Palm Springs has a way of winning people over fast. Maybe it’s the sunshine (350+ days a year will do that), the midcentury architecture, the mountains framing every view, or the fact that you can hike a canyon in the morning and sip cocktails poolside by afternoon.
This 3-day Palm Springs itinerary is designed for first-time visitors, weekend road trippers, and short-stay travelers who want to experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. It balances iconic attractions, food and drink, outdoor adventure, and plenty of downtime—because Palm Springs is as much about relaxing as it is exploring.
Palm Springs Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrival, windmills, downtown shopping, cocktails
Day 2: Architecture, art, hiking, or tramway, standout dining
Day 3: Indian Canyons, biking or golf, farewell brunch
Where to Stay in Palm Springs
Check into one of Palm Springs’ chic boutique resorts:
- ARRIVE Palm Springs – Stylish, modern, and social.
- The Cole Hotel – Retro charm with a pool scene.
- Sparrows Lodge – A rustic-luxe hideaway perfect for couples.
- The Parker Palm Springs – Quirky luxury, perfect for Instagram
- Saguaro Palm Springs – Rainbow-colored fun with pool parties
- Korakia Pensione – Mediterranean-style hideaway for romance & R&R
Get the complete list of our Boutique Resorts.
Ready to plan your perfect sunny escape? Here's how to make the most of your weekend:
Day 1: Arrive, Downtown & Set the Mood
Afternoon: Arrival & Windmills
As you approach Palm Springs, you'll be greeted by one of the desert’s most iconic sights: the massive wind turbines dancing against the mountainscape. Why not start your visit with the Palm Springs Windmill Tour? This 90-minute guided experience dives into the renewable energy that powers our valley.
Downtown Stroll & Lunch
Head into downtown Palm Springs and explore La Plaza, a walkable outdoor shopping area filled with boutiques, art galleries, and patios.
Lunch suggestion:
L’Atelier Café - French-style bistro known for its quiches, fresh salads, and espresso drinks.
After lunch, wander along North Palm Canyon Drive and stop in at local favorites like Just Fabulous, a beloved bookstore and gift shop.
Dinner & Cocktails
For your first night out, keep things lively but relaxed:
- Trio - Lively dinner with modern American dishes in a vibrant, art-filled setting.
- Birba - Trendy open-air eatery with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal plates
Finish the night with a classic cocktail at Seymour’s, the intimate speakeasy hidden in Mr. Lyons Steakhouse.
Day 2: Palm Springs Highlights - Architecture, Art & Adventure
Breakfast Picks
Feul up with on of these local favorites:
- Ernest Coffee – Great espresso and patio vibes
- Cheeky’s – Famous for bacon flights and inventive scrambles
- FARM – Hidden French café with garden seating tucked behind courtyard gates
Morning: Choose Your Adventure
Option 1: Walking Historical Tour
Drop by Running Wild to grab some comfortable kicks before heading out on a walking tour with the Palm Springs Historical Society. Choose from themes like "Stars & Scandals" or "Midcentury Modern," and explore the legacy of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
OR
Option 2: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an engineering marvel that carries riders from the desert floor up the rugged cliffs of Chino Canyon to the cool alpine forests of Mt. San Jacinto in just about ten minutes. As the world’s largest rotating tram car, it offers sweeping 360‑degree views along its 2.5‑mile ascent and opens up access to restaurants, observation decks, and more than 50 miles of hiking trails at the Mountain Station.
Lunch Options
- Sherman’s Deli & Bakery – Classic deli sandwiches and baked goods
- Palm Greens Café – Plant-based, health-forward dishes
- El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana – Family-run with spicy moles and margaritas
Afternoon Ideas: Choose Your Own Adventure
For Art Lovers:
- Palm Springs Art Museum – Regional, contemporary, and Native American art
- Backstreet Art District – Working artist studios and galleries
For Vintage Shoppers:
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Iconic Atomic or Modernway – Midcentury furniture and finds
For the Wellness Seeker:
-
Book a massage or mineral soak at The Spa at Séc-he, the luxury spa built over ancient hot springs
Dine Under the Stars
End the day with one of Palm Springs’ standout dining experiences:
- Workshop Kitchen + Bar, a James Beard–nominated favorite serving farm-to-table fare in an architecturally stunning former movie theater.
- Tac/Quila - Elevated Jalisco-style cuisine and excellent margaritas.
- Eight4Nine – Modern American with colorful décor
- Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey – Sushi lovers, this one’s for you
Nightcaps
- Bootlegger Tiki – Tropical cocktails in a tiny speakeasy
- The Amigo Room (inside Ace Hotel) – Hipster-chic
Day 3: Indian Canyons, Ciking, or Golf
Breakfast
- King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel – Retro roadside diner vibes
- Townie Bagels – NYC-style bagels, made fresh daily
- Juniper Table at The Rowan – Mediterranean-inspired breakfast bowls and smoothies
Morning: Get Outdoors
Head south to explore Palm Springs’ natural side:
- Indian Canyons for a morning hike.
- Andreas Canyon for a moderate walk along streams and palms
- Palm Canyon for a longer, shadier trek with sweeping views and waterfalls.
- Tahquitz Canyon – Shorter hike with a stunning 60-foot waterfall
Prefer bikes over boots? Rent from Bike Palm Springs Rentals or book a scenic Big Wheel Tours cycling or Jeep experience to explore:
Optional Tee Time
Golfers can book a round at Escena Golf Club, known for its mountain views and a modern clubhouse. Non-golfers can enjoy brunch on the terrace at Escena Grille.
Final Meal Before Departure
- Rooster and the Pig – Vietnamese-American fusion (locals love it!)
- Las Casuelas Terraza – Authentic, relaxed Mexican fare with patio views
- Jake’s Palm Springs – Upscale bistro with creative American dishes and strong cocktails
As your 48 hours draw to a close, soak in one last golden sunset over the San Jacinto Mountains. You came for the sunshine, but you’ll return for the style, serenity, and sense of discovery that defines Palm Springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough time in Palm Springs?
Yes. Three days is ideal for seeing the highlights, enjoying the outdoors, dining well, and still having time to relax.
Do you need a car in Palm Springs?
A car is helpful, especially for visiting Indian Canyons, the Aerial Tramway, and nearby attractions. Downtown Palm Springs is walkable upon arrival, and if you are staying close to downtown, you do not require a car.
What’s the best time of year to visit Palm Springs?
October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures and is the most popular. Summer is hotter, but it features great hotel deals.
Is Palm Springs good for a weekend road trip?
Absolutely. Palm Springs is one of Southern California’s most popular and easy road trip destinations.