Top Reasons to Visit Greater Palm Springs This Summer: Attractions, Events & Deals
Experience the perfect summer getaway in Greater Palm Springs, your desert oasis for relaxation, adventure, and vibrant local culture. From exhilarating outdoor pursuits and poolside lounging to exploring iconic attractions, there's something for everyone.
Where to Visit
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Beat the heat with a scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world's largest rotating tramcar, up to the cooler San Jacinto Mountains. Discover two restaurants, observation decks, a natural history museum, documentary theaters, a gift shop, and over 50 miles of hiking trails. Summer passes are available ($80 adults/seniors, $40 children ages 3-10). Opt for the Ride ‘n’ Dine package: 4 p.m. tram admission with dinner at Pines Café ($36 adults/seniors, $23.50 children 3-10).
Tahquitz Canyon
Embark on an early morning hike and picnic in historic Tahquitz Canyon, once inhabited by the indigenous Cahuilla people. Marvel at ancient rock art, irrigation systems, native wildlife and plants, culminating in a stunning 60-foot seasonal waterfall. Pack accordingly for a refreshing dip!
Palm Springs Art Museum
Unleash your creativity at the Palm Springs Art Museum in Downtown Palm Springs. Explore modern and contemporary art, dynamic exhibitions, Native American works, and more. Free admission Thursdays 5-7 p.m. Don't miss the Architecture and Design Center and Sculpture Garden in Palm Desert.
Featured exhibitions have included:
- Lines in the Sand
- Hugh Kaptur: Organic Desert Architecture
- A Tribute to Steve Chase
- Photography From the Permanent Collection: A Closer Look
- Shoulder to Shoulder: Depicting the Figure
The Annenberg Theater
Within the Palm Springs Art Museum, the esteemed Annenberg Theater hosts the Summer Film Series and special performances. Check their events page for the latest schedule.
Palm Springs International Short Film Festival
The renowned Palm Springs International ShortFest celebrates short films from around the world. This annual June event (typically mid-June) features ~325 shorts in 90-minute themed programs at Camelot Theatres (Palm Springs Cultural Center). Buy passes and tickets via the festival website.
Cool Things To Do
Attend Splash House
Dance the summer away at Splash House, the desert's top electro-music pool party at Renaissance Palm Springs, The Saguaro Hotel & Pool, and Riviera Palm Springs. Enjoy two weekends of festivities (early June and early August). Passes include resort access and shuttles. After-hours passes grant entry to nighttime events at the Palm Springs Air Museum (9 p.m.-2 a.m.).
Live it up at ARRIVE
Embrace 'Swim, sip and sway' at ARRIVE Palm Springs. Groove to Spin N’ Splash DJ sets poolside every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. ($10 admission, 21+).
Party at Hotel Zoso
Downtown Palm Springs' Hotel Zoso buzzes with summer vibes. Catch SoundSplash! poolside concerts featuring Surf/Pop/Reggae band Bikini Trill on select evenings (doors 5:30 p.m.), DaySwim Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m., or Sundia Day Club Sundays with Latin beats 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Chill at Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Relax amid boho décor and desert vistas at Ace Hotel & Swim Club. Lounge by the pools, book a Feel Good Spa treatment, and savor dishes like Bacon Wrapped Dates at King’s Highway.
Cool Off at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa
Rent a private cabana at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, complete with flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, misters, fans, and mini-fridge. Dive into the pools and dine from the poolside bar and grill.
More Reasons to Visit
Save With Chill Deals
Summer is prime time for Chill Deals via the Greater Palm Springs site. Score discounts on hotels, packages, activities, and tours to maximize your desert adventure.
Score Summer Specials
Coachella Valley resorts, spas, and eateries offer summer specials. Example: Hotel Paseo's packages with $100 resort credit, late checkout, breakfast in bed, shopping discounts, and poolside service.
Experience New Restaurants
Complete your trip with fresh flavors from these spots:
- Sixth Street Coffee (Coachella)
- Tea Be Honest (Palm Desert)
- Kitchen 86 + Bar (Palm Desert)
- Ramen Musashi (Palm Desert)
- Tac/Quila (Downtown Palm Springs)
Want more? Read Best Pools to Chill at This Summer in Greater Palm Springs!
