Need a quick escape from Palm Springs’ stylish streets? These day trips deliver wild landscapes, cool culture, and serene spots just beyond the desert oasis.
Highlights:
Unique Day Trips from Palm Springs:
⮕ Amboy Crater - 1 hour and 30 minutes
Hike to the crater rim and admire lava fields on a quick desert trip.
© Rob Tilley and Danita Delimont/stock.adobe.com
Location:
San Bernardino County, CA (Eastern Mojave Desert)Highlights:
If you're near Palm Springs and want to say you've hiked inside a real volcano, Amboy Crater is a must. This extinct cinder cone in the Mojave Desert is an otherworldly day trip you won’t forget.We Recommend This For:
Desert adventurers, geology buffs, Route 66 road trippers, and anyone craving panoramic volcanic views.What we Love:
The crater’s perfect symmetry, its lava field backdrop, and the surreal feeling of walking inside a volcano.- Climb the 250-foot cone via the Western Cone Trail and reach the peak rim for sweeping desert views.
- Explore a 70-square-kilometer lava field and stand atop 944 feet of preserved volcanic wonder.
- Relax in the day-use area with picnic tables and restrooms, perfect for a post-hike break.
- Discover Route 66 nostalgia—Amboy Crater was a brag-worthy stop for 1960s travelers heading west.
Distance from Palm Springs:
Plan for a scenic drive of around 1 hour and 30 minutes (about 85 miles).How to Get to Amboy Crater:
Head east on CA-62, then take US-95 north to historic Route 66. Follow signs to Amboy; the crater trailhead is well marked and includes a small parking area.⮕ Anza-Borrego Desert State Park - 1 hour and 45 minutes from Palm Springs
Explore slot canyons and discover blooming cacti during a scenic spring adventure.
© Ron/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Borrego Springs, CAHighlights:
Need an epic nature escape from Palm Springs? We’d absolutely recommend Anza-Borrego Desert State Park —California’s largest state park, with jaw-dropping desert views, prehistoric fossils, and off-road adventures galore.We Recommend This For:
Nature lovers, geology geeks, hiking fanatics, families, and anyone craving a vast, uncrowded desert experience.What we Love:
The surreal badlands, ancient mountain backdrops, and the life-sized model of a giant prehistoric bird at the Visitor Center.- Explore more than 600,000 acres framed by rugged ranges like the Jacumba, Vallecito, and Santa Rosa Mountains.
- Visit the year-round Visitor Center to see cultural and natural exhibits, including the dramatic Aiolornis incredibilis replica.
- Drive or hike across 500+ miles of visitor roads and desert trails—perfect for 4x4 adventures or peaceful walks.
- Marvel at unique desert topography like the Carrizo Badlands and the expansive Salton Trough.
Distance from Palm Springs:
Expect a drive of about 1 hour and 45 minutes (roughly 85 miles, depending on route).How to Get to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park:
From Palm Springs, take CA-111 South to CA-86 South. Turn west on S22 into Borrego Springs and follow signs to the Visitor Center at 200 Palm Canyon Dr.⮕ Julian - 2 hours from Palm Springs
Walk along historic streets and sample fresh pies on a charming fall getaway.
© OlgaDm/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Julian, CA (Cuyamaca Mountains foothills)Highlights:
If you’re up for a charming mountain escape from Palm Springs, Julian is a must-visit. This historic gold rush town is famous for apple pies, beautiful fall festivals, and preserved 19th-century charm.We Recommend This For:
History buffs, apple lovers, festival goers, and families looking for a cozy mountain getaway.What we Love:
The preserved historic district, abundant apple orchards, and fun annual events like the Apple Festival and Fourth of July Parade.- Stroll through the Designated Historic District with beautifully preserved buildings and living history tours year-round.
- Enjoy fresh apple pies and explore local orchards thriving in Julian’s cool mountain climate.
- Celebrate at seasonal events including the Apple Festival, Music at the Marketplace, and the Fat Tire Bike Festival.
- Experience authentic small-town California with friendly shops, cafes, and charming mountain views.
Distance from Palm Springs:
About a 2-hour drive east, roughly 110 miles via I-10 and CA-79.How to Get to Julian:
Take I-10 East from Palm Springs, then head south on CA-79 toward Julian. Follow signs into town and park near the historic district to start exploring.⮕ The Coachella Valley - Just 10 Minutes from Palm Springs
Bike on desert trails and see mountain views on a fun weekend outing.
