Best Things to See, Do, & Eat in Downtown Palm Springs

Looking for the best things to see, do, and eat in downtown Palm Springs? I’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re planning a trip or already soaking up the sun here, this guide is your ticket to the best sights, bites, and activities.

Having called Palm Springs my second home since 2008, I’ve spent countless weekends exploring every corner of downtown andI I’m thrilled to share my top picks with you.

From quirky art installations to cozy eateries, get ready to discover the hidden gems that make this desert town truly sparkle.

Now, let’s dive in!

Things to See in Downtown Palm Springs

1. Street Art in Downtown Palm Springs

A metallic sculpture of a seated figure with a textured surface is displayed in front of a modern building in downtown Palm Springs at night. — *This post contains affiliate links. I might make a small profit if you choose to purchase at no extra cost to you. This helps me provide you with high-quality, free content.*

Downtown Palm Springs is a vibrant canvas of street art, bursting with murals and quirky installations.

Begin at Museum Way, where the iconic statue of Marilyn Monroe stands proudly in front of the Palm Springs Art Museum.

A short walk away, discover “Isabelle,” a mesmerizing stainless steel sculpture by Julian Voss-Andreae near the Kimpton Hotel. Its reflective surface creates a dynamic interplay of light and form.

Nearby, Colette Miller’s “Stay Human” mural features angel wings that invite playful selfies — I’ve definitely taken more than a few selfies here!

These pieces transform the city streets into an engaging open-air gallery you’ll love exploring!

2. See More Art in Art Galleries

A white car stands vertically planted in the ground, surrounded by palm trees, in front of a modern building against a mountainous backdrop, much like an unexpected art installation you might stumble across when exploring the vibrant sights and things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

Downtown Palm Springs is a treasure trove of art galleries, showcasing the talents of both local and international artists.

Stewart Galleries is a highlight, known for its collection of original oil paintings by celebrated Californian and American Impressionist, Modernist, and Plein Air painters.

The gallery also presents paintings and sculptures by listed European and South American artists.

As you explore downtown, you’ll find an eclectic array of galleries displaying everything from contemporary fine art to indigenous and abstract pieces.

These spaces foster a dialogue between artists and the community, enhancing each visit.

3. Wander the Streets of Old Las Palmas and Vista Las Palmas

A mid-century modern house with a distinctive zigzag roofline, stone facade, and a yellow front door. Surrounded by desert landscaping and tall palm trees, the property offers breathtaking mountain views. Located just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, it provides easy access to local attractions.

Explore the historic neighborhoods of Old Las Palmas and Vista Las Palmas, where mid-century modern architecture takes center stage.

Take yourself on a self-guided walking tour and soak in the sights of iconic estates that hark back to the golden age of Hollywood.

Glimpse the lavish Liberace Estate at 501 Belardo, and admire the exterior of Mary Pickford and Buddy Rogers’ former home at 701 N. Patencio. Remember to keep a respectful distance—these are private homes, after all.

Another must-see is Elvis Presley’s Honeymoon Hideaway at 1350 Ladera Circle. This 5,000 sq ft, three-level home is famously known as “The House of Tomorrow” and epitomizes the futuristic style of its era.

Just down the road, you can see Liberace’s Guest House at 1441 N. Kaweah Road. Each of these landmarks offers a unique peek into the glamorous history of Palm Springs.

Or, rent your own mid-century modern gem and stay for as long as you like! Book your stay here.

4. Walk of Stars

Pedestrians walk past a star on the Walk of Fame with the inscription "RED APPLE Motion Pictures," set in a paved sidewalk. One of the many things to do in downtown Palm Springs, this spot adds charm to your visit. Don't forget to check out the map of downtown Palm Springs for more attractions.

Take a stroll along the Palm Springs Walk of Stars and immerse yourself in the city’s rich celebrity heritage.

