Curator’s statement
Nestled in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs beckons with its unique blend of retro charm, desert allure, and vibrant landscapes. Join me on a four-day escapade through this sun-soaked paradise, where relaxation meets adventure and every moment is a celebration. From indulgent breakfasts to serene hikes and quirky town explorations, this itinerary is meticulously crafted to showcase the hidden gems and best-kept secrets of Palm Springs. So, pack your bags, put on your shades and let's embark on a journey filled with culinary delights, natural wonders and the unmistakable magic of the desert oasis.
The Fora Difference
Book with Mackenzie to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows
Bright boutique hotel in Palm Springs with a full-service spa just one block from Palm Canyon Drive.
Fora Perks
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$25 food / beverage credit.
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Welcome treat in room on arrival.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
Sleek property in downtown Palm Springs with chic rooms that offer views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Fora Perks
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$50 hotel credit.
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Welcome amenities.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs
Chic, Spanish-style lodging at the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains in Palm Springs.
Fora Perks
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Complimentary welcome drink.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade whenever possible.
ARRIVE Palm Springs
Arrive Palm Springs is a desert oasis of hip sophistication and relaxed luxury, where modern style meets laid-back California vibes.
Fora Perks
- ★
Welcome amenity.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Parker Palm Springs
Classic Palm Springs accommodation with stylish decor, plenty of leisurely areas and a private Yacht Club.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Mackenzie to book your trip.
Day 1: Morning Indulgence and Nature's Embrace
Indian Canyon
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cheeky's, home to oversized cinnamon rolls and a bacon flight. Arrive early, as reservations aren't accepted.
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Immerse yourself in the sacred beauty of Indian Canyons. Hike the Palm Canyon Trail (two miles, easy) or the Andreas Canyon Trail (one mile, easy), followed by a visit to the nearby Moorten Botanical Garden.
2:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Recharge by the pool at your hotel or a nearby resort, sipping cocktails and soaking in the surrounding scenery.
7:00 PM: Dive into the evening with an al fresco dinner at Birba, an Italian hotspot offering outdoor dining. Must-try dishes include homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
Day 2: Desert Daydreams in Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree NP - Cholla Cactus Garden.
6:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore Joshua Tree National Park. Highlights include the Cholla Cactus Garden, Arch Rock Nature Trail (1.2 miles, easy), and Skull Rock Nature Trail (1.8 miles, easy).
1:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Venture into Joshua Tree town, exploring quirky spots like the Beauty Bubble Salon & Museum and the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum. Return to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon by the pool.
7:00 PM: Delight your taste buds with dinner at Tac/Quila, featuring a must-try tortilla soup and margarita flight. Cap off the night with karaoke at the Retro Room.
Day 3: Pampering and Culinary Delights
Trixie Motel
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Enjoy a lavish breakfast at Norma's at The Parker Palm Springs, indulging in banana pancakes or avocado toast.
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Treat yourself to a spa service at The Yacht Club onsite at The Parker Palm Springs and a leisurely pool day onsite.
2:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Don't miss out on a Palm Springs classic - try a date shake somewhere in the city, a delightful treat to complement your afternoon relaxation. My favorite is at the Nature’s Health Food and Café.
7:00 PM: Dinner at fresco at Farm offers a culinary journey through farm-to-table delights.
Day 4: Brunch, Alpine Heights and Artistic Wonders
Palm Springs View
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Savor a stylish, dog-friendly brunch at Boozehounds, featuring globally inspired comfort food.
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM: Soar to new heights on the 10-minute, 2.5-mile trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Capture breathtaking vistas on hikes like Desert View Trail (1.5 miles, easy) and Round Valley (2.5 miles, moderate). Refuel with lunch at the mountaintop restaurant.
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Explore Palm Springs further with photo ops at the Marilyn Monroe statue, a visit to the Palm Springs Art Museum, and a stop at the Trixie Motel gift shop for a unique souvenir. Pro tip: wear pink for some kitschy on-brand photos.
7:00 PM: Conclude your Palm Springs escapade with a flavorful dinner at Trio, known for its American cuisine with a twist.
Conclusion
As the sun sets on your four days in Palm Springs, you'll carry with you a mosaic of experiences—from the serene beauty of Indian Canyons to the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree, the pampering luxury of Palm Springs' resorts, and the artistic charm of its quirky spots. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights, ensuring your time in Palm Springs is nothing short of extraordinary. Safe travels, and may your days be filled with the magic of the desert oasis!
Need to know
![Advisor - Mackenzie Hunter](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711120821/contentful-migration/advisors/image/f742fe107764-PIC_5.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Mackenzie Hunter
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Whidbey Island Getaway: Your Ultimate Travel Guide.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Palm Springs.