If your family wants a fun, easy trip from Los Angeles, go to Palm Springs. It’s perfect for a weekend or school break.
Palm Springs has fun for all ages. It has year-round sun, a unique desert, and many things to do. There are also cultural attractions.
Here are our top picks for playing and staying in Palm Springs with kids. We found glamping spots, opulent resorts, fun activities, and the best BBQ.
Top Family Resorts in Palm Springs for Unforgettable Getaways
Boost the enjoyment of your family trip! Visit resorts in the Greater Palm Springs area for days full of amazing family fun, adventure, and relaxation.
There’s lots of fun for you and the kids, like racing down opposing water slides and smashing bowling pins.
Spirit of Sophia: A Unique Family-Friendly Resort in Palm Springs
The most Palm Springs-like experience you can get in Palm Springs is at Spirit of Sofia!
- Tucked away in the middle of the desert, this exquisite hideaway offers breathtaking views of the mountains. It has verdant gardens and a tranquil ambiance that will leave you feeling revitalized and renewed.
- The Spirit of Sofia is noteworthy in part because of its emphasis on well-being. Private yoga sessions are among the wellness programs and services that the resort provides.
- This place is perfect for a family getaway.
Location: 1491 Vía Soledad, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States. Get Directions
Contact: +1 512-777-1455
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa Palm Springs
For families that enjoy fun in the water, the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa is one of the greatest resorts in Greater Palm Springs.
- A splash pad, a kiddie slide, and several cool family pools are just the start. You may experience a lazy river that appears to continue forever, competing water slides, and more year-round at the exhilarating HyTides Plunge Water Park.
- Agua Serena Spa (for those over 18), golf, cabana rentals, exercise center, and electric car charging are a few of the facilities. Remember to keep abreast of their deals.
- The El Paseo Shopping District and the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens are entertaining neighborhood attractions.
Location: 44600 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA 92210, United States. Get Directions
Contact: +1 760-776-1234
The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is stunning. It has five outdoor pools, scenic lakes, and many lawn games, like soccer, frisbee, and badminton.
- Don’t miss the JW Entertainment Zone. It has both modern and vintage arcade games with prizes.
- The resort offers visitors aged 18 and up, fitness programs, golf, tennis, spa treatments, and boat tours of its waterways.
Location: 74-855 Country Club Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260, United States. Get Directions
Contact: +1 760-341-2211
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Palm Springs
The always-refreshing Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is another family-friendly resort in Greater Palm Springs that features water slides.
- Take your family to Splashtopia for a fun-filled day filled with water. Enjoy the two 100-foot water slides, the 425-foot lazy river, the cliffside jacuzzi, and the sandy beach while you unwind.
- There’s plenty to get enthusiastic about at the water play areas with fountains and sprays.
- You may find shopping, tennis, golf, and family-friendly seasonal activities at Omni Rancho. You may tie dye, make sun catchers, and paint a photo frame for the holidays.
- This place is genuinely fun from the moment you check in until you leave. Check out their extensive selection of exclusive deals.
Location: 41000 Bob Hope Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270, United States. Get Directions
Contact: +1 760-568-2727
Things to Do with Kids in Palm Springs
Searching for family-friendly outdoor activities to do while in Palm Springs?
There’s more to family-friendly activities in Palm Springs than just dining out in the charming downtown district and hosting summer pool parties.
Try these exciting activities to see that Palm Springs is more than just what greets the eye!
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the largest rotating tram car in the world.
The world’s largest revolving tramway travels 2.5 miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon. It takes visitors to the unspoiled wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area.
Tram vehicles circle slowly for ten minutes, providing breathtaking views of the valley below.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert is a unique zoo and botanical garden. It focuses on the world’s deserts. Its goal is to promote awareness, education, and enjoyment of desert environments.
While there, families can do many things. They can hike trails, feed giraffes, ride a carousel, ride camels, and feed lorikeets. They can also take private tours.
Also, there’s a chance to tour the Tennity Wildlife Hospital and Conservation Center.
Palm Springs Walk of Stars
Find out which famous people from Hollywood formerly called Palm Springs home.
The Walk of Stars is a must-see, including over 400 stars with the names of well-known celebrities and prominent local figures.
Explore the Walk of Stars on your own or join one of the many walking tours that pass by it in Palm Springs!
Moorten Botanical Gardens Palm Springs
Favorite attractions in Palm Springs are the Cactarium and Moorten Botanical Gardens. 3,000 specimens of desert cactus and other desert plants, arranged geographically, can be found in the gardens.
Everyone is welcome to stroll through the gardens and tour the Moortens’ Mediterranean-style house, known as “Cactus Castle,” which is sometimes referred to as a peaceful refuge.
