What to do in Palm Desert, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

An aerial view of a town with a large swimming pool, baseball fields, and mountains in the background.
A sign for 'The Shops on El Paseo' with a prominent 'EP' logo.
A desert landscape with tall palm trees and a mountain range under a blue sky with clouds.
A golf course with water features and residential areas.
A desert landscape with rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, including palm trees.

Things to do

Palm Springs Tour from an open air 6 Passenger Golf Cart

Palm Springs Tour from an open air 6 Passenger Golf Cart

฿6,714
per adult
Palm Springs Tour from an open air 6 Passenger Golf Cart
The Legends & Icons Tour of Palm Springs

The Legends & Icons Tour of Palm Springs

฿4,724
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
The Legends & Icons Tour of Palm Springs
See all activities in Palm Desert
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Palm Desert

Stay near popular Palm Desert attractions

A calm river with buildings on one side and mountains in the distance.

Desert Willow Golf Resort

8.8/10 (424 reviews)
Two championship golf courses set against the Santa Rosa Mountains create a golfer's paradise at Desert Willow. Enjoy meticulously maintained fairways and a full-service clubhouse with dining options between rounds.
See properties

Where to stay in Palm Desert

Find the best Palm Desert areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Cahuilla Hills

While there might not be top attractions in Cahuilla Hills, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and El Paseo Shopping District.

A desert landscape with tall palm trees and rocky mountains under a clear blue sky.

El Paseo Village

While visiting El Paseo Village, you might make a stop by sights like El Paseo Shopping District and The Gardens on El Paseo.

A pool surrounded by palm trees and a building with a sign that reads "Land of Dreams."
Photo by Bob Cummins
Open Photo by Bob Cummins

South Palm Desert

If you're spending some time in South Palm Desert, El Paseo Shopping District and The Gardens on El Paseo are top sights worth seeing.

A rocky landscape with a small body of water, palm trees, and a few animals.

Bighorn

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Bighorn and surrounding area, you can visit Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and El Paseo Shopping District.

A desert landscape with large boulders, yucca plants, and sparse shrubs.

Park Palms

When in Park Palms, you can plan a visit to Palm Desert Aquatic Center and Desert Willow Golf Resort, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Day trip destinations from Palm Desert

A geothermal area with steam vents and a lake surrounded by mountains.

Desert Hot Springs

A golf course with a lake, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

Indian Wells

A desert landscape with tall palm trees and rocky terrain.

Thousand Palms

A solitary tree in a foggy landscape.

Mountain Center

Frequently asked questions

Is Palm Desert worth visiting?
Famous for its golfing and shopping, discovering fun things to do in Palm Desert is simple. Make sure to add McCallum Theatre to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Palm Desert?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Palm Desert Aquatic Centre and Palm Springs Lanes, spend the rest of your day enjoying Palm Desert's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Palm Desert?
The top tourist attraction in Palm Desert is McCallum Theatre, so don't forget to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Palm Desert?
Three days will be enough time to tick off the leading city highlights, such as McCallum Theatre, Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre and Arthur Newman Theatre. The average stay in Palm Desert is three days. If you have the urge to extend your holiday, Palm Springs isn't far away.
Is Palm Desert a walkable city?
Some top sights in Palm Desert, such as McCallum Theatre and Arthur Newman Theatre, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometres from the city centre of Palm Desert is Magnesia Falls Cove and Desert Horizons is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Palm Desert with kids?
If you're looking for sights and tours for all ages, check out these awesome ideas for what to do in Palm Desert with kids.
What to do in Palm Desert for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Palm Desert for adults including Acrisure Arena and Empire Polo Club.
Are there free things to do in Palm Desert?
In Palm Desert, Palma Village Park is a must-see spot for anyone looking to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Palm Desert.