Palm Springs Attractions

While enjoying the Palm Springs attractions…be sure to take the tramway. It is the world’s largest rotating tram car offering beautiful views of the Chino Canyon, transporting riders to Mt. San Jacinto State Park.The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was a longtime dream of Francis Crocker. A complicated endeavor which officially began in 1935, the young electrical engineer enlisted a varied and talented team to make his vision a reality. Despite many political roadblocks as well asthe Korean War, his tenacity finally paid off and the tramway was completed in 1963.

Palm Springs Attractions

*photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway*

In 1998, the Tramway began its renovation which was officially completed in 2000. At that time, it was the world’s largest rotating tramcars. The Tramway has attracted over 20 million people to partake in the 10-minute, 2.5-mile ride. which begins at the Valley Station (elevation 2,643 feet) and ends at the Mountain Station (elevation 8,516 feet).

If you are athletic, let the hiking begin, or wait for your partner while you dine in one of the two restaurants. You can also enjoy the observation decks, along with the natural history museum. There are two documentary theaters, and a gift shop. The ten-minute journey is breathtaking…the tram cars rotate, so there is no bad view. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, 1 Tram Way Palm Springs, CA 92262; (888) 515-8726; https://www.pstramway.com/

Palm Springs Hiking

Of course, if you truly want to embrace nature and continue with the outdoorsy vibe, head just outside town to the South Lykken Trail. If you are lucky like my husband was, you might encounter the beautiful Bighorn. Start your hike at sunrise to increase your chances! Richard always gets up super early to be situated at the best place for sunrise and he has enjoyed some miraculous encounters with wild animals. Find out more about the hiking in Palm Springs on the official PS website – https://visitpalmsprings.com/blog/post/hiking-guide/

Palm Springs Attractions — *A Bighorn Mom with her baby; Photo by Richard Bilow*

Another option is to take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park (50 minutes from Palm Springs). It is a full day spectacular attraction. Visit this website for additional info – https://joshuatree.guide/

Or you can also head to the Indian Canyons to go hiking. It is the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. It includes Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon and Palm Canyon. The Agua Caliente people have thrived here for thousands of years. There are nominal fees to do the hike, or take a tour with a guide. Be respectful of this sacred place. Visit the website for times and rate, along with additional info – https://www.indian-canyons.com/indian_canyons

Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium

If you are a plant lover, the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium should be calling your name. This Palm Springs attraction is about 1.5 miles from downtown Palm Springs and there is on-street parking. Here you will find thousands of specimens sourced from all over the world. The species are categorized geographically, taking visitors through exhibits of real terrain. You’ll need about an hour to explore the one acre garden. The Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium, 1701 S Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264; (760) 327-6555; http://www.moortenbotanicalgarden.com/