Explore family-friendly activities and site-seeing in Palm Springs and Area, including free or low cost ideas.
Palm Springs, with its Hollywood history and breathtaking desert landscapes, is a dream destination for many. The warm sunsets over the mountains and the vibrant desert flowers create an enchanting atmosphere.
While a visit can be costly, my family has found a way to experience this paradise without draining our wallets – by staying in RV parks.
Join me as I share a list of recommendations including free or inexpensive things to do in Palm Springs with your loved ones, exploring the historic Old Las Palmas neighborhood known for its unique mix of Spanish Colonial and mid-century modern architecture.
1. Civic Center Park in Palm Desert
Embrace nature at Civic Centre Park, a peaceful retreat with open spaces and scenic views. Enjoy a family picnic or take a leisurely stroll around the park's walking paths. There's a really nice covered playground for the kids to play, along with seating for parents.
Check if there are any events going on. While we were there, the Desert Kids Fest was on, which had a bunch of fun booths for kids, including free face painting and a really fun scavenger hunt for the kids.
2. Street Fair at College of the Desert
Experience the vibrant Street Fair at the College of the Desert, where local artisans showcase their crafts. It's a lively event that offers a taste of the community's creativity.
3. Sunnylands Centre and Gardens
Step into the historical Sunnylands Centre and Gardens, where you can explore beautiful landscapes and learn about the area's rich history. It's a perfect blend of nature and culture.
4. Shields Date Farm
Indulge in a unique experience at Shields Date Farm. For just $5 per adult, take a walk behind the patio, enjoy the gentle patio music, and savor the best date shake ever. Don't forget to try their date crystals for a tasty treat at home.
5. El Paseo Outdoor Luxury Shopping Mall
Stroll through El Paseo, an outdoor luxury shopping mall, where you can window shop or find great deals. It's a delightful way to spend an afternoon without spending a fortune.
6. Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden
Marvel at artistic creations in the Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden in Palm Desert, a serene space filled with captivating sculptures. It's a hidden gem that provides a peaceful escape.
7. Old Las Palmas Neighborhood
Explore the historic Old Las Palmas neighborhood, where the streets tell a tale of the past. The architecture is a captivating mix of Spanish Colonial from the 1920s and mid-century modern from the 1950's and 1960's.
Take a leisurely walk through its streets, appreciating the unique character of this area. Remember to be respectful and stick to the sidewalk to admire these timeless gems. Some homes may prefer no photographs.
8. Minerva Road - Candy Cane Lane (Christmas Time Only)
Witness the holiday spirit on Minerva Rd's Candy Cane Lane, where festive lights adorn the neighborhood. It's a magical display that will enchant the entire family.
9. Cabazon Dinosaurs
These giant creatures stand tall throughout the year and are a great site to visit for a short walk and viewing. These fun dinosaur statues are massive! Its quite a neat outing for the kids.
During certain times of the year, they are painted in themes. For example, leading up to Valentines, they are painted in a pink and red theme,
A visit during Christmas means their holiday spirit comes to life as they are painted in a festive Christmas theme during the Christmas season. It's an enchanting experience for the whole family, adding a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations.
10. Dessert Hills and Cabazon Outlets
Do your shopping at the Dessert Hills Premium Outlets or the Cabazon Outlets in Cabazon, where you can find great deals on all sorts of things including clothing and footwear. It's a shopper's paradise during the holiday season or any time of the year. Both outlets are located in close proximity to each other.
11. Angel Cove Monument (also known as Angel on the Mountain)
Visit the Angel Cove State Monument and embrace the serenity of this beautiful view. It's a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of this unique rock formation. Here is a map to get there.
12. Aerial Tramway
Soar to new heights with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a memorable experience that adds a touch of adventure to your Christmas festivities.
13. Drive by Windmills
Enjoy a scenic drive by the iconic windmills, following Interstate 10 near Palm Springs. It's a picturesque journey that showcases the beauty of the desert.
14. Palm Springs Windmill Tours
Explore the Palm Springs Windmill Tours, Parking Lot located along 20th Ave., where you can learn about the fascinating technology behind these towering structures.
15. Coachella Valley Preserve
Discover the beauty of Coachella Valley Preserve, a serene oasis amid the desert landscape. Take a peaceful stroll and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
16. Walk Downtown Palm Springs
Experience the charm of downtown Palm Springs with a leisurely walk. Explore shops, cafes, and the local atmosphere in this vibrant area.
17. See Forever Marilyn Statue
Pay homage to Hollywood history by visiting the 26 foot Forever Marilyn statue. It's a must-see for fans of the iconic actress and adds a touch of glamour to your Palm Springs adventure. The statue can be found at the corn of Museum Way and Belardo Road in Palm Springs.
18. Palm Dessert Trampoline Park
Take a few hours out of your day to take the kids to Palm Dessert and check out Get Air Trampoline Park. I took my kids here and they had a blast. Visiting a trampoline park is one of their favourite things to do - and it burns off so much of their energy!
They love the freedom of jumping around all the open trampolines and jumping into the sponge pits. Before you go, buy your tickets online as there are often discounts available for online purchases.
19. Visit an All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
We went to the Emperor Buffet in Rancho Mirage for lunch and it was delicious! We prefer a late lunch so we arrived at around 1:30 PM. We opted for the week-day lunch to save a bit money. The adult and child pricing does vary (your child's age matters too) but we were all able to dine for under $75.
