Palm Springs, California, might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a family vacation, especially with kids aged 9 and 13. However, our recent trip there proved to be one of the best family getaways we’ve ever experienced! This vibrant desert oasis offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and quirky charm that captivated our entire family, including our nine-pound chihuahua. Yes, you read that right – many of our favorite spots are dog-friendly, making it an ideal destination for pet owners too!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes Palm Springs an unexpectedly perfect family destination. We’ll share our top must-see attractions, reveal where we stayed and how we found amazing deals, highlight our favorite dining experiences, and even list the exciting activities we’re eager to explore on our next visit. Because one thing is for sure: we will definitely be back!
From exploring iconic roadside attractions to immersing ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes of a national park, Palm Springs delivered unforgettable moments for every member of our family. So, pack your bags, and let’s discover why this desert gem should be at the top of your family travel list!
Why Palm Springs is an Ideal Family Vacation Spot
Choosing a vacation spot that caters to both parents and children can be challenging, but Palm Springs hit all the right notes for our family. Our kids, accustomed to the East Coast, had never experienced the unique beauty of California. While cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco offer plenty, we sought a more relaxed pace, desiring to avoid the intense hustle and bustle. Palm Springs presented the perfect alternative, offering a fascinating introduction to the desert geography – a stark and beautiful contrast to what they knew.
Beyond the novelty of the landscape, Palm Springs also offered a convenient meeting point for Sherry’s mom, who resides in California, making it a wonderful opportunity for a multi-generational family gathering. The city itself boasts a vibrant personality, with distinctive mid-century modern architecture, unique art installations, and a generally laid-back yet chic atmosphere. The promise of warm weather in mid-March, perfectly aligning with our kids’ spring break, ultimately sealed our decision to visit this captivating destination.
We briefly considered other desert destinations like Sedona or Flagstaff in Arizona. However, Palm Springs proved to be logistically simpler and more cost-effective to reach from our smaller Florida airport, factoring in flight availability and pricing. This ease of access, combined with its unique attractions and family-friendly appeal, solidified Palm Springs as our family’s next adventure, and it certainly did not disappoint.
The Best Time to Visit Palm Springs for Families
Timing your visit to Palm Springs is crucial for an enjoyable family vacation. The consensus among locals and seasoned travelers is to visit during the cooler months, specifically from November through April. During this period, the desert climate is most hospitable, with average daytime temperatures comfortably ranging from the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (20s to high 20s Celsius). This moderate weather is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions, hiking, and enjoying pool time without the intense heat.
Conversely, the summer months, from May to October, bring scorching temperatures that routinely exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius). A friend who lives in Palm Springs year-round describes it as “miserable,” with temperatures often reaching 120+ degrees Fahrenheit (49+ Celsius). Even swimming pools can heat up to an uncomfortable 100 degrees (38 Celsius) or more, making daytime outdoor activities nearly impossible. During these extreme months, locals typically restrict outdoor excursions to very early mornings or late evenings.
We visited in mid-March during our kids’ spring break, and the weather was absolutely perfect, with highs consistently around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit (24-27 Celsius). Despite being a popular “tourist season,” we found that the crowds were manageable, and we didn’t encounter any excessive busyness at attractions or restaurants. The only potential downside of visiting during this desirable period can be higher prices for accommodations and flights. However, with a bit of savvy planning, such as booking an Airbnb for a few nights during the week, it’s possible to find great deals and avoid peak weekend surge pricing. We’ll share more about how we saved money on our accommodation further down.
Seamless Travel: Getting to Palm Springs
Getting to Palm Springs is part of the adventure, and you have a few excellent options depending on your priorities. For unparalleled convenience and a unique arrival experience, flying directly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is highly recommended. We chose PSP for our family trip, and it was a delightful experience. This charming airport is centrally located within the city, making the drive to most accommodations incredibly short – we reached our Airbnb in under 10 minutes!
One of the most memorable aspects of PSP is its distinctive outdoor design. Much of the airport, even beyond security checkpoints, is open-air, offering a refreshing and relaxed atmosphere. The photo below, taken after going through security on our way home, illustrates this beautifully. While it can get busy during peak travel times, our experiences have always been stress-free and easy to navigate.
