8 Things You Should Know About Palm Springs

8 Things You Should Know About Palm Springs

Guest contributor:  Haley Kieser [email protected]

Palm Springs, California was once known as the place for celebrities to escape the everyday bustle of Hollywood. Located about 100 miles from Los Angeles, stars such as Frank Sinatra, Leonardo Dicaprio and many others have called the area home.

While the city remains home to some of today’s hottest celebrities, it has quickly developed into a bustling and vibrant community in its own right. With a multitude of options for entertainment, from music to sports to outdoors, the city of Palm Springs has something for everyone. The variety of activities that the city has to offer are also a big draw for tourists, as well as those looking for a 2nd home or place to relocate full time.  The Paul Kaplan Group has been helping people find their desert dream home for almost 20 years.

 
Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism

1. Downtown is booming

Each Thursday night, the city hosts Palm Springs Villagefest. The downtown street fair is visited by thousands of tourists and locals alike. With unique street vendors, local businesses, and entertainers, the Villagefest is a must see. Thanks to the city’s warm and pleasant climate, the festival is held year round. Activities vary week to week, so no matter when you go, there is bound to be something new to experience.  New stores and restaurants are opening regularly,  as part of the extensive new downtown redevelopment plan.  

2. It’s great for artsy folk and architectural Lovers

Palm Springs is also known for its continued promotion of public art. The city is home to many unique public art projects that are intended to inspire and educate. Located throughout the city, with many placed at one of the it’s numerous public parks, a day at the park in Palm Springs can be both fun and educational!  Modernism Week is the annual festival that celebrates the midcentury architectural history of Palm Springs, that can be appreciated anywhere you go in town!

 
Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism

3. The museums are world-class

Palm Springs is home to the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium. This is a great way to learn about the local flora, as well as see some other species of cacti from around the world. The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum tells the story of the Coachella Valley’s earliest human residents and even offers free admission! In addition to these options, Palm Springs has even more exhibits to offer. The local Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, art museum and air museum all make for an excellent outing.

4. There are sports for playing

Whether you are looking to spectate or participate, Palm Springs has something for you. The city has a reputation as one of the world’s most popular golf destinations. With more courses in the region than anywhere else in California, golfers will be delighted with the number of options. From world renowned courses such as SilverRock Resort, which was designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer, for the expert, to the Woodhaven Country Club, a public and budget friendly course for the inexperienced. Palm Springs is the perfect place for anyone with interest in the sport.  

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America-  Palm Springs hosts numerous courts at Demuth Park where you can pick up a racquet and join in this fun new sport. 

5. And sports for watching

For those who prefer to spectate, Palm Springs is home to multiple semi-pro baseball teams. The Palm Springs POWER, a team composed of college all-stars from around the country calls the city home. The team strives to provide an exciting environment that is both affordable and enjoyable. If your son or daughter takes a liking to the game, the team offers a variety of clinics and programs to get youth involved in the sport. In winter months, the city plays host to the California Winter League, which features 10 teams that compete during the short season January to February. Minor league baseball games typically feature fun, interesting traditions and are sure to provide a good time for all.

Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism

6. The desert is one big playground

The Coachella Valley, where Palm Springs is located, is full of outdoor recreation opportunities. The valley is surrounded by mountains on all sides with the San Bernadino mountains to the north, the Santa Rosas to the south, the San Jacintos to the west and the Little San Bernadinos to the east. With so many mountains, Palm Springs has access to hiking, biking, climbing and more. The San Jacinto Mountains are the recreational gem of the region. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up Chino Canyon, nearly to the top of San Jacinto Peak. From there, you can head out into the Mount San Jacinto State Park, where miles of trails await you.

7. The sea is salty

The Salton Sea, the result of a major engineering mishap, is another top recreation spot for residents and visitors of Palm Springs alike. Though the Salton Sea has a higher salt content than the Pacific Ocean, it provides visitors with a pleasant way to cool off in the hotter months. The size of the sea varies based on the year, but always offers boating, hiking, camping and fishing. Just a short one hour drive from Palm Springs, the Salton Sea is a fun weekend getaway for many.

8. It’s home to a major national park

Joshua Tree National Park,  located about 45 minutes from Palm Springs, is famous for the unique topography and distinct yucca plants that inhabit the area, is another favorite local destination. Designated in 1906 due to its remarkable educational and natural values, the park is one of the nation’s oldest National Monuments. Visitors are treated to scenic views and can swing by the ranger station to learn more about the park. The Junior Ranger program is sure to be a hit with the kids!

Palm Spirngs is a fun place to visit-  but even more fun to live here part time or full time.  If you'd like to search for homes, please visit the Paul Kaplan Group, the #1 Top Producing  real estate team in Palm Springs.