Palm Springs' reputation as LA’s desert playground began in the 1920s when it became the destination du jour for Hollywood’s brightest stars. A century later, Los Angelenos and SoCal locals still flock to the Sonoran Desert city. Mid-century modern architecture, chic hotels, and pool parties are still top of the list for any itinerary. Hikes into the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains and Indian Canyons are becoming increasingly popular things to do in Palm Springs.
The blazing heat of Palm Springs lingers from May through September, often reaching past 100°F (38°C). Some local spots may not be open during this time. Daytime temperatures cool starting in November, but peak season is January through April. This is when visitors from colder climates come to the desert resort city to golf, lounge poolside, and hike.
The popular Modernism Week, showcasing the city’s iconic mid-century modern architecture, draws a crowd in February.
Like other Southern California cities, Palm Springs is best navigated by car, especially if you will be exploring farther-flung places such as Joshua Tree National Park or the Coachella Valley Preserve. However, if your plans are to hang poolside or keep within the pedestrian-friendly downtown, you can do without. Many hotels offer beach cruisers, which are great for cool morning rides. SunLine routes 1, 2, and 4 will get you around the city with fares around US$1.
Palm Springs is surrounded by natural desert beauty that is worth exploring on foot, by bike, on horseback, or via ATV. Head a few miles outside of town to find Indian Canyons on the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation. Here you’ll find a running river, palm oases, and skirted palm trees. There are several family-friendly hikes within Andrea, Murray, and Palm canyons that range from a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) loop to a 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) out-and-back trail.