Alternatively, many travelers opt to fly into larger regional airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. These airports often offer more direct flights and potentially cheaper fares. From LAX, the drive to Palm Springs typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending heavily on traffic conditions, especially when navigating the greater Los Angeles area. From Las Vegas, the drive is longer, usually around 4 hours, offering a scenic journey through the desert landscape.
If you plan to rent a car for exploring Palm Springs and its surrounding attractions – which we strongly recommend for ultimate flexibility – flying into LAX or LAS can be a great option. It transforms the journey into a mini road trip, providing an opportunity to see more of California or Nevada before reaching your primary destination. However, if ease, speed, and a uniquely pleasant airport experience are your top priorities, PSP remains the clear winner for family travel to Palm Springs.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs: Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals for Families
Choosing the right accommodation is key to a successful family vacation, and Palm Springs offers a diverse range of options. While Sherry and I previously enjoyed a stay at the iconic Saguaro Hotel during a work trip – famous for its vibrant colors and lively atmosphere – our preference shifts dramatically when traveling with kids and our dog. For family trips, vacation rentals like Airbnbs or VRBOs become our top choice, offering an entire home with ample space to spread out, a private kitchen for family meals, and often, a dedicated pool just for us.
For our recent family adventure, we rented an incredible Airbnb situated just north of downtown Palm Springs, and it truly became one of the highlights of our trip. We decided to splurge a bit, as it was a special occasion – Sherry’s birthday – and we were only staying for a few nights. Each of the three nights cost around $450, which, surprisingly, was comparable to or even less than some hotel rates during that same peak spring break week. To further offset our travel expenses, we utilized credit card points towards our flights, a strategy we highly recommend (our Capital One Venture Card proved invaluable for this).
Pro Accommodation Tip: While some luxury Airbnbs can fetch upwards of $1200 per night, we discovered a clever way to snag a deal. We looked for weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights) that were sandwiched between two other booked weekends. Hosts are often eager to fill these gaps, leading to significant markdowns due to lower demand. This flexibility can result in substantial savings, making a luxurious stay more accessible.
Our rented home was a modern oasis. The stunning views, expansive glass walls that blurred the lines between indoors and out, and the private pool and spa were undoubtedly the stars of the show. The house was immaculately clean, boasting a cool, airy, and contemporary design. Even though we have a pool at home, the kids were so enchanted by this one that we happily adjusted our sightseeing plans to allow for more time swimming and lounging as a family. It’s truly wonderful when a vacation delivers genuine relaxation! Gazing at the snow-capped mountains from our poolside retreat was an added bonus we’ll never forget.
For those interested in our specific rental, you can find it here. If this particular Airbnb isn’t available or if you don’t require dog-friendly accommodation, Palm Springs offers numerous other fantastic options. Keep in mind that prices fluctuate widely based on dates and demand. Here are a few other highly-rated family and pet-friendly vacation rentals worth exploring:
- Mid-Century Alexander Home: A classic Palm Springs architectural experience, perfect for design enthusiasts.
- Casa de Mesquite: Offers a tranquil desert retreat with modern amenities and a serene atmosphere.
- 3 Palms Retreat: A stylish and spacious home ideal for a relaxing family escape with ample comfort.
- Private Mountain View Oasis: True to its name, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and a secluded feel.
- Desert Home Oasis: Another beautiful property promising a refreshing and luxurious desert experience.
Regardless of your choice, ensure your accommodation aligns with your family’s needs and desired level of privacy and amenities. A comfortable and well-suited base will significantly enhance your Palm Springs adventure.
Unforgettable Family Activities: What We Did in Palm Springs
Our Palm Springs trip wasn’t about cramming every possible attraction into our itinerary. Instead, it was a beautiful blend of focused sightseeing and relaxed family time, especially around our amazing Airbnb pool. Between enjoying our private oasis and cherishing moments with Sherry’s mom, who joined us for swims and meals, our schedule was intentionally light. Yet, the activities we *did* prioritize were incredibly fun and memorable. Here’s a rundown of our top experiences, plus a peek at what’s on our list for next time.
