Most people make a beeline for California’s coastline and glitzy urban playgrounds. These are the skylines and scenic views that come to mind when envisioning a west coast vacation — especially with the kiddos. But if you rather try something else along the golfing, spa and active pursuits track, then head a bit west to Palm Springs. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and boasting lots of luxury, this might be a wonderful alternative destination in California to explore as a family.
Get Into the Swing of Things
Are your kids into tunes? A visit to Palm Springs might be a great way to intro some classic music. Back in the day, huge stars such as Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra frequented the area for vacations, as it is only about 100 miles outside of Los Angeles. Turn up the radio or headphones on your way there. Or, maybe the teens in your family like the idea of architecture. Richard Naruta and Albert Fray are among the greats who’ve left their mark on the city. Mix the ideas together and take a look at Elvis’s old honeymoon hideaway that still stands today on Ladera Circle.
Venture Into Coachella Valley
When the group is getting a little rambunctious, you can take a day or two out exploring Coachella Valley and beyond. Yes, this is where the big music festival takes place every year, but when those crowds have subsided, it’s a lovely area offering tons of active pursuits along this row of desert towns. Have everyone find out about different kind of flora in Thousand Palms Nature Preserve or have a dip in the in the naturally hot mineral waters in Desert Hot Springs. If outside, do check the weather ahead of time, as it gets scorching hot very quickly, especially around midday.
Nearby, try some hiking tours with the kids through Joshua Tree National Park or hunt for the beautiful Tahquitz Falls in the canyon. If you want an overview of the entire landscape, you all can hop on the world’s largest rotating aerial tramway over Palm Springs and Chino Canyon.
Want to get up even higher? Head back into town and take a look at the Palm Springs Air Museum, chock full of World War II memorabilia, fighter planes, and even some seasonal air shows. Don’t forget to have a peek in Ruddy’s General Store, too, while learning about history, as this is an amazing 1930s replica of an old-time shop filled with preserved, timeless products.
Where Should You Stay?
Hotels in Palm Springs range from the super glamorous to the downright cozy. One of the most wallet-friendly stays in the area is Ivy Palm Resort & Spa, which welcomes all types of families to sit back and relax. Lounge by the pool, have a meal at Mesquite Golf Club or simply enjoy the giant, air-conditioned rooms. The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa is another excellent choice, complete with a kid’s discovery room, terrarium, tennis classes for little ones, and a Desert Rangers Program to keep them occupied and excited all day.
Let us know if we can help in achieving your travel goals, we love to offer personal tips and advice – ask away.
