DAY 1:Arts and Entertainment
Kick off your trip with a Segway tour of the desert’s most notable architecture. Next, enjoy a docent tour of the Palm Springs Art Museum, taking in modern and contemporary American works, studio art glass, and other special collections. For another art-inspired exhibit, check out La Quinta’s Museum near Old Town.
Round off this full day by trying your luck at the Agua Caliente Casino. If you’re not a gambler, check out what great live entertainment the casino is featuring.
DAY 2:Outdoor Adventure
Board the world’s largest rotating tramcar, The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, to experience a breathtaking journey up the sheer cliffs of Chino Canyon. You’ll begin your 10-minute ride at the 2,643 ft. Valley Station and rise to Mountain Station at 8,516 ft. Pack a picnic and hike the majestic Indian Canyons or join a ranger interpretive guided tour to learn about the Agua Caliente Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah) Indians who settled in the Palm, Murray, Andreas, Tahquitz and Chino Canyons.
Now, it’s time to begin your off-road adventure by exploring the San Andreas Fault or the spectacular Joshua Tree National Park. Tour guides will take you through breathtaking canyons, rugged trails and lush desert landscape. (Desert Jeep Adventures)
For those who are looking for the adventure up close and personal, soar along sand dunes on an ATV. Or, take it a little slower and discover the desert on horseback.
DAY 3: Family Fun
Time’s flying and so are you! Be inspired by the incredible collection of World War II aircraft and memorabilia at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Guests can learn to become captains in a flight simulator, under the direction of an action veteran pilot. Before leaving, make sure to browse their collection of historical aviation and American military publications.
From a flight simulator to taking flight, enjoy the best vantage possible with a helicopter tour or hot air balloon ride. Hot air balloon rides are typically run at sunset or sundown.
Are the kids with you? Soak up the sun and splash around at Knott’s Soak City. Then, cheer on Palm Springs’ hometown baseball team at the seasonal Palm Springs Power Stadium.
Before your trip to Palm Desert is over, we must recommend a visit to The Living Desert. This 1,200-acre wildlife and botanical park features rare and endangered desert animals.
End your day at Village Fest held every Thursday evening. This weekly event features hundreds of exhibitors, entertainment and other street fair activities.
DAY 4: Fun, Sun and Relaxation
Let’s kick off day four with a morning round of golf at Woodhaven Country Club. Once you early birdies are done playing, treat yourself to a well deserving massage.
Continue today’s theme of relaxation by lounging by one of Emerald Desert’s two sparkling outdoor pools.
Breathe in the fresh air and dine alfresco in the charming village of Old Town in La Quinta. Before, or after, you dine, we highly recommend strolling the retro boutiques, art galleries and chic stores of the downtown streets.
DAY 5: Hollywood’s Favorite Playground
Is it Saturday? If so, you’re in luck! Our weekly Emerald Desert Sunrise with coffee and muffins happens every Saturday in the main clubhouse at 8a.m. Don’t miss out!
You can’t come to Palm Desert without discovering the secluded retreats and exclusive estates of Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley. Consider taking a guided celebrity tour of these legendary performers mansion homes.
After you’ve seen their homes, follow Palm Springs’ own Walk of Stars that winds through downtown and features the stars of more than 300 celebrities, humanitarians, athletes, and civil leaders.
Film buffs rejoice! If you’re visiting Emerald Desert in June, you must attend the Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival. You can find more about the event on their website here.