Things to Do in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is really colorful, and I’m not only referring to the population. Of course, I’m often coming from a gray New York City, but even when I arrive during the summer when my own environs are nice and green, Palm Springs is just so bright and well … colorful—from the eye-popping blue skies to the astro turf-green grass to the bright lemon and grapefruit orchards. 

The city was in its heyday back in the 1950s and '60s, but it's been making a comeback the past decade, drawing celebrities again, retro lovers, gay and lesbian travelers, even families. Here are some of the top things to do and attractions to check out on your next Palm Springs vacation.

Sunny Palm Springs Weather

With 354 days of sun and less than six inches of rain per year—the weather is one of the biggest draws. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Palm Springs, especially outdoors. Spring and fall are perfection, but winter can get a little chilly. Although winter temperatures range from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, a chaise in the direct afternoon sun can still heat you up just fine—and goes nicely with a margarita. Plus, heated pools and hot tubs are all over the place and often they’re empty, since the natives think it’s really winter.

 

• A mister in downtown Palm Springs keeps pedestrians cool on a hot, desert day.

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In summer, things turn inward and more air-conditioned with a few months of endless days hitting well over 100 degrees. Head out at 7 a.m. and the streets are filled with joggers, strollers and dog walkers. Cafés like Koffi on North Palm Canyon Drive, is already full and everyone is getting their fill of the great outdoors before the mercury makes it too hot for many.

If you don’t mind hot weather, summer is a great time to visit. Things are cheaper and the midday streets can be almost empty. Enter just about any store and you’ll be treated like a long lost relative. The many outdoor cafés have mist machines that make it fairly pleasant to sit outside in the shade, just about any summer day.

Tee Time

The clear air, blue skies and green green grass are ideal for golf, which is why it boasts more than 100 courses in the area and is often dubbed the "Golf Capital of the World."

 

• Nearly every day is a good day to golf in Palm Springs.

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An 18-hole favorite is Oasis in Palm Desert (42330 Casbah Way, Palm Desert). La Quinta Resort & Club, opened in 1926, was one of the reasons celebrities ventured out to the desert in the first place.  

Indian Canyons Golf Resort (1097 E. Murray Canyon Drive, Palm Springs; tel. 760-327-6550, indiancanyonsgolf.com) is like a golfer’s mirage. Look up and see the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains. Look out and see two very different golf courses that are standouts in every way. The South Course boasts more than 850 palm trees. The North Course is set along the Canyon region, amid glorious mid-century modern homes and spectacular mountain vistas. Open to the public, this course is a must, if golf is on your agenda. Rental clubs are available, if you don’t want to lug your own.

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