© Felipe Sanchez/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Coachella Valley, Southern CaliforniaHighlights:
Looking for a vibrant desert escape with a mix of nature, culture, and festivals? Coachella Valley delivers with scenic hiking, world-class golf, colorful murals, and the iconic Coachella Music Festival.We Recommend This For:
Festival fans, outdoor enthusiasts, golf lovers, art admirers, and anyone craving a lively desert getaway.What we Love:
The stunning desert murals, expansive golf courses, the dramatic San Andreas Faultline, and the world-famous annual music festival that energizes the valley every spring.- Explore 45 miles of desert framed by the San Bernardino Mountains and the northern Salton Sea shores.
- Discover vibrant murals on self-guided tours of the Coachella Walls, showcasing local artistic talent year-round.
- Enjoy recreational hiking, horseback riding, winter sports, and over 125 premier golf courses.
- Experience entertainment and gaming at two local casinos and relax in luxury at the sprawling 35-acre Hotel Indigo.
- Attend the world-renowned Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, featuring top rock, hip-hop, and EDM artists each April.
Distance from Palm Springs:
Coachella Valley surrounds Palm Springs, so expect short drives—typically 10 to 40 minutes depending on your destination within the valley.How to Get to Coachella Valley:
From Palm Springs, take CA-111, CA-62, or I-10 east/west to access the valley’s towns and attractions. Signage and local roads make navigation easy.⮕ Idyllwild - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Palm Springs
Visit mountain shops and explore pine forests on a cool summer escape.
© Rosemarie/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Idyllwild, Riverside County, CA (San Jacinto Mountains)Highlights:
If you’re craving a mountain retreat with fresh air and outdoor adventure, Idyllwild is your perfect spot. Known as a mile-high artsy community, it offers hiking, rock climbing, and vibrant festivals all year long.We Recommend This For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, art lovers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful mountain escape with a creative vibe.What we Love:
The breathtaking mountain scenery, year-round outdoor activities, and the nationally recognized Idyllwild Arts Academy.- Explore miles of hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding trails at the Mile-High Idyllwild resort.
- Immerse yourself in one of America’s top artist colonies and visit galleries featuring renowned artists and crafters.
- Attend the annual Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines Festival with live performances across multiple outdoor stages.
- Enjoy the fresh mountain air and friendly small-town atmosphere year-round.
Distance from Palm Springs:
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive, about 45 miles west via CA-243.How to Get to Idyllwild:
Take CA-243 west from Palm Springs, which leads directly into the heart of Idyllwild and its surrounding communities.⮕ Indian Canyons - 15 minutes from Palm Springs
See palm oases and hike canyon trails on a meaningful cultural day trip.
© Kevin Oke and Danita Delimont/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Palm Springs, CA (Agua Caliente Cahuilla tribal lands)Highlights:
If you want to explore some of the most stunning natural spots right in Palm Springs, Indian Canyons is where to go. These four historic canyons offer breathtaking hikes, unique wildlife, and refreshing mineral springs with healing vibes.We Recommend This For:
Hikers, nature lovers, cultural explorers, families, and anyone seeking scenic desert beauty with a touch of history.What we Love:
The iconic 60-foot waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon, the towering California fan palms in Palm Canyon, and the chance to spot endangered bighorn sheep in Murray Canyon.- Hike guided or self-led trails to discover the canyons’ unique flora and fauna, including over 150 plant species in Andreas Canyon.
- Visit Tahquitz Canyon for its famous waterfall and cinematic history as the entrance to Shangri-La in Lost Horizon.
- Relax at the Palm Springs Spa Hotel and Mineral Springs, known for their healing waters.
- Spot wildlife like endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep, mule deer, and Least Bells Vireo birds.
Distance from Palm Springs:
Just a short drive—approximately 15 minutes to 38520 S Palm Canyon Dr.How to Get to Indian Canyons:
From central Palm Springs, head west on S Palm Canyon Drive. Follow signs to the Indian Canyons Visitor Center and parking area.⮕ The Integratron
Relax inside the dome and experience sound baths on a unique couples retreat.
© The Integratron
Location:
Landers, CA (near Joshua Tree National Park)Highlights:
Looking for something truly out of the ordinary near Palm Springs? The Integratron is a unique historic structure famed for its sound baths and mysterious origins linked to time travel and rejuvenation.We Recommend This For:
Curious explorers, fans of metaphysics and ufology, sound therapy seekers, and anyone wanting a one-of-a-kind wellness experience.What we Love:
The immersive harmonic sound baths using quartz bowls, the fascinating history involving ufologist George Van Tassel and Howard Hughes, and the serene desert setting.- Visit the 38-foot-high, 55-foot-diameter National Register of Historic Places-listed structure.
