Palm Desert Family Fun: Top 5 Things to Do on Vacation

California’s Coachella Valley offers an ideal location to enjoy outdoor recreation set in the San Bernardino Mountains. Hiking, tennis, swimming and golf beckon families to spend time together, laugh and make memories. If visiting this popular destination, find Palm Desert family fun with these activities.

Palm Desert Family Fun: 5 Ways to Play in California

Hike Local Trails in Palm Desert

Many foothill trails sit within a short drive. Hikers of all abilities can traverse well-maintained paths that meander above the desert floor to offer stunning views of the mountains and valley. Dozens of hiking trails, picnic areas and historical monuments offer a full day of activities and exercise.

Find interesting rock formations and desert scenery in Joshua Tree National Park, located less than an hour drive from the Palm Desert area. Other top spots include Palm Desert Cross, Cahuilla Hills Park and the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

Keep in mind that summers in Palm Desert heat up, with average highs in the 100s. Families packing for their desert vacation should include a pair of walking shoes, a backpack, hats and sunscreen. Plan hikes early in the morning or late in the evening and brings lots of water.

Enjoy an Aerial Tramway Ride

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ranks as the largest rotating tram cars in the world. Climb to the San Jacinto Mountains where forest scenery contrasts the desert. During the winter months, a snowy mountain top may await visitors. The 2.5-mile trip offers stunning views and provides access to observation decks, restaurants, hiking trails and museums.

Families who want to ride the tramway should pack weather-appropriate clothes and shoes. Dress in light-colored cotton in the summer, and bring a jacket and waterproof shoes.

Chill at the Pool

Sometimes families just want to kick back and relax. Many Palm Desert vacation rentals feature beautifully landscaped swimming pools, or explore public pools and recreational facilities. Palm Desert Aquatic Center features an 8-acre area with pools, slides and pool-side movies. Admission costs around $6 per person.

Pack a swimsuit or two and remember sun protection. Don’t forget the hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and pool shoes.

Play the Courses

Palm Desert also offers some of the most stunning golf courses in California. Professionally designed courses set among desert mountains and water features make golfers feel as if they’re playing in an oasis.

Book a tee time for the family and get ready for a day on the greens. Families will find rentals located on courses as well as those in nearby La Quinta. In addition, many have tennis courts for a friendly competition for non-golfers. View the top Palm Desert golf courses.

Spend an Evening in Town

During the day, the area bustles with people enjoying the great outdoors. However when the sun sets, Palm Desert and La Quinta come alive with live music, shopping and dining. Have an upscale family dinner, visit a casual hangout or try international flavors. The area’s restaurants serve everything from burgers, steaks and seafood to Asian, French and Italian.

Casual attire is acceptable for the majority of restaurants in town. To sample some of the best of the area, consider the walking Desert Tasty Tours.

Add to the Palm Desert family fun adventure and check out these Palm Desert attractions.