Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (2024)

Table of Contents
How long is the drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert? Greater Palm Springs Film Office Western Science Center Diamond Valley Lake Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Morongo Casino Resort & Spa Cabazon Dinosaurs - World's Biggest Dinosaurs The Integratron Pioneertown Big Morongo Canyon Preserve San Jacinto Mountains Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Ricardo Breceda's Art Gallery N Palm Canyon Dr Lake Hemet Palm Springs Art Museum Villagefest Main Office Palm Springs Palm Springs Air Museum Lost Horse Ranger Station | Joshua Tree National Park Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead Barker Dam Nature Trail The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Sky Sailing Palms to Pines Scenic Byway Keys View Indian Wells Tennis Garden Old Town La Quinta Skull Rock Trail The Cafe at Shields Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead & Parking Cholla Cactus Garden Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Top searches in Palm Desert Other popular road trips from Palm Springs Explore nearby places All related maps of Palm Desert Palm Desert throughout the year Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Palm Desert? Frequently Asked Questions Can I drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert? How far is Palm Desert from Palm Springs by car? How long does it take to drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert? How much would gas cost from Palm Springs to Palm Desert? Where should I stop on the way from Palm Springs to Palm Desert? What are the best cities to visit between Palm Springs and Palm Desert? What's the weather like in Palm Springs? What are some other road trips from Palm Springs?

Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (1)

Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedMar 31, 2023

How long is the drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert?

The direct drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert is 11.8 mi (19 km), and should have a drive time of 21 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Palm Springs to Palm Desert, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Greater Palm Springs, as well as top places to visit like Diamond Valley Lake and Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre, or the ever-popular Western Science Center.

Visiting Palm Springs or Palm Desert? See our Palm Springs Trip Planner and our Palm Desert Trip Planner.

11.8 mi

Total Distance

21 mins

Drive Time

31 stops

Cities / Attractions

I'll never travel to Palm Desert without this trip planner again

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The top city between Palm Springs and Palm Desert is Greater Palm Springs. It's less than an hour from Palm Springs and less than an hour from Palm Desert.

1

Greater Palm Springs Film Office

Association or organization

Most popular city on this route

3 minutes off the main route, 11% of way to Palm Desert

The top stops along the way from Palm Springs to Palm Desert (with short detours) are Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Other popular stops include Villagefest Main Office Palm Springs, Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead, and Cholla Cactus Garden.

1

Western Science Center

Science museum

Museums

Kid-friendly science museum with dinosaurs, fossils & history, plus hands-on science activities.

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Wonderful little museum with lots of fossils. Exploring the history behind the local area and its prehistoric past is easy and fun while visiting this educational establishment. Very affordable, friendly staff, and interesting exhibits. I recommend checking this place out for some thought provoking insight into the past! Dig in!

Amazing place to take the kiddos when you are looking for something fun, inexpensive, and educational. There are so many little stations for the kids to interact with and there is a cool video that shows a movie about the mammoth they found. Kids can run around, dog for fossils, make rubbings.. all sorts of things.

VERY RECOMMENDED!!lots of kids activities available .Kids under 4 years old are free .Free parkingMask 😷 is required at all times!Bathroom only if you pay tickets.They have movie every 30 minutes.Kids can stay here for very long time.You can touch and feel the dinosaurs on display .

Everything a children's museum should be. I have always wanted to stop here and now I know why. Fascinating, super informative and fun. There are many interesting exhibits that were also interactive. Thoroughly enjoyable place to spend a few hours. The $9 price of admission was pretty cool too.

This is a great museum with well-put-together exhibits on many paleontology specimens. I highly recommend visiting here. Plan an hour and a half or two hours for the museum and the movies and gift shop. If you can arrange a behind-the-scenes tour, do it! A very worthwhile experience. They have an impressive collection!

I'm not trying to be a downer on this place or anything because I really do appreciate the fact that we at least have something like this close to the Hemet San Jacinto area, but I feel like it's also somewhat of a disservice. I know I paid only $15 to get in, which is a somewhat cheaper Museum, but there was literally about 15 minutes worth of exhibits that you can take a 5 year old to and at the front desk I was told that there was multiple interactive exhibits for children and adults and even the exhibits they did have were extraordinarily cheap. One was literally a stencil exhibit where you just stencil an animal that they had and all the pencils were Nubs. There was a puzzle exhibit that was missing a lot of pieces. The saddest one however was the simulation dig site. It had trash and it had a cinder block there was Weeds growing in it. It's like how do you justify and say that that's a simulation big site. Dig sites are not junk. They need to innovate this place a little bit more and make it more interactive and create some Simple Solutions to draw people in and it could be a successful and viable place that doesn't work only on state funding most likely. If you're an adult I'm not going to say I recommend it because it's still a little bit too expensive for what it is, but definitely don't bring your kids here if they can't read and comprehend that great. Not a place for 5 and below at all.

Great museum. Very kid friendly. Very nice staff. Lots of kid friendly activities to do. You take your time and you will find them! It's worth spending time at each exhibit. The movie plays every 20 mins or so. Not always the same movie. Kind of reminds me of IMAX.

The museum is a little small. But super interesting! It was fun for both adults and kids. They also have cool events on the first Saturday of each month in the courtyard. I highly recommend this place for an hour or two of fun for family and/or kids.

Pretty cool museum. Shows the history of the fossils they found while making the lake. Like many museums, they yake an evolution stance of millions of years. So if you’re taking a creation view, just so you're ready. The staffbia very friendly and they have a small gift 🎁 shop.

4.5

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4.5

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2345 Searl Pkwy, Hemet, CA 92543, USA

(951) 791-0033

2

Diamond Valley Lake

Lake

Nature & Parks

Boating & angling from a marina on a reservoir, with trails through nearby flower-filled meadows.

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So calm and awesome lake. Great for fishing , hiking and boating activities at this huge lake.

The spring blooms here by the lake did not disappoint us. Its a beautiful place to go see the blooms, take a lot of pictures and do a small hike around the lake or the flowers. We did the flower trail and finished it in like 2-3 hours even after stopping a lot for taking pictures. 11$ per car for entrance, and 4$ per person for the trail.

Only one entrance so you wait in line forever just to access the parking area. They charge you for everything. Got to Pay to park. You have to Pay to fish. If your fishing from shore you got to Pay for a trail pass. This is the last Lake on my list if I want to go fishing. So why do I also have to have a State fishing license? Water District just wants more MONEY from you.

Diamond Valley Lake has hike/bike trail around lake (27 miles). The trails are hard pack gravel and fairly level for the most part. I only biked in about 1/2 hour and another 1/2 hour back. Electric bikes can be rented at the marina. Cost $4 per person and $11 to park. Beautiful views.

Good place to go to enjoy the super bloom.Parking is $11, $4/person if you want to go on trails.I would suggest about 3 hours for taking pictures and walking on trails to enjoy the flowers.The line to get into the park gets very long starting at 11am, could taking over 1hr just to get into the park.

This lake is beautiful. We went there during spring and loved the wildflowers. You can take a stroll around the lake on the trails or can rent a boat. Beautiful place to spend a nice day. Although we did not find any proper food places nearby, so you better have food somewhere else in the city before reaching this place.

Good lake. Beautiful quality fish to be caught year round here. Even in December bass chew on this lake. Gotta use good fluorocarbon if you know what's good for you.

The trail here is pretty to see the wild flowers. We saw three snakes, one of them is rattle snake so beware. Stop thinking about pictures and start looking at ground

My husband and I went to see the flowers two weeks ago, it was in full bloom, there were about five varieties of flowers, I don't know its name, the colors were purple, dark blue, orange, yellow, white! It's really, really beautiful! It is worth going to watch and hike, relax ! There are some flying bugs on the mountain, if you don't like it, you can protect your face and wear a mask

Excellent conditions to bike around the lake.Trail is 22 miles and rocky with exposed shale and mud puddles. It is completely navigable though. Get there NOW while the wildflowers are in bloom. If you can bike, bike. The flowers are better after you get past the people walking past the west dam on the south side of the lake.Parking is $11. Trail access is $4. Both worth it. Get there early cause it gets really crowded around lunch and later as tourist get bused inAnd the fishing aint so bad either.

4.3

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4.0

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California, USA

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Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (13)

3

Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre

Amphitheater

Concerts & Shows

Open-air arts center from 1923 known for Ramona, North America's longest-running outdoor drama.

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What a great historic treasure the Ramona bowl is! Beautiful setting, great venue entertainment, fun grounds, incredible art, easy parking, museum, and gift shop. The Ramona Pageant is the longest running outdoor presentation in the United States! Valid jacketed Service Dog friendly. Don't miss an opportunity to support this national jewel!

First time attending the Ramona Pageant at the Ramona Bowl. I finally made to the Ramona Pageant and in their Centennial year non the less. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and the lore of the 100 year history. The Pageant was held this year for 3 weekends, two in April and one in May. There is still time to get tickets for the final weekend this year.Things you should know:( may be subject to change)• parking is $5• bring a cushion, the concrete seats are hard. They do rent cushions for $3 apiece• bring a hat sun can be intense, hats are available for sale• food, beverages and Alcohol are sold and just like any event prices can be high.• Restrooms are available• handicap friendly• the is a free museum to enjoyEnjoy the show!

What an awesome outdoor amphitheater in little ol' Hemet! The grounds are beautiful and there were plenty of snacks and drinks to choose from at the concession stand (even beer and wine). The Ramona Pageant was better than I had hoped! It was a little toasty and there wasn't much shade so I wished I had brought a hat, but other than that, I was so pleased with my experience.

Ramona Bowl 100 yr anniversary performance - Outdoor$27 per adult$5 parkingGood for kids and families, only available during the weekend before the end of May

Attended the 99th Year performance. Yes, it is hot...so. prepare. The people are delightful. Unless you have a terrific seat cushion, rent theirs $4.00 for a good cause.

Lovely historic outdoor play. A tragic love story. Deals with racial issues in early California. Based on the book "Ramona" by Helen Hint Jackson.I recommend getting the upper box seats - separate entry, individual seats with cushions, and waiter food service. Great overall view.

4.6

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4.5

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27400 Ramona Bowl Rd, Hemet, CA 92544, USA

(951) 658-3111

4

Morongo Casino Resort & Spa

Casino

Nightlife

High-rise casino resort with refined quarters, gambling & restaurants, plus a pool, a spa & a gym.

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I like how nice it is inside the Morongo casino. There's always good service, and I like that they have the restrooms nice and clean. Plus it always looks nice in the area where the gambling machines are at. And I like how nice all servers are at the buffet. I also like how all bartenders that I've seen at the bar, always do good service asking their customers if they will like something to drink. And they let us know what kind of drinks they have there. And all the bartenders always give me my drinks in a nice way talking with me. So I will definitely recommend Morongo casino resort and spa to anyone.

This was my first time gambling at a casino (I am 19) since it was an 18+ experience. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Overall, I spent 60$ at the casino (20$ a day) and I ended up going home with my 60$! You win some, you lose some. I was fortunate enough to win back all of my money but it is possible to profit! I won 45$ or so on a 40 cent machine (the wonder woman wild for anyone interested). The one thing I like about the slot machines is that there was something for all budgets. They even had 1 cent penny slots. I ended up playing for like 45 minutes on 1 dollar just because I was curious. The casino was very clean and I definitely liked that there was designated smoking areas so that the whole casino didn't reek! Everyone was wearing masks and the staff was friendly overall! The one downside is the pricing I'd say. The food was just very overpriced even though it was good...and I don't know if it's because the restaurant was new or something but we waited over 30 minutes for 2 burgers at the wahlburgers place which is kind of ridiculous...but I understand new times. I would definitely come back to this location though! It was a fun experience.

I really like this casino. Not too big and not too small. Good food. The buffet is my favorite. The best buffet of all the casinos around. The rooms are nice and there are gas stations and fast food right outside in case you want something cheaper and easier than what's inside. The only bad thing I have to say about this place is that one of their higher-up Security guards told me that "police work is all about guessing". To which I replied "oh my, that's terrifying. I bet that's why you didn't make the Academy..." And then they kicked me out for 24 hours... Other than that I love the place!

I have never stayed here or anything else. I have only been to their diner, Pit Stop, good food, and friendly staff. I also use the gas station frequently. Good fuel prices. I just don't gamble, so I can't comment on the casino portion. Good location, easy on and off for the highway.

I didn't win, but I didn't expect to. It's a casino that will happily take your money. The facilities are nice and new. The dealers are helpful. Spent an hour on site. Lost 101 dollars, but only received 5 points towards rewards.

I played video poker at the bar. Jessica went out of her way to make me an Arnold Palmer at the bar.. (no alcohol.) It was delicious. She delivered outrageous hospitality to all she encountered.. guests and employees. the couple of hours I was there playing. What a fabulous employee and a great asset to your company.

Super fun spot and date night. We love it! The rooms are super lush 5 star, all renovated and staff is always on point everywhere. Never had a bad meal yet and the slots pay out just how they should. The tables on occasion can be super rigged...so be careful when playing on those.

This casino has some of the best prices on fuel. There's a fairly brand new large fuel station with a large convenience store with restrooms. I am easily able to pull a large size truck and trailer in and out of this casino. The lot is very well light at night and has a fair amount of security so I feel safe stopping here when loaded. I make a point to stop in anytime passing through the area.

