From the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to Entertaining Escape Rooms, Hereās How to Stay Cool in the Desert
A trip to Greater Palm Springs is calling your name! Between the regionās laid-back resort culture and abundance of activities, you and your family will never run out of things to do. And when you’ve had your fill of relaxing by one of Greater Palm Springs‘ many chilled pools, you may feel like heading indoors for some shade. Lucky for you, these nine cities know how to keep their visitors cool, offering a variety of indoor experiences. During the day, you can soar into the clouds, explore historic planes up-close, plunge into chilled pools and discover one refreshing destination for all your shopping desires. Lead your family on an expedition to enticing escape rooms and game rooms for all ages. These eight air-conditioned activities in Greater Palm Springs will keep you cool and allow you to make the most of your sun-drenched getaway. Palm Springs Summer Activities
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Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the coolest escape, allowing visitors to rise higher and higher into the mountains. The adventure begins as you board the worldās largest rotating tram, a fun ride offering 360-degree panoramic views gliding you to the alpine forest at the top of the San Jacinto Mountains. At more than 8,500 feet, the mountain temperatures range from 25-40 degrees cooler than the desert floor, providing moderate temperatures to go with fresh mountain air. Enjoy the breathtaking views with a stroll in the crisp air surrounded by a variety of conifer trees and flora, or connect with the park rangers for additional paths that unlock deeper hikes and exploration. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails at the top! And when it comes to food, Mountain Station is your indoor dining destination, offering an assortment of choices: Peaks Restaurant for views, Pines Cafe for quicker selections and Lookout Lounge for beverages and bites.
Palm Springs Summer Activities
Hang out at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is an exceptional resort with lavish and abundant first-class amenities, including boat transportation. Decision-making can be challenging for guests, especially when choosing which of the many on-site pools to plunge into. There is also a best-kept secret: a private saltwater pool, exclusively available to those indulging in spa treatments at the Desert Springs Spa. Sip your favorite beverage on the rocks or as a refreshing smoothie to stay extra cool. For climate-controlled fun, head to the new JW Entertainment Zone, a 12,000-square-foot indoor arcade offering everything from retro arcade games to sports simulators.Ā
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Visit a Local Museum
The Palm Springs Air Museum is open daily and is conveniently located near the Palm Springs International Airport. This fascinating museum displays the majority of its planes in temperature-controlled hangars, keeping all visitors cool and informed every step of the way. Palm Springs has a rich aviation history, as it was a significant transportation hub for the military in World War II. Videos and first-hand information from some of the museumās docents who are veterans are available, as well as interactive options to experience these astounding aircraft. Another cool option for art enthusiasts is the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center. Admission is $5 for adults and free for kids under the age of 18. Check out the Pattern Play exhibit by Jacqueline Groagāa must-see!
Palm Springs Summer Activities
Shop on El Paseo in Palm Desert
Often referred to as the āRodeo Drive of the desert,ā El Paseo is a shopping mecca for those who love both art and fashion. Pop into the streetās collection of name-brand stores and air-conditioned galleries. And when the mood for food strikes, sit down to brunch, lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants, including The Daily Grill, il Corso, Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe and Porta Via (new!). There are plenty of palate-pleasing options for everyone to enjoy on El Paseo!
Take a Dip
Greater Palm Springs is known for its abundance of world-class resorts, so throw on your swimsuit and make some waves! The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs offers a chic experience with its rooftop pool and bar, while the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa and Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa all boast winding water slides for the kids. We also love La Quinta Resort & Clubās assortment of temperature-controlled poolsā41 pools, to be exact!
Palm Springs Summer Activities
Visit Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City
For some fun after the sun sets, head to Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City! This air-conditioned destination has something for everyone, including a happening nightlife scene. Shake up your evening at Agave Caliente Bar, see a live show on the Agave Caliente Terraza, or check out the propertyās 360 eSports After Dark space. And if youāre looking for a little friendly competition, sign up for Team Trivia Tuesdays, where you and your crew can put your sports knowledge to the test.
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City
Palm Springs Summer Activities
Unlock an Escape Room
There are two escape rooms in Greater Palm Springs with only one way out: the Escape Room Palm Springs on North Palm Canyon Drive and the Escape Games at The River in Rancho Mirage, located on the second floor at The River, a shopping, dining and entertainment complex. Each location features several themed rooms; you can choose from The Titanic, Vampireās Lair and Bank Heist in Palm Springs, whereas Rancho Mirageās offerings include The Secret of Dragonās Spire, 80ās Radical Radio Rampage and The Great Candy Challenge. Time is of the essence while solving mysteries, puzzles and finding hidden objects to make the great escape. Are you up for the challenge?
Wine and DineĀ
Stay cool this summer by dining indoors at one of Greater Palm Springsā many restaurants! Download this seasonās free mobile Summer Eats Pass for dining perks and discounts! Each time you use the pass to check in to a restaurant, you can enter a weekly drawing for a $50 gift card to a local restaurant. For more info on where to dine this season, click here!
