3 Perfect Days in Palm Springs, California
Updated: Sep 8
Summer looks a little different in Palm Springs, California - in the best way possible! While many travelers head for crowded beaches and busy destinations, Palm Springs offers a more relaxed approach to the season, with sun-soaked days, poolside afternoons, scenic mountain views, and vibrant evenings downtown.
Staying at Palm Springs Tennis Club or Vista Mirage Resort puts you in one of the city's most desirable locations. Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains and just a short walk from Palm Canyon Drive, it's an ideal home base for enjoying everything from local dining and cultural attractions to relaxing afternoons by the pool.
Here's how to spend three perfect summer days in Palm Springs, balancing adventure, relaxation, and some of the desert's most iconic experiences.
Day 1: Discover Downtown
Arrival & Check-In:
- Arrive in Palm Springs and settle into Palm Springs Tennis Club or Vista Mirage Resort. Both are in convenient locations, making it easy to begin exploring the area right away!
- Take a stroll through Downtown Palm Springs. Palm Canyon Drive is lined with boutiques, galleries, public art installations, and some of the city's most popular restaurants.
Afternoon: Culture & Local Flavor
- Enjoy lunch at Lulu California Bistro. A longtime Palm Springs favorite known for its expansive menu, colorful atmosphere, and people-watching patio.
- Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum. Explore contemporary art, photography, architecture, and rotating exhibitions in one of the city's cultural landmarks.
- Browse the Uptown Design District. Discover vintage shops, home décor boutiques, and galleries showcasing Palm Springs' iconic design heritage.
Evening: Dining & Desert Night
s- Enjoy dinner at Tac/Quila. This award-winning restaurant serves elevated Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails in a lively setting.
- Walk through Downtown Palm Springs after sunset. The warm desert evenings and illuminated palms create a distinctly Palm Springs atmosphere.
Day 2: Scenic Landscapes
Morning: Breakfast & Adventure
- Start your day at Farm. One of Palm Springs' most beloved breakfast spots, known for its French-inspired dishes and charming courtyard.
- Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Travel from the desert floor to over 8,500 feet above sea level while taking in spectacular Coachella Valley views.
Afternoon: Explore Above the Desert
- Enjoy lunch at Peaks Restaurant. Located at the top of the tramway, it offers panoramic views alongside classic American fare.
- Explore Mount San Jacinto State Park. Several easy walking paths and overlooks allow you to experience an entirely different landscape from the desert below.
- Visit Moorten Botanical Garden. This compact but fascinating botanical collection features thousands of desert plants from around the world.
Evening: Elevated Dining & Cocktails
- Enjoy dinner at Copley's on Palm Canyon. Located on the former Cary Grant estate, this longtime favorite blends history, atmosphere, and exceptional cuisine.
- Stop by Bar Cecil. Known for its stylish setting and expertly crafted cocktails, it's become one of Palm Springs' most popular evening destinations.
- Return to your resort after a full day of exploring. Time to unwind!
Day 3: Desert Beauty
Morning: Brunch & Exploration
- Enjoy brunch at Cheeky's. A Palm Springs institution famous for creative breakfast dishes and fresh ingredients.
- Visit Indian Canyons. Home to scenic hiking trails, palm groves, and stunning desert landscapes, it's one of the area's most iconic outdoor experiences.
Late Morning: Shopping & Local Favorites
- Browse The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five. This collection of boutique retailers, home décor stores, and local businesses offers a uniquely Palm Springs shopping experience.
- Stop by Great Shakes. Their famous date shakes are considered a must-try desert tradition.
- Spend your final hours poolside or exploring downtown. Palm Springs rewards both activity and relaxation equally well.
Departure:
- Return to the resort to check out. Its central location makes for an easy departure.
- Take one final drive through the city. The mountain views, palm-lined streets, and desert scenery make a memorable farewell.
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