Embrace the Desert Heat: Cool Off in a Pool
Without a doubt, the unexpected highlight of our trip was the pool at our Airbnb! Even with a pool and hot tub at home, the unique features of this desert pool – like the built-in basketball hoop and the elevated spa offering spectacular mountain views – kept drawing us in. With several afternoons reaching a delightful 80 degrees, the desert sun made swimming an irresistible treat. Our strong recommendation for any family visiting Palm Springs is to prioritize accommodation with an excellent pool. Whether it’s a private rental or a hotel with a fantastic aquatic area, having a refreshing place to cool off under the Californian sun is an absolute game-changer, fostering relaxation and unforgettable memories.
Explore the Heart of the City: Downtown Palm Springs
The vibrant pulse of Palm Springs beats strongest along South Palm Canyon Drive, the city’s main shopping and dining district. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a delightful mix of national chains, charming small boutiques, and quirky tourist shops where you can find unique souvenirs. We enjoyed all our dinners in this lively district, reserving our Airbnb for breakfasts and lunches. We quickly realized we wished we had more time to explore the diverse array of stores, making it a definite return spot for us. A major bonus for downtown visitors: parking is both free and abundant, making exploration incredibly convenient and stress-free for families.
A Quirky Roadside Gem: Cabazon Dinosaurs
For a dose of classic American kitsch, a 20-minute drive east of Palm Springs will lead you to the legendary Cabazon Dinosaurs. These colossal concrete dinosaurs, Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex, are iconic roadside attractions. We visited after dinner one evening to avoid the daytime heat, and it was a blast. Primarily a fantastic photo opportunity, you can also pay a small admission fee to explore an exhibit overflowing with dinosaur models and facts. This admission also grants you access inside the largest dinosaurs, allowing you to ascend to their viewing platforms, much like a lighthouse, but with a toothier exterior! Our kids loved posing for wacky photos, and we all enjoyed soaking up the campy atmosphere. During our March visit, the dinosaurs were charmingly decorated for Valentine’s Day. Even if you just want to snap a few photos of the exterior, you can do so for free from the parking lot. However, we found the paid experience of exploring inside to be well worth it for the unique perspective.
Desert Wonderland: Joshua Tree National Park
One of the greatest perks of a Palm Springs vacation is its close proximity to the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, located about an hour’s drive away. Due to restrictions on dogs on most trails within the park, we opted for a largely driving tour, punctuated by several roadside stops for exploration. This entire excursion, including a quick stop for lunch and some unique shopping in the town of Joshua Tree just outside the park, took us about 4 hours round trip from our Airbnb. It was, without question, another major highlight of our trip! We felt as if we had stepped onto another planet, and the kids are still raving about the otherworldly landscape, as are we.
Our best advice for visiting Joshua Tree is to enter through the North Entrance in Twentynine Palms, CA (conveniently located near the intersection of Utah Trail and Highway 62). While it’s about a 15-minute drive past the more commonly used West Entrance, it was absolutely worth it. We encountered NO wait at the North Entrance on a Thursday morning, while later, upon exiting at the West Entrance, we saw a line of at least 60 cars waiting to get in. From the North Entrance, we followed Park Boulevard, winding through the park and marveling at the unique Joshua trees, stunning rock formations, and diverse desert flora and fauna, before exiting at the West Entrance.
Remember to pack ample snacks and plenty of water; the desert heat and dryness are palpable even by late morning. While longer hikes are a popular option, we found our car tour with frequent stops for short explorations and rock climbing to be incredibly fulfilling and perfectly suited for a family with varying energy levels. Our favorite stop was the Live Oak Picnic Area, depicted in the photos above. It was wonderfully uncrowded, and our kids absolutely loved scrambling over the unique rock formations.
On our way out of Joshua Tree, we made a quick stop at The Rock Shop. This charming store boasts an impressive selection of crystals and geological treasures. Sherry and the kids each picked out a few special pieces to bring home as souvenirs, adding a tangible memory to their desert adventure.
Architectural Wonders: Explore the Funky Neighborhoods
Palm Springs is world-renowned for its impeccably preserved mid-century modern architecture. While Sherry and I could have happily spent an entire day touring these fascinating neighborhoods, our schedule allowed for a couple of scenic post-dinner drives instead. One of our favorite areas to cruise through was the Sahara Mobile Home Park, nestled behind the Ace Hotel. It’s a surprising showcase of unique design and a testament to the city’s architectural legacy. If you find yourself with a free afternoon, we highly recommend considering one of the historical walking or biking tours offered by the Palm Springs Historical Society. These tours offer deeper insights into the stories and designs behind these iconic homes, providing a truly enriching experience for architecture enthusiasts of all ages.
