While Palm Springs, CA is known for its iconic mid-century architecture and glamorous lifestyle, there’s a side to this desert paradise that often goes unnoticed. Beyond the bustling streets and unique neighborhoods lie hidden gems in Palm Springs that offer a glimpse into the area’s lesser-known spots.
Whether you’re seeking a mid-century home in the area, exploring available apartments, or looking at houses for rent in Palm Springs, CA, you’re in for an extraordinary experience. Join us as we uncover the treasures that make this destination truly special, revealing experiences that go beyond the ordinary and showcase the magic of the desert.
Photo courtesy of Dana Gaydon
1. Sip the day away with Palm Springs Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is a fun and exciting way to dive into the world of flavors and delicious aromas. Situated in the Coachella Valley, the area boasts vineyards that showcase California’s finest varietals.
Bring that excitement right to your Palm Springs home with a private tasting class from Palm Springs Wine Tasting. With options like Old World Classics and Vive la France, you’ll find an array of exciting selections. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts, this hands-on experience is sure to elevate your palate and make for a memorable evening.
2. Indulge in the local foodie scene
Exploring the food scene is a true culinary adventure for foodies searching for hidden gems in Palm Springs. The city features a lively array of dining choices, from upscale restaurants crafting innovative dishes to cozy cafes serving fresh, farm-to-table delights.
Vietnamese cuisine
“Rooster and the Pig is a stylish, industrial-chic restaurant in Palm Springs, offering creative and modern takes on Vietnamese cuisine,” shares Mike Arnone, artist at Big Mike Art.
Vietnamese food is a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures, known for its fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs. From crispy rolls to red curry duck, Rooster and the Pig is a hotspot for all admirers of Vietnamese cuisine and rich culture.
“Their inventive dishes, paired with expertly crafted cocktails, make it a must-visit for food lovers seeking a unique dining experience,” Arnone recommends.
Vegan cafe
For those seeking food without meat or animal byproducts, Nature’s Health Food and Cafe is the ideal stop to indulge in tasty treats. Serving everything from breakfast omelets to smoothies and shakes, this cafe has something for everyone in the desert.
Dining at a health food restaurant like this one is a refreshing experience, offering nutritious dishes that make you feel good from the inside out.
3. Venture beyond the city to Murray Canyon
Murray Canyon in Palm Springs is a picturesque destination located within the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. It’s known for its stunning desert scenery, palm oasis, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular spot for adventurers in Coachella Valley.
“If you’re looking for hidden gems in Palm Springs, I recommend checking out Murray Canyon Trail. Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown, this beautiful trail is lined with lush palm trees and features stunning waterfalls from fresh snowmelt in the spring,” states Raizah Flores, Palm Springs Wedding Photographer at Rise in Love Photography. “You’ll even find serene swimming holes along the way, making it the perfect peaceful retreat to escape into nature.”
To dive deeper into experiencing the canyon up close, take a tour with 500 Experiences, an online platform that shares the top 500 experiences in the country. One of their standout options is the award-winning Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls hike, a stunning journey through an oasis of palm trees, a creek, and a beautiful waterfall.
For a truly immersive adventure, try the Murray Canyon Horseback Riding Tour—a fantastic way to take in the canyon’s stunning beauty from the back of a horse.
4. Work up a sweat at Desert Chrome
Taking a dance class at Desert Chrome is a fun and empowering way to get fit while expressing your creativity. These classes cater to all skill levels, offering a supportive environment where you can learn new moves and build strength. With classes from pole dancing to Lyra to bachelor and bachelorette parties, visiting this studio is a great way to meet new people and enjoy a unique workout in a vibrant setting.
Empower yourself, explore your wild side, and break a sweat at this hot desert hidden gem.
5. Take in the views on horseback
Exploring Joshua Tree National Park on horseback with Knob Hill Ranch is the perfect way to take in the enchanting desert landscapes. As the only guest ranch permitted to showcase the spectacular vistas, winding slot canyons, and vast desert traverses, Knob Hill Ranch offers rides on their loyal string of horses.
So, grab your boots and get ready for an afternoon of horseback adventures while taking in the hidden gems in Palm Springs.
6. See the city via coffee walk
One of the best ways to dive into a city is by taking it in with a walk around town—especially one with a yummy drink. A hotspot for locals is Palm Greens Cafe, where you can order a coffee or lavender lemonade before heading out for your afternoon of meandering through the shops. As you stroll, you’ll discover charming boutiques and art galleries that showcase the local culture, making each step a new adventure.
7. Make photo-based memorabilia
The desert landscapes of Palm Springs offer an unrivaled backdrop, from the sweeping mountain views to unique resorts. The true charm happens when you create memorabilia via a photo session with Monocle Project. It’s more than some pictures, it’s a cherished experience designed to make you feel and shine your best while having memories to last long after your trip.
The team combines artistic vision with high-end, personalized service to create a session that perfectly captures the beauty of the desert. Monocle Project ensures every detail is tailored to you, delivering not just lasting photos, but unforgettable memories to take home framed in the stunning desert light.
8. Bike through town
To take in the city from a different viewpoint, rent a bike and ride through the charming Old Las Palmas neighborhood. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore downtown while enjoying the beautiful places and unique architecture.
