Last updated on February 18th, 2026
Looking for fun things to do in Palm Springs with Kids?
Palm Springs, California isn’t just for golfers and snowbirds. It’s packed with family-friendly attractions, unique outdoor adventures, and lots of fun things to do for adults and kids of all ages.
The very first time I visited Palm Springs was for a bachelorette party many years ago. Since then, I have been back multiple times – with kids, with friends, even on a multi-generational trip with my son and in-laws. It’s less than two hours from San Diego (and close to Los Angeles and Orange County, too) and has some of the most amazing resorts and places to stay.
Palm Springs is the perfect place to go when you’re looking for a weekend getaway – no matter who you are traveling with.
I am excited to share with you the top things to do in Palm Springs with family, so let’s get to it!
Top 5 Picks: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Palm Springs
If you are just looking for a quick list of the can’t miss, very best family-friendly things to do in Palm Springs, here are our Top 5 recommendations.
► Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of a mountain.
► Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
► Explore downtown Palm Springs on a family bike ride.
► Relax and play in the pool at your resort.
► Take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park.
Keep reading for more details on these activities, plus many more fun things to do in Palm Springs with (or without!) kids.
Things to Do in Palm Springs with Family
Whether you’re escaping the winter chill or seeking a sunny getaway, Palm Springs offers the perfect blend of fun and relaxation. Here are the best Palm Springs attractions, including tips on what to expect and where to find more details.
1. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is first on the list, because it truly is the top “must-do” attraction if you are looking for things to do in Palm Springs with family. I’ve done this one a few times and it is always different depending on the time of year. Most recently, we went up during winter – enjoyed a little snow play and had lunch at the café before coming down.
What makes the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway truly special is the ride up. You’ll enter the tram car with a bunch of other people (each tram can hold up to 80) for a 10-minute ride up to Mountain Station, elevation 8,516 feet. Along the way, the rotating tram car slowly spins, offers stunning views of the mountains and Coachella Valley below.
At the top, you’ll discover hiking trails, a nature center, scenic overlooks, and during winter—snow! During the summer months, it is a great place to go to enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat of the desert climate.
There are two dining options at the top of the mountain – Peaks, a fine dining experience and Pines Café, a cafeteria-style restaurant. There’s also a full bar offering a variety of cocktails and appetizers.
It’s also worth mentioning Cascade Café, which is located at Valley Station at the bottom of the mountain. The patio overlooks the trams as they come and go, and it’s a nice place to grab a coffee or snack and wait if you have time before your tram departs.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- The rotating tram adds an exciting twist kids will love!
- Cooler temperatures at the top offer a break from desert heat.
- Perfect for photos, hiking, and snow play in winter.
Top Tip: No matter what time of year you are visiting, bring jackets. Temperatures at the top are often 30 to 40 degrees cooler than at the bottom.
- 1 Tram Way Palm Springs
- (888) 515-8726
- pstramway.com
2. Visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
If you live in Southern California, chances are your kid has already been to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens even if you have not. It is a hugely popular destination for school field trips. My son had visited twice (once with school, once with day camp) before I ever set foot inside.
Located in Palm Desert, just a few minutes outside Palm Springs, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens brings desert ecosystems to life with animals from Africa, North America, and beyond. Kids can feed giraffes, spot cheetahs, explore walking trails, and even cool off on their new splash pad when it’s hot outside.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit, accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensuring the highest standards of all aspects of animal care, education, conservation, public service, and operations. They have been a top attraction in the Palm Springs area for more than 50 years.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Interactive animal experiences.
- Easy walking paths make it stroller and toddler-friendly.
- Educational opportunities woven into every habitat.
Top Tip: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is fun for all, but kids ages 2 to 12 will probably get the most out of it
- 47900 Portola Avenue, Palm Desert
- (760) 346-5694
- livingdesert.org
3. Discover the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert
Just a short drive from Palm Springs in Rancho Mirage, the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert is a vibrant, hands-on space where kids are encouraged to learn through play. With over 80 interactive exhibits, this museum is designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and exploration in children of all ages.
Inside, kids can build, climb, pretend, and experiment. Popular areas include the pretend-play Grocery Store, the Rope Maze, and the engaging STEM Stations. Outside, the Trike Track lets little ones zoom around safely in a pint-sized riding zone. Exhibits are frequently updated and offer experiences that mix science, art, and engineering in a way that feels like pure fun.
It’s the perfect place to burn off energy indoors, especially on a hot desert afternoon or during a rare rainy day.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Interactive exhibits that engage young minds through science, art, and problem-solving .
- Safe, welcoming, and age-appropriate environment.
- Especially fun for toddlers and early elementary kids.
- Offers both indoor and outdoor play areas.
- Excellent option for beating the heat or escaping inclement weather.
Top Tip: The museum can get busy on weekends and holidays. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a more relaxed experience.