It is a breathtaking and kid-friendly spot. The ancient Palm Springs charm is genuinely present at the Botanical Gardens.
Horse Ride: Smoke Tree Stables Palm Springs
You may book hourly or full-day guided rides at Smoke Tree Stables!
Enjoy some peace on the 150+ miles of scenic, accessible trails. They offer seclusion and great beauty.
Kids seven years old and up are allowed to participate.
Boomers Palm Springs
Boomers Palm Springs is a must-visit if you’ll be in Southern California with family or if you have children.
This top-rated family attraction in Palm Springs has fun activities for all. They include bumper boats, go-karts, mini golf, rock walls, and arcade games with over 100 titles.
Any time of year is a great time to spend an exciting day outside with your loved ones at this location.
Trekking in the Palm Springs Tahquitz and Indian Canyons
There are over 60 miles of hiking trails in the Indian and Tahquitz Canyons. They are a short drive from downtown Palm Springs. They range in difficulty from easy to hard.
Families can learn about the Native American tribe that seeks the canyons and nature. They can attend free hikes or talks by rangers from October to June.
Escape Room Palm Springs
To win the game and escape, guests have sixty minutes to look around the room for clues and use the objects they find!
Rest assured that the game is suitable for kids 8 years old and up, and guests are not trapped within.
Escape Room Palm Springs is one of the biggest of its kind in Southern California, with six escape rooms to play in.
Cabazon Dinosaurs Palm Springs
There are robotic dinosaurs and a dinosaur garden at the World’s Biggest Dinosaur Museum in Cabazon.
The scientific community from all over the world, including Drs. Michael Egnor and Benjamin Carson, have contributed to this educational resource.
Discover the planet’s and humanity’s past, together with the most amazing dinosaur facts.
Conclusion | Palm Springs with Kids: Best Family Resorts & Activities
Families will love Palm Springs for its mix of adventure, relaxation, and learning.
Palm Springs delights both adults and kids. They can explore local culture, hike, or swim in hotel pools.
Careful planning meets family needs, ensuring a trip filled with fun, joy, and memories.
Palm Springs with Kids: Best Family Resorts & Activities FAQs
1. What are the best family resorts in Palm Springs?
The top family resorts in Palm Springs include:
- Spirit of Sophia: Offers a tranquil desert retreat with wellness programs and stunning mountain views.
- Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa: Features a splash pad, lazy river, and HyTides Plunge Water Park.
- JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa: Boasts five outdoor pools, a JW Entertainment Zone, and scenic lakes.
- Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa: Home to Splashtopia with water slides, a lazy river, and family-friendly seasonal activities.
2. What are some must-do activities for kids in Palm Springs?
Here are some exciting activities for kids:
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Enjoy breathtaking views while riding the world’s largest rotating tram car.
- The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Offers giraffe feeding, camel rides, and educational tours.
- Boomers Palm Springs: A fun spot with bumper boats, go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games.
- Escape Room Palm Springs: Solve puzzles in one of the largest escape room facilities in Southern California.
3. Are there outdoor activities suitable for families in Palm Springs?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy:
- Trekking in Tahquitz and Indian Canyons: Explore over 60 miles of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
- Moorten Botanical Gardens: Stroll through cactus gardens and visit “Cactus Castle.”
- Horse Riding at Smoke Tree Stables: Enjoy scenic trail rides suitable for kids aged seven and up.
4. What is the best time of year to visit Palm Springs with kids?
Palm Springs is great year-round, but the best times to visit are:
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures and blooming desert flowers.
- Fall (September to November): Mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December to February): Cooler temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
5. Are there any educational attractions in Palm Springs?
Yes, Palm Springs offers several educational experiences:
- Cabazon Dinosaurs: Visit the World’s Biggest Dinosaur Museum with robotic dinosaurs and educational exhibits.
- The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Learn about desert ecosystems and conservation efforts.
6. How can I get around Palm Springs with kids?
Palm Springs is accessible by:
- Car: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area and visit various attractions.
- Public Transport: Palm Springs offers bus services, though renting a car might be more flexible for families.
7. Are there any family-friendly dining options in Palm Springs?
Yes, Palm Springs has numerous family-friendly restaurants. Some popular choices include:
- Boozehounds Palm Springs: A dog-friendly spot with a diverse menu.
- Spencer’s Restaurant: Offers a family-friendly atmosphere and delicious dining options.
- Kreem: A casual eatery with a focus on comfort food and treats.
8. What should I pack for a family trip to Palm Springs?
Be sure to pack:
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Comfortable Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics for daytime and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
- Swimming Gear: Swimsuits and pool essentials for resort fun.
- Outdoor Gear: Hiking shoes and water bottles for outdoor adventures.