Autumn in Palm Springs is a secret delight—our shoulder season brings perfect weather, smaller crowds, and an endless array of activities. While other destinations wind down as summer fades, Palm Springs keeps the sun shining and the fun going. With average highs in November around 79°F, fall here is ideal for lounging by the pool, exploring scenic trails, or sampling the season’s freshest culinary offerings.
Morning Favorites: Fall Breakfast in Palm Springs
Start your day right with fresh, flavorful breakfast spots that celebrate the best of California’s seasonal produce and cozy fall vibes.
- FARM – A downtown gem where California-grown ingredients shine in fresh juices, decadent crepes, and omelets. Its bright, airy atmosphere pairs perfectly with crisp autumn mornings.
- Cheeky’s – Known for inventive farm-to-table dishes, Cheeky’s offers seasonal specials like sweet potato hash, bacon-wrapped dates, and playful takes on classic breakfast favorites. Outdoor seating makes it ideal for enjoying the cool fall air.
- Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe – A cozy, home-style spot serving freshly baked pastries, lemon ricotta pancakes, and specialty coffee. Their warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed morning in the desert.
- Norma’s at Parker Palm Springs – For a luxurious start to your day, Norma’s offers indulgent breakfast classics with a California twist. Think lemon ricotta pancakes, oversized omelets, and fresh fruit platters, all served in a vibrant, retro-chic setting.
Pro Tip: Fall mornings in Palm Springs are perfect for outdoor dining—so grab a table on a patio, sip fresh juice or coffee, and let the crisp desert air energize your day.
Sunday Brunch
Brunch is a cherished fall ritual in Palm Springs, with restaurants offering seasonal flavors and vibrant outdoor patios.
- Spencer’s Restaurant – Located in the tennis club neighborhood, Spencer’s serves classics like the Maine Lobster Omelet on one of the city’s largest outdoor patios. Reservations are highly recommended, as tables fill quickly.
- Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge – This downtown favorite combines contemporary California cuisine with a stylish, modern atmosphere. Brunch highlights include seasonal salads, savory egg dishes, and creative cocktails, all perfect for a crisp autumn morning.
Pro Tip: Fall Sundays in Palm Springs are busy for brunch, so book ahead to enjoy a leisurely patio meal while soaking in the vibrant seasonal ambiance.
Dinner Delights: Seasonal Flavors to Savor in the Evening
Fall evenings in Palm Springs are made for dining alfresco, enjoying seasonal flavors, and indulging in the city’s vibrant culinary scene. As the sun sets and the desert air cools, these restaurants stand out as must-visit spots:
- Lulu California Bistro: Known for its fresh, seasonal menus, Lulu celebrates the flavors of fall with dishes like wild mushroom soup, cantaloupe gazpacho, and strawberry salads made from the finest local ingredients. Their weekend three-course brunch is also a highlight, best enjoyed on the sun-drenched patio while soaking in the crisp autumn air.
- Copley’s on Palm Canyon: A true fusion experience, Copley’s combines East Asian influences with New England ingredients and SoCal creativity. From hearty entrees to fresh, seasonal appetizers, this award-winning restaurant captures the essence of autumn dining in Palm Springs. The inviting atmosphere and outdoor seating make it perfect for a fall night out.
- Trio: A local mainstay, Trio embraces the spirit of the season with its warm, festive décor. Their seasonal menu and robust offerings make it a perfect spot to plan for Thanksgiving celebrations or enjoy a cozy evening meal while exploring the city’s fall charm.
Tip: Fall is also the time for the Certified Farmers’ Market, where you can taste fresh dates, citrus, and seasonal vegetables.
Explore Trails, Canyons & Biking Adventures
Autumn is perfect for exploring Palm Springs’ natural beauty:
Hiking Highlights:
- Andreas Canyon: Meander along a natural creek and discover Cahuilla indigenous cultural sites.
- Tahquitz Canyon: Witness the 60-foot waterfall and lush desert greenery—perfect for a crisp fall hike.
- Palm Springs Art Museum Trailhead: Combines culture with adventure; explore architecture and design landmarks before heading into the mountains.
Ultimate Palm Springs Hiking Guide
Biking Fun:
- Rent a traditional or electric bike from Bike Palm Springs for a leisurely ride through town.
- Join a guided tour with Big Wheel Tours.
Enjoy a Self-Guided Bike Tour:
Palm Springs Big City Loop Bike Tour
Explore Historic Deepwell Ranch Neighborhood: Self-Guided Bike Tour
Pedal Through Palm Springs: A Self-Guided Tour of Midcentury Charm
Pro Tip: Many hotels and resorts also offer complimentary bicycles.
