Palm Springs, California, lies at the base of the San Jacinto mountains, 110 miles southeast of Los Angeles. Palm Desert is 10 miles west of Palm Springs. Stroll through botanical gardens, take a hike, or visit one of the resort casinos. El Paseo Shopping District in Palm Desert--known as the Rodeo Drive of the desert--features over 300 stylish shops. According to Hillary Angel, Public Relations Manager at the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, Indian Canyons, a few miles from downtown, are a must-see attraction. Tahquitz Creek and other tributaries have carved narrow canyons, all containing year-round water and California fan palm trees. You can find several attractions to explore during your stay in this desert location.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides visitors with a 360-degree view of the Coachella Valley. The rotating tram cars hold 80 passengers. The 15-minute ride begins at an elevation of 2,643 feet and climbs 2.5 miles to the mountain station, reaching 8,516 feet at Mt. San Jacinto State Park and wilderness. The temperature is 40 degrees cooler on top. You'll have access to over 70 miles of hiking trails. Tram cars depart every half hour from 10 a.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. on weekends and holidays. Prices run from $16.25 for a child to $23.25 for an adult as of 2010. A cafeteria-style eating establishment is at the summit.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
One Tramway Road
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760-325-1449
pstramway.com
The Living Desert is a 15-minute drive from Palm Springs in the cities of Palm Desert and Indian Wells. Wander through a 1,200-acre wildlife and botanical garden that features over 152 animal species from the world's deserts and rare plants from 10 ecosystems. Observe mountain lions, giraffes, wolves and birds of prey living in their natural habitat. Catch daily animal shows. Admission rates range from $7.75 for children to $12.75 for adults as of 2010. Parking is free.
Living Desert
47-900 Portola Avenue
Palm Desert, CA 92260
760-346-5694
livingdesert.org
The Spa Resort Casino is Coachella Valley's top-ranking resort and spa. The 9-acre resort in the center of Palm Springs offers a spa, hotel and casino. The casino provides a mixture of table games, slots, and poker, and you can choose from several gourmet dining options. Immerse yourself in the renowned spa or enjoy a massage performed by a therapist. Outdoor cafes, art galleries, shops, and museums are nearby.
Spa Resort Casino
401 East Amado Road
Palm Springs, CA 92262
1-888-999-1995
sparesortcasino.com
