Part of our California guide.
Palm Springs sits at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, on the western edge of the Coachella Valley, offering a mix of desert hikes, midcentury architecture, and easy access to the broader valley’s events. A short drive from Indio, California a.k.a. Home Of Coachella is where you will find Palm Springs, California—so while the festival crowds are nearby, the city itself keeps a quieter, more laid-back rhythm. Below are three guides from our Palm Springs coverage, gathered into one page.
Related travel guides: Hidden Desert Oases Of Palm Springs, What To Expect From The Weather In Palm Springs, California, California's Top Five Nudist Resorts, and Resort Where They Take You To Your Room In A Boat At Palm Springs.
11 Cozy Coffee Shops To Discover In Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs’ coffee scene ranges from modern roasteries to vintage-inspired corners, each with its own take on the desert’s slow mornings. Among the 11 spots we’ve found, you’ll encounter patios with mountain views, indoor fireplaces for cooler months, and counters where the baristas know regulars by name. For a first stop, look for a shop that roasts its own beans—several do—and order a cold brew to cut through the heat. If you’re exploring beyond the main strip, some of the best finds are tucked into neighborhood plazas, where the crowd is mostly local and the pastries sell out before noon. For those who want to pair coffee with a walk, a few shops sit within easy reach of the city’s residential streets, where bougainvillea spills over walls and the quiet feels a world away from the highway.
Things To Do In Palm Springs, California
Depending on what you’re looking for, Palm Springs offers an array of activities. With everything from hiking to grabbing a bite and a snapshot with some larger-than-life dinosaurs, Palm Springs should be on your list of places to visit. For a half-day outing, drive the 23 miles east to Indio for the Coachella grounds, but plan to return before sunset—the mountains turn pink and orange, and the evening air cools quickly. Back in town, the tramway station is your gateway to the San Jacinto peaks, where trails range from easy loops to strenuous climbs. If you’re not into heights, the valley floor offers golf courses, art galleries, and a handful of hidden gems in California’s desert towns—though Palm Springs itself has enough to fill a long weekend.
5 Best Spots For Photography In Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs, California, is a photographer's paradise, boasting a diverse array of landscapes and iconic landmarks. From the rugged beauty of the desert to the lush greenery of its oases, Palm Springs offers a wealth of photo opportunities. In this article, we'll explore the five best spots for photography in Palm Springs, each offering its own distinct charm. From the vibrant hues of the desert sunsets to the architectural marvels that dot the cityscape, these locations are sure to inspire photographers of all levels. For the classic shot, frame the San Jacinto Mountains from the end of Tahquitz Canyon Road—the light is best in the first hour after sunrise. For a different angle, the Indian Canyons’ palm groves provide natural shade and a stream that reflects the canyon walls. If you prefer man-made subjects, the midcentury modern homes along the Movie Colony district offer clean lines and desert landscaping, though you’ll need to stay on public streets. And for a true desert panorama, the overlook at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway gives you a 360-degree view of the valley floor—bring a telephoto lens for the details below.
