10 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Palm Springs

If you’re planning a family getaway to Palm Springs, you’ll be delighted to find that the city offers a wealth of entertainment and activities for the whole family. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 fun things to do with kids in Palm Springs.

Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a great place for families to explore the area’s unique desert wildlife. You’ll see animals from all over the world, including African cheetahs, giraffes, and Mexican wolves. The gardens are a great place for kids to explore, and you can learn more about the desert ecosystem with interactive displays and educational programs.

The zoo has a special Children’s Garden area, complete with a petting zoo, water play areas, and a playground. Kids can also take a guided tour of the zoo and learn more about the animals and their habitats. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with the family.

One of the most popular attractions at the zoo is the WildLights Festival, which takes place each year in December. The zoo is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, and there are live performances, food vendors, and more.

Go Hiking

Palm Springs has some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. From easy, scenic trails to more challenging routes, there’s something for everyone. Kids will love exploring the area’s canyons, mountains, and desert terrain. Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.

One of the best trails for families is the Palm Canyon Trail. This easy, 4-mile round-trip hike takes you through palm groves, canyons, and desert landscapes. Kids will love exploring the area’s cacti and wildlife, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the views.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try the South Lykken Trail. This 3.5-mile trail takes you up the side of Mount San Jacinto, and it’s a great way to get some incredible views of the area. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the area. The tram takes you up the side of Mount San Jacinto, and you’ll get stunning views of the desert landscape below. Kids will love the ride, and they’ll be amazed by the views from the top.

Once you get to the top, there’s plenty to explore. There are several hiking trails, including the 8-mile Round Valley Loop. You can also take a guided tour of the area, or explore the observation decks and learn about the local wildlife. You can even have lunch at the tramway restaurant.

The tramway also offers special events throughout the year, including stargazing nights and holiday celebrations. It’s a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors.

Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a great way to explore the area’s canyons and mountains. There are several stables in the area, and they offer guided rides for all ages and abilities. Kids will love getting up close and personal with the horses, and it’s a great way to explore the area’s stunning landscapes.

Most stables offer both group and private rides, so you can choose the option that’s best for you and your family. You can also book special events, such as horseback riding lessons or a sunset ride. It’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum is a great place for kids to learn about aviation history. The museum has a collection of vintage aircraft, including World War II planes, helicopters, and even a replica of the Wright Brothers’ plane. Kids can explore the planes and learn about the history of aviation.

The museum also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs. Kids can learn about engineering and flight mechanics, and they can even take a simulated flight. There are also special events throughout the year, such as aircraft displays and air shows.

The museum also has a cafe and gift shop, so you can grab a snack or souvenir before you leave. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon with the family.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

A hot air balloon ride is a great way to get a unique view of the area. You’ll soar above the desert landscape and get stunning views of the mountains, canyons, and valleys below. Kids will love the experience, and it’s a great way to get some incredible photos.

Most hot air balloon rides last about an hour, and you can choose from a variety of packages. You can choose from morning or evening rides, and some packages even include a champagne toast or a gourmet breakfast. It’s a great way to make your family vacation even more special.

Go Golfing

Palm Springs is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. There are several courses in the area, ranging from beginner to advanced. Kids will love spending an afternoon on the greens, and it’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise.

Some golf courses offer family-friendly packages, so you can bring the whole family. You can also sign up for a lesson or two, and the courses offer a range of activities from mini-golf to footgolf. It’s a great way to get the whole family outside and have some fun.

Go for a Swim

The area has several great swimming spots, so you can cool off in the desert heat. The Palm Springs Swim Center offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, and kids can enjoy a variety of activities from swimming lessons to pool games. The Swim Center also has a special splash pad area for the younger kids.

If you’re looking for a more natural setting, there are several swimming holes in the area. Some of the best spots are located in the nearby canyons, so you can explore the area’s stunning landscapes while you swim. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum is a great place to explore the area’s culture and history. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, from modern art to ancient artifacts. Kids will love exploring the galleries, and there are plenty of interactive displays and activities.

The museum also offers educational programs and special events, such as art classes and film screenings. There’s also a cafe and gift shop, so you can grab a snack or souvenir before you leave. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with the family.

Explore the Desert

The desert is a great place to explore, and there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family. You can go rock-climbing, mountain biking, or even take a four-wheel drive tour. Kids will love exploring the area’s unique desert landscape, and you can learn more about the area’s flora and fauna.

You can also go on a guided jeep tour of the area, and you’ll get to explore some of the area’s hidden gems. You can also book a guided stargazing tour, and kids will love learning about the night sky. It’s a great way to spend an evening with the family.

Visit the Children’s Discovery Museum

The Children’s Discovery Museum is a great place for kids to explore and learn. The museum has a variety of interactive exhibits, from hands-on science experiments to art projects. Kids can also explore the museum’s outdoor garden and take part in special events, such as story time and puppet shows.

The museum also offers special programs, such as after-school and summer camps. Kids can learn more about science, art, and technology, and they can even build their own robots. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with the family.

If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Palm Springs, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to explore the area or a fun family activity, you’ll find it in Palm Springs.