10 TOP Things to Do in California Desert (2025 Activity Guide)

Costa Mesa which includes art, interior views and a skyscraper

Palm Springs which includes wild flowers

Palm Springs showing fishing, a house and landscape views

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway which includes hiking or walking as well as a small group of people

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What to do in California Desert

Popular places to visit

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Enjoy panoramic views over the Coachella Valley on the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world.

Palm Springs Convention Center

Learn about the events happening in Palm Springs Convention Center during your trip to Palm Springs. Discover the area's spas or seek out its golf courses.

Indian Canyon

Hike along ancient walking trails through palm-dotted canyons at this stunning recreational park.

Palm Canyon

Explore the lovely green spaces of Palm Canyon and enjoy the hiking trails in Palm Springs. Discover the mountain views in this relaxing area or enjoy its golf courses.

Old Town Temecula Community Theater

You can make plans for a show at Old Town Temecula Community Theater during your trip to Temecula. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its wineries.

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Between meeting animals from across the world and exploring nature trails through the Sonoran Desert, expect an exotic experience in southern California.

Marriott's Shadow Ridge Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Palm Desert at Marriott's Shadow Ridge Golf Club. Discover the desert landscapes and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Pechanga Resort & Casino

Why not try your luck with a visit to Pechanga Resort & Casino where you can enjoy the entertainment at this popular casino in Temecula? Visit the shops and wineries in this romantic area.

Agua Caliente Casino

Why not roll the dice with a visit to Agua Caliente Casino during your visit to Rancho Mirage? Discover the lively festivals and spas in this family-friendly area.

Areas of California Desert

Downtown Palm Springs

Downtown Palm Springs is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Agua Caliente Casino and Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Palm Springs.

Downtown Riverside

Downtown Riverside is beloved for its stunning river views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Fox Performing Arts Center and Mount Rubidoux Park.

Uptown Design District

Uptown Design District is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Las Palmas and San Jacinto Mountains while in the area.

Tahquitz River Estates

Though Tahquitz River Estates may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium and Agua Caliente Cultural Museum.

Sunrise Park

If you're spending some time in Sunrise Park, Palm Springs Mall Shopping Center and Palm Springs Swim Center are top sights worth seeing.

Baristo

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Baristo and surrounding area, you can visit Agua Caliente Casino and Agua Caliente Cultural Museum.

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