We often come here every time we have the opportunity to return to Palm springs. But this is our first time in buffet restaurant. (It just reopened anyway) It's really impressive, it's the atmosphere and service of the restaurant rather than the buffet. Since you order and the kitchen will cook for you, there are 5.6 restaurants in this area. perfect delicious food, very nice presentation.We been here yesterday and today just for games and foodsThese are what we have for today dinner.

It's lackluster old style look made us feel like we were stuck in the 70's. The casino definitely needs a face-lift. Also, it's small with little entertainment besides the gambling and one live band when we were there. Close parking is always available in the structure. The elevators are old and have a ruff feel to them. It's hard to find help on the floor and when you do finally find help the experience isn't memorable. We did have a pleasant experience while dinning but that's we're it ended. Now I know why people take the three and a half hour drive to Vegas. This Casino is OK at best but my opinion may not be yours. Hope this helps.

Typical slot machines and great entertainment. The theater has some of the best acoustics I've heard. And I'm in the audio business. But the poker room is great. Lots of tables. Plenty of terrible poker players to win $$$ from...most of the time.

This place is great. From the minute we arrived, Valet guys were so friendly and helpful, the even put your electric car on charger when u check it in. This Hotel/Casino was one of the cleanest most sanitary hotels I have visited lately. They also have few great restaurants and unlike Vegas restaurants don't charge you an arm and a leg (very reasonably priced). My favorite restaurant was the Good time Cafe, with best food and service. The pool area and lazy river were warm and extremely clean.Definitely recommend it and will be back soon, it is only couple hours from LA and we'll worth the drive.

This buffet was not what I expected, the only thing anyone touches is the plate they order. I thought everyone was going to be putting hands on all the serving utensils. Old school style. But no it was excellent with high quality food, courteous workers, clean environment we had a party of about 30. It's about $60 per person but we'll worth it the family loved it. I will be going back. Thank you Morongo Staff. Also we had a vegan with us. There were no Gen or vegetarian friendly choices, or so we thought. The chef came out personally and suggested some choices, (plenty) to the vegan in are group😁. Above and beyond. Excellent!!!!Go what are you waiting for.

Nice experience although hold em poker tables have been eliminated , slots had to do. it's would of been a 5 star if tables were still there. Ever since then I haven't gone back but all in all a great time with my lady. We up all night in the room there. Memories

My husband got a suite at morongo. I really like the jacuzzi tub. There's also a big sectional couch that has a pull out bed. The couch is really comfortable I'm going to try and get the same one at home. The suites have 1.5 restrooms and a mini fridge. Each hotel room in morongo has a mini fridge which I think is very nice to keep my drinks cold...

Room was up to date, quiet, and clean. Waters in room refrigerator were complimentary. Plus after being at pool.Pool had a great dj last Sunday playing songs everyone enjoyed. Pool crowd had a good variety of families, couples and singles. The wading pool for kids needed to be cleaned. It looked like someone dropped stack of napkins because there were small prices floating everywhere. Lazy river and other Pool were clean. My 3 year old lives their water slide. Pool bar sells a delicious strawberry and pineapple smoothie that is healthy and affordable ($4 each). Gave 3 stars for location since hotel is 20-30 min drive from downtown Palm springs. Casino floor was extremely busy Sunday evening.

Always have a good experience! Slots are really good we always bring something home! So happy 😊 love this Spot our favorite! Everyone should try Morongo free play money is always on our cards! Complimentary rooms! Perhaps one of the friendly casinos there is! Love Morongo ❤️

We were at the Morongo Casino to eat at The Marketplace. It was a fun experience having 7 stations to choose from. Making reservations was easy, and the service was good and friendly. The Lobster Roll was amazing and the French Fries served with it were the best I've ever had! The rest of the food was average, but we had a good time! It's pretty pricey though!

4.2

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3.5

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49500 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230, USA

(951) 849-3080

5

Cabazon Dinosaurs - World's Biggest Dinosaurs

Mentioned on

1 list

Gift shop

Sights & Landmarks

The Cabazon Dinosaurs - World's Biggest Dinosaurs is a vintage attraction that features enormous replicas of various dinosaurs such as Brontosaurus and Tyrannosaurus rex. The gift shop offers friendly service with clear signs, easy-to-navigate walkways, and stroller/wheelchair accessibility. Families can enjoy discounts for law enforcement personnel while children can take part in an excavation section to find rocks with dinosaur names on them for prizes.

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Super cool attraction! I stopped by on a trip to Palm Springs. It’s only about 20 minutes outside the city. As a solo traveling adult, I did not go in just walked around the dinosaurs outside which is free. It’s cool and fun. If you’re only going to the outside you won’t need more than 10 minutes!

We had a brilliant couple of hours here. Our 4 year old loved the gem panning area. It's just super kitsch and the staff are really friendly. Great pit stop to break up a journey with small kids. Loved it.

Really cute, fun place, but there's not much to do after like 30 minutes. I don't have children, so take that into consideration.Came here for because of Fallout New Vegas. Didn't disappoint. It was super fun walking around and then going up inside. It's definitely a cool pit stop if you're a fan 😃

This was such a cute photo spot right before you head into Palm Springs. You can see the dinosaurs from the freeway and it’s just cool to be able to see it up close. My friends and I didn’t get to enjoy the attraction as much because it was 115 degrees so we took our pictures and dipped but you could go up some stairs inside the dinosaurs and there was a little park next door to it that you could access for a small fee.

This place was a hit with our little one! We went on a Saturday and it wasn't very busy. Only one person handling ticket sales and managing the shop. Very friendly, kind responses, nothing rushed. They had law enforcement discount for the entire family. The signs are clear, walkways are clear and stroller/wheelchair friendly. The entire place was pretty clean. They had an excavation section where kids can play, find a rock with a dinosaur name on it and you take it in the shop for a prize! They have photo op stations... they have picnic tables, a giant turtle to climb on and a T-Rex you can climb into all the way up to its mouth. Definitely would take my toddler again.

It was adorable. The pink dinosaur is a gift shop you can walk through. The giant T. Rex you can take pictures of on the outside. There is a charge of average $13 per person to get in to see a whole bunch of dinosaur statues. In the gift shop there is a small dinosaur ride for the kids and robotic dinosaurs are inside also. The outside is where you have a million dinosaurs to look at and that is also how you can go inside of the t. Rex's head. (Be aware there are a lot of stairs to go up the T. Rex head.)You also get to dig for dinosaur rocks, there are not many, it is a difficult dig. You also get to Pan for gem stones and fossils. Again it's just a cute thing to do.My sister and I will come back with children even though there is a cost. There are a few dinosaurs at the entrance and a couple of good photo Ops so it is still worth going over there to the dinosaur adventure entrance even if you don't want to pay to get further.

They are always closed when I get around d the place and has only had the gift shop open once in all the times and years I have been visiting (over 40) but the place is still iconic and holds dear memories for me.This place has "grown" some since I first started coming, and sadly the diner that we would always eat at is now gone, there's no one left to tell large Marge sent me 😞

One of Americana roadside attractions, they are currently in honor of the late pee wee Herman. But they do get repainted differently for every season it's very cool . They are great photo ops , a definite must see . The dino museum is cool especially for the younger kids .

We saw the dinosaurs drive and down the highway and decided to stop. There is two very large dinosaurs outside We took pictures, There's a gift shop inside Brachiosaurus. Prices are a little high but I guess that's to be expected. We were told there's a museum a little further back behind the dinosaurs. And you can go inside the T. Rex up to his teeth. It's $15 per adult we. Decided to give it a try. There was a few animals trying to dinosaurs inside the gift shop and there was some dinosaurs outside. There was a sand Area and a water mining area. There was a lot of areas closed for construction. It felt a little bit small And working progress from all the construction. There were small plastic fences around the dinosaurs. Made it a little bit difficult to take pictures. The little kids got bored pretty quick. Overall, I would say it was OK but not too impressive. We felt The price was a bit expensive for what you get Salt Lake. It was only where it's about $7 a person, not 15.It was OK. You can walk through everything and about 15 minutes. It's ok if you like to take pictures. One time is probably plenty don't really see us going back in the future

I visited this southern California jewel. I have visited this local since the 90's. The dinosaurs are maintained so its a beautiful sight to see all year round. They added this little tour shop, its really not worth going through it. The best attraction is the two dinos.

It's probably the most famous of the local tourist traps in southern California. It was made famous when a portion of Pee Wee Herman's Big Adventure wax filmed there. It is free to walk the main park to take pictures with the T-Rex and the giant Brontosaurus ( I think that's what it is.) You can climb into the Brontosaurous, which houses the gift shop and where you can buy tickets for the back lot. All in all, it is a fun place for kids who love dinosaurs.A quick note: The dinosaurs were once painted pink and are often repainted for holidays or special occasions. So, don't be surprised if the T-Rex is wearing a tuxedo during your visit.

I never knew this place existed. We stopped with two kids and a group of adults. It was really cute especially their little paid exhibit. They even have a sand area with hidden rocks that have a dinosaur name on it. If you dig amd find one you get a free small prize. It's fun. You can even have a birthday party there. Inside the gift shop they have dinosaurs that move. Really cool.

So much more than two roadside dinosaurs. A complete walking park with several realistic (and not so realistic) dinosaurs.It is obvious that some of them were, at one time, animatronic but have long since lost their mobility.Others have lost a bit of their original shine obviously cooking under the hot desert sun.The gift shop is second to none, the young man manning the cash register obviously enjoying his job being both welcoming and helpful.

4.5

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4.0

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50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230, USA

(909) 272-8164

I'll never travel to Palm Desert without this trip planner again

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6

The Integratron

Historical landmark

Museums

Tours & sonic healing sessions are offered at this iconic, parabolic wooden structure built in 1954.

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Went there today…all I can say is that if you can go then go. Even if you can’t take part in a sound bath it’s still cool. But, if you do get to partake… Wow😲 Definitely New Age but definitely not a tourist trap…desert’s beautiful and Giant Rock is only 3 miles away…

All Earthlings need to experience The Integratron...I was skeptical at first but after my first session I became a believer.The staff is very friendly and make the experience even better. They are very informative and give a history of The Integratron before the sound bath. The sound bath is so relaxing that you are almost guaranteed to hear someone snoring. The part that made me want to tell all my friends about this place is the feeling I had after the sound bath. I felt at peace... I felt restored... I felt re-energized.The only complaint I have is that you pay for a 60 min sound bath but it is actually only 20 to 30 mins after the history lesson about The Integratron. I wish the sound bath was actually 60 mins.

Fascinating place with a fascinating history. VERY accommodating staff who authenticly care. I wandered in not knowing what to expect and I was amazed. Be sure to make reservations.

Question of the day:"If the energy is so powerful then what doesn't it prevent snoring?" Asked one peeved customer. The guide had to ask her to turn on her side during the experience. Hmmm.I participated in March and it was 76°. I wore socks and brought a long sarong scarf. This was light enough to not be hot. The dome has natural sun windows so an eye covering is recommended.I had a phantasmagorical experience. It's a bucket list item. If you come here for an out of body experience then the expectation may be too high. If you already practice Higher Viber and empowering meditative thought shifts, then this will be an added water-cooler conversation. If you benefit from hz frequencies and being one in the present moment, you can dig this experience.I experienced positive customer responsiveness via email and in person. I experienced cool vibrations and conversations. I also thought the price value for the experience was comparable. I don't feel creepy energy. I also didn't believe I was going to be transported. Though that would have been ethereal. Heck, if the other lifeforms can destroy the student loan building, we all would "believe."As I digress…If you have teenagers or adults that don't do any self-reflection or quiet moments, this won't be their jazz. But they could chill out in the hammock area which is no fee while you participate in the sound bath experience. If you're with negative Nancy or Critical Carl, leave them in the courtyard as well.Here are 7 TIPS to make your time and financial resources count.Read the website related to age and Covid guidelines.Bring an eye covering so that you can transcend into your experience faster.Otherwise the sun rays may be distracting. You only have an hour.Arrive at least 20 minutes early to enjoy the hammocks/courtyard. A chill way to pre-relax from the long drive and fill your canteen with the well water.Come with an intention that you want to focus upon. This way you'll leave with your own expectations. And don't waste your time.I had a few folks send me their intentions. I placed them under my leg along with a 100 dollar bill to symbolize my prosperity intention.Important observation: You must walk upwards, a wood angled ladder about 8 steps? (that is secured), into a wide open hole, to enter the sound bath arena and exit downward the same way.I would recommend this as a solo, group, friends, higher vibers or romantic partners activity. And if I was in the UFO culture or a solar home architect this would def be on my list.Visited on: ThursdayTime participated: 145 pmCrowd: 20 customersParking: FreeActivity: Gift shop and courtyard -freeSound bath: $50

I have been very excited about coming to this place for sometime now and was thrilled when they opened back up today after being closed for summer. This was such an amazing experience and am so grateful to have finally gone! We will be back! Everyone was so kind, friendly and informative. Can’t wait to go again!