Embedded along Palm Canyon Drive, as well as parts of Tahquitz Canyon Way, La Plaza Court, and Museum Drive, these “Golden Palm Stars” honor notable figures who’ve left an indelible mark on the greater Palm Springs area.

You’ll have fun finding the stars of presidents like Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan to entertainment legends such as Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope.

Literary figures, pioneering settlers, tribal leaders, and humanitarians also find recognition on this celebrated path.

The Walk of Stars is a must-visit for anyone captivated by the allure of Palm Springs!

5. Visit the Sonny Bono Statue

Bronze statue of a smiling man sitting on the edge of a stone fountain, with his left hand resting on an adjacent stone pot—a charming highlight among the things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

In the heart of downtown, the Sonny Bono Statue stands as a charming tribute to a man who wore many hats: singer, producer, and politician. You’ll find him sitting by the fountain in front of Ruby’s Diner on Palm Canyon Drive.

As the former mayor of Palm Springs, Sonny Bono’s influence on the city is commemorated through this life-sized bronze statue.

Taking a goofy and fun picture with him is a top thing to do in Palm Springs during your trip, in my opinion!

6. Painted Benches

A woman in a black outfit stands smiling near a bench with colorful text that reads "Keep on Dancing" on an urban street with palm trees and buildings in the background, capturing just one of the many enjoyable things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

You can take a fun quest to find Palm Springs’ painted benches, each a unique canvas celebrating local art and creativity.

Scattered throughout the city, over 50 benches have been commissioned by the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission to add a playful and interactive element to your visit to downtown Palm Springs.

As you wander from block to block, keep an eye out for whimsical designs, including the crowd-favorite bacon and eggs bench.

Things to Do in Downtown Palm Springs

7. Shop Boutique and Thrift Stores

A yellow building with a sign that reads "REVIVALS DONATE • VOLUNTEER • SHOP" is set against a rocky hill backdrop in downtown Palm Springs. The storefront features large glass windows and is surrounded by desert plants, making it one of the interesting things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

Dive into the eclectic world of shopping in Downtown Palm Springs, where high-end boutiques meet vintage thrift shops. One local favorite is Revivals, a treasure trove of both vintage and contemporary finds.

This popular thrift shop offers a wide array of items—from costume jewelry and clothes to home furnishings and vintage ceramics—and supports a great cause, benefiting the Desert AIDS Project.

Don’t miss a visit to the Cocky Cactus, renowned for its unique gifts. Here, you can find one-of-a-kind items that are perfect for remembering your trip or finding gifts for someone at home.

8. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum

A woman in a yellow top poses with her arms outstretched, mimicking a tree-like sculpture in an outdoor area with desert vegetation, capturing one of the quirky things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

Step into the Palm Springs Art Museum, the cultural cornerstone of the Coachella Valley and a must-visit in Downtown Palm Springs.

This premier museum houses over 12,000 objects, featuring a dynamic array of modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design deeply rooted in the area’s rich history and cultural landscape.

The collection extends to Native American art and Western artworks, capturing the diverse spirit of the region.

Be sure to explore the outdoor sculpture garden, a serene space where art and nature intermingle beautifully.

Local tip: Plan your visit on a Thursday when the museum offers free admission.

Keep in mind, this popular deal is no secret, so expect a bit of a crowd as you delve into the artistic treasures housed in this mid-sized museum.

9. Take a Walking, Biking, or Bus Tour

A red double-decker tour bus drives past a modern white building with palm trees lining the street under a clear blue sky, offering visitors a scenic route to explore things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

The local historical society offers a variety of paid walking tours that showcase different neighborhoods and focus on diverse topics, primarily the movie stars and notable individuals who have called Palm Springs home.

If you like bike tours, the South Palm Springs Architecture, History, and Bike Tour packs an exploration of three neighborhoods—Deepwell Estates, Twin Palms, and Indian Canyons—into one energizing morning.