- 71-701 Gerald Ford Drive, Rancho Mirage
- (760) 321-0602
- cdmod.org
4. Explore the Palm Springs Air Museum
For the budding pilot or curious young historian, the Palm Springs Air Museum offers an unforgettable, hands-on journey through aviation history. Home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable World War II aircraft, this museum is packed with interactive exhibits and walk-in cockpits that let kids get up close to the action.
Step inside four climate-controlled hangars showcasing 59 vintage aircraft from World War II, Korea, and the Vietnam War—including planes that have appeared in major films. Exhibits cover both aviation technology and the stories of the men and women who served. Kids can climb into real cockpits, try out flight simulators, and watch planes take off and land right outside on the tarmac.
Want to take the experience to the next level? The museum offers guided tours and even flight experiences in historic aircraft (age and height restrictions apply). Throughout the year, the museum also hosts family-friendly events, from air shows to holiday celebrations.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Kids can climb into real planes and explore the controls.
- Flight simulators and interactive exhibits keep children engaged.
- Friendly and knowledgeable docents bring history to life.
- Indoor exhibits provide a cool, comfortable break from the desert heat.
Top Tip: Check the museum’s event calendar in advance—special events and seasonal activities often include kid-focused programs and flight demonstrations.
- 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs
- (760) 778-6262
- palmspringsairmuseum.org
5. Relax by the Pool at a Family-Friendly Resort
Is there anything better than enjoying pool time on a hot, sunny day? There are very few destinations in the world where I’d say one the best things to do is just hanging out at the hotel, but Palm Springs is definitely one of them!
Palm Springs is home to many resorts designed with kids in mind (think waterslides, movie nights, and poolside games). There are even some amazing Palm Springs resorts with lazy rivers for the ultimate pool experience.
There are many fantastic Palm Springs family resorts to choose from, but here are a few of our favorites.
The Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort has two dueling slides, a 450-ft lazy river, and a splash pad this is the perfect spot for a summer vacation. Or if you are looking for more water park features, we love the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa. It has a lazy river, water slides, splash pad for little kids, and family-friendly activities, plus a swimming pool and hot tub for adults only. The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa is another great choice, with a large and lively pool scene, dueling slides, and three pools.
► Be sure to check out our complete Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort review.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Built-in fun without leaving the hotel.
- Spacious suites and kid-friendly menus.
- Onsite activities keep everyone entertained.
6. Take a Family Hike in Indian Canyons
Indian Canyons is one of the most scenic and family-friendly hiking destinations in the Palm Springs area. Home to stunning landscapes, lush palm oases, and ancient cultural history, it’s a fantastic place to introduce kids to the unique beauty of the desert.
Andreas Canyon Trail
This easy, one-mile loop trail is ideal for families with younger children. The path winds alongside a peaceful stream and is shaded by towering native California fan palms. Along the way, you’ll see more than 150 plant species, plus dramatic rock formations and native wildlife like lizards and birds. This area is also sacred land to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Look closely and you may spot ancient rock mortars used by the Cahuilla people, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years.
Murray Canyon Trail
For families with older kids or more hiking experience, the Murray Canyon Trail is a bit more challenging. This trail leads you through open desert and palm groves before ascending into the canyon. It includes stream crossings and rocky sections, but the effort pays off with a visit to the beautiful Seven Sisters Waterfall—an unexpected oasis in the desert.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Short, shaded hikes that are manageable for most kids.
- Engaging natural features—palm trees, streams, and wildlife to discover.
- A chance to learn about local Native American history and culture.
Top Tip: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection—shade is limited outside of canyon areas. The best time to hike is in the morning to avoid peak desert heat. Also, check with the Indian Canyons Visitor Center for trail conditions and closures before heading out.
7. Stroll Through Downtown Palm Springs
Downtown Palm Springs is a vibrant, walkable area filled with retro charm, fun shops, and family-friendly dining spots. Don’t miss a visit to Great Shakes and photos along the Palm Springs Walk of Stars on Palm Canyon Drive. There is also a 26-foot-tall sculpture honoring Marilyn Monroe overlooks Downtown Palm Springs. It is one of 100 outdoor exhibits in the Greater Palm Springs area.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Ice cream stops and restaurants galore.
- Souvenir shopping and street performers.
- Thursday night VillageFest adds extra excitement with food, crafts, and entertainment.
8. Explore Joshua Tree National Park
Located just under an hour away from Palm Springs a day trip to Joshua Tree will take you into a surreal desert landscape filled with dazzling rock formations and of course those iconic Joshua trees. It’s a surreal wonderland where families can climb boulders, spot desert wildlife, hike the park’s vast trails, and explore unique landscapes unlike anywhere else.
The very first time I visited Joshua Tree National Park, my son was just a little guy and we camped for three nights, exploring the park and taking lots of different hikes. Over the years, we’ve been back many times and there is always something new and amazing to explore. It is truly one of my favorite places and I dare say one of the best national parks easily reachable from San Diego.