This place is special, if you find yourself here just lean into the experience and you will leave feeling more complete than when you arrived. I still don’t really have the words to describe my experience yet (still processing it) but I do have nothing but gratitude for ‘finding myself’ there. It was pure heeling for my soul. Thank you ✨

How do I put into words what cannot be understood-only experienced...This place is magical, miraculous and mystical. I've attended many of sound healing sessions, but none like this. In fact, the 1st session at 10:15 with Kristine was so phenomenal that I attended the one directly after with Karly, and the third with Joe at 5:15. All mind blowing. Each was profoundly healing and transformational. The family owned staff are top notch. They keep the grounds well maintained, decorated just right, preserve the sacredness of Integratron's true nature, and above all are so kind, welcoming, and personable.The acoustics, space, energy, and healing that takes place are like no other.Come experience this for yourself. I invite you to go to the depths of your soul and experience true wonderment.

Amazing experience! This was my first sound bath and boy was it worth it! I want to start off by thanking Christine and family for the warm welcome she gave our group and for a wonderful sound bath experience. I enjoyed the history behind this place and the vibe. Good people.

A magical place worth the visit! I got lucky to be part of their Saturday morning sound bath and it was such a unique experience. The acoustics inside of the dome are remarkable!This is a family run business and Joe, the son of one of the owners, conducted our sound bath. He gave a breakdown of the history of the property and then we moved into the sound healing portion. He played 15-20 quartz bowls during the experience. By the time it ended, I felt so relaxed and in a state of bliss! I recommend spending some time on their property after your sound healing to fully integrate and ground. Don’t forget to bring your water bottle and fill up from their water stations (If you know, you know).This is a must visit when in the area! I can’t wait to return again soon.

I have gone to the grounds five times and have had the sound bath experience twice.Both times it was different, but glad the hammocks were there to just be afterwards.Make reservations in advance for this an extremely popular attraction about 45 miles from Palm Springs.

4.6

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4.5

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2477 Belfield Blvd, Landers, CA 92285, USA

(760) 364-3126

7

Pioneertown

Sights & Landmarks

Scenic Walking Areas

Pioneertown is an unincorporated community of the Morongo Basin region of the High Desert in San Bernardino County, California, United States. It is an 1880s-themed town developed as a shooting location for actors working on Western films and TV series with businesses and residences.

4.0

(184)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (29)

California, USA

8

Big Morongo Canyon Preserve

Nature preserve

Outdoor Activities

Desert oasis & wildlife habitat with an education center, a butterfly garden & scenic trails.

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The Big Morongo Canyon Preserve had no entrance fee, free parking, and was easy to get to. I visited in late March 2022. I liked that they had a one way path and you could choose the length of your walk. The trails were loops but interconnected, so you just had to follow the map provided online or at entrance. This walk included a marsh area and views of the snow topped mountains. We did not walk the 9 mile Canyon Trail. We started with the Marsh Trail, then hopped onto Mesquite Trail, then Desert Willow Trail back to parking lot. Our trails of choice were kid and senior citizen friendly.

Just a great experience! Been to JTNP many times and wanted to get to know the Morongo Valley more. Donated money at the birdseed donation box because that was awesome! A gem of a place to hike at any ability level. Excellent maps and trail markings, and one trail is all boardwalk for complete accessibility! Great wildlife viewing opportunities especially toward evening with this heat. Info center is awesome - read it all before you go so you know what you are seeing! Will come back to check out the rest of the trails! We did two yesterday. 👣

This is a gorgeous preserve! As amateur birders we were able to see many as we hiked, and the paths and trails were a pleasure to walk on. Nothing was too tricky or challenging, and the seating areas and benches were convenient and made it easy to relax for a few.

Beautiful trails with lots of flora diversity and hundreds of bird species. Plus there are about six different trails to choose from, including one that is almost all a boardwalk. I will be back here to hike some of the other trails next season.

We had a great time here on the first Friday of Spring. So many trails to choose from but we prefer the areas with the boardwalk. Plenty of sitting areas to take a break and enjoy the birds. Bring your binoculars!

We went in Summer and did the shady path walks, it is so nice... there are places to sit along the walk...we had a little picnic on a bench, the scenery is so pretty here! We played the Bingo sheet game, marking off all the things we saw, our 4 year old loves this! In Summer the small path walks are cool, under trees and shade mostly....in Fall is a must visit, all the fallen leaves are so amazing!!

What a great place to adventure on different trails. Well set up for you to understand the length, ease, or difficulty of the trail(s) you select. The information center at the beginning of the trails has maps and tons of information for you to enjoy along the trails. Definitely check that out first so you know what to look for. Lots of information on animals, foliage, and insects for you to identify. The views are so beautiful! Make sure you stop alon the way to take it all in. Another great thing is there's plenty of resting spots with benches set up to take in these great views. I also loved how a lot of the foliage is marked along the way so one can know what they're looking at. No dogs are allowed here, but I completely understand why. There's way too many holes and possibilities for dogs to be hurt or disrupt the land.

4.7

(875)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (30)

4.5

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11055 East Dr, Morongo Valley, CA 92256, USA

(760) 792-1843

9

San Jacinto Mountains

Mentioned on

2 lists

Mountain range

Nature & Parks

Mountains

Scenic mountain range & state park with soaring peaks, sweeping views, campsites & hiking trails.

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Review for April 2021. Mount San Jacinto State Park. A California State Park. The first thing I want to mention is the fact that the weather changes significantly from the Coachella Valley floor to the top of the aerial Tramway in Palm Springs. Also known as San Jacinto Mountain Range. I'm not guilty, to say that I absolutely enjoy the change of weather. It was pretty hot on the valley floor but when I got here I should have brought a sweater at least. Nevertheless it was a wonderful experience and I did the five mile hike Trail. Definitely recommend is for any Adventure Seekers out there

Plenty of trails to choose from, including the PCT and some fun routes to Mt. San Jacinto!

Hiked to the tram area with son. Starting at 4am we made it by noon taking many breaks to love the views. Weren’t prepped to go to peak -another 5 or so miles but will be going again in few weeks,weather permitting to bag that peak!!!!

4.9

(35)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (32)

5.0

(951)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (33)

California, USA

10

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Mentioned on

+59 other lists

Mountain cable car

Transportation

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a rotating tram car that takes visitors up to the San Jacinto Mountains. It offers an escape from the summer heat, with multiple restaurants and observation decks. Passes are available now, and it is open from mid-March to early November.

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It is best to plan your adventure on the tramway a month in advance. Get your tickets online - including a parking pass. We got there at 11 AM and I would not get there earlier because it is much cooler up at elevation than it is down in the valley.The tramway app boasts of maps and more, but it was no use up on the mountain.The lift facility is world class. The staff is friendly, helpful and efficient. There is a nice deck with a small hike at the mountain house. There is a reasonable lunch spot in the mountain house.We did the overlook/notch hike and I definitely suggest that unless you have young children or someone in your crew who has mobility issues.There is a hike to the peak, but it is a 12 mile loop with a 2,000 foot elevation gain and it was all snowed in over spring break. No thanks.Overall, this is a great and very distinctive experience that I strongly recommend.

First time here. Amazing views. A great hiking trail at the back end of the top. The temperature difference is a good 40*F between the bottom and the top, so prepare accordingly if you're going to be hiking.The Ride & Dine pass is definitely worth it. Otherwise, you have different options for food as there are two other restaurants available.Oh, and bring quarters to use the telescopes! I wish I had known that.

What an incredible experience! Absolutely breathtaking vistas surrounded by the gorgeous scenic mountains. At the peak of the mountain is stunning. I just love the view from way up there. It can get a little busy waiting for the team to take you in either direction, but once you get to the top, there's a beautiful hiking trail to conquer before heading back down. I am looking forward to coming back in the near future, especially in the winter.

Breathtaking views. Highly recommend the trek out. The staff are amazing and very knowledgeable. Parking is super easy and the tram picks you up and drops you off. Wait time to the top was roughly 30 minutes in total. Once up the top the views are amazing plus there is a restaurant where you can grab a bite and take some time out.

We didn't get tickets in advance and had to wait approx 2 hours to go up but it was totally worth it! The ride up/down itself is very cool with great views. Then up top there's a beautiful forest! Made me feel like I wasn't even in California. Remember to bring warm clothes though as it's cold up top! We ate at the restaurant (Peaks) for lunch which had a very impressive view and had reasonable lunch prices all things considered.

It gets pretty packed in the weekends but a definite must for first time Palm Springs visitors. The views are incredible from the top. Things I wish I had known before going:There are a few hiking trails up there. Bring appropriate shoes as they are very rocky.It's a nice place to enjoy a picnic if you bring your own food.Bring a mask if you're uncomfortable being in very close proximity to people while riding up. Tram cars are standing room only and the next person is less than a foot away.There is a 20-30 degree difference in temperature, so bring a jacket. It wasn't too bad in late April. I can imagine it's pretty windy and chilly in the winter.Hope this helps.

Loved the experience! The staff is very friendly, polite and knowledgeable. Would recommend getting there around 7:30-8am if you do not have tickets and need to buy them for the morning. The revolving tram was fun and our little toddler loved it! The view was amazing. We didn't get to venture out into the play area as it was extremely windy for us. We love snow so enjoyed getting to touch it a bit. Will certainly be back in spring to enjoy what else there is to explore.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in stunning views, challenging hikes, or simply a unique way to experience the desert. The tram ride is an experience in itself, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. There are trails for all levels of experience, so you can find something to suit your fitness level. And after a long day of hiking, you can relax and refuel at one of the many restaurants or shops at the top of the mountain.I highly recommend visiting the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway if you are ever in the area. It is an unforgettable experience that you will never forget

Would love to rate this better. That actual tram experience was great. Fabulous staff member and great musical descent coming back in dark (recommend). We booked the tram and dine evening with our two kids. Had a lovely tram ride up, walk around. The film about the tramway was over 20 years old and really needed updating.However, the food in the Pines cafe (including in our ticket) would warrant a 1/5. The service similar. Menu sounded nice but in reality had been sat there for a while. My unfussy 7 year old turned his nose up after trying. The corn on the cob has been in liquid for hours and was revolting. The bread was stale. My beef was inedible. The soda drinks tasted like pipe cleaner. The best bit was the basic salad. Really disappointed.Would not recommend booking the package.

The tram and dinner ticket was great! Nice trails with great views at the top. Food was very good, but not so much for my friend who is gluten free and has an onion allergy. They said the mashed potatoes were just potatoes, but they had lots of garlic, so we couldn't be sure there was no onion.

This was our first visit back to the tramway since before the pandemic. We decided to do the ride and dine ticket, which is a great value. The views were fantastic, and we took a short hike in the state park at the top before dinner. Also watched the restored movie of the original tram, The Miracle of Palm Springs. This was our first time taking a return trip at night - we could see the lights of all the desert cities. Overall, it was a great experience.

Awesome experience and a unique aerial view of the Desert from 8,514ft. We got tickets at the station on the day. Plenty of parking at $12 per car. The tram was fun, 10-15 min ride, floor revolves while moving. Little daunting but fun. Lovely cafe, restaurant and bar at the summit but not cheap. Plenty of look out areas and hikes to avail of

This tram is such an awesome experience. My other favorite is at Snowbird in Utah; but that tram does not rotate like this tram. The rotating tram gives you a great view up and down this mountain. Don't worry about the rotating floor. It's slow and smooth. At the top of the tram is the Mountain Station which has food and beverage service; including a bar. There is only one negative about the experience and that's the cost of food and beverages. Just like sporting events and amusem*nt parks, this place charges way too much for food and beverage. A small bottle of water is almost $5 and soda/pop is the same. There's a museum type thing on the lower level and food is on the upper level. If you exit on the back side there are trails to walk and hike. It's $12 to park so be prepared to pay. Other than that folks, enjoy an awesome day and get out of the desert heat 🇺🇸

Really nice ride up and very scenic, When you get to the top, there's an 8K' view and a forest to explore. The visitors center is informative, have bathrooms and food in case you forgot your snack. Worth checking out.

Everyone must take this team ride to 8,516 elevation. It is so crazy high and only takes 10 min to get up to the top. Amazing views. Best to go up during the day to hike and then come down in the evening to enjoy the lights of the city below

Highly recommend!! Make sure to buy your tickets online including parking pass and print them-this part saved us a lot of time. We went on a VERY hot day in Palm Springs. The tram ride was crowded, but it rotates so everyone gets a good view at some point. The tram itself is not air conditioned, but the windows open and it moves right along, so you get pretty good airflow - it only took about 10 minutes. We went up at 4:00 and bought the "Ride and Dine" package, which was a great deal. It was at least 35 degrees cooler at the top. Ate dinner early-limited menu but food was fine. Then we looked around the multi-level building with multiple balconies and picked a place to watch the sun go down. We stayed until after sunset and watched the l8ghts of Palm Springs start to twinkle. We rode the tram down about 8:15 and got an even better view of the lights. I really recommend a similar schedule...it was a really magical evening!