While bike rental isn’t included, but you can bring your own for comfort or rent one at a nearby shop with a discount.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the area’s history and architecture from an expert guide, all before noon (when it starts getting really hot)!

For those who prefer to walk or bike less, you could take a bus tour instead. The Legends and Icons tour is a great way to see more of the city comfortably from your seat.

10. Moorten Botanical Gardens

A woman stands in a greenhouse filled with cacti and succulents, a hidden gem among the many things to do in downtown Palm Springs. She is wearing a grey dress with black leggings and black shoes.

Discover the enchanting Moorten Botanical Gardens, a serene haven filled with thousands of desert plants and cacti.

As a huge fan of the gardens, I love visiting this picturesque spot, though it’s important to note there is an admission fee: $5.00 for adults and seniors, $2.00 for children 15 and under, and free for children under 5.

The highlight of the garden is the cactarium, a special enclosure that houses a fascinating assortment of small, rare cacti.

This close-up view of the different varieties is truly captivating. Be aware that if you’re planning to take professional photos, there will be an additional fee.

11. Lounge by Your Hotel’s Pool

A busy outdoor pool area with numerous people swimming and lounging on deck chairs. In the background, there are mountains and palm trees, reminiscent of a scene from downtown Palm Springs. Buildings surround the pool area, completing this vibrant setting.

Nothing says Palm Springs like a day spent lounging by a stylish hotel pool, basking in the warm desert sun. If you’re wondering which hotel pools are the best in town, here are some top picks that promise a splash of luxury and relaxation (all are LGBTQ+ friendly):

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs: Enjoy breathtaking views from the only rooftop pool in downtown Palm Springs.
Fleur Noire Hotel: This hotel offers a unique, artistic backdrop for poolside relaxation.
Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs: Known for its vibrant scene and eclectic crowd.
Parker Palm Springs: Dive into elegance with lush landscapes and chic decor.
Hermann Bungalows at L’Horizon: Experience exclusivity and serene beauty at this adult-only retreat.

For more on the best places to stay and swim, check out my detailed guide to the most Instagram-worthy boutique hotels in Palm Springs.

12. Villagefest on Thursday Nights in Downtown Palm Springs

A bustling outdoor market on a palm tree-lined street in downtown Palm Springs, featuring numerous white tents and crowds of people browsing various stalls under a clear sky. For visitors seeking things to do in downtown Palm Springs, this vibrant market brims with local flavor and activity.

Every Thursday night, downtown Palm Springs transforms into a lively street fair known as Villagefest. Palm Canyon Drive closes to vehicular traffic from Indian Canyon Drive to Belardo Road, becoming a vibrant, pedestrian-only celebration.

Here, you can enjoy an array of arts, crafts, food, and entertainment as you stroll through the festive atmosphere. Vendor booths line both sides of the street, offering everything from unique handmade goods to delicious local eats.

Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a tasty treat, or just a fun evening out, Villagefest has something for everyone.

From October through May, Villagefest starts at 6pm and runs until 10pm.

June through September, it starts an hour later, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

13. Visit the Palm Springs Historical Society

Exterior of the McCallum Adobe Museum with a sign that reads "Walking Tours." The building, located in downtown Palm Springs, is made of adobe bricks with a wooden roof and porch, surrounded by a garden and palm trees—one of the many charming things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

Dive into the rich history of Palm Springs at the Palm Springs Historical Society. This facility houses the MacCallum Adobe Museum and the Cornelia White House.

Believe it or not, the museums, built in the 1880s and ’90s, are the two oldest buildings in Palm Springs!

The McCallum Adobe Museum offers a concise yet insightful overview of the area’s first Native Americans and pioneers. The Cornelia White House is available to tour as well.

Visiting the Palm Springs Historical Society is a perfect indoor activity for the rare rainy day.