9. Listen to the local live music
Listening to live music in Palm Springs offers a glimpse into the city’s personality and artistic spirit. From cozy lounges to outdoor festivals, the music scene showcases everything from jazz and rock to soulful indie performances. Each venue has its own unique vibe and truly captures the heart and soul of Palm Springs.
Husband and wife duo
Leanna and Miguel are at the heart of the nostalgic Greater Palm Springs’ entertainment scene, where infectious energy and soulful melodies come together for an unforgettable night. This energetic experience showcases talented musicians and captivating performances that invite you to sing along and dance the night away.
Whether the show is nestled in a chic setting, popular clubhouse, or other secret locals hangout, it’s the perfect spot for both locals and visitors to soak in the magic of their live music while savoring delicious drinks and dining.
Step back in time
“If you’re looking for something to fit the mid-century vibes of Palm Springs, I highly recommend The Purple Room for a uniquely fun experience,” states Dana Gaydon, a brand and lifestyle photographer at Modern Joy Studio. “It’s a delicious dinner with a show featuring a special singer or band. It truly feels like you’re visiting the cocktail lounges of 1960s Palm Springs with good vibes and great food.”
After dinner, Gaydon recommends hitting up Bootlegger Tiki for an authentic tiki experience to complete the evening.
Photo courtesy of Dana Gaydon
10. Slip into a speakeasy
Visiting a speakeasy feels like uncovering one of the many hidden gems in Palm Springs, transporting you to a bygone era of glamour and intrigue. Tucked away from the loud streets of the city, these hidden bars often feature creative cocktails, dim lighting, and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
“For a truly unique and clandestine experience, I recommend Evening Citizen, a Prohibition-era style speakeasy that will add an air of mystery and adventure to your evening,” states Maggie Miles at the Palm Springs Post, an independent news outlet covering Palm Springs. “With no signage and a hidden entrance, the journey there is just as exciting as the destination.”
Miles continues, “Once you’re inside, enjoy a bespoke cocktail in their dimly lit parlor. They really live up to their slogan ‘We keep you in the dark.’ Oh, and when you’re there, don’t miss the striking painting of Udo Kier, one of our local celebrities, that sits prominently behind the bar.”
Whether you’re sipping a classic drink or discovering a new favorite, a night at a Palm Springs speakeasy offers a memorable escape from the ordinary.
11. Dust off your boots and go dancing
Heading out to a night of country dancing is a lively way to immerse yourself in the local scene. With the hottest country music playing, the atmosphere at Dance Ranch Palm Springs is filled with energy and excitement, inviting everyone to hit the dance floor. From a two-step and waltz, to swing and line dancing, the friendly crowd and instructors create a welcoming environment to dust off those boots and learn some new moves.
12. Discover an art gallery
The Backstreet Art District is a vibrant hub of creativity, showcasing the talents of local artists and artisans. This unique area in Palm Springs features an eclectic mix of galleries, studios, and murals, making it a feast for the eyes as you explore the colorful streets. Visitors can often find captivating exhibitions, art walks, and pop-up events that highlight the community’s artistic spirit.
Kee Gallery
Kee Gallery, one of the newest additions to the Backstreet Art District, is a delightful hidden gem. Featuring three resident artists, Kathleen Strukoff, a modern impressionist painter, Ernesto Ramirez, a surrealist painter, and Erich Meager, a ratiolaminartist, the gallery blends their artistic differences seamlessly.
Attending the art walk at Kee Gallery on the first Wednesday of each month is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene. The monthly event draws art lovers together, offering a lively atmosphere filled with engaging conversations and the chance to discover new talent.
Big Mike Art
Visiting Big Mike Art Gallery and Studio is a charming experience that immerses you in the world of contemporary art. The gallery features a diverse collection of bold, colorful pieces that reflect the artist, Michael Arnone’s, unique style and vision. With an inviting atmosphere, it’s a perfect place to explore and discover art that sparks your imagination.
Jones & Terwilliger Galleries
Visitors at Jones & Terwilliger Galleries in Palm Desert, CA are often captivated by the stunning artwork adorning the walls. Situated on El Paseo, this gallery offers a distinctive blend of classical paintings and contemporary art, creating a rich visual experience.
Whether you’re searching for a unique treasure to add to your collection or seeking assistance in curating art for your entire home, the gallery’s knowledgeable consultants are on hand to help bring your vision to life.
13. Spend an afternoon at a botanical garden
Strolling through a botanical garden is a fun and relaxing way to admire the diverse array of plants and flowers that call the desert home. The serene atmosphere offers a perfect backdrop for reflection, photography, or simply enjoying the sights and scents of nature.
“I recommend stopping by the Moorten Botanical Garden, it’s truly one of the amazing hidden gems in Palm Springs,” shares Art Davis at Palm Desert, a travel site for Palm Springs. “The garden showcases a stunning collection of desert plants from around the world. With the tranquil paths and diverse cacti and succulents, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.”
Look no further for hidden gems in Palm Springs
As you venture off the beaten path and consider some pros and cons of living in Palm Springs, you’ll discover that the city’s charm extends far beyond its well-known activities. From serene hiking trails to unique local eateries and captivating art installations, these hidden gems in Palm Springs offer a fresh perspective on this beloved desert oasis. So, the next time you find yourself in paradise, take a moment to explore the treasures waiting to be uncovered—you just might find your new favorite place.