Whether you're riding to the top to hike trails, eat at the restaurant, or just enjoy the view, this is time well-spent. The views during the 6,000' ascent/descent are spectacular. The cars rotate 360° twice during the trips up and down, giving everyone an opportunity to enjoy views of the sheer cliffs and the desert floor. I went on a Friday in late September, to hike the trail to Mt. San Jacinto. I arrived at 10:40 A.M. (it opens at 10) to find a fairly long line of cars waiting to get into one of many parking lots. The first five had already filled up. You can walk to the station from the lots or take one of the regular and frequent shuttles. I went on-line to buy a ticket in advance. That service is no longer offered. You have to buy them inside the station. One car leaves every twelve minutes. Your ticket is assigned a departure time based on when you buy it and how many people are ahead of you. I ended up waiting about 50 minutes for my scheduled departure. While waiting, you can visit the snack/drink bar or just enjoy the views to the rear of the station, from one of many decks and viewing areas. When I returned from my hike at around 6 P.M., the place was nearly empty. I got on the very first car headed back down. I noticed that the car that came up had very few people on it. If I hadn't been so tired, I would have had dinner in the restaurant and waited for another hour for the sun to set in order to enjoy the lights from the desert floor on the trip down. It was still spectacular. When I go back to hike again, I will definitely make a point of returning later in order to enjoy the much smaller number of people and nighttime views. I also noticed a few people driving in as I left. As the parking lots and lobbies were empty by then, they were able to enjoy very short waits to get in and get to the top. Smart move on their part if you're going just for the ride and views.

This was a great place. We visited on a Thursday, had to wait 2 hours to go on the tram ride. There was a lot we do as we waited for our turn to go on. It's cheaper after 4pm (approx $3 less). The cafeteria hot chocolate was great to keep us warm. Kids loved the short trails. 😍. The wait to go back down was pretty long... approx 1 hour.

4.8

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4.5

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1 Tramway Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA

(760) 325-1391

I'll never travel to Palm Desert without this trip planner again

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11

Ricardo Breceda's Art Gallery

Art gallery

Shopping

Art dealer

Art studio

Event venue

Museum

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Definitely unique. Very diverse statues some with finish, some plain. Tiny to gigantic.Little beetles to giant dinosaurs.

We noticed some huge sheet metal sculptures from the highway, and decided to check it out. There is a $10 fee to enter the sculpture garden, but in exchange you get a small artwork to take with you, or a credit toward the purchase of a larger piece. There are works by seven different artists displayed. I was amazed, and glad we stopped by. The only reason I didn't give five stars is that the prices are not posted, although it was interesting talking with the gentleman there about the artworks while getting the price information.

What a treat for the eyes. This is the kind of place you will be telling others about. Not quite your standard museum. When you see this type of art in other locations it will inevitably bring you back to this place. Fun and delightful, no matter the age you will find something here you like. The scale of the sculptures and the sheer number means that this is the kind of place you can find your self dreading to leave as there is so much to see.I think the Dino's will bring you to the park but its the sheer whimsical nature of the place that will keep you wanting to see more and more.

Such a talented artist! I love his work! We visited Ansa Borrego and saw all the cool pieces there, so we had to visit the Gallery.

I've always loved Ricardos' place. For some of you who don't know, Ricardo is the guy who built and installed the Galetta Meadows sculptures in Borrego Springs. This is his location where her builds them. It costs $10 per person but you to get a gift at the end of your experience. There's lots to do exploring all of his work. You can also purchase the sculptures. I would highly recommend you go and check it out. Also, check the ones in Anza-Borrego State Park. It's located off the highway 79 near Temecula Parkway. I truly hope you enjoy. To see more of my work or if you have any questions, my Instagram is @manbehindalens. Also, give my Google account a follow as I will be posting new places here on a regular basis.

Well worth the visit, Ricardo’s vision and skill is mind blowing. Normally exhibits like this only have a handful of gems. This exhibition has a whole field full of gems. Well worth the visit, and negotiate on the price when buying.

This used to be a great place to go with kids or people from out of town. Such beautiful artwork on display. However, there is now a $10 entrance fee PER PERSON! This kinda ruins the experience for me now, and I can’t recommend bringing a group of people here anymore. Again, great art and artist, but the fees are a bit much for families to drop in.

Made the drive to see VENOM. Took our time to see all sculptures. RICARDO was there, got to meet the man himself, such a down to earth and humble man. Love all his work..

The statues are impressive and range from dinosaurs, to aliens to seahorses. My family owns a couple pieces that get a lot of compliments. After you pay the entrance fee and look around the large space, you get to choose a small souvenir to go.

4.8

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4.5

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44395 White Mountain Rd, Aguanga, CA 92536, USA

(951) 236-5896

12

N Palm Canyon Dr

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

4.5

(690)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (48)

California 92262, USA

13

Lake Hemet

Mentioned on

2 lists

Lake

Nature & Parks

Bodies of Water

Lake Hemet is a man-made mountain lake that offers an ideal venue for various outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. The campground has numerous clean sites and amenities like bathrooms that are cleaned twice daily and free showers that are as clean as locker rooms. Though the swimming area may be smaller in size, it's maintained well with strict regulations against animals in the water.

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We had a great time camping for Thanksgiving..Bill our camp host checked on us regularly to make sure we were good and needed anything ..beautiful lake .we will be back soon..thank you lake hemet.

This is a lovely place to go. Parking is close to the water with only a small hike down or u can choose to travel further and set up ur fishing spot. I don't fish but I do hike. The people are nice and well its just beautiful here

What an amazing weekend, park is absolutely stunning.The big trout campout was a blast. I'm definitely doing it again next year.Thank you to the staff 🙏What a pleasureMust go and experience the top of line premium fishing pantoon worth every penny

Seeing the lake full of fresh water 💦 after all the rain was such a beautiful sight 🤩. Everything around it was lush and 💚 green. The wildflowers🌸 were in abundance. Seeing all the families fishing 🐟, camping 🏕️and having fun, brought me great joy😊.

A great kayaking lake! Most people there are fishing. I've never seen a fast boat on the water. The South shore is all Federal land that is protected so its all forest, flowers and wildlife. This time we had our first sighting of Bald Eagles!

Our family comes here every year, and every year we have the best time. The campsites are always clean, the fishing is good, the kayaking is amazing, and the staff are always friendly. Cannot recommend this place enough. Can't wait until next year.

Beautiful place with plenty of camp sites.

Stunning spot, great for fishing and camping. You can find all the I fo you need for staying there on their website. So close to Idyllwild and the Santa Rosa Pit Stop for Chester's Chicken! Bathrooms aren't phenomenal but it's the great outdoors! Make sure to check the weather before you go!

Love this campground. It's always a great experience. Fishing not as good as it use to be, but I enjoy just sitting back relaxing by the water.

Highly recommend Bill was the BEST CAMP HOST checked on our whole party multiple times, and answered all of our questions! Bathrooms clean they clean them twice a day. Showers were free and clean like locker rooms. Swimming area is on the smaller side but clean NO ANIMALS allowed in the water that bummed me out. Over all great stay and will return!

Went for the trout derby. Had an amazing weekend with family and friends. Will definitely be planning more camping trips.

My family and I stayed here for three days and two nights. It is beautiful, and serene. There are cute squirrels, and birds. There are also butterflies and dragonflies. This campground is very well maintained. Handicap accessible for me on my knee scooter. I felt like this place was a very safe environment. Our son had a blast. The only bummer was the lack of Wi-Fi, and phone reception. Kept us off our electronics though. If you rent some cabins and rooms, some of them include Wi-Fi.

4.5

(487)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (49)

4.5

(377)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (50)

California 92561, USA

14

Palm Springs Art Museum

Mentioned on

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Art museum

Museums

The Palm Springs Art Museum is a prestigious heritage-rich museum that features world-renowned artworks from different periods and genres. The permanent collection of the Palm Springs Art Museum is diverse and includes pieces by some of the most famous masters in the history of art.

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I went on a Sunday, and they were having an issue with their ticketing system so they let me in for free, a fun surprise, and thank you. Peaceful inside, exhibits on display are timely and interesting. Dwayne Hansen‘s Old Couple on a Bench was particularly well done and disturbing… At least for me. When I walked around the corner I thought this older couple was just tired and sitting, looking forward and disconnected from each other. As I stepped closer I realized that they weren’t real. Hansen captured an older couple so bored and disconnected, seemingly unfulfilled and out of time, out of shape, from what I gather neither having found passion… it made me cry because it captured an incredibly real fear of mine. To get to that stage of my life not having realized dreams or passion with intensity sounds too horrible to bear, and I found that I just couldn’t look at the older couple for the rest of my time in the museum.I’d like to spend at least one other afternoon at this museum reading through the exhibits again. I was in such a bad place after looking at the older couple that I didn’t appreciate some of the other lighter works.

An incredible variety of beautiful art. The permanent Pure, Simple, and Beautiful Forms: Glass Collection is a must see. Stunning colours and visually appealing. Lawrence Schiller’s the 60s images captured so well that takes you back in time. Museum has a cafe which is nicely tucked in surrounding art everywhere. A must visit museum.

Love all the temporary and permanent installments of the museum. When we visited, they had a lot of Mexican artists and a couple ancient Mexican tribe prices, specifically Olmec. The staff here are simply amazing, helpful and knowledgeable. We will definitely visit again next time we’re in PS.

Very nice art museum nestled on the back side of the downtown park. Three levels, with a large variety of mediums and artists - from glass work to modern pieces to much older oil on canvas style paintings. Would recommend if you’re in the area and looking to get out of the sun for an hour!

In Palm Springs for a few days & my last it was 107°. Looking for things to do inside and this was a great choice. Looks smaller in the pics but was actually bigger than I thought. So glad I checked it out. I was there 90 mins and could've been there way longer very easily. 4 floors, highly recommend.

Cute tittle museum. It won’t overwhelm you but it will satisfy you. They have beautiful art and always changing their displays. Very well kept.Their bistro was closed though so we didn’t get to enjoy that part of itI don’t remember the dates but they do close it during some months in the year so call before you go. It cost us $28 to enter. $14 per adultMy children ages 10 and 12 were free.Go and enjoy some art and get out of the heat :)

This was a nice way to spend some time looking at some art in downtown Palm Springs. There are three floors of installations, and a theatre in the basem*nt for moving showings they have.We went on a Thursday evening when they offer free admission. Book those entry tickets in advance!

Came on a weekday before 6pm because it is free! This museum is was extremely awesome! Actually exceeded my expectation and had a nice time walking around the museum and seeing all the pieces. Spent about an hour at this place and was not disappointed at all. They had more things downstairs, but I completely missed it and only realized once we left.

The Palm Springs Art Museum in its Architect and Design Building have a small but beautiful building. The exhibit was worth visiting but the high point is the shop with design items and a specialized bookstore with the best selection I’ve seen of modernism and mid century modern. A must visit!

Great museum with a diverse mix of art and artists. $16 ticket entry for adults is definitely worth it to see some great artists (Bourgeois, Picasso, Calder, Gilliam, Frankenthaller & many more!)

The modern art shines at this jewel in the desert. Visitors are "greeted" outside by a several stories tall sculpture of Marilyn Monroe. Inside the collection spans modern, native American, glass, and photography.. There is a cafe with adjoining sculpture garden for outdoor dining. The 1968 Chevy Malibu suspended vertically above the ground is thought provoking.

Well worth the trip!!! I have been a local resident here in the desert since 2001 and have never come to an exhibit at the museum. I happen to see one of the artists speak at an event and it inspired me to take my family to the museum. My kids are between 8 and 13 so going to a museum can be dubious but I was willing to take a chance with the LIGHT and CHANGE exhibit and it paid off. My whole family loved it and we highly recommend it.

This is a fun museum, the exhibits are clever and exciting, not stuffy at all. Summer nights open free after 5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They bring out a dj and music pumping. Gift store had amazing ingenious little pieces of art to take home in bags and vases and just gorgeous things.

Really interesting exhibits I loved the diversity of the different pieces and I discovered that my interest is now more in 3D pieces than painting. I would recommend a visit.Just as an aside, the restaurant was closed which was an inconvenience as I struggle with my mobility and sitting down with a drink would have been great. Also I thought that the gift shop was very overpriced.

Really nice museum. They have some modern and some western pieces. Takes about 1.5- 2 hours to cruise through. Perfect afternoon visit in the heat as they also have amazing airconditioning.

4.7

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4.5

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101 N Museum Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA

(760) 322-4800

15

Villagefest Main Office Palm Springs

Mentioned on

2 lists

Corporate office

Sights & Landmarks

Flea & Street Markets

Points of Interest & Landmarks

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I still love it, been here for many years and moved out of state but every time I am around I go to this nice ambience fest. I enjoy the walk, the art, the vendors that sell authentic art, nothing here is fake it is all handmade and artistic and I love that. If you want to have a nice walk and enjoy art as much as I do, go and enjoy the evening every Thursday from 6-10pm.

It's been so long since I have been back home. How refreshing to know that Villagefest is still going on. It's grown so much. What an amazing evening and awesome weather. If you come in for a visit make sure you visit Villagefest. I would highly recommend.

Awesome street fair in Palm Springs! Every Thursday locals gather to showcase their businesses. Food, art, music, and much more as you walk down the street. Vendors are offering free samples and the food is impressive. We purchased mini donuts which were heavenly. We also got clam chowder that was prefect for the chilly evening! Going back next week to try more foods!

This place is a RIP off... they charged my kids the same price for 2 different tattoos.. one kid had 2 small turtles and the other had both hands done... they were both bad , quickly done didnt look anything like the pic they showed. wouldn't re-do or give the money back... live the street fair but I will never go back to the henna place and do not recommend anyone to go there unless they have the gentleman do the work.

