THINGS TO DO
Discover Palm Springs
From pool breaks to scenic trails, explore the best things to do during your stay at Vista Mirage Resort.
Our front desk team is happy to share the best spots to eat, explore, and enjoy in Palm Springs.
Daily Activities
Want the inside scoop on today’s happenings? Text us at (760) 507-2617 and our front desk team will fill you in!
Monday
10:00am - 11:00am – Terra Cotta Pots (Kits available at the front desk for $5)
Tuesday
10:00am - 11:00am – Wine Glass Painting (Kits available at the Front Desk for $5)
Wednesday
Thursday
10:00am - 11:00am – Painting Crafts (Kits available at the Front Desk for $3)
Friday
4:00pm - 5:00pm – Complimentary Happy Hour in the Lobby (21+)
Saturday
8:30am – Complimentary Coffee in the Lobby
Sunday
8:30am –Complimentary Coffee in the Lobby
Offered All Week
Fruit Picking when in season (Pick up at front desk) *
Free DVD with a complimentary popcorn and hot cocoa pack(Pick up at front desk) *
Desert, Bites & Beyond
Make the most of your Palm Springs getaway with our hand-picked highlights—whether you’re here to shop local boutiques, savor fresh cuisine, soak up iconic sights, or dive into unforgettable activities. Here’s where to start your adventure.
Eat & Drink
Melvyn's
A local favorite for a reason. Melvyn’s is a historic Rat Pack-era restaurant—think tableside Steak Diane as a signature dish, and an Old Hollywood glamour vibe. The iconic Palm Springs nostalgia and consistently polished service make it a top pick for a date night.
Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge
Located right in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs, this restaurant offers stylish design-forward dining. Grab a table in their trendy atmosphere, order from the creative menu, and enjoy the modern Palm Springs energy.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar
Workshop Kitchen + Bar is an upscale restaurant in Palm Springs known for its modern industrial aesthetic and seasonal, farm-to-table California cuisine. Located in a restored historic building, it combines award-winning architecture with a creative, wood-fired menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, inventive cocktails, and a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere.
Cheeky's
The breakfast legend you’ll wish you found sooner. This trendy, creative brunch spot (Michelin Guide recognized) is known for their famous bacon flight with unique flavors. The menu changes weekly using local ingredients. You can expect waits for this popular spot, but it's perfect for a foodie brunch with Instagram energy.
See & Snap
Forever Marilyn Statue
This giant 26-ft Marilyn Monroe sculpture recreates the famous white-dress moment. Located downtown near the Palm Springs Art Museum, this is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Ride up to alpine views overlooking the entire desert valley on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Their observation decks give huge panoramic photo opportunities. There is a dramatic contrast between desert floor and forested mountains. Visit all year-round for amazing views.
Downtown Palm Canyon Drive
Downtown Palm Canyon Drive is a classic palm-lined street with amazing views. You can also check out retro signage and mid-century architecture for some amazing photo ops. The best time to visit is golden hour for long shadows and mountain backdrop.
Cabazon Dinosaurs
(Cabazon, 20 min) Make sure to stop on your drive in and check out the famous Cabazon Dinosaurs. These giant dinosaur sculptures are visible from the 10 freeway and make for a classic quirky SoCal photo stop.
Shop & Stroll
Main Street Palm Springs
The heart of Palm Spring’s downtown shopping scene. This walkable street is lined with boutique fashion, gift shops, art galleries, and mid-century design stores. You can't miss the classic Palm Springs vibe that is perfect for first-time visitors and souvenir shopping.
The Shops At Thirteen Forty Five
One of the most Instagram-worthy shopping stops is this colorful mid-century modern plaza. Visitors can shop local boutiques, home décor, and lifestyle shops. This stop is best for unique finds and Palm Springs style.
El Paseo Shopping District
Often called the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” El Paseo is an upscale shopping district in Palm Desert known for luxury boutiques, art galleries, stylish dining, and beautifully landscaped walkways. This palm-lined boulevard offers a sophisticated yet relaxed desert shopping experience with scenic mountain views and plenty of outdoor patios.
Mitchells Palm Springs
Mitchells is a vintage lovers’ dream. The best spot for retro clothing and accessories. You can experience the true Palm Springs aesthetic (think mid-century glam). This would be a fun treasure-hunt shopping experience.
Play & Explore
Andreas Canyon Trail (Indian Canyons)
One of the most unique hikes in the area. This short 1-mile loop through palm oasis is a shaded trail with a flowing stream. There is a huge variety of plant life that makes it feel like a hidden desert garden. This trail is great for easy nature walks, photos, and beginners looking to explore Palm Springs.
Tahquitz Canyon Trail
This is one of the most iconic Palm Springs hikes. Tahquitz Canyon Trail is a 2-mile loop with a seasonal 60-foot waterfall.
Palm Canyon Trail
This signature desert canyon hike is up to 15 miles but can be shortened to whatever fits your needs. Check out the largest California fan palm oasis in the world with a mix of shade and open desert.
