How Many Days Do You Need in Palm Springs?

This blog post features links and information which have been obtained on a press trip. However, as always, all opinions shared in this post are my own.

Are you starting to plan a visit to Palm Springs but unsure how long you’ll need?

Three days should be enough if you just want to stay in and explore Downtown Palm Springs. However, if you wish to explore Greater Palm Springs or have a couple of days relaxing, I recommend five to seven nights instead.

I spent three nights in Palm Springs on my most recent visit, which was split into two parts:

Part One: Downtown Palm Springs

I spent one night at the Palm Mountain Resort And Spa. This was the perfect location from which to explore Downtown Palm Springs.

Some of the things I did during my time here included:

• Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
• Shopping in Downtown Palm Springs
• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
• Palm Springs Air Museum
• Photos with Marilyn Monroe

Some of the other things you can do in Downtown Palm Springs include:

• Palm Springs Art Museum
• Moorten Botanical Garden
• Architecture Tours
• Uptown Palm Springs

Part Two: Indian Wells

I then drove roughly 35 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs to Indian Wells. While here, I spent two more nights at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa. 

Given the distance, you don’t have to move hotels to explore the Coachella Valley, where Indian Wells resides. However, this area offers a different vibe from downtown, which I wanted to experience first-hand. 

Downtown Palm Springs is very walkable – you don’t really need to hire a car. However, the Coachella Valley is much more spread out. As such, if you plan to explore outside of your resort, a car may be a worthwhile investment.

Speaking of resorts, Downtown Palm Springs is predominantly small, independently owned properties. You’ll often find a swimming pool and a small fitness centre. Still, the key selling point is the location. 

In contrast, you’ll find large resorts and hotels in the Coachella Valley. Many have a championship golf course, several bars, restaurants, and a spa. You could easily come and stay at one of these hotels and never leave the property. 

As such, where you should stay in Greater Palm Springs will likely depend on two things:

1. Attractions you want to see & do
2. Hotel experience

Some of the things I did during my time in the Coachella Valley included:

• Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours & Events
• The Living Desert

Some of the other things you can do in Coachella Valley include:

• Indian Wells Tennis Garden
• Coachella Valley Preserve