4.4

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4.5

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401 S Pavilion Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA

(760) 320-3781

I'll never travel to Palm Desert without this trip planner again

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16

Palm Springs Air Museum

Mentioned on

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Museum

Educational sites

The Palm Springs Air Museum is a historical attraction in Palm Springs that features exhibits on aircraft from World War II, Korean, and Vietnam war eras. The museum is housed inside a climate-controlled facility and provides visitors with an immersive experience of aviation history.

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After several trips to Palm Springs we finally got to visit the museum… and it was a great experience.Huge selection of planes to get up close and look at, all sorts of memorabilia, and very helpful staff/volunteers that are more than happy to provide extra information.The highlight was to go inside the B-17 Flying Fortress ($5/pp donation). The tour through it was great, the gal who guided us was very friendly… and my son just loved checking out the plane from the inside.Only negatives I’d say would be the flight simulators… they are a combination of PCs loaded with games in a dusty library/archive room… or the bigger one in the hangar which seemed too complex for a kid to use.Discounts for adults (AAA/CAA), kids free w/paid adult. Overall, a great visit! ✈️🚁

No words to explain how amazing this place is!! It’s a very surreal experience, and the people who work and volunteer there are wonderful. There are many workers there who were soldiers themselves, and hearing their knowledge is something I’m grateful for. The planes are breathtaking and the displays of knowledge and artifacts engage oneself. They also have a library of Life magazines, how cool! Highly recommended taking anyone there!!

Definitely a Must!! Huge variety of top-notch, rare planes, helicopters and cars. They are one of a few museums to have a Stealth 117 Nighthawk airplane and a B-17!! A wonderful collection. They also have magnificent, knowledgeable, friendly docents around each exhibit area! (Plan accordingly, a lot of outdoor planes to see, might be Hot during certain months.) Enjoy, and appreciate those who served.

I used to love going here as a kid, and the place has really grown. We definitely enjoyed our time there. The docents are quite knowledgeable and many are veterans. They have a sizable collection there. We really enjoyed seeing some of the planes fly. You can actually pay to ride around in some of the aircraft. They have adequate parking, so you shouldn't have any issues there. Plus, they also have a number of aircraft out front for you to view for free.

This place is amazing! Such a great location for a flight museum. The view is stunning during sunset!$20 per person, open till 5 pm. So many cool airplanes and the history behind each of them.Very well layout from indoor to outdoor.Highly recommend checking this place out when in PS!

Well appointed aviation museum focused on generations of military and general aircraft. Ample parking space. Visited in the bright July sunshine! What made things interesting were the knowledgeable vets across all exhibits who proudly shared their stories as well as those of the aircraft on display. The outdoor displays were superb too, as was the ‘stealth hangar’ Well stocked souvenir shop. An aviation geek’s paradise! 😊

The Palm Springs Air Museum is a popular aviation museum located in Palm Springs, California in the desert!It houses a vast collection of vintage aircraft and exhibits that showcase the history of aviation. It houses WW2, Korean War, Vietnam War and War on Terror. Great way to learn about their significance in military and aviation history. All planes are in flyable conditions. Coolest airplane is Nighthawk.It's a fascinating place for aviation enthusiasts and history lovers alike! Definitely a fun activity for families and kids!

Absolutely an amazing experience. We were lucky enough to be there when Col. Robert Lilac was there. Each week, the museum opens a plane for guests to sit on the co*ckpit. Knowledgeable, charming, and informative, we had a wonderful time. The museum is outstanding. It’s filled with treasures that are not to be missed. It makes you proud to be an American to see these artifacts. The museum offers a respite from the heat, with food and air conditioning. Do not come to Palm Springs without a visit. The interactive offerings, the beautiful displays, and the top notch staff make it a once in a lifetime event. Go!!

Great museum with amazing detail. You could spend a full day here going through all the exhibits and displays. Lots to see and do for all ages. You can tell the volunteers and mechanics/engineers have spent a lot of time restoring aircraft. Well worth a visit if you are in the Palm Springs area.

We visited here a few years ago and loved it! Not only did they have a huge selection of WW2 planes they had lots of post war planes that were really impressive and well kept. They also had docents that would guide you and tell you all about the aircrafts add other memorabilia. I recommend this for anyone interested in aircraft. Simply fascinating.UrbanCowgillJanuary 2019

2022-Oct. Lots of parking. The staff are really nice. There is a Cafe, souvenir shop, flight simulator (extra $25 for about 10 minutes) and restrooms inside.Lots of war planes that was beautifully maintained!Please give a thumbs up if this review helped you.Have a great visit!

When I told a friend I was coming here he suggested this museum. When he told me you could tour the inside of a B17 I was ready to go! This place has an amazing collection of planes from WWII to modern times. It also has a large staff of knowledgable volunteers than know their stuff about them. The walk through the B17 was truly humbling, what these incredible young men did to preserve our way of life. The other highlight was the F-117 Stealth Fighter. too many other spectacular planes and exhibits to mention. If you are an aviation buff like me this needs to be on your bucket list!

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Palm Springs Aerospace Museum and I cannot say enough good things about my experience. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff who were eager to share their love for aviation.The museum itself is a treasure trove of aviation history, with an impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits that span the centuries. From the Wright Brothers' first flight to the cutting-edge technology of modern jets, every era of aviation is beautifully represented here.One of the highlights of my visit was the chance to step inside some of the aircraft and experience what it must feel like to be a pilot. Being able to sit in the co*ckpit of a fully restored vintage plane was a dream come true for any aviation enthusiast.The museum also offers a variety of interactive displays and simulators that allow visitors to get a hands-on experience of what it's like to fly. From flight simulators to virtual reality experiences, there was something for everyone, regardless of age or level of interest.The staff at the museum are clearly passionate about their work and their dedication shows. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and took the time to explain the history and significance of each aircraft. Their enthusiasm was infectious and made my visit even more enjoyable.Another aspect that impressed me was the attention to detail in the museum's exhibits. The aircraft were meticulously restored and displayed in a way that allowed visitors to fully appreciate their beauty and historical significance. The museum also had a great selection of information boards and signage that provided context and a deeper understanding of the exhibits.In addition to the impressive collection of aircraft, the museum also featured rotating exhibits and special events. This meant that even if you have visited before, there is always something new and exciting to discover.Overall, my visit to the Palm Springs Aerospace Museum was an incredible experience. The combination of friendly staff, stunning exhibits, and interactive displays made for a truly memorable day. Whether you're a die-hard aviation enthusiast or simply curious about the world of flight, this museum is a must-visit. I highly recommend it and can confidently give it a well-deserved 5 stars.

I was a great place to visit with a couple of friends as they are history and aircraft enthusiasts. There were only a few staff there but they were very informative and friendly. I was expecting to stay there for about 90 mins, but we ended up nearly 4 hours in total. We loved the fact you could walk and touch the planes, and there were a lot of them!

This museum is just incredible. If you have family that were veterans and served, there is an incredible pull to what they went through and such a feeling you get. It's indescribable. The planes and all air crafts were mouth dropping. The artwork and symbolic drawings in the planes were beautiful. The members who served and survivors from wars were all so moving. There is so much history. It was such an honor to visit. We loved it.

Way bigger than I expected, thought this would be a quick stop and spent almost 3 hours here! They have a sizeable collection of planes including an F-117 which was amazing to see in person! They also had a B-17 that you could board and climb through, and they offer rides on a variety of aircraft including a P-51. Though rides were not in the budget it was really cool to see the planes actually flying. Definitely worth a trip, may have to come back and splurge on a flight someday!

4.8

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4.5

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Parking, lot 745 N Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA

(760) 778-6262

17

Lost Horse Ranger Station | Joshua Tree National Park

Visitor center

Nature & Parks

Park

National Parks

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It's interesting park to visit ! 35$ per car for a week ,if you have annual pass you will pas like a vip when it's crowded ! It was nice trip ,but was very windy and still full with people on 11 of March ! Go early and spend one full day to check every point on the map ,which you will get from the visitor center 🏜️Enjoy

The whole park is a magical place. Words are not enough. Do not miss the endless Pinto Basin at the end of the world.

Great trip with the family. Many things to explore. Beautiful views and scenery. Great place to camp. Very interesting plants and wildlife to see and hear. Definitely have to go back

4.6

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5.0

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Unnamed Rd, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

18

Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead

Mentioned on

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Hiking area

Nature & Parks

Scenic 1-mi. hiking loop with huge rock formations to climb & views of Joshua trees & desert areas.

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Make this the last spot of the day. As the sun sets, the rock cliffs burn orange fire! With shadows on the other parts, it makes for an amazing experience - not to mention some beautiful pictures. The trail is easy, about a mile. You'll see lots of rock climbers tackling different surfaces, it is fun to live through them. 😉

We’ve been to 4 or 5 hikes in Joshua tree now and happy valley is one of our family favorites. It’s an easy 1 mile loop, although our hike turned into about 1.5 miles due to the amount of climbing we did. This is such a fun hike with so much variety in what you see and can do. There’s limitless possibilities in bouldering.Our two kids, ages 10 and 12, loved climbing and exploring. We saw families with toddlers who were running and climbing off steam.Try and get there early as the parking lot tends to fill up by 10. We got there at 10:30 and we’re lucky someone was leaving. The rangers were redirecting people to another lot when we left at 12:30.There are pit toilets and many picnic tables for lunch at the parking lot. Easy drive in and out as well. Take sunscreen and water and enjoy the peace and calm of Joshua Tree!

Great hike, my wife and i were out there at sun up....as the sun came up the shadows and lite wer neat to see. It was cold when we first got there, but once we got moving we warmed up quite a bit.Joshua tree is an amazing place and we are already planning on going back

I loved this "trail." It really isn't a trail, more of a gentle walk through nature. It is short, well-marked, and doesn't have much in the way of elevation gains/declines. So if you're looking for a true hike, look elsewhere.That said, this little walk packs a ton of beautiful sights in a really small area. You're sort of in a bowl here, with rocks surrounding you on all sides. Inside the bowl there are really interesting rock formations all around you, and the flora here is very different than you see in most other areas of the park. Apparently this area is a bit of a microclimate due to it's geological features, and there are tons of signs throughout the park explaining the reasons for this. It is an amazing combination of easy walking, beautiful scenery, and signs containing really good information about what you're seeing. The one downside is this was the most crowded area I saw in the park with the exception of Skull Rock, so you will be sharing the trail with hundreds of people. But unlike Skull Rock and some of the other crowded areas of the park, the crowds here didn't really bother me.This was the highlight of the park for me, without a doubt. Although there are other hiking trails I'd recommend over this one, there is no other attraction in the park I'd recommend more highly.

Easy hike (1 mile loop trail). We went there early ~ before 9am and easily found the parking lot. Would recommend to arrive early to avoid the traffic… saw long line cars waiting to enter the gate on the way back.This hike is suitable for families, mostly flat, rocks for kids to climb (not dangerous). Be aware of the cold. It was end of Dec when we were here and we wish we would have worn beanie and gloves.

Easy loop with some really great views of the rocks and Joshua Trees. Make sure you wear lots of sunscreen when you're here! One of the first stops on the trip and one of the better ones as well!

A beautiful trail. We did this 7am in early November. It could not have been more pleasant and wonderful. We took time to walk around. We are not professional hikers by any means. It was the perfect length with one mile loop that is easy to follow.

Plenty of toilet paper!!!We got here early after turning away due to crowds the day before. Nice quick early morning hike with great light and fun views of rock climbers. As with every spot in the park, this gets filled up and parking becomes very difficult. We took the opposite direction on the loop and it was nice having folks pass us in the opposite direction rather than following or being followed.

Hidden Valley trail was recommended to me by a ranger at the Visitors centre. I arrived later in the afternoon and wanted to 'see it all in a short time before the sun went down'. This trail delivered.The trail is a loop that starts at the carpark and makes it around a relatively easy area within the park. You get the see the best of Joshua Tree national park.The Joshua trees are very unique and unlike any other trees that I have seen elsewhere. The fact that there are SO many of them and ONLY them is a really cool sight to see.This track will take you around some very interesting rock structures that are unique to the park. Depending on the time of day, you may see amateur and professional rock climbers taking up the challenge.The park can get HOT in summer so be sure to take more water than what you think you will need and stick to the track.

One of the easiest trails to do. Lots of Joshua trees to see and good scenic points to take pictures. The trail is big so we went half way through and came back. NOTE: PLEASE CARRY A LOT OF WATER.

I love this area of JT so much parking space, picnic tables, restrooms and a lot to explore around hidden valley. You will even catch a glimpse of some rock climbers in this area.I Captured Jaime & Yesenia engagements here at the hidden valley trail.

Easy hike with a clear path. Some rock trails but they are well-defined. Lots of nature to see but very little shade. Keep an eye out of lizards, birds, kangaroo rats and ground squirrels. Kinda cool being surrounded in the valley.

You'll be immersed in the tranquility of the hidden valley, shielded from the outside world by towering rock walls.The unique geological features and the untouched beauty of Hidden Valley make it a captivating experience. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll or a place to connect with nature, this trail offers it all. Don't forget your camera, as there are plenty of opportunities to capture memorable moments amidst the breathtaking scenery.

A super short and easy 1 mile loop trail. It took me less than an hour to complete with several stops. There aren’t too many Joshua trees on this one but the rock formations and various cacti are cool. A bit chilly in October in the shade. The wind was also blowing hard. A great first introduction trail to Joshua Tree NP.