Old Town La Quinta
Old Town La Quinta is a charming desert hub featuring boutique shops, local dining, art galleries, and scenic mountain views. With Spanish-style architecture and a relaxed, walkable atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to explore local culture, enjoy outdoor patios, and experience the heart of La Quinta.
Farmers Market
Saturdays 8:00am to 1:00pm
Fresh Finds Every Saturday at the Certified Farmers Market in Palm Springs
Events
May 6
Rock out under the desert sky at Rock the Park, a laid-back outdoor concert experience filled with high-energy tribute bands and classic rock favorites. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, kick back with friends, and enjoy a fun, easygoing evening of live music in true Palm Springs style.
June 11-22
Celebrate creativity at XOXO Palm Springs, a vibrant citywide festival showcasing art, culture, and community. From live performances and gallery exhibits to immersive pop-ups, it’s a dynamic way to experience the city’s creative spirit.
July-August 31-2
Step into the spotlight at Dancing with the Stars Con, where fans can experience the excitement of the ballroom up close. Enjoy live performances, behind-the-scenes panels, and appearances from your favorite stars for a weekend full of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable moments.
August 7-9 & 14-16
Turn up the summer heat at Splash House, a high-energy pool party and DJ festival. With nonstop music, rooftop vibes, and poolside dancing, it’s the ultimate desert escape for sun-soaked fun and late-night beats.
Trivia
Hollywood’s Secret Playground
From the 1920s-1960s, Palm Springs was the favorite escape for stars like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley. Because studios required actors to stay within a two-hour drive of Hollywood, Palm Springs became the perfect desert hideaway – earning it the nickname “Hollywood’s Playground.”
Birthplace of Mid-Century Modern Design
Palm Springs is considered one of the world’s capitals of mid-century modern architecture. Visionary architects like Richard Neutra and Albert Frey designed sleek desert homes that blended indoor and outdoor living. Today, Modernism Week draws architecture lovers from around the globe.
Record High Temperatures
Palm Springs recorded a scorching 123 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer of 1995 – one of the hottest temperatures ever recorded in California. Despite the heat, the desert’s dry climate makes mornings and evenings surprisingly comfortable in spring.
Desert Blooms
The nearby Anza-Borrego Desert State Park occasionally experiences a “super bloom” when rare heavy rains cause entire valleys to erupt in wildflowers. It’s one of the most dramatic natural transformations in Southern California.
Come Back to the Desert
A Note from Our General Manager
At Vista Mirage Resort, we love seeing familiar faces return to soak up the sun, stroll Downtown Palm Springs, and discover something new each visit. Whether you’re coming back for another family vacation, a romantic escape, or just a quiet weekend in the desert, we’d be honored to welcome you home again.
While you’re here, take a moment to browse the carousel below, featuring our sister resorts. We think you’ll enjoy discovering these unique destinations just as much as you love staying at Vista Mirage Resort.
Reach out anytime—our team is here to make your next stay even more memorable.
Located halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles along the Pacific Coast, Capistrano is your idyllic seaside escape.
Let your worries melt away with a soak in our rooftop hot tub with mesmerizing ocean views, enjoy exclusive discounts at select shops on Orange Avenue, or meet fellow guests at our welcome breakfast on Mondays.
Spend your days exploring scenic trails, teeing off on the championship golf courses, or enjoying family-friendly fun at the activity center. At Canyon Rim at Eagle Crest, adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Experience a comfortable and convenient stay just one block from the beach at Channel Island Shores, offering Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, beach gear, hot tubs in select suites, and more for your perfect seaside getaway.
Let your worries melt away with a soak in our hot tub with mesmerizing ocean views, enjoy a walk down to the beach, or meet fellow guests at our Koi Fish Feedings in the main lobby.
Relax in Indio Escape to the heart of the desert at Indian Palms Vacation Club, where your getaway begins the moment you arrive.
Kick back in cozy, condo-style accommodations located within walking distance to Palisades Tahoe and world-class skiing, hiking, and dining.
Feel your worries melt away with a soak in the hot tub, a walk along the Napa River, or while meeting fellow guests at our wine reception on Wednesdays.
Discover the best of Olympic Valley with its unparalleled beauty, breathtaking mountain views, and a wealth of outdoor adventures at your doorstep.
Located on a beautiful tropical hillside alongside the championship Makai Golf Course in Princeville, Makai Club Resort has everything you need to make it your home away from home on Kauai.
From boating and fishing on the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe, to skiing and snowboarding down the mountain slopes, you get to choose your own year-round adventure in Tahoe Vista.
Located halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles along the Pacific Coast, San Clemente Cove is your idyllic seaside escape.
Come experience the tranquility and exclusive ambiance of this beloved Del Mar resort neighboring the village. The property is just a block from the beach, offering breathtaking views of the sun setting over the ocean each night.
Kick back in our ocean-view hot tub, grab some free beach gear for sandy adventures just steps away, or cruise through Oceanside with our complimentary bike rentals.
Let your worries melt away as you take a refreshing dip in our pool or unwind in the soothing waters of our jacuzzi, all while basking in the California sun.