Some spots you won’t want to miss if you are visiting Joshua Tree with kids include Hidden Valley Nature Trail, a short, scenic loop with rock formations and Cholla Cactus Garden. Cholla Cactus Garden has a quarter-mile cactus garden trail that lets even young kids walk through the garden and explore the fauna safely.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Giant rocks = natural jungle gyms.
- Stargazing is unforgettable on clear nights.
- Easy hikes for all ages.
Top Tips:
- Bring snacks, water, and make sure your car is fueled up – there are no services inside the park.
- Cell service is spotty; download maps beforehand.
- Stop at one of the visitor centers for maps, info, and activity ideas.
9. See Dinosaurs in Cabazon
Located just west of Palm Springs, the Cabazon Dinosaurs are a roadside attraction featuring two enormous, steel-and-concrete dinosaurs named Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex. Located just west of Palm Springs, the 150-foot-long Brontosaurus and the 65-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus rex are visible from the 10 freeway on your way to Palm Springs.
Mr. Rex and Dinny are repainted periodically so they always look different and have a fun, new theme.
You can explore the dino museum and climb inside a giant T. rex for panoramic views, or just view and take photos from outside for free. You can walk right up and under them without having to purchase any kind of ticket.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Silly, kitschy fun perfect for little dinosaur lovers.
- Great stop for stretching legs on road trips.
- Quick and affordable activity near the freeway.
Top Tip: If time allows, stop by the nearby Cabazon Outlets for some shopping. They are located just a mile away from the Dinosaurs.
- 50770 Seminole Drive, Cabazon
- (909) 272-8164
- cabazondinosaurs.com
10. Tour a Wind Farm
One of things you will undoubtedly notice driving to Palm Springs is the thousands of giant wind mills along the freeway. Did you know you could take a tour of the wind farm?
A wind farm tour is a fun and educational way to introduce kids to renewable energy—and the iconic Palm Springs landscape. Located in the San Gorgonio Pass, this region is home to one of the oldest and largest wind farms in the United States, with over 3,000 turbines spinning in the famously breezy desert air.
Palm Springs Windmill Tours is the only wind farm tour officially endorsed by the Desert Wind Energy Association. The tour takes you behind the scenes onto restricted-access property, offering stops along the way to get up close to the massive turbines and take in panoramic desert views. You can also do a self-guided driving tour.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- A unique way to learn about clean energy and sustainability.
- Up-close views of gigantic wind turbines in action.
- Engaging, guided experience that’s both educational and entertaining.
Top Tip: Bring hats and sunglasses—it can be extra sunny and windy out on the tour grounds. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
- 62950 20th Ave, Palm Springs
- windmilltours.com
11. Enjoy a Family Bike Ride
Exploring Palm Springs by bike is not only a fun and active way to spend time together—it’s also a fantastic way to see the desert landscape, historic neighborhoods, and local charm up close. With mostly flat terrain and sunny skies, Palm Springs is a bike-friendly destination perfect for families.
Many local hotels offer complimentary bikes for guests or rentals through local partners. Be sure to ask at the front desk when you check in. We recently stayed at Margaritaville Resort and had a great time riding through town. The hotel is located right on the outskirts of downtown so the streets and quiet and relatively safe for kids.
You can also rent at Bike Palm Springs Rentals. Located in the heart of downtown, this shop offers everything from traditional cruisers to e-bikes. It’s a great launch point for exploring the Palm Springs Bike Path, which takes you through historic neighborhoods, palm-lined streets, and offers sweeping mountain views.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Flat, scenic routes are easy for all ages and skill levels.
- Electric bike options help make longer rides a breeze.
- A unique way to explore neighborhoods, parks, and local culture.
- Many hotels offer on-site bikes so no need to rent separately.
Top Tips for Biking with Kids:
- Plan your ride early—mornings are cooler, especially in warmer months.
- Pack water, sunscreen, and helmets (rental shops usually provide helmets, but it’s good to check).
- Choose low-traffic areas or designated bike paths for younger riders.
- Stop often to take photos, grab a snack, or explore a local park—there’s no rush!
12. Climb and Slide at Palm Desert’s Civic Center Park
At 70 acres, Civic Center Park is one of the largest parks in the Palm Springs area and a great spot for kids to play and have fun. This spacious community park is a local gem with shaded playgrounds, duck ponds, picnic areas, walking paths, and gardens.
There are also volleyball, basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Multiple play structures for different age groups.
- Wide open spaces for picnics or soccer.
- Clean restrooms and easy parking.
Top Tip: Civic Center Park hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. Be sure to check their website for details.
- 43900 San Pablo Avenue, Palm Desert
- palmdesert.gov
Final Thoughts: Palm Springs with Kids
Palm Springs is so much more than a retro resort town – it’s a family-friendly playground full of nature, history, culture, and sunny pool days.
Whether you’re soaring above the desert on a rotating tram or hiking through cactus-filled canyons, Palm Springs offers the whole family a unique mix of excitement and relaxation. With activities for toddlers, teens, and everyone in between, you’ll find plenty of ways to make memories that shine as bright as the desert sun.
Save These Palm Springs Things to Do for Later!
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