4.8

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4.5

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74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

(760) 367-5500

19

Barker Dam Nature Trail

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

Well-trafficked 1.8-mi. loop past Wonderland of Rocks, desert scrub & reservoir dam built in 1900.

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Sadly, there will be very little water at the dam, but the hike is wonderful. Lots of Joshua trees, boulders to climb and rock cliffs to admire. Be sure to go to the end to see the Native American pictographs. For a few minutes you'll be transported in time. After the initial light climb, the trail is gentle and good for all ages.

We went here for the bouldering they had and also did a short loop trail. The bouldering area was a bit hard to find but there was plenty of people guiding us the correct way. There’s also a little tiny sign showing you which way to go!

Very impressive rock formations and a fun trail. It’s short tho only like 1 mile but worth it. It’s one of the prettiest spots unfortunately no water when I went but still impressive and beautiful with the exposed areas. A bit crowded since it’s one of the most popular hikes.

We visited here around 11 AM. It was quite hot. Dam was completely dried but trail was very good. Attached lots of pictures of the trail. Need 45 minutes to complete the trail and come back. Should visit here if visiting Joshua Park. Joshua Park is quite big and entry is 30$ per vehicle (if you don't have annual pass for US national park which is 80$). I prefer to buy annual pass since there are so many beautiful national parks in US.

Great place to visit, lots of rocks, trees and nature. I always love coming to this place gives me peace and tranquility. I would highly recommend you visit this place.

Dam is completely dry. I could only see water marks on the rock. Trail was great though. Unique rock formations and plants all around. Trail direction can be slightly confusing so wouldn't go when it's dark.Plenty of parking space!

Great hike, amazing views of the desert and rock formations.

4.7

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4.5

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California 92277, USA

20

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Mentioned on

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Zoo

Outdoor Activities

Botanical garden

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a large zoo located in Palm Desert outside of Los Angeles. It features a variety of animals from around the world, including desert-adapted species. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, making it one of only a few in the world to receive this honor.

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A wonderful visit in March of 2022. I would love to come back to see the lanterns at night! They were still very beautiful and fun in the daylight. The kids all loved them and I think it made it a bit more exciting for them! We went early so all the animals were moving around and eating breakfast. Truly wonderful experience.

Went during the very popular "Glow in the Park" event. They did a great job at having everything setup and managing the crowds. It might be a "zoo" but it has more of an animal sanctuary type feel with lots of large open spaces. Still we were able to see all the wildlife and was much closer to a cheetah and hyena then I'd ever been before. It's not that big and you can easily see everything in a few hours and not feel rushed. They also do a good job of keeping the walkways shaded. Aside from that the staff was friendly, the paths and eating areas were immaculate and very well maintained. Despite it being crowded there were no lines to enter, plenty of parking, and the lines to get food were short as well.Well worth visiting. Get there when they open to beat the heat and you won't be disappointed.

A fabulous way to spend the day! The giraffes were such a treat to watch. They animal demonstrations were also time well spent to slow down and enjoy what they were sharing. The tortoise and the snakes were a interesting watch! Family great adventure!

I had previously been to the Living Desert many times being desert grown and a desert resident for many years! I have always had an enjoyable time from all of those experiences so I thought it would be nice to treat my toddler and boyfriend to this adventure! We were all so excited to finally get out and do something and this was money and time well spent. For parents: there are restrooms everywhere which helped us because my son is still using pull ups! There are food (dining and snacks) options that are all delicious. There is everything you would need for a day at the zoo available at the stores. Activities are endless. Lots of sites to see. I would recommend going early due to the sun being nice and bright. Lots of sunscreen is required. There are some things I would recommend bringing cash for ease. Feeding the giraffes is a MUST. I would suggest making that your first stop if possible upon entry! Love the staff and everyone is helpful and kind.

Omg! What a fun little zoo! All the animals are warm weather critters, so they were all awake and active.I fed a giraffe! I also got up close and personal with a wallaby! It was a fun way to spend an afternoon, and the food was pretty good too!

We were very lucky to enjoy a private tour with Dave today. Not only did we get to see every exhibit the zoo includes, we also received detailed information about the animals and environments we were witnessing. Dave was an excellent host, providing us a comfortable, safe, and fun experience. He was very attentive to the children in our group and made sure they got a great view of everything. The giraffe feeding was awesome, and it was a nice benefit to cut the line via the private tour. Overall it was a wonderful way to experience everything this very well managed, clean, well-signed zoo had to offer. Thanks Dave and everyone there!

The living Desert Zoo and Gardens was a great experience! Especially for the little ones looking at all the different animals from all different areas of the world was awesome!From Africa, Asian, North and South American!Garden areas pretty.They have petting goats which was nice.I recommend being a wagon or a stroller if you have kids and bring cold drinks.

Great program and layout. Best to come when it’s not as hot as the animals are less active when it is.Only reason it’s 4 instead of 5 stars is the cost. Gatorade is $7 each. I know it’s a good cause but after the entry fee, it starts to get really expensive…

Nicest zoo I’ve ever visited. All the animals are out. You can feed giraffes which is an awesome activity. The staff are the nicest people ever! So educational. There’s clean bathrooms every turn. Food isn’t too expensive. 10/10 would recommend whether you’re a kid or adult.

I don’t understand why it took us such a long time to come and visit this wonderful habitat of some extraordinary animals. Do not hesitate to come and bring your family here. We enjoyed each minute of this zoo. First time seeing some of the animals so close and kept in great environments. Keep up the great job The living zoo.

Peaceful in the daytime.The staff and volunteers are extremely nice.I hope all animals are treated well at all times.I normally don't go to zoos only sanctuaries.Shout out to Christina the young lady who works in the refreshment stand that's near the camels and in between the goat petting area. She's very nice and has really great customer service. We tried to tell Chad and David her bosses but we could not find them anywhere at the zoo throughout the time we were there from 1:00 p.m. to closing time. We even came back for the second evening light festival. Give Christina a raise.Extremely overcrowded in the evening.They should definitely have a capacity of how many people can come in. Or they should definitely have some kind of structure when people are taking pictures or people are waiting in line to take photos.It might even be a great idea to implement photographers as well as people being able to take their own pictures.The lantern festival is very pretty but I would never go again to the Palm springs location because the patrons really don't have any manners, (adults and children). People were just walking through when other people are trying to take pictures, not even saying excuse me which was very rude.Also for better pictures and lighting it's probably a good idea to put lights on both sides of any area that has a festival lantern because if there's no lighting on the other side all pictures come out really dark. The only thing you can see is the lantern not really the people in the pictures.

Location: Out there, Parking: Okay, Service: tickets(okay), park attendants (good), vending (okay), retail sales (okay), Military discount: yes, Areas where animals lived: some looked great others need to change ( according to a plan areas are being adjusted to better support the animals expected to be done in 2 more phases). Overall: This was a first-time visit and for the outside it does seem to have a good vibe as to decent areas of space.for the animals to roam and not be as caged up as was done in the past. The best example is the Giraffe exhibit. The amount of space is great, and the animals look so comfortable. Where as when you walk over to the Leopard exhibit, it seems cramped and closed in as well as the striped hyena exhibit. Another interesting piece is the huge model train exhibit. This remarkable creation will keep you looking for quite a while as it must be over a quarter acre of model buildings, bridges, and cities along the miles of track. I plan on. going back to see the new changes and updates. Until all the animals are in better accommodations..2.5 Stars...

We had such a great time here. I loved seeing the desert animals and knowing that they are a non-profit. Everything you buy helps them take care of the animals and supports their efforts in increasing their population. If you can, do the rhino experience (about $50 each). You get to learn about rhinos, their plan, and you can touch and feed one of them! (8am daily, I suggest you pay for it in advance) You can also pay to feed the giraffe(s) ($10 per person, 3 pieces of lettuce, worth it for the close up and to help them with their efforts). This was an on-the-spot decision.Lastly, it will get hot because it's the desert and especially if you're coming in the summer. Be prepared with water, sunblock/screen and whatever else you may need as it takes a bit of time to go around to see all of it.

A well planned animal zoo. Summer is definitely not the best time to go though the zoo has made arrangements to handle hot weather well. Restaurants inside the zoo are well staffed and has a decent menu and of good quality. The fee seems like a premium compared to other zoos but there are carousel and a mini-train area that makes it worth the time and money for kids.PS: The tour on trolleys is not of the full zoo but only of the inside areas and skips the actual attractions that have to be walked through. So read through info before getting on to the zoo tour trolley which is an extra charge.

We went on weekend of Halloween. The people working and volunteering were sooo kind and helpful. Chris explained to us how to get around the zoo and about the candy stations and activities going on at the zoo. She was great! The zoo was so beautiful, and we got to feed the giraffe. My son loved it. We hope to come back next year on our visit back to Palm desert.

4.7

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4.5

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47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260, USA

(760) 346-5694

I'll never travel to Palm Desert without this trip planner again

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Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (76)

Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (77)

Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (78)

Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (79)

Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (80)

21

Sky Sailing

Flight school

Tours

Air Tours

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Surprised my wife and she loved it, unfortunately I didn't get to go yet. But definitely go solo and pay the extra for 40 minutes, as you get front seat. Pairs have to squish in the back.

Well hello everyone this review is all about my beautiful goddaughter Avaya's 19th birthday adventure and it all start in the morning with a nice scenic drive to beautiful Warner Springs California to the airport there so she could go up in a glider from Sky Sailing for some stunt flying. Now if you love roller coasters this is like 10,000 times better. Ahe did loops, barrel rolls, hammer heads and more ..... she also got to fly the aircraft. Her pilot Garrett was incredible and one of the best in the country. She had soooo much fun and said this experience was definitely Bucket list worthy.I'm just so glad to be able to take her on these adventures. Stay safe have fun and keep the faith.

Garret Willat gave me an incredible aerobatic ride over the desert. His acumen, guiding our sailplane through more than a dozen maneuvers (including 12 inversions) was impeccable. His calm demeanor gave me confidence when experiencing new physical sensations caused by the twists, turns, and stalls. I've been recommending this experience nonstop since I returned to Virginia and am even recruiting friends to fly back to California with me to try it for themselves.

Very cool experience. I had been reading about and getting interested in gliders and decided to take a flight. I looked online and found this place with good ratings. Once arriving, I quickly met the pilot taking me up and we talked for a few minutes. We then pulled the glider out and strapped in. Next, a tow plane takes us up and we go soaring! It was loads of fun and very different experience from a powered aircraft. We flew several circles around the airport and it seemed like was already time to land. The instructor let me fly it a bit and then he took back the controls and landed us. It was a vey quick but very smooth flight and landing. I’m looking forward to going again sometime and doing a longer flight!

What an amazing experience. Great staff, pilots, instructors and you can't beat the scenery. I highly recommend this fantastic adventure !!!

Amazing experience with professional instructors. The family owned school has a great community of glider pilots and they offer a great first time experience for soaring. There is a GoPro video or photos included and its an affordable, exciting activity that can lead to learning new skills and seeing the world from an unbelieveable vantage point!

4.9

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5.0

(20)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (83)

31930 CA-79, Warner Springs, CA 92086, USA

(760) 782-0404

22

Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

Vista point

Tours

Air Tours

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When we are traveling to Palm Springs or back to San Diego we always love taking the Palms To Pines Byway. It's quite a fun drive with the twist and turns. You have excellent views of the desert either driving up or down. There are two stops. The more popular is the Cochella Valley Vista Point, where you have a great view of the desert and the surrounding mountains. If this is your first time driving this byway, it definitely is a great stop to take in the view. The second letter known stop would be the Cahuilla Tewanet Vista Point. The entrance is hard to spot but there is a small Parking lot and you will need to walk to the observation deck. The vista point also has great views. If you do decide to drive the byway, make sure you find a restroom in Palm desert since your next stop would be Anza, which is roughly over 31 miles on a two lane road. It's a fun road to drive on just be careful.

An easy drive from one ecosystem to another. Good views over the Coachella Valley at one point, and various places to stop and take in scenery or go for hikes. Idyllwild is a neat place to get lunch.

We only made it up to the first vista. My companion was nervous about the cliffs so we went back down. That first vista gave a fabulous view of palm desert, salton sea, and beyond, though! Short and very winding trip on switchbacks up the mountain side. Being April, there were plenty of other travelers.

Great drive!! Loved the landscape throughout the trip! Lots of cool wildlife to see. Awesome escape from the desert valley heat, 30° temp difference!!

Fun drive with one heck of a view up top.

4.5

(34)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (84)

4.5

(395)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (85)

CA-74, Palm Desert, CA 92260, USA

(909) 382-2600

23

Keys View

Mentioned on

1 list

Scenic spot

Nature & Parks

Geologic Formations

Keys View, located in Joshua Tree National Park, is a popular vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of mesas, mountains and the Coachella Valley. A scenic 20-minute drive up from Park Blvd takes you to this spot which stands at an elevation of 5185ft above sea level.

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Good god saw the most spectacular sunset hereIt was super crowded though so be wary and mask up. The parking started far off just because everyone wants to come here to watch the sunset. Now we get why the advice is to get here 30-40minutes before sunset so you can bag a good parking spotThere’s some benches at the top where you can picnic too but definitely hit this place up for beautiful views at sunset timeAlso got a tiny toilet here too but there’s just one so there was a long line waiting for it!