- Experience sound baths designed to induce deep relaxation through harmonic frequencies.
- Explore exhibits detailing the Integratron’s history and its visionary scientific and metaphysical goals.
- Enjoy the peaceful desert atmosphere just a short drive from Joshua Tree National Park.
Distance from Palm Springs:
About a 50-minute drive, roughly 40 miles northeast.How to Get to The Integratron:
Take CA-62 East from Palm Springs toward Joshua Tree, then follow local roads to 2477 Belfield Blvd in Landers.⮕ Joshua Tree National Park - 50-minute drive
Climb massive boulders and admire twisted trees on a bold winter adventure.
© Ferenc/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Twentynine Palms, CA (Colorado and Mojave Deserts)Highlights:
Want to experience the magic of the desert’s iconic Joshua trees and dramatic rock formations? Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit for hiking, climbing, stargazing, and soaking up breathtaking desert vistas.We Recommend This For:
Hikers, rock climbers, nature photographers, campers, and anyone looking to connect deeply with the desert’s unique ecosystem.What we Love:
The twisted Joshua trees, stunning views of Coachella Valley and the Salton Sea, the diverse wildlife, and incredible dark-sky stargazing.- Hike year-round on trails through Hidden Valley and beyond, suitable for all skill levels.
- Climb quartz monzonite granite rock faces with routes ranging from beginner to expert.
- Drive scenic roads or take on the Geology Tour Road for thrilling 4WD experiences.
- Spot over 250 bird species, including golden eagles, as well as coyotes, lynx, and California tree frogs.
- Camp at one of nine campground areas, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Stargaze under some of the darkest skies in Southern California, with the Milky Way visible to the naked eye.
Distance from Palm Springs:
About a 50-minute drive, roughly 45 miles northeast.How to Get to Joshua Tree National Park:
From Palm Springs, take CA-62 East to National Park Drive in Twentynine Palms. Follow signs to park entrances and visitor centers.⮕ The BMW Performance Center West
Drive performance cars and test your skills on a thrilling quick road trip.
© mirabella29/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Thermal, CAHighlights:
If you’re craving a thrilling driving experience near Palm Springs, BMW Performance Center West is the place to sharpen your skills. This premier facility offers expert instruction on cutting-edge tracks with specialized features for all levels of drivers.We Recommend This For:
Car enthusiasts, thrill seekers, teens learning to drive, and anyone wanting to master high-performance driving in a safe, controlled environment.What we Love:
The diverse track features including a black lake wet track, skidpad, and multi-configuration course, plus the chance to drive high-performance BMW cars in the M School programs.- Train on specialized tracks with skid control, hairpin turns, and high-speed straights.
- Take one- or two-day courses such as Car Control, M School, or Teen Driving Courses.
- Experience managing sophisticated vehicle dynamics behind the wheel of BMW’s performance vehicles.
- Advance your skills with professional-level training in the Advanced M School road course.
Distance from Palm Springs:
About a 35-minute drive, roughly 25 miles southeast.How to Get to BMW Performance Center West:
From Palm Springs, take CA-111 South to Thermal. Follow Jasper Lane to reach the facility at 86-050 Jasper Lane.Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why is Palm Springs a great launching-off point for exploration?
- Palm Springs is ideally located for exploring some of the top attractions in the surrounding Coachella Valley. It serves as a great base for visitors to access the region's unique Route 66 attractions and scenic drives.
- What destinations are within easy reach of Palm Springs?
- Palm Springs is conveniently located for day trips to some of Southern California's top destinations, including the charming town of Julian, bustling Los Angeles, and sunny San Diego.
Best Time for Day Trips from Palm Springs, California:
- October to April – Ideal desert weather for exploring national parks, art towns, and scenic hiking trails.
- May to June – Warm but pleasant for early morning nature trips, gardens, and mountain drives.
- July to August – Beat the heat with cooler high-elevation escapes, lakes, and shaded canyon trails.
- September – Transition month perfect for fewer crowds and a mix of summer and fall activities.
- December to February – Sunny winter days great for desert blooms, hot springs, and outdoor adventures.
Plan Your Trip
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