221 S Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Where to Eat in Downtown Palm Springs

14. TRIO

A modern restaurant exterior with the name "TRIO" displayed, nestled in downtown Palm Springs. The outdoor seating area is fenced with orange panels and decorated with potted plants, creating a cozy ambiance. Adjacent to other establishments along the sidewalk, it's a must-visit among things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

Come for the food and stay for the architecture. TRIO’s building itself is legendary!

The building itself was originally designed to be a bank by the celebrated architects John Porter Clark and Albert Frey, making it a piece of Palm Springs’ architectural history.

It’s the perfect spot for both locals and visitors to unwind and indulge.

Make sure not to miss their Happy Hour, available daily from 4-6pm, featuring $4 beers, $6 wines, and $10 martinis and bar food.

And if you find yourself there on a Tuesday, enjoy the All Day Happy Hour specials that truly make Trio a local favorite.

707 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA

15. Eight4Nine

A gourmet dish featuring grilled meat on a bed of sauce, garnished with herbs, grilled vegetables, and a side of corn salad, served on a white plate with glasses of white wine in the background—perfect after exploring things to do in downtown Palm Springs.

One of the most popular restaurants in downtown Palm Springs, Eight4Nine is fun and swanky.

This place really embodies the epitome of desert dining with its chic and elegant atmosphere.

Having dined here countless times, I can personally vouch for its consistently top-notch quality—so much so that my sister’s wedding shower was hosted here!

When you visit, make sure to try the Mesquite-Smoked Carne Asada. It’s such a good dish!

849 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA

16. El Mirasol

Entrance to a restaurant with a sign reading "El Mirasol." Green awning, decorated with multicolored papel picado banners, potted plants, and a wooden gate with a directional sign. A must-visit spot when exploring downtown Palm Springs.

Another great dinner option in downtown Palm Springs: El Mirasol.

A family-run gem led by renowned chef Felipe Castaneda, El Mirasol captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine.

Since its opening in 1985, El Mirasol has carved out a niche in Palm Springs for serving meticulously prepared Mexican regional dishes and famously tangy margaritas. Yum!

140 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA

17. The Tropicale

A pink building with a sign reading "Tropics" is surrounded by palm trees and shrubs under a clear blue sky, offering a quintessential scene of downtown Palm Springs.

Such a fun spot! The Tropicale Restaurant, a Palm Springs staple since 2007, is inspired by the vibrant supper clubs of the 1960s.

Its swanky décor and lively ambiance set the stage for a dining experience that offers “comfort food from around the world.”

Known for its dynamic and diverse menu, The Tropicale has garnered accolades such as being named one of “The 100 Hottest Restaurants in America 2021” by OpenTable and “Palm Springs Most Booked Restaurant 2023.”

Happy hour at The Tropicale is a local favorite, offered every day from 4 PM to 7 PM, with extended hours all Wednesday night.

Whether you’re coming in for the world-renowned brunch or an evening of exquisite dining, The Tropicale delivers an unforgettable experience every time I come here!

330 E Amado Rd., Palm Springs, CA

18. Las Casuelas Terraza

Known for its exceptional food, friendly hospitality, and excellent service, this restaurant has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.

The setting of Las Casuelas Terraza is as memorable as the cuisine—a gorgeous layout reminiscent of a grand Mexican hacienda.

The cozy, beautifully decorated atmosphere enhances the dining experience, making guests feel like they’ve entered a warm, welcoming home in Mexico.

It’s a real favorite spot in downtown Palm Springs!

222 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA

That’s a Wrap: Best Things to See, Do, & Eat in Downtown Palm Springs

There you have it—whether you’re soaking up the sun or planning your next getaway, downtown Palm Springs offers an incredible array of activities and dining experiences.

From strolling through historic neighborhoods to indulging in some of the best food the city has to offer, there’s something here to spark your curiosity!

If you’re looking for the perfect brunch spot to kickstart your mornings here, don’t forget to check out my guide to the best brunch spots in Palm Springs.