Visit the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens:
Rated one of the 10 best zoos in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler and one of the top family-friendly attractions in Greater Palm Springs, the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens invites little ones to explore the fascinating world of wildlife and learn about the vast variety of flora and fauna from the desert regions of the world. Exhibits range from the grasslands and plains of Africa to the rocky terrain and canyons of North America and feature more than 1,600 species of plants and 140 species of animals. Other experiences include exploring the Rhino Savanna and Australian Adventures habitat that houses a wide variety of animals, interactive encounters, giraffe feeding, and more.
Explore Greater Palm Springs on a bike:
One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Greater Palm Springs is on a bike. If you are in Old Town La Quinta, stop by the local shop, Pedego Electric Bikes, for bike rentals. You can experience the Spanish Colonial architecture and local businesses as you ride around this charming neighbourhood. If you want to cruise in downtown Palm Springs, Bike Palm Springs has several rental bikes, from mountain bikes to electric bikes, perfect for families to traverse scenic routes, including the Palm Springs Bike Path, which winds through the city’s historic neighbourhoods and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Go for a hike:
Greater Palm Springs offers many hiking trails, such as the Andreas Canyon Trail at Indian Canyons, an easy 1-mile loop trail showcasing over 150 plant species, including native California palm trees. As you walk along the stream and under the palms, you are also exploring the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who consider these canyons sacred. Keep an eye out for ancient mortars carved into the rocks, a reminder of the Cahuilla people who have lived here for thousands of years. Murray Canyon, also located in the Indian Canyons area, offers a more advanced trail, ideal for families with older children. This desert trail leads to a small palm-tree oasis, then zigzags through a mountain-fed stream as you climb up the canyon, ultimately resulting in rewarding views of the Seven Sisters Waterfall!
Nestled among the Little San Bernardino Mountains, the desert oasis at Big Morongo Canyon is one of the ten largest cottonwood and willow riparian (stream) habitats in California. Spanning 31,000 acres, it offers a variety of hiking opportunities for every level, including children with a drive for adventure. Trails range from a quick three-tenths of a mile stroll to an 11-mile round-trip adventure, winding through diverse plant life. Birdwatchers will especially delight here, with more than 240 species of birds calling the preserve home. Best of all, admission is free, making it an easy and unforgettable escape into nature.
Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum:
The Palm Springs Air Museum is a must-visit attraction for families who love aviation, featuring an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, including World War II planes and rare jets. Many of these jets and aircraft have been used by motion picture companies in major films. You can take a guided tour of the museum, take part in a flight simulator experience, or even take a flight in one of the historic planes. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including air shows and holiday events that are sure to engage kids.
Soar to new heights on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway:
A ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a fun adventure for all ages. The rotating tram car offers stunning views as it climbs over 8,500 feet to the cool, forested wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. At the top, families can discover easy nature trails, scenic overlooks, a visitor centre, and even a café, making it a great way to escape and wander the mountains together.
Relax by the pool:
A pool day is one of the best ways to spend time and relax with your family. For a waterslide experience, look no further than the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas. With two duelling slides, a 450-ft lazy river and a splash pad, this is the perfect spot for a summer vacation. Or if you are looking for a waterpark feature, the Omni Rancho Las Palmas is another great option. This resort has multiple pools, a hot tub, as well as an outdoor bar menu and colourful cocktails for the adults.
Get artsy at Old Town Artisans Studios:
If you are looking for a more creative way to spend time with your family, Old Town Artisans Studios offers several art classes and workshops for all ages, where you can try your hand at pottery, painting, or even glassblowing to create unique souvenirs to take home. The studio also hosts events and exhibitions by local artists throughout the year.
Visit an immersive museum:
Visit the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, ideal for both kids and toddlers, and experience exhibits that encourage them to explore their minds. From pretend play in the Grocery Store to adventures on the Trike Track, there is much to learn here.
Learn about native American culture:
The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza is one of the best family-friendly Palm Springs activities for the little ones who love history. This 5.8-acre complex in downtown Greater Palm Springs is owned and operated by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and is situated on their tribal land. The 48,000-square-foot Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is a must-visit, showcasing artefacts from around 8,000 years ago.
Experience the arcade fun zone:
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa’s indoor arcade features a variety of classic arcade games, such as skee-ball, air hockey, and basketball, as well as prize redemption games, where you can win prizes like toys or stuffed animals.
Fun on the ice:
At the Berger Foundation Iceplex, families can enjoy public skating sessions, beginner lessons, and open hockey, making it easy for everyone to join in, no matter their skill level. After skating, relax in the cosy lounge or grab a snack from the café to recharge.
Family-friendly restaurants:
Greater Palm Springs offers a variety of family-friendly dining options designed to cater to the taste buds of all young adventurers. ‘Boozehounds’, combines a vibrant setting with tasty dining options that is perfect for the whole family. Try their crowd favourite, the classic Smash Burger with a side of truffle fries. Next, take your kids to try a true Greater Palm Springs staple, a date shake at Shields Date Garden in Indio. Explore the garden as well as their on-site restaurant, The Café at Shields, and relish their flavourful food offerings, including the Shields Signature Date Burger.
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