From Desert Sun to Mountain Snow
The beautiful San Jacinto Mountains are the backdrop to Palm Springs. You can visit the top of the San Jacinto Mountain via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It's the world's largest rotating tramcar. It travels over 2.5 miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon. The weather is about 30 degrees cooler, so you can go from warm to cool weather in a 10-minute tram ride. It's known to have snow as early as November. You can go from a T-shirt to a coat and back to a swimsuit on a fall afternoon. Only in Palm Springs!
Must Attend Fall Events
Palm Springs’ fall calendar is packed with outdoor festivals, arts, and community gatherings:
- VillageFest: Every Thursday night on Palm Canyon Drive, enjoy local food, artisan crafts, and street performances. Hours: 6–10 PM.
- Modernism Week – October: A four-day celebration of architecture and design with tours, talks, and parties. February hosts the larger event.
- Cinema Diverse (Mid-September) - World-class film festival that presents lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cinema from around the world.
- Palm Springs Pride (Early November): One of the most vibrant celebrations in the region. Brunches, parades, and nightlife on Arenas Road bring inclusivity and energy.
Relax & Recharge: Spa and Wellness in Fall
Fall in Palm Springs isn’t just about outdoor adventure—it’s also the perfect time to slow down, recharge, and indulge in the city’s wellness culture. With crisp mornings, sunny afternoons, and cooler evenings, the desert sets the stage for ultimate relaxation.
Spa Experiences
The Spa at Séc-he – Located right in downtown Palm Springs, this state-of-the-art facility taps into the ancient Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring. Guests enjoy soaking pools, salt caves, aromatherapy rooms, and modern treatments that draw inspiration from the natural healing traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Yoga & Wellness
- Power Yoga Palm Springs – Offers classes for all levels, with options for morning sessions that let you start your day energized.
- Hot Yoga Plus – A local favorite for heated yoga sessions that balance strength, flexibility, and detox. Cooler fall mornings make it a great time to flow indoors before heading out for the day.
- Wellness events at local resorts – Many hotels, such as Avalon Hotel & Bungalows (with complimentary weekend sessions), Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Parker Palm Springs, and L'Horizon Resort & Spa, also provide wellness experiences.
Read More: Drop-In Fitness & Yoga Classes in Palm Springs: A Visitor's Guide
Nightlife & Entertainment
When the desert sun sets, Palm Springs lights up:
Live Music & Performances
- Melvyn’s at Ingleside Estate – Legendary for its old Hollywood vibe, the piano bar is still a hotspot for live jazz, piano, and vocals most nights.
- The Purple Room Supper Club – A midcentury modern classic offering dinner with a show. Expect jazz, swing, Rat Pack tributes, and fabulous drag performances.
- P.S. Underground – A unique dining-meets-theater experience with themed performances and multi-course meals. Every event is different, making it perfect for a fall evening.
Cocktail Lounges & Nightlife
- Seymour’s – A hidden speakeasy inside Mr. Lyons Steakhouse, serving inventive craft cocktails in a cozy, vintage setting.
- Bootlegger Tiki – A tropical-inspired bar with tiki cocktails and a laid-back vibe—perfect after a day of hiking or exploring.
- The Tailor Shop – A chic speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, known for its expertly crafted drinks and intimate, stylish atmosphere.
LGBTQ+ Hotspots in the Arenas District
- Quadz Video Bar – High-energy karaoke, drag shows, and nonstop video entertainment in a lively setting.
- Streetbar – A welcoming Arenas Road staple, known for strong drinks, karaoke, and a friendly mix of locals and visitors.
- Chill Bar Palm Springs – Multiple spaces (lounge, nightclub, and patio) hosting DJs, drag shows, and special events throughout the season.
Travel Tips & Packing for Fall in Palm Springs
Fall in Palm Springs offers the best of both worlds: warm, sunny days and cooler desert nights. This makes packing a bit of a balancing act, but with a few key items, you’ll be ready for every autumn adventure.
What to Pack:
- Layering is Key: Lightweight shirts, shorts, and sundresses are perfect for daytime excursions. Bring a light jacket, sweater, or cardigan for evenings when temperatures can drop 20–30 degrees.
- Sun Protection: Even in the fall, the desert sun is strong. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for hikes, biking, or lounging by the pool.
- Comfortable Footwear: Bring sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes for trails, plus sandals or casual shoes for walking downtown and enjoying alfresco dining.
- Evening Attire: Many restaurants and bars in Palm Springs have a casual-chic vibe. Consider packing a few dressier outfits for dinner or evening events.
- Swimwear: With warm fall days, pools and resort amenities remain enjoyable—pack your swimsuit for midday lounging.
Pro Tip: Check the weather forecast before you pack. Daytime highs can reach the upper 70s or low 80s, while nights may drop into the 50s. Layering allows you to transition from morning hikes to evening cocktails comfortably.