Plan Your Trip: Frequently Asked Questions

Palm Springs experiences a desert climate characterized by abundant sunshine, clear skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures.

Sunshine: Palm Springs boasts over 350 days of sunshine each year.

Temperatures

Summer (June-September): Hot and sunny with daytime highs consistently in the triple digits, reaching up to 110°F (42°C). Early morning and evening temperatures are more pleasant, often dipping into the 70s°F (21-26°C).

Fall (October-November): Pleasant with daytime temperatures ranging from the 70s to 90s°F (21-32°C), but evenings can be cooler, sometimes requiring a sweater.

Winter (December-February): Mild and warm during the day with temperatures typically in the 60s and 70s°F (15-26°C). Evenings and nights can be cool, with temperatures sometimes dropping into the low 40s°F (4-7°C), although temperatures rise quickly as the sun rises.

Spring (March-May): Warmer daytime temperatures, ranging from the high 70s to mid-80s°F (24-30°C), making it a popular time for visitors and outdoor activities.

Plan Your Visit

Bring lightweight clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and swimwear. If visiting in winter, pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Top hikes include:

• Tahquitz Canyon
• Indian Canyons (Andreas, Palm, and Murray Canyons)
• Araby Trail (for great views)

Learn More:

Ultimate Palm Springs Hiking Guide

Explore the Beauty of Lower Palm Canyon: A Family-Friendly 3-4 Mile Hike

10 Popular Palm Springs Hikes

Yes. Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are readily available.

Taxi Companies:

City Cab: (760) 328-3000

Coachella Valley Taxi: (760) 992-5337

Palm Springs Taxi Service: (760) 409-0796

Yellow Cab of the Desert: (760) 340-8294

Rideshare: 

Rideshare companies Uber and Lyft provide pick-ups and drop-offs at the Palm Springs International Airport.

Drop-offs are permitted at the curbside in front of the terminal building.

For pick-ups, follow the Rideshare signage to the designated area located at the south end of the terminal, in the commercial lane across the street from WestJet Airlines.

Yes—many visitors rent bikes or e-bikes to explore the city’s bike-friendly streets and scenic routes.

Bike Rentals & Tours

Bike Palm Springs Rentals & Tours

Big Wheel Tours

Self-guided bike tours to enjoy:

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 

Bike Map

The primary Visitor Center is located at 2901 N. Palm Canyon Drive, housed in a stunning former gas station designed by Albert Frey. Here, you’ll find maps, guides, merchandise, and friendly locals ready to help plan your stay.

Read more about the Palm Springs Visitor Information Center.

Learn about its history:  A Historic Gem of Palm Springs, Designed by Albert Frey

You can also visit the Welwood Murray Memorial Library at 100 S. Palm Canyon Drive, located right in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. This historic building serves as a second Visitor Center and offers brochures, walking maps, historical resources, and personalized assistance from friendly staff.

View Visitor Guides

Hiking in summer can be dangerous due to extreme heat. Always start early (before 8 a.m.), bring plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.

Yes—standard U.S. tipping practices apply:

• Restaurants: 15–20%

• Tour guides: $5–$10 per person

• Valets: $2–$5

• Housekeeping: $2–$5 per day

Yes! Palm Springs is a very pet-friendly destination. Many hotels and vacation rentals allow dogs, and most restaurants with outdoor patios are also dog-friendly. There is also a designated dog park in Palm Springs by City Hall. Be sure to check specific property rules.

Learn more:

Palm Springs: A Pet-Friendly Getaway

Paws & Plates: A Dog-Friendly Restaurant Guide

• Modernism Week (Feb & Oct)

• Palm Springs International Film Festival (Jan)

• Greater Palm Springs Pride (Nov)

• Palm Springs VillageFest (Weekly)

• Splash House (Summer)

• Coachella & Stagecoach (April - Nearby in Indio)

See Full Event Calendar

Yes—for adults 21 and over, cannabis is legal in California, including Palm Springs. There are several licensed dispensaries in the city. Consumption is only allowed on private property—not in public spaces or parks, and not while driving.

Go to the list of Tobacco & Cannabis Shops