Ultimate 3-Day Desert Itinerary: Explore the Stunning Landscapes Around Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs is world-renowned for its perfect weather, midcentury modern architecture, indoor/outdoor lifestyle, and world-class golf and tennis, all set against breathtaking desert beauty. This creates the ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures. Our expert-curated 3-day itinerary lets you explore the area's indigenous landscapes, iconic landmarks, surrounding desert regions, and unique flora and fauna for an unforgettable experience.
DAY ONE
Breakfast at Farm
Fuel up for your day with a hearty breakfast at Farm in downtown Palm Springs. Savor Provençal-inspired dishes like duck confit omelet, Portobello shiitake Gruyère crepe, chicken and waffles, or caramelized banana French toast.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to San Jacinto Peak Hike
Board the rotating tramcar for a 2.5-mile ascent above the valley floor. At the mountain station, embark on the popular 11-mile round-trip hike to San Jacinto Peak, winding through rugged terrain, towering pines, and alpine meadows to panoramic 360-degree vistas.
Post-Hike Relaxation at Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa
Retreat to this exclusive Desert Hot Springs resort, a celebrity favorite. Dine healthily at Essence Restaurant, then unwind in the healing mineral waters of the Grotto. Midnight starlit soaks are a must.
DAY TWO
Drive to the High Desert
Start with morning tea or coffee and a spa treatment before departing via Highway 62, crossing the Little San Bernardino Mountains into the High Desert.
Lunch at Crossroads Cafe
This funky local favorite serves climbers and cyclists. Try the signature 'Dirt Bag'—chicken cilantro soup over a biscuit—plus vegan and vegetarian options to power your afternoon adventures.
Afternoon in Joshua Tree National Park
Discover nearly 800,000 acres of dramatic desert, boulder-strewn landscapes, and iconic Joshua trees. Drive scenic routes, hike trails, and visit the historic Oasis of Mara nature walk.
Check in to the 29 Palms Inn
This family-owned gem offers simple elegance with wood-frame cabins around an oasis or historic 1943 adobe bungalows with private patios. Freshen up for high-desert nightlife.
Dinner and Live Music at Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown
Visit this 1940s Old West movie set turned vibrant destination. Enjoy mesquite-grilled BBQ and nightly live music at the legendary saloon—past performers include Paul McCartney.
Stargaze at Sky’s The Limit Observatory
Cap the night with telescope viewing of the pristine, star-filled skies at this premier observatory.
DAY THREE
Breakfast at Natural Sisters Cafe
Refuel at this health-food spot with sprouted English muffins, veggie-packed omelets, granola, or the Rock Climber’s Revenge smoothie (banana, cashews, soy milk).
Explore Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain
Drive 37 minutes via Box Canyon Road to the Salton Sea, once a Hollywood hotspot and now a key bird migration site. Visit the Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge, then head to Niland for Leonard Knight’s vibrant Salvation Mountain—a folk-art tribute to faith built from painted hay bales, adobe, and scriptures.
To-Go Lunch at TKB Bakery
Return to Coachella Valley and grab a stuffed deli sandwich with crunchy potato chips at TKB in Indio.
Tour Sunnylands
Explore this historic estate, founded by Walter and Leonore Annenberg as a leaders’ retreat. Wander the 17,000 sq ft Midcentury Modern building, nine-acre gardens, or join a guided tour.
Visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Conclude your afternoon at this world-class preserve featuring desert animals from around the globe—cheetahs, oryx, bobcats—and interactive exhibits on flora.
Shop and Dine on El Paseo
Wrap up with luxury shopping amid art galleries on Palm Desert’s El Paseo, dubbed 'Rodeo Drive of the Desert.' Dine at spots like Mastro’s Steakhouse or Wolfgang Puck’s for every palate.
