Palm Springs is a place that appeals to a wide range of interests. This Palm Springs Travel Guide will provide you with all the travel tips you need to make your trip to Palm Springs memorable and pleasurable.
Whether you’re drawn by its breathtaking scenery, opulent resorts, or the charm of its renowned festivals, Palm Springs offers something for everyone.
When visiting this famous city, you should think about the ideal time to go.
Book hotels, see the city’s main attractions, and make sure you have gear and guidance for a smooth journey.
#1 Travelling to Palm Springs | Budget Tips to Save on Hotels, Shopping & Attractions
Maximize Savings by Visiting Palm Springs During the Low Season
Palm Springs travel during the summer months— June, July, August, and September the temperature is high. Consequently, it has always been the off-peak season.
The best part is the great hotel discounts. You can secure premium rentals, and timeshare spots if you can withstand the heat or are a person who thrives in it.
Note: Call beforehand if you are still deciding whether to go to a specific restaurant, bar, or store. Because many of them take long vacations in July and August.
Also Check: Top Palm Springs Accommodation Guide 2024
Skip Music Festivals to Avoid High Costs and Traffic in Palm Springs
If you are not a party animal, try to avoid those weekends with the music festivals.
During these peak event times, Palm Springs travel becomes significantly more crowded and expensive. Expect heavy traffic and inflated prices across the Coachella Valley, including popular areas like Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms in the Morongo Basin.
Even low-cost lodgings charge several hundred dollars per night. Lines are lengthy, and traffic is increasing.
Shop Smart: Avoid Expensive Outlets Like Desert Hills Premium in Palm Springs
Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon offer discounted designer duds from over 150 high-end labels, such as Gucci, Alexander McQueen, and Prada.
It’s a simple diversion if you’re driving into or out of town, so try to avoid it if you want to save during your trip.
Find Discounts and Free Days for Attractions in Palm Springs
Look for weekly or monthly free days or discounts for seniors, AAA members, and active-duty military on attraction websites.
The Palm Springs Art Museum, for example, offers free admission on Thursdays from 4 to 8 pm and on the second Sunday of each month.
In addition, tickets for those 62 years of age and over, college students, teachers, and children under the age of 18 are discounted, and free entrance is offered to active-duty military personnel and their families.
There is also a list of free events put together by the Greater Palm Springs CVB. It includes polo matches in Indio, beautiful drives, and live music at Agua Caliente Casino and Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
#2 How to Get Around Palm Springs: Airport Transfers, Shuttles, and More
No Palm Springs travel guide would be complete without transportation tips. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is conveniently located about 20 minutes from downtown, making it an easy starting point for your adventure.
- From the airport: Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo, Budget, and Thrifty car rental business counters are located in the terminal next to the baggage claim area. The terminal offers Lyft, Uber, and taxis, too.
- AM–PM Shuttle Service: Service offers transit services throughout the Greater Palm Springs region.
- Skycap Shuttle Service: Offers van, town car, and luxury SUV services.
- Prime Time Shuttle: Offers transportation from Palm Springs to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
- Lin Lines and Cardiff Limousines: Professional, uniformed drivers are available for transportation services.
- SunLine: In the Coachella Valley, SunLine operates nine routes for bus service. In order to plan, review the routes and schedule.
#3 Essential Safety Tips for Handling Heat and Outdoor Adventures in Palm Springs
Weather and Heat Safety Measures
- Maintain Hydration: Always have water on hand, especially if you’re doing outside activities. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, make sure to drink a lot of water.
- Steer clear of peak sun hours: To escape the extreme midday heat, try scheduling outside activities for early morning or late afternoon (10 am to 4 pm).
- Use Sunscreen: Ensure that you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming, reapply.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored, and lightweight garments as protective attire. It’s also advised to wear sunglasses with UV protection and a hat with a wide brim.
Safety in the Outdoors and on Hikes
- Trail Expertise: Understand your path. Select routes based on your expertise and degree of fitness. Tell someone what you’re doing and when you anticipate returning.
- Bring Necessities: Pack a first aid kit, snacks, a fully charged cell phone, and a map, compass, or GPS device.
- Wildlife Awareness: Recognize the presence of coyotes and snakes in the area. Stay well away from wild animals and never feed or approach them.
- Follow the marked trails: To prevent getting lost and to preserve the local flora and fauna, stay on authorized trails.
#4 Personal Security Tips
- Stay Alert
Make sure your possessions are safe, and pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded places. Don’t show off expensive stuff.
- Travel in Groups
Traveling in groups is safer, particularly while trekking or visiting far-flung locations.
- Lock up Properly
Lock up your car and make sure that no valuables are visible inside. Use well-lit spaces to park.
#5 Local Customs and Etiquette in Palm Springs
- Meet and greet
Saying “hello” or “hi” is customary. In formal contexts, handshakes are customary, although a warm grin will usually do.