Breathtaking. We came up on mopeds from Cap Rock- about 5 miles. The view happened to be clear and expansive this day. From one side, we could see all the way to the Salton Sea.

Phenomenal scenic view, excellent for photos. Be aware of aggressive bees.

You could spend an entire day at the Hall of Horrors and Keys View. Our family, including 4 young children, spent the day exploring the Hall and had a great time. The ones who weren't tired and ready to head home, went to Keys for some of the most beautiful views I've ever seen.

You definitely want to check out the spot on a clear day. You can see for miles and miles and miles and you are on top of the world, it is very windy. Definitely want to have a hat or ear covering of some sort. Best sunset spot you'll find

This is an amazing view. You have to drive a bit to get to the spot. It's definitely worth the drive. On a good day you can see Salton sea and may be Mexico. Very peaceful and serene. Tranquility at it's best.

There's a spectacular viewpoint of the Coachella Valley from here. There's a medium-sized parking lot here with a toilet. We were unable to use the toliet because it was infested with bees. This viewpoint is handicap accessible.

This is a good place to see the desert valleys and the surrounding mountains. We captured the strong sand storm in the valley around Palm Springs.

Ya gotta go! It’s an incredible 360 view of the valley and so many wonderful vantage points. Go before sunset and enjoy the natural beauty. It gets windy and cold at the top so just be aware. Such a wonderful way to enjoy the park though. Parking can be tricky so be prepared to wait a bit.

Oh My! What a phenomenal view of Joshua Tree National Park.A short 10 minute drive off the main route and you go from the valley filled with amazing Joshua Trees to the top of a mountain with a spectacular view of the entire region.In the winter time you can see several snow capped mountains as well as the Salton Sea.This is a very popular place! So parking can can difficult. Be warned if you are planning to view the sunset... get there about 45 minutes EARLY! Or you may not find a place to park.

Great views of the valley, we were there mid morning and there were several people visiting. Still some parking but I can see this spot getting busy!! I loved the overview maps explaining the view, well worth the drive!!

BEAUTIFUL outlook - but also extremely windy and cold in October. The wind was so bad during my visit that you could barely walk up to the outlook. Walking into the wind felt like I was about to gain some lift. The desert dust added a unique hazy look to the mountains though. A wonderful view of the San Jacinto mountain. Definitely recommend driving up here if you’re visiting Joshua Tree NP and only have a few hours to spare.

Easy access to a 5,100ft overlook. Road to Keys View is nice but parking limited. I felt lucky getting a spot as it was about 90% full. I noticed people would get there, get a photo & leave pretty quickly so if the parking was full a spot should open up quickly.

4.8

(3063)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (86)

4.5

(574)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (87)

California, USA

(760) 367-5500

24

Indian Wells Tennis Garden

Mentioned on

6 lists

Tennis club

Sights & Landmarks

Featuring 29 hard courts, this all-year tennis club hosts the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament.

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This is a great venue for a world class tennis tournament.The facilities are top notch.The service is top notch. They take pride in the event and it shows.The food is very good to top notch.Getting in the property is cumbersome with the vaccination requirement. It is a pain, but we appreciate not having to wear a mask.

Indian Wells is always an amazing place. Everything from the stadium to watching at the suite and level is amazing. The food and amenities are some of the best at any sporting venue. The staff is always friendly and so are all the volunteers. You can tell everyone takes so much pride in making sure this event is successful. Every single year you get a chance to watch some of the best tennis players in the world at a an amazing class facility. This is why so many fans come to Indian Wells every year and skip going to other tournaments. Definitely recommend for both average tennis fans to the extreme tennis fans to come and take part.

I came for the semifinals of Indian Wells and it was fabulous! The grounds are taken care of; staff is overtly courteous; everything is organized. It truly is tennis paradise. Thank you!

Well… what more can be said? If you’re a fan of ATP or WTA tennis… you already know what you’re getting yourself into if you choose to visit this place. Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a massive campus with many nice courts. It was VERY hot outside when we visited (pushing 110 F if I remember correctly), but worth the pilgrimage. I saw multiple people come and go through the walking gate and I knew it was open to the public so I decided to walk in and grab a few photos (including Stadium 1, Stadium 2, and the Welby Wall). I even got to take a few “shadow swings” with my imaginary racket on one of the practice courts. Unknowing I was trespassing, I got caught by security when I was on my way out of the facility. But the interaction was civil and handled professionally by their security team. Based on that, I would maybe check to make sure you’re visiting during open hours. I’m unsure but you may even be able to see more of the facility than I did (like the pro shop and inside the stadiums).

It was a pleasure to see your favourite players live on the central courts. It's a big garden with 7-9 courts with two center courts for star players. Even by seating on the outer rims, it was a nice experience overall. Prices are high obviously but good for once in a lifetime experience. Expect high queues on weekends. Free parking is made available during tournaments.

One of the best, if not the best, tennis centers I’ve ever been. The courts are amazingly well maintained, the tennis pros are excellent, the personnel is very friendly. For us tennis players it’s like going to the closest place to tennis heaven in earth.

Exceptional facilities. Great places to buy memorable gear. Food choices very good and numerous ways to watch many matches and wonder around between them. BNP Paribas event draws big names. Views from outer courts share the desert mountains backdrop and is beautiful.

Amazing world class tennis event. My fav is to come early in the tournament and seeing the pros play close up in the smaller stadiums. Recommend most bang for one’s dollar to get the stadium one day pass. Gives access to all the ground games both day and evening and day time stadium one hallmark games. Bring a clear bag.

Referred to as the 5th major on the pro tennis circuit, this is one special venue for a sporting event! I have attended the tournament in past years. In March for 2 weeks, the best in men's and women's tennis put on a competitive show. 7 rounds are played and when you are watching tennis you sit very still and quiet. Then you hear the roars and it is a goose bump moment. It can get expensive in the lower seats, but bring binoculars and you get a top down view up high at a more reasonable price! When you walk the grounds, you really feel this is a special place. The best restaurants serve here and there are tents loaded with tennis gear to cameras. The backdrop of the Santa Rosa mountains at dusk is over the top!

4.7

(1482)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (88)

4.5

(504)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (89)

78-200 Miles Ave, Indian Wells, CA 92210, USA

(760) 200-8200

25

Old Town La Quinta

Mentioned on

9 lists

Shopping mall

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Walking Areas

Old Town La Quinta is a charming shopping destination that boasts Renaissance-inspired architecture and high-end boutiques and eateries. This outdoor dining and retail village exudes the old-world charm of California, hosting wine tastings, art shows, live music performances, and seasonal events.

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Nice to walk around. Many art shows during the winter months. Little shops are nice and friendly, great for finding a little gift. Olive oil store, sun golf shirts store, boutiques, art gallery shop. My favorite nitro ice cream, a great place for a stroll after a nice dinner out. Many excellent restaurants. Sometimes live music. Parking is available in several parking lots.

Cute little town to explore and enjoy the day. Several restaurants and spots to hang out with your family and friends.

Cold Thai noodles. A delicious vegetarian option. Just a hint of sweetness with a little kick of heat. Asian chicken salad comes with two pieces of cheese bread 🍞 served warm. Happy hour in the bar starts at 3 to 6. They serve perfect little appetizers and beer and wine. Don't tell everyone about this place. It's a cute little place. Always hopping with delicious food and great service!"

This place is so, so nice! I only wish they could actually ever unlock the bathrooms so I wouldn’t have to leave Old Town every time I need to defecate. Thanks Old Town management you guys are really killing it, the classic mark of a a really good and effective team is the INABILITY to accomplish basic tasks, and not being able to consistently unlock a door is a fantastic example of that inability. Please don’t take this as too big of an insult just use this to be better, or else I might have to take a dump in the middle of Main Street next time I have to go. ✌️💩✌️

It’s a nice little downtown spot with plenty of parking and some great shops , eateries and bars too. They have a common lawn area which is great for enjoying the outdoors in the season….

It is a cute lil plaza that meanders through 2 separate sections of shops and restaurants. Plenty of outdoor space to eat and drink. Such a wide variety of delicious restaurants in one space. You could do a bar crawl here. You can look up happy hour times for nice deals. Service staff everywhere are friendly and fast. Parking and wait times can be an issue on weekends during on season since this place is pretty popular.

A gem of a little local hideaway. Great restaurants, mountain views, parks, all walkable. Several street fairs year round.

I love this place! Restaurants, American food, Mexican food, coffee shops, clothing store, beautiful architecture. Sundays the local farmers sell fruits and vegetables.

Such lovely charming old town, wheelchair accessible, lots of restaurants and shopping, to spend an outings. Had happy hours at the La Quinta Brewery after the La Quinta Art Celebration (ranked #1 Fine Art & Craft Event in the Nation)

Charming area with one of a kind stores. Prices range from very high to definitely affordable. Friendly, helpful sales people.

4.6

(1064)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (90)

4.0

(549)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (91)

78100 Main St, La Quinta, CA 92253, USA

(760) 600-0758

I'll never travel to Palm Desert without this trip planner again

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26

Skull Rock Trail

Hiking area

Nature & Parks

Skull-shaped desert granite rock formation with 2 depressions like eye sockets created by erosion.

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Incredibly accessible, hence will be super crowded. Still worth a quick stop and a picture - you'll have other people in your Pic, just use Magic Eraser in the Pixel 6 to remove them! There are many rocks to climb here, but you should move to a different location that will be more spread out and have fewer people.

Loved Joshua Tree National Park. The rangers are super friendly and full of information. The park is very accessible, allowing some key features, such as this one, to be visible with just just a short walk. That being said, it is worth getting out of the car and walking around to explore. (All these pictures were from a 30 minute walk around Skull Rock.) Just be sure to take water and find your way back. It is also great people watching with visitors from around the world.

Skull Rock Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a delightful jaunt into nature's whimsy, featuring a natural rock formation that resembles a skull, adding a touch of playful mystery to the landscape. The trail itself offers a short and enjoyable hike, weaving through the unique rock formations and Joshua trees, providing an up-close encounter with the fascinating desert environment.The highlight, undoubtedly, is the iconic Skull Rock, a testament to the creative forces of erosion shaping the granite boulders into this uncanny likeness. Visitors of all ages will find delight in exploring this area and marveling at the skull-shaped rock. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the perfect shot amidst the scenic backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park.The Skull Rock Trail is a must-visit destination within the park, showcasing the intriguing blend of nature's artistry and the captivating allure of the desert landscape. Whether you're embarking on a family adventure or simply seeking a short and memorable hike, this trail promises an enjoyable and memorable experience

Skull Rock is a cool area with many interesting rock formations to see and climb on. It is difficult to get a good picture of the namesake because of it's large size and where you need to be to photograph it.There is a lot more to see here than just the one rock. Do take your time to explore and climb on the rocks. Fun. Fun. Fun.Across the street is another path for hiking which connects with the Split Rock Loop Trail, and I definitely recommend that.Make sure that you budget enough time to properly explore this area. Be sure to wear good walking shoes & sunscreen and bring plenty of water.

The trail itself is well-marked and moderately challenging, making it suitable for all skill levels. The scenic views along the way are breathtaking, showcasing the park's natural beauty. Be sure to bring water and sunscreen, as shade is limited. Overall, Skull Rock Trail is a memorable adventure that allows you to connect with the stunning desert landscape.

Awesome rock formation very close to the road, but hidden behind trees. There is parking right along the side of the road, well marked and paved.We just went in and out, but there is definitely more to explore beyond the skull.

Really unique and interesting rock formation, right alongside the road. In addition to this rock, there are a bunch of other rocks that are fun to walk around and explore. The whole area is really cool looking, almost like the landscape of another planetThe only reason why I can't give this 5 stars is the throngs of people you will see here. It took me forever to get photographs without multiple people in frame, and everywhere you turn you see people. I saw more people here than anywhere else in the park, hands down. Although the light is best for this feature around midday, you'd probably have a much better time seeing this early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are more manageable

The trail from the camp ground to Skull Rock has several good placards describing the plants and animals of Joshua Tree NP. Very informative!

While on our way to the Skull Rock Trail on 2-25-2018 we took in the views of the different style dwellings along the way. We noticed subtle changes in the terrain the closer we came to the trail. When we arrived, we could see the skull shaped rock protruding out the ground as if were waking from a nap. The girls had their thrill and we were ready to continue on to our next BLM spot.

This is a very popular attraction in Joshua Tree National Park. Parking is designated alongside the main road. It will be crowded. We made it here mid day and were lucky to find a parking space. Skull Rock is merely steps from the main road. Natural water erosion over time carved out what resembles a skull. I did not have time to hike the 2 mile loop trail, I stuck to just the trailhead. You can spend around 30 minutes here taking pictures and climbing on the rock formations. The kids will love climbing the rocks here. I felt like I was in Bedrock in a Flintstone cartoon movie.

Our second stop at Joshua Tree National Park was Skull Rock, and it did not disappoint! This iconic natural wonder is conveniently located right by the main road, making it easily accessible and a must-visit for all park-goers. It is also visible from your car. The granite rock's erosion created two hollowed-out eye sockets, giving it the name Skull Rock.Parking can be a bit tight, but you can always park at Jump Rocks Campground and take a short walk back to the rock. If you're up for more adventure, there's a 1.7-mile loop trail nearby to explore. The unique rock formations and the surrounding desert landscape make this a fantastic stop along your Joshua Tree journey. Don't miss it!