Delight Your Palate: Enjoy Delicious Dining Experiences
Palm Springs boasts an incredibly diverse and vibrant dining scene, and even on our short trip, we only managed to scratch the surface. However, the meals we did enjoy were outstanding and highly recommended for families. Everyone’s unanimous favorite dinner was at Birba (pictured above). This restaurant offered a sophisticated yet incredibly kid-friendly and even dog-friendly atmosphere, perfect for our family. Their wood-fired pizzas and fresh Italian dishes were a hit with everyone. Given its popularity, we strongly advise making a reservation in advance – ideally a few days to a week ahead, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
On our first night, we indulged in delicious tacos at El Patron (see the neon sign below). This casual spot offers a lively atmosphere and authentic Mexican flavors that are sure to please. It’s a great choice for a relaxed family dinner after a day of travel or exploration.
And I’m still dreaming about the poke burger I ordered from Haus of Poke. I picked up a to-go order, and we enjoyed it poolside at our Airbnb. It was absolutely *chef’s kiss* – a fantastic option for a fresh, delicious, and convenient meal when you want to relax at your accommodation.
On Our Next Visit: Unexplored Palm Springs Adventures for Families
While our recent trip to Palm Springs was packed with amazing memories, we know there’s still so much more to discover! Our “to-do” list for our next family adventure in this desert paradise is already quite long. Here are some of the fantastic activities and sights we’re eagerly looking forward to experiencing:
Ascend to the Peaks: Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway promises an unparalleled experience, ascending over 8,500 feet up the sheer cliffs of Chino Canyon to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. This engineering marvel features the world’s largest rotating tramcars, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below as you climb. At the Mountain Station, you’ll find observation decks, two restaurants, and over 50 miles of hiking trails. It’s a dramatic change of scenery and, more importantly, a significant drop in temperature – perfect for escaping the desert heat and enjoying a completely different climate with the kids, even snow during winter months!
Discover Desert Beauty: Hike Tahquitz Canyon Trail
Our friends highly recommended the Tahquitz Canyon Trail as one of their favorite hiking experiences in Palm Springs. This moderate, family-friendly 1.8-mile loop trail starts conveniently close to downtown and leads to a spectacular 60-foot waterfall. Beyond its natural beauty, Tahquitz Canyon holds significant cultural importance for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, with visitors able to learn about the legend of Tahquitz, a powerful shaman. It’s an excellent way to combine outdoor activity with cultural education and enjoy a refreshing natural landmark.
Cultivate Creativity: Peruse the Palm Springs Art Museum
Our kids have a genuine love for art museums, making the Palm Springs Art Museum a definite stop for our next visit. Located right downtown, it’s easily accessible and offers a diverse collection ranging from modern and contemporary art to Native American and Western American art. Even if you don’t go inside, the surrounding area is rich with public art installations and sculptures, including the impressive, larger-than-life “Forever Marilyn” statue. It promises to be a stimulating and enriching experience for the whole family, blending artistic appreciation with engaging outdoor exploration.
Encounter Desert Wildlife: Visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Located approximately 30 minutes outside of Downtown Palm Springs, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the unique ecosystems of deserts worldwide. This accredited zoo focuses on the desert environments of North America and Africa, featuring a wide array of animals from giraffes and rhinos to bighorn sheep and desert tortoises. Its botanical gardens also showcase fascinating desert flora. It’s an engaging and educational outing for children and adults alike, perfect for animal lovers and those curious about desert conservation and biodiversity.
Harnessing Nature’s Power: Tour a Wind Farm
The sight of the towering windmills outside Palm Springs is remarkably captivating. These giants of renewable energy dot the landscape, creating an impressive vista. We were all incredibly fascinated by them and regret not getting a closer look. On our next trip, an official Windmill Tour is high on our list. They even offer an app-guided driving tour, which would allow us to explore at our own pace, learning about the technology and environmental impact of these majestic structures. It’s a unique educational experience that truly showcases the intersection of nature, engineering, and sustainable practices in the desert landscape.