There was no line up (it was Friday!) so we were seated right away. As soon as we sat down, we ordered drinks (side note: beverages other than water are not included in the all-you-can-eat buffet pricing), and got up right away to head to the buffet area.
The pricing and star rating for this place was perfect! It was a great balance of quality food at an affordable price.
Palm Springs is not just for the rich and famous – it's a paradise that families can explore without breaking the bank. From scenic parks to festive holiday lights, there's something for everyone.
Embrace the beauty of Palm Springs on a budget, including the historic charm of Old Las Palmas, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
20. Explore Events at Empire Polo Club
Throughout the year, Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA hosts a variety of public events. Nestled within the stunning Coachella Valley of Riverside County, the expansive 100-acre grounds of the Empire Polo Club create a picturesque setting for entertainment and leisure.
I highly recommend checking the Empire Polo Club website for upcoming public events. One notable event worth considering is the Magic of Lights, a spectacular drive-through Christmas lights experience held leading up to and after Christmas-time from November to January.
21. Moorten Botanical Garden
Step into a desert oasis at Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs, where you can explore a diverse collection of cacti and succulents from around the world. Founded in 1938 by Patricia and Chester Moorten, this family-owned garden offers a tranquil escape into the beauty of desert flora.
22. Covered Wagon Tours
Experience the Old West in style with covered wagon tours in the scenic landscapes surrounding Palm Springs. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours provide a glimpse into the region's rich history and natural wonders, offering a unique way to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the desert.
23. Lappert's Super Premium Ice Cream
Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to Lappert's Super Premium Ice Cream in Palm Desert. Since 1981, Lappert's has been delighting locals and visitors alike with their rich and creamy ice cream flavors, crafted from the finest ingredients and served in a charming, welcoming atmosphere.
24. Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory
Discover the wonders of the cosmos at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory, where public stargazing sessions are held several nights a week. This state-of-the-art observatory offers visitors the chance to observe celestial phenomena such as Saturn, the moon, and distant galaxies in the evenings. It is free and no registration is required. They also offer Observatory tours during the daytime. Check out their website for all the details.
25. Anza-Borego Metal Sculptures
Marvel at the larger-than-life Anza-Borrego metal sculptures scattered throughout the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Created by artist Ricardo Breceda, these stunning works of art depict prehistoric creatures, mythical beasts, and desert wildlife, adding an element of whimsy and wonder to the rugged desert landscape.
26. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Embark on a journey through desert ecosystems from around the world at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert. Home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, this unique attraction offers immersive exhibits, scenic walking trails, and engaging educational programs for visitors of all ages.
27. Air Museum
Take flight into aviation history at the Palm Springs Air Museum, where vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits pay tribute to the heroes of air combat. From World War II bombers to modern fighter jets, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of flight and the bravery of those who took to the skies.
28. Mane Street Stampede Wild West Show
Gear up for an authentic Western experience with Mane Street Stampede Wild West Show, captivating audiences in Pioneertown, California. Catch their thrilling performances every second and fourth Saturday from October through Memorial Day, right in front of Pioneer Bowl. Offering free family entertainment against the backdrop of Pioneertown's rustic charm, it's an adventure not to be missed.
29. VillageFest in Downtown Palm Springs
Experience the vibrant energy of VillageFest, held every Thursday night in downtown Palm Springs. Featuring local artisans, street performers, and delicious cuisine from around the world, this beloved street fair offers a lively atmosphere where you can shop, dine, and dance the night away under the stars.
30. Wildlights at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Celebrate the holiday season with dazzling light displays and festive cheer at WildLights at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Twinkling lights and holiday music create a magical ambiance as you wander through illuminated pathways and encounter enchanting wildlife. Occurs select dates between November and December.
31. Glow In The Park at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Experience enchantment at Glow in the Park, a dazzling celebration of lights at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Step into a magical world this spring, where over a hundred Chinese lanterns, meticulously crafted by artisans, illuminate the wonders of wildlife from across the globe and throughout history. Available on select dates between March and April, this immersive event promises an unforgettable journey through illuminated pathways and captivating displays, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
31. Palm Springs Library
Immerse yourself in literature and learning at the Palm Springs Library, where a vast collection of books, multimedia resources, and educational programs await. From children's storytime sessions to author readings and cultural events, this community hub offers something for readers of all ages and interests. Check out their website for details on upcoming events.
32. Palm Desert Community Center and Gymnasium
Stay active and healthy at the Palm Desert Recreation Center, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of recreational activities for the whole family. Whether you're hitting the gym, taking a fitness class, or enjoying outdoor sports fields and playgrounds, this dynamic destination encourages fun and wellness for everyone. Find out about community events taking place.
33. Joshua Tree National Park
With its iconic Joshua trees, towering rock formations, and breathtaking desert landscapes, this renowned park offers hikers an unparalleled outdoor experience. Download the AllTrail app before you go and be sure to select kid-friendly hikes with the search filter.
34. Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
There are many events happening at this long-running festival occurring in February. From concerts, derby and monster truck shows, the possibilities are endless. The fair also offers a carnival. Find out more information, such as event dates and ticket pricing DateFest.org.
