There are plenty of things to do around Palm Springs. Granted most things close around 9pm. The sleepy, slower vibe is part of its charm. For those of us city dwellers that crave quiet, there are few places more peaceful. Even so, you can always find something to get into, if you choose. Fresh off a long weekend in the desert, here are a few ideas to explore on your next trip!

It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane

Having been to the area several times, I’ve always passed by the Palm Springs Air Museum and wanted to check out the old planes housed in the large hangar on Gene Autry.  This trip, I finally made it! Whether you know anything about military history or have an affinity for planes, this is a super cool museum.  Much like discovering the ships at the Maritime Museum in San Diego, I followed a whim and had a ball at the Air Museum. Take a selfie in an old mohawk chopper, wander through and pay respects to the Tuskegee airmen. 

If you have the time and the courage, book a flight on one of the old planes.  Yes, some of them still fly!  We stayed on solid ground this time, but I wouldn’t rule it out on a future trip. I sent my parents pictures of the Air Force planes I found, wondering if they were the kind my dad flew.  My mom text me back asking if I was taking flying lessons!  Not this time, but stay tuned, it could happen 😉

Sweet and Savory 

Fresh from our adventure at the air hangar, Smokin’ Burgers & Lounge was the perfect spot for a late lunch.  

Looking for dessert?  Monster Shakes creates more than milkshakes, they’re more like edible art creations.  With everything from cotton candy and oreos to blue ice cream and housemade frosting, these monsters live up to their name.  Don’t be scared to share with a friend (or two).  

Shop Til You Drop

An afternoon at the Desert Hills Premium Outlets is a great way to enjoy 80 degree weather in November.  You can find some awesome deals on your Palm Springs vacay.  I love to wander through DVF and try on dresses, dreaming of the day I can take them all home. It’s definitely worth the short twenty minute drive from Palm Springs to check out the sales. With more than 150 designer stores, your only challenge will be coming away with any coins left! 

Just Like Riding a Bike

We tested this phrase literally on our Palm Springs getaway, determined to rent and ride bikes during our visit.  While I lived on my bike as a kid, that was decades ago.  I wasn’t sure I would still remember how to ride.  Shaking off the worry, the girls and I decided to try it.  Big Wheel Tours was my choice for our bike rental. With great reviews for customer service and delivery offered, it was an easy decision to make.  That first test ride on our brightly colored cruiser bikes was a little wobbly and scary, but by the end of the weekend, we were looking forward to our daily bike rides.  I guess what they say is true, you never really forget how to ride a bike!

It Never Rains in Southern California

With an average of five inches or less of rain each year, this desert oasis promises sunny days for your visit.  Take advantage of the weather with a leisurely day by the pool. 

In the winter, it gets chilly at night (in the 40s), perfect for evenings in the jacuzzi.  Be sure to catch a sunset, something about the desert creates gorgeous pink and purple skies that are nothing short of breathtaking.

Brown Lady Travel Tips

Palm Springs proper isn’t the only area for a great girls getaway. We’ve also stayed in beautiful properties in Palm Desert and Cathedral City.   Consider a vacation rental and open your search to surrounding areas. We’ve found some amazing houses with great amenities and backyards perfect for a long weekend. Our most recent rental was even featured on an episode of HGTV’s Desert Flippers!

If flights from your city to Palm Springs are expensive, look at Ontario, California as another airport option.  About one hour and fifteen minutes from Palm Springs, it’s a feasible alternative if you’re renting a car. Also, for the Brown Ladies living in Cali, Southwest tends to have sales often between the Bay Area and Ontario, so you can often catch a great fare.  

Another bonus flying in and out of Ontario, you’ve got a chance to grab a couple more perfect bites.  Try a burger (and maybe a cocktail) at The State, and some yummy mini cupcakes next door at Baked Dessert Bar.   Stop by for ‘mini Mondays’, it’s like all day happy hour for cupcakes.  I would hop a flight back to Ontario just for a few more Dulce de Leche minis… they keep callin me!

Ready to plan a trip to the desert? If you’ve been, what other gems do you love?