- LGBTQ+ Friendly
Diversity and tolerance are vital, and Palm Springs is regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the country.
#6 Must-Have Apps for Navigating Palm Springs: Transportation, Tours, and More
The Palm Springs apps you need, whether you live here or are just visiting!
- SunBus Tracker: For route planning, tracking the arrival of buses, and general data
- Lyft and Uber: These are ride-sharing apps one must have.
- Palm Springs Modernism App: Narrated tours of Palm Springs’s midcentury monuments. You can design your own personalized tour or browse by architect or region.
The app offers video access to the exteriors and interiors of multiple properties, as well as biographies of twelve of the top Palm Springs architects. Please take note that the app is only compatible with iPhones and has a fee.
- Palm Springs via Trip Bucket: You can find maps, lodging, dining options, and excursions in Palm Springs
- Palm Canyon Drive: shopping, dining, lodging; GPS; interactive directions
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway app: Get ready to be astounded by augmented reality.
You will see captivating narratives, entertainment, and interactive material on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway App while you’re admiring the breathtaking views.
Things to do in Palm Springs on a budget
Hike Tahquitz Canyon – A must in any Palm Springs travel guide, this scenic hike offers breathtaking views and a seasonal waterfall. With a small entrance fee, it’s an affordable way to experience the natural side of Palm Springs.
Visit Palm Springs Art Museum – A cultural highlight featured in most Palm Springs travel guides. Enjoy free admission on Thursday evenings and second Sundays, and explore exhibits featuring contemporary art, photography, and desert-inspired works.
Stroll down Palm Canyon Drive – Your Palm Springs travel guide wouldn’t be complete without a walk down this vibrant main strip. Window shop, people-watch, and take in public art—all without spending a dime.
Relax at Ruth Hardy Park – Ideal for budget-conscious visitors, this peaceful park offers shaded picnic areas, tennis courts, and walking paths. It’s a top recommendation in any Palm Springs travel guide for free outdoor relaxation.
Check out VillageFest (Thursdays) – This lively weekly street fair, often highlighted in Palm Springs travel guides, features live music, food vendors, handmade crafts, and local artists. It’s free to attend and a fun way to experience local culture.
Snap photos at colorful mid-century modern homes – A signature feature of any Palm Springs travel guide is the city’s iconic architecture. Drive or bike through neighborhoods like Twin Palms or Indian Canyons to admire and photograph colorful, Insta-worthy homes—totally free!
Is Palm Springs Expensive to Visit?
Palm Springs can be expensive, but it really depends on how you travel. Luxury resorts, fine dining, and boutique shopping can add up quickly—but as any good Palm Springs travel guide will tell you, it’s absolutely possible to explore the city on a budget. With affordable motels, free or low-cost attractions like scenic hiking trails, public parks, and free museum days, you can enjoy the city’s charm without overspending. Visiting in the off-season (summer months) also means cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds. Whether you’re planning a luxury retreat or a budget-friendly getaway, a Palm Springs travel guide offers something for everyone.
FAQs | Palm Springs Travel Guide
1. What is the best time to visit Palm Springs for budget travelers?
The best time for budget travelers to visit Palm Springs is during the low season, which falls in June, July, August, and September. During these months, hotel rates are significantly discounted due to the higher temperatures.
2. How can I save money on accommodations in Palm Springs?
To save money on accommodations, visit during the low season for discounted rates. Additionally, consider booking timeshare spots or premium rentals, and check for discounts offered by hotels for seniors, AAA members, and military personnel.
3. What should I know about Palm Springs’ music festivals?
If you’re not interested in attending music festivals, it’s advisable to avoid visiting Palm Springs during festival weekends. The Coachella Valley and surrounding areas experience heavy traffic, high costs, and crowded accommodations during these events.
4. Are there any shopping destinations to avoid if I’m on a budget?
While Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon offers discounted designer items, it’s a good idea to avoid this stop if you’re looking to save money during your trip.
5. What are some free or discounted attractions in Palm Springs?
The Palm Springs Art Museum offers free admission on Thursdays from 4 to 8 pm and on the second Sunday of each month. Additionally, active-duty military personnel and their families receive free entrance, and discounts are available for seniors, students, and teachers. Check the Greater Palm Springs CVB for a list of free events.
6. How do I get around Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is easily navigable by car, with rental services available at the airport. Other transportation options include Lyft, Uber, and taxi services. For public transit, SunLine operates bus routes throughout the Coachella Valley. Shuttle services like AM–PM, Skycap, and Prime Time Shuttle are also available.
7. What safety tips should I follow when visiting Palm Springs?
Always stay hydrated, especially in the heat, and avoid outdoor activities during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm). Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and be mindful of wildlife when hiking. Ensure that you stay on marked trails and inform someone of your plans if hiking alone.
