UNPLUG AND EXPLORE OTHERWORLDLY LANDSCAPES

The area’s natural wonders provide a breathtaking way to reconnect with nature and leave the ordinary behind. Lush palm groves, steep canyons, and seasonal waterfalls (yes, waterfalls!) beckon in the Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon, the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. An hour away, Joshua Tree National Park’s surreal rock formations and ancient trees create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. And for an immersive experience, book a guided Jeep tour to see slot canyons and sweeping desert vistas at the San Andreas Fault.

ASCEND TO NEW HEIGHTS ON THE PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY

Who says you can’t touch the sky? Hop aboard the world’s largest rotating tramcar and prepare to soar 8,500 feet above the desert floor. As the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway slowly spins, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that stretch across the rugged cliffs and distant peaks. Once you reach the top, you’ll feel the cool mountain air, wander along scenic trails, and perhaps enjoy a meal with an unbeatable view at Peaks Restaurant.

TAKE A DIP IN EXTRAORDINARY POOLS

Wherever you dive in, the pools here make every splash feel magical. Lounge poolside with your toes in the sandy beach at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa Indian Wells or let your inner child out to play on the dueling waterslides at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas. The cliffside infinity pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage offers sweeping views that blend luxury with natural beauty, while the new Palm Springs Surf Club welcomes beginners and pros alike to ride perfect waves all year long, no coastline required (and if catching some waves isn't your thing, feel free to soak up the sun while floating down the meandering lazy river). 

GET UP CLOSE WITH WILDLIFE AT THE LIVING DESERT

At the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, you can hand-feed a giraffe, stroll through a wallaby habitat where these cute creatures hop by your side, or sign up for a close encounter with a magnificent black rhino (one of the zoo’s key conservation initiatives). And it’s not just fun — The Living Desert is deeply committed to conservation, so every visit supports their vital efforts to protect desert ecosystems and endangered species. It’s an extraordinary way to experience nature while making a difference. 

SAVOR SOMETHING OUT-OF-THE-ORDINARY

Even the culinary scene in Greater Palm Springs defies the usual, with exclusive experiences such as PS Underground, a secret supper club known for its themed menus, and celebrity favorites like Nobu, located inside the renowned Indian Wells Tennis Garden (the Blueberry Yuzu Tennis Ball dessert is a must — only served here). At the refreshed Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas, acclaimed Chef Angelo Sosa debuts two new restaurant concepts: Tía Carmen, paying homage to Chef Sosa's aunt and celebrating the local landscape and community of the Southwest, and Carmocha, offering globally inspired plates with a personal touch. Even more culinary excitement awaits at nearby Indian Wells Golf Resort, where celebrity chef Richard Blais is set to debut Kestrel Kitchen + Lounge, serving wood-fired steaks, handmade pasta, and the first-ever liquid nitrogen margarita. For a dining experience as vibrant as the destination itself, swing by the Mediterranean- and Moroccan-inspired Pink Cabana. Or even treat your furry friend to a meal off the dog menu at Michelin-recommended Boozehounds Palm Springs (humans welcome, too!). 

CELEBRATE ART & MUSIC IN UNEXPECTED PLACES

Home to iconic festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach, Greater Palm Springs has a deep connection to creativity and culture, and you’ll find art woven into every corner. Stroll through the Coachella Walls, a collection of large-scale murals that celebrate the region’s history, or find inspiration among colorful works and installations in downtown Indio. Catch live music year-round in intimate settings like Little Street Music Hall (where local artists get to take center stage) or the legendary Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace near Joshua Tree (if you’re into rustic western vibes). 

CHILL OUT AT ACRISURE ARENA

This 11,000-seat venue is home to the Seattle Kraken’s AHL franchise, the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there’s nothing quite like watching a hockey game in this sun-kissed desert oasis — it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. And it’s not just about hockey; Acrisure Arena also hosts electrifying concerts and life performances throughout the year (past acts include Harry Styles, Fleetwood Mac, and the Eagles), making it a top spot for entertainment. 

STAY IN STYLE 

Greater Palm Springs is home to some truly one-of-a-kind resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals that take your stay to the next level. At the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, you can hop on a boat in the lobby and glide across the property’s picturesque lake to your dinner reservation. Over at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa, citrus trees aren’t just for decoration; they pick fresh fruit to use in handcrafted cocktails, giving you a true taste of the destination. The highly anticipated and newly opened Thompson Palm Springs brings modern luxury to the heart of downtown, featuring a midcentury-inspired design, two skyline pools (with panoramic mountain views), and a Napa Valley tasting room. And of course, there’s the ever-chic Parker Palm Springs, with its instantly recognizable breeze block entrance and playful, midcentury modern design. If staying at a vacation rental is in your sights, you'll find plenty of incredible options, including some with truly unique pools.

REJUVENATE IN HOT MINERAL SPRINGS

From ancient mineral-rich waters to cutting-edge spa treatments, Greater Palm Springs offers a chance to discover a new level of relaxation. Begin your wellness journey at The Spa at Séc-he in downtown Palm Springs, where you can soak in waters that have been bubbling beneath the earth for over 12,000 years. Or head to Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis in Desert Hot Springs and sink into the warm embrace of an outdoor tub as the sun sets behind the mountains, painting the landscape in shades of pink, purple, and gold.

ACE YOUR GAME

Whether you’re teeing off or playing a match point, you’ll find some of the most extraordinary backdrops for outdoor recreation. Tennis fans will love La Quinta Resort & Club, where you can serve on their sunken tournament-style center court with stunning mountain views. If golf is more your style, you can play on legendary courses at PGA West, known as the “Western Home of Golf in America,” or wait until the sun goes down for Shots in the Night, an after-dark golf experience at Indian Wells Golf Resort  with colorful lasers, music, food, and more. 

ESCAPE AWAITS

No matter where your whim takes you, Greater Palm Springs invites you to explore, discover, and escape the ordinary at every turn.