through desert plants and cacti that are native to the area and available to enjoy in full bloom. The gardens also operate as a nursery so if you find something you love, there are options to purchase too. Ask for a guided tour to make more of your experience in the gardens.
Book Your Stay Today
Your Palm Springs adventure deserves to be unforgettable and at Ryson Vacations, we help travelers elevate their experience by providing top-of-the-line vacation rental options. Reach out today to learn more about our Memorial Day properties that infuse luxury, comfort, and style into your Palm Springs getaway at every turn.
If you happen to be the type of traveler who can rest with ease when you know amazing golf courses, spas, and stunning views are well within reach, there’s absolutely no better place to spend your Spring Break this year than scenic Palm Springs, California. Adored for its year-round fantastic weather, incredible architecture, rich history, and easy access to fun, Palm Springs is a place that has a way of drawing visitors back time and again with good reason. With spring just around the corner, there’s no better time than now to make your travel plans and when you’re looking to elevate the fun, spending your Spring Break in Palm Springs is sure to inspire.
Take a History Tour with Celebrity Flair
For decades, Palm Springs has been a retreat for the stars. Those high-profile names in Hollywood looking to escape the glare of the cameras would, and continue to head this way to enjoy tranquility, natural beauty, and peace of mind. Many iconic celebrities have owned homes in the area through the years, so time spent here feels even more relaxing. For visitors, this means there’s always an opportunity to connect with celebrity past times when you arrive, and Spring Break is no exception. A fun activity to add to your Spring Break itinerary is to take a celebrity home tour where you can get an up-close look at the digs that once belonged to individuals like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra. You’ll learn more about how these residents spent their time away from Hollywood and get an idea of their extravagant style standards too! There are also options to book tours of the city with a focus on the mid-century design elements that define the Palm Springs landscape. This is an ideal option for those with a passion for stunning structures and there’s a good chance that your favorites have hosted some big names throughout the years as well.
Savor a Spectacular View of Palm Springs This Spring
Take your Spring Break vacation to new heights this year when you head to Palm Springs and make time for a trip up the impressive Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This is a massive rotating tramcar that provides passengers with a two-and-a-half mile ride up and over Palm Spring’s beautiful terrain. It’s an experience you’re going to want to have your camera ready for as panoramic views come into spectacular focus from a bird’s eye vantage point. Once you reach the summit, you can disembark and enjoy checking out restaurants, museums, and hiking trails before heading down once again.
Spend Some Quality Time Shopping in Good Company
If you and your traveling crew love to set aside some time for well-deserved retail therapy no matter where you roam, Palm Springs is a vacation destination that promises to please. Here, you’ll have easy access to top designer brand stores of all kinds, but there are also opportunities to access some fun area outlets when you’re looking to save. Head over to the nearby Cabazon Outlet Mall and enjoy well-recognized brands at amazing prices! It’s a fun place to browse for the best deals and shop your way through a spring day in Palm Springs at your own, preferred pace.
Make Time for Fun Museums
When you’re planning to spend time in Palm Springs over Spring Break with the entire family in tow, adding a few intriguing museums to the itinerary is always a good idea. If you’re looking to learn more about the area’s rich history, consider spending an afternoon exploring the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. It’s a great place to browse exhibits and displays that showcase the indigenous culture of the region and how it’s impacted the Palm Springs that’s known by travelers today. Taking time to explore the Palm Springs Air Museum is also a great way to get inspired if you have a passion for military history. You’ll find incredible information here on the innovations within the aviation industry as well as an opportunity to get up close to planes that were used in World War II. The Palm Springs Art Museum is another wonderful stop for those who are looking for some artistic inspiration over Spring Break.
Hike Your Way to Fun
Indian Canyons sits just six miles south of central Palm Springs and is an ideal place to lace up your boots and hit the scenic desert trails over Spring Break. You’ll have options to explore routes that run through Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon alike. These canyons sit on the reservation lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and are as rich in history and culture as they are scenic and inspiring. Pack plenty of water and leave for your hike early in the morning to enjoy added tranquility and opportunities to commune with nature this spring.
Book Your Spring Adventure to Palm Springs Today
Make more of every moment in Palm Springs when you book luxurious accommodations through Ryson Vacations. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting vacation rental selections available and to start planning your next adventure.