Adventure Off-Road: Experience a Red Jeep Tour
For an exhilarating way to explore the rugged beauty of the desert terrain, the off-road Red Jeep Tours come highly recommended. These guided tours take you deep into the desert, navigating through canyons, along fault lines, and to breathtaking viewpoints accessible only by specialized vehicles. Our kids would undoubtedly love the thrill of an open-air jeep adventure, with knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating insights into the desert’s geology, history, and ecology. It’s an immersive and memorable way to experience the unique and often unseen landscape that makes Palm Springs so special.
Vibrant Evenings: Enjoy Thursday Night VillageFest
Every Thursday evening, from October to May, Downtown Palm Springs transforms into a lively street fair known as VillageFest. This popular event features hundreds of vendors selling art, crafts, and unique souvenirs, alongside tempting food stalls and live music performances. Although we were too tired from our Joshua Tree adventure and had an early flight the next morning, we deeply regret missing this vibrant celebration of local culture. It’s definitely at the top of our list for a future Thursday night in Palm Springs, promising a lively atmosphere and a taste of local charm.
Breakfast Bliss: Have Breakfast at Cheeky’s
Two different friends enthusiastically recommended Cheeky’s for breakfast, making it a must-try for our next visit. Interestingly, it’s owned by the same team behind Birba, our favorite dinner spot, and they’re conveniently located right next door to each other. If Cheeky’s breakfast offerings are even half as delightful as our dinner experience at Birba, we are absolutely certain to love it. Known for its creative and fresh farm-to-table breakfast and brunch items, it promises a delicious and memorable start to any Palm Springs day, especially for those who appreciate high-quality, inventive cuisine.
Your Palm Springs Family Adventure: A Summary
To help you plan your ultimate family vacation, here’s a concise summary of all the fantastic sights, delicious eats, and exciting activities we’ve discussed for your trip to Palm Springs with kids (and dogs!).
- Stroll and shop in Downtown Palm Springs for souvenirs and vibrant city life.
- Pose for fun photos at the quirky Cabazon Dinosaurs.
- Embark on an epic driving tour (with stops!) through Joshua Tree National Park.
- Discover unique crystals and souvenirs at The Rock Shop near Joshua Tree.
- Take a scenic drive through architecturally rich mid-century modern neighborhoods, like Sahara Mobile Home Park.
- Savor memorable meals at Birba, El Patron, Haus of Poke, and plan a delicious breakfast at Cheeky’s.
- Experience breathtaking views and cooler temperatures on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
- Hike to a stunning waterfall on the family-friendly Tahquitz Canyon Trail.
- Immerse yourselves in art and culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum (and don’t miss the iconic Marilyn Monroe statue!).
- Learn about desert wildlife and plants at the engaging Living Desert Zoo & Gardens.
- Gain insight into renewable energy with an educational Wind Farm Tour.
- Seek adventure off-road with a thrilling Red Jeep Tour.
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere of VillageFest if you’re visiting on a Thursday evening.
- And, of course, beat the desert heat by spending quality time in a refreshing pool at your hotel or Airbnb – an absolute must for any Palm Springs family trip.
Palm Springs truly is a versatile destination, offering something for every family member. From adventurous explorations to relaxing poolside afternoons, your desert escape is sure to be filled with cherished moments. We hope our experiences inspire your next unforgettable family trip!
Explore More Family-Friendly Destinations
If you’ve enjoyed our take on family travel to Palm Springs and are seeking inspiration for your next adventure, we invite you to explore our other guides to fantastic kid-friendly destinations. We love sharing our experiences to help fellow families plan unforgettable trips!
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- A Weekend in Charleston, South Carolina with Kids
- A Weekend In New Orleans With Kids
- 2 Days In St. Petersburg, Florida with Kids
- Things to Do In Gatlinburg, TN
- Our Trip to Mexico with Kids… and a Dog!
- A Daddy-Daughter Trip to South Dakota
- A Nature-Centric Weekend in Serenbe, GA
- Costa Rica with Kids
- Hawaii with a Toddler
- A Guide to Our (Former) Beach Town: Cape Charles, Virginia
- Our Favorite Activities, Shops, & Eats in Richmond, Virginia
- Celebrating 10 Years of Marriage in Puerto Rico
- Our Favorite Spring Break Trip Yet
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