4.6

(2970)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (99)

4.0

(503)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (100)

Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

(760) 367-5500

27

The Cafe at Shields

Mentioned on

2 lists

$$$$affordable

Restaurant

Cafe for Mexican-inspired fare offers breakfast & lunch with outdoor seating & white umbrellas.

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There is no OBVIOUS entrance to the restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask staff for directions, it is behind the building and there is an arch on the right side too.The food and service were great! Quiet, peaceful, you can here the fountain… Romantic spot.

We enjoyed the food at The Cafe at Shields Garden. We sat outside which was shaded by umbrellas. The menu was extensive offering both Breakfast and Lunch items. I tried Date Pancakes. They had a subtle date flavor and were served with fresh dates and date butter. Fish Tacos were enjoyed by my husband. Well worth a visit.

We live right behind shields and have never been there! It was excellent! They seated us quickly, server took a little longer than desired to greet us, but they were busy! The food was excellent but a little pricy for three. After the delicious meal, we walked the grounds. Beautiful beautiful beautiful! Will return!

We had lunch with some friends and the wait staff at the cafe could not have been nicer. The food was good, the atmosphere was very nice, but the staff was exceptional. I highly recommend this cafe if ya want to have a lunch get together with friends, or if you just want a pleasant relaxing afternoon get away at a cafe with a wonderful ambiance. Just another one of the many hidden gems here in the Coachella Valley.

We went here as a group of five. We had to wait a bit to be seated (which is understandable as the spot is popular), we took that time to take a walk around the farm and by the time we were done, our table was ready. The dishes are mostly Mexican or Mexican-inspired and everything was flavourful. The entrees came in large portions. If you eat pork, you must try the bacon wrapped dates (oh my, 10/10). I would be remiss if I did not mention how kind, attentive and courteous all the servers are. I can’t wait to come back here :-)

We had a very yummy lunch. We sat on the patio which was lovely. The weather was perfect that day. I had the benedict with fruit on the side, it was delicious.The grounds were nice to walk around. The date shakes were also a must have!! Our young kids enjoyed it too.

Very kind wait staff. We're greeted at the door immediately and asked to take a seat wherever we liked either outdoor or inside. Was a bit humid outside but they had the misters on even early in the morning which helped when the breeze blew our way. Tables were clean, drinks and further service was prompt. I don't remember the name, but my breakfast chips dish was unexpectedly great. The biscuits and gravy had a very unique sauce as well. The chorizo as a side was a bit different than I normally am used to eating, but being homemade it was good in its own way. Eggs were cooked exactly how we asked them to be as well. The country potatoes were cut in bite sized chunks but not really flavored much. That's the only slight hit for me. Again, the multiple staff who hosted us were very attentive with drink refills and checking up on us throughout,yet not very pushy or annoying even when it came time to pay the bill. The place just looked a bit old and partially under construction which is the only reason for 4 stars.

I have driven over 80 miles just to have their date burger. It is without a doubt the best sandwich I’ve ever eaten. I’m not one to put anything extra on my hamburger but the dates and blue cheese and the way they fix it is out of this world. Accompanied by fresh fruit and great service

Early morning breakfast, I came with friends at 8:30am and was only the 2nd people here...by the time I left it was completely full, no tables by 10:30am. They have plenty of parking with overflow parking on the east side of the parking lot under the palm trees. The service and our waiter were amazing, we were served fast, and our server was attentive to our needs, there was 8 of us, so we used 2 tables. Breakfast was good, nothing fancy, just good breakfast. The grounds are beautiful, and the weather was nice for an early morning breakfast with friends...side note....it is Fly season and they were out in abundance trying to catch a bite so be aware of the pesky things.

Nice place with incredible food options! We had the date omelette and the burrito machaca, amazing!The service was fast and the attendants very cordial.The place has a Christian atmosphere with a garden with nice trees and some biblical passages.

4.5

(1534)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (101)

4.0

(842)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (102)

80225 CA-111, Indio, CA 92201, USA

(760) 775-0902

28

Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead & Parking

Hiking area

Nature & Parks

Canyons

Nature & Wildlife Areas

Hiking Trails

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Borrego Palm Canyon is a great trail to hike and see some great scenery, explore a canyon, and see a large oasis. The hike is about 3 miles round trip with a separate optional return trail that leads back to the parking lot. The trail follows a wash up the canyon with a great oasis as a reward as the end. A great trail to hike if visiting Anza Borrego State Park or Borrego Springs. Best to hike in the early morning on hotter days.

One of the best trails in the Anza Borrego SP. It is short, about 3 miles round trip, family friendly, full of beautiful surprises especially in winter. We hiked this trail with our two kids, they spend a lot time playing with the water and rocks. At the end of trail is the palm grove, they seem caught fire but still alive. The creek is full of water and mini waterfalls. I enjoyed this trail so much, highly recommend it.

There is a gift shop and snack bar at the parking lot. Adjacent to the parking is an ancient palm grove that has provided for the local native Americans for generations. Several hiking trails lead off into the desert and mountains.

Great hike for the early Spring. Lots of wildlife and flowers. Easy hike with some river crossings and some rock climbing that could be hard for older or handicapped folks.

Great hike! Really neat going deep into the canyon. The geology is more complex than initially thought or seems. Really cool. The alternative route is really special definitely recommend taking that route on way back. We Love this park it always amazes us.

Great easy hike (although a bit long for kids)! All you see is desert and then all the sudden you come across the oasis. It’s amazing!

We hiked the trail yesterday. It's a beautiful trail and wildflowers are starting to show. Tread mindfully if you decide to get closer to the stream or decide to pause at a rock, they grow around them too. We took the trail that followed the water and had two stream crossings to get to the start of the oasis. We learned from other hikers that there is an alternate trail with no water crossings. We didn't see any bighorn sheep but very much enjoyed the easy hike. Pick up a brochure at the trailhead entrance which will interpret the sights at numbered markers (we forgot to do this) and bring water. It's not a long hike but it's warming up so you will need to stay hydrated :-) We were also glad to have a hand towel and extra socks.

4.8

(235)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (103)

4.5

(114)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (104)

Unnamed Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, USA

(760) 767-4037

29

Cholla Cactus Garden

Vegetation

Nature & Parks

Gardens

Cactus-filled area in Joshua Tree National Park that's viewable from a flat loop walking trail.

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Definitely worth visiting to see the glowing cholla cactii stretching out for miles around you. It's suggested to visit this garden at sunrise, but the view was just as good at midday when we visited. Be very careful to not get too close - the cactus spines will attach themselves to your clothes at the slightest contact, and will not want to let go - I speak from experience.

So stunning at sunset. Great view for star gazing as well. 🫶🏻 great place to stop by at Joshua tree park

My first time to look at the Cholla Cactus! What an exotic and mystic beauty!!**Never touch or step on the Cholla!**It is indescribably hurting!!!!! Watch your step while not on the wooden trail.

Really a pretty place to stop in Joshua Tree National Park! The sun hitting the cacti was so pretty and the colors are lovely. They're serious when they say don't touch them though, the spines will really stick you. We loved visiting.

If you’re going anywhere in Joshua Tree, make sure you add the Cholla Cactus Garden to your list! We went a little before sunset and it was perfect because you could see the Cholla start to glow more and more as the light dims. Incredible experience and pretty easy to find parking around 5pm.

Went at sunrise and it was totally worth it. Amazing views. The golden fiery look is unlike any other. Worth the morning drive!

I have mixed feelings about the Cholla Cactus Garden. On one hand, the chollas are absolutely stunning and unlike any other cactus I've seen before. But on the other hand, they're incredibly dangerous. One wrong move and you could end up with a painful and difficult-to-remove cactus spines stuck in your skin. I always try to be extra careful when I'm around them, but I still have nightmares about accidentally falling into a chollas.

Gorgeous little cactus garden! Take the quarter mile loop and enjoy seeing sweeping views of the valley. Parking might be tight during busy times of year, but also not very busy closer to sunset (when we went) it’s worth it!

Good trail to wonder in the desert and admire this amazing plants. It may get bit too hot during summer or during afternoon. I would suggest carrying a small water bottle just in case. Also, please do not touch the plants as thorns are sharp and can hurt.

This place within Joshua Tree NP is an incredible natural phenomenon within a park full of amazing natural phenomenon. I recommend the drive down to this spot.

Beautiful forest of interesting cacti. Short loop through the garden. Good secluded stop towards the southern side of the park.

It was beautiful. Make sure to be before because of parking and because the glowing starts just before the sun touches the cactus. If the sun touches the cactus directly pictures aren’t going to be so good.

Beautiful specially in the evening around sunset. The unique plants in the nature. They have limited parking. Make sure you don’t go off the trail/wooden path. The thorn are dangerous and can give you a lot of trouble. So avoid touching or stepping on them. They penetrate through shoes and clothes as well.

4.8

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4.5

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California, USA

30

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Mentioned on

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State park

Sights & Landmarks

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a massive wilderness area that boasts an abundance of hiking trails, wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and cacti. It's considered one of the richest natural-history museums in the nation and features stunning desert vistas that are unmatched in their privacy and beauty. Camping opportunities abound for those seeking a more secluded experience, with plenty of space to explore off the beaten path.

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We loved our stay at Blair Valley. We got a beautiful campsite. It is a wonderful time of the year to visit. There is so much to see here. The desert is in full bloom this time of year. Will definitely return.

Beautiful slot - but NO signs as to how long and/or if it was round trip. The state park magazine said 1.5 miles round trip - but it was actually closer to 3 and there were 2 other groups down there trying to figure out if they should turn around or if the trail would loop back. Both ways worked, but there was no sign and no obvious way out.

This state park has so much space that it's incredible. If you want privacy take your car a little off the beaten path and there is plenty of spots to camp and enjoy the night. The desert is magical, spend a night out here and experience it yourself.

This is a wonderful place to explore for a day. We spent about two hours here, discovering the statues and enjoying the picturesque landscapes. It gets pretty hot here, but the desert is really nice. The roads are good, not if you want to see the statues close by though.

We saw one of the most breathtaking views of wildflower blooms here! The visitor center is good with a lot of interesting information about the park and its wildlife. Must visit if you are intrigued by desert ecosystems.

I love primitive camping and backpacking in Southern Anza-Borrego. Quiet serene, lots of big boulders and Ocotillos.I used to say the desert was mostly a wasteland, but I've learned so much about life in the desert the past 7 years. From water sources to seeing humming birds and dragon flies. The plants, the animals and the history.There's so much to experience.Avoid Mid June - Mid Sept due to heat. Winter is never too cold.

An extraordinary desert with miles and miles to explore. There is so much stuff in this state park to discover, you will need weeks to enjoy everything it offers. From spectacular dark nights for star gazing to a natural Oasis in the middle of dry land. Miles and miles for off road vehicles to enjoy. A BLM shoot area nearby to bring your guns and shoot whatever it is that you shoot. Deceloped campsites are abundant and primitive campsites are also around. Tons of RV glamping for your enjoyment. Bring water as it can get pretty hot very quick, and please keep your dogs hydrated and cooled.I recommend visiting:- The wind caves if you have high clearance vehicle and 4x4.- Borrego canyon camp site. Walk a mile in to find the Oasis- Slot canyon. No off road or 4x4 needed here. Bring a camera for sure!- Tamerisk Grove campground for cabin sleeping, but you must bring your own sleeping pad.- Drive up to Julian (outside of Anza borrego state park, just about 39 miles west) if you have time, but do it in the early part of the day as most shops and restaurants close earlier than normal.- If you have dirt toys bring them, the Ocotillo off road area is just phenomenal.

I thoroughly enjoy this, the largest state park in CA. The wild flowers are beautiful this winter. There is lots of great history to learn at the visitor centercand the park is designated as an International Night Sky destination. Many campers bring their off road vehicles in certain designated areas. A very nice park.

Amazing state park! We didn't even get to see everything but the parts we saw were so beautiful! Font's Point at sunset was so gorgeous but you definitely need 4 wheel drive to get there. The slot canyon hike was great. Visitor center was nice and the staff there were super helpful in helping us choose which hikes to do and how to get there. The Palm Canyon Oasis trail was absolutely gorgeous and 100% worth taking the time to hike. Can't wait to come back someday!

Went for my birthday weekend- absolutely incredible. Very hot during the day and throughout the evening. Temperatures drop significantly close to 10pm-11pm.

4.7

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4.5

(995)Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (108)

Borrego Springs, CA 92004, USA

(760) 767-4205

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert?

Yes! You can drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert.

How far is Palm Desert from Palm Springs by car?

The drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert is 11.8 miles (19 km).

How long does it take to drive from Palm Springs to Palm Desert?

Driving from Palm Springs to Palm Desert should take you 21 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Palm Springs to Palm Desert?

Gas from Palm Springs to Palm Desert would cost around $1 to $3, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Palm Springs to Palm Desert?

You could check out Diamond Valley Lake and Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre, or the always popular Western Science Center!

What are the best cities to visit between Palm Springs and Palm Desert?

People love visiting Greater Palm Springs, among others.

What's the weather like in Palm Springs?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

What are some other road trips from Palm Springs?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Palm Springs.

Stops and things to do on Palm Springs to Palm Desert drive or road trip (2024)
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