A Perfect Four-Day Getaway in Palm Springs

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Advisor - Mackenzie Hunter
Curated By

Mackenzie Hunter

  • Palm Springs

  • Adventure Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Sightseeing

  • Entertainment

  • Foodie

Statue of Marilyn Monroe between palm trees and in front of mountains.
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.

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Day 1: Morning Indulgence and Nature's Embrace

View of palm trees and canyons.

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

A cactus garden.

Joshua Tree NP - Cholla Cactus Garden.

Day 3: Pampering and Culinary Delights

A woman sitting on a chair and table outside with drinks in front of her.

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

Aerial view of palm springs with pink flowers.

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

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.