Things To Do With Kids in Palm Springs, CA

Take your family on an unforgettable 10-minute journey aboard the world's largest rotating tramcar as it climbs 8,516 feet up Mount San Jacinto! This engineering marvel offers a spectacular transition from desert floor to alpine wilderness, with 360-degree views that will captivate kids and parents alike. Once at the top, explore over 50 miles of hiking trails, enjoy snow play in winter, or simply take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley.

The Palm Springs Air Museum brings aviation history to life with an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, interactive flight simulators, and hands-on exhibits that captivate young aviators. Kids can get up close to World War II fighters and bombers, sit in real cockpits, and experience the thrill of flight simulation, making this a perfect blend of education and excitement for families visiting the desert.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens offers families a unique opportunity to explore 15 acres of stunning desert gardens, impressive art installations, and a fascinating Presidential retreat. This peaceful oasis in the desert provides an educational and cultural experience where kids can learn about history, nature, and art while wandering through beautifully landscaped paths featuring fountains, sculptures, and diverse plant life from around the world.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers families an incredible opportunity to explore wildlife from three continents in a beautifully landscaped desert setting. With interactive animal encounters, hands-on educational programs, and engaging exhibits featuring everything from African giraffes to South American jaguars, kids get an immersive experience that's both entertaining and educational.

Palm Springs Skate Park is a top-notch facility where kids can safely practice skateboarding, scootering, and BMX biking across multiple terrain levels designed for different skill levels. With its modern design and well-maintained surfaces, this highly-rated park offers the perfect environment for beginners learning their first ollies and more experienced riders perfecting their tricks.

Tahquitz Canyon offers families a memorable 1.8-mile loop trail through stunning desert landscape, culminating in a spectacular 60-foot seasonal waterfall. This moderately challenging hike combines natural beauty with rich Cahuilla Native American history through interpretive signs and cultural exhibits at the visitor center, making it both an active adventure and educational experience for kids.

Moorten Botanical Garden offers families a fascinating journey through desert ecosystems with over 3,000 varieties of cacti and succulents spread across charming walking paths. Kids will be amazed by the towering saguaros, bizarre rock formations, and colorful desert blooms while learning about plants that thrive in extreme conditions. This compact garden provides an educational outdoor adventure that's manageable for little legs and interesting enough to captivate curious minds.

The Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert is a hands-on wonderland where young learners can explore art, science, and nature through interactive exhibits designed just for them. With its stellar 4.6-star rating from over 600 families, this museum keeps kids engaged and entertained while sneaking in educational value that parents appreciate.

Hadley Fruit Orchards is a delightful roadside stop that transforms a simple fruit stand into a fun family experience. Kids love sampling the free dried fruit tastings throughout the store, discovering unusual varieties like date shakes and chocolate-covered fruits, while parents appreciate the nostalgic Route 66 charm and quality products that make great gifts or road trip snacks.

Indian Canyons offers families an incredible opportunity to explore stunning desert landscapes through easy-to-moderate hiking trails showcasing native palm oases, rock formations, and ancient Agua Caliente Cahuilla tribal lands. Kids will love spotting wildlife, cooling off near natural streams in Palm Canyon, and learning about the area's rich cultural history while experiencing the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

Bogart Regional Park offers families an accessible introduction to the Sonoran Desert ecosystem with easy, stroller-friendly trails perfect for little legs. Kids can explore native plant gardens, spot desert wildlife, and learn through interpretive signs that turn a simple walk into an outdoor classroom adventure in the foothills near Palm Springs.

Demuth Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Palm Springs that delivers exactly what families need: well-designed play equipment for various ages, plenty of shade structures to escape the desert sun, and open grassy areas where kids can run freely. With over 1,000 positive reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating, this park has earned its reputation as a reliable spot for letting kids burn energy in a safe, well-maintained environment.