Palm Springs has been a hip and happening hotspot for decades, for good reason. It has a storied history as Hollywood’s desert playground, just two hours drive from Los Angeles. While most people imagine sitting by the pool and drinking cocktails, there is so much more to do than that (although that’s a pretty good way to spend a trip as well.) You might already know about the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which takes place in nearby Indio, but here are some other fun things to see and do in and around Palm Springs, California year round.
1. Take the Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will take you all the way to the top of San Jacinto mountain where it is significantly colder than on the desert floor. In the winter you will most likely find snow. The tram only takes ten minutes and it is the world’s largest rotating one, so the 360 degree views are amazing. The views at the top are awesome too, which you can enjoy from the Peaks Restaurant or the Pines CafĂ©.
