Discover Palm Springs & Joshua Tree: The Ultimate Guide with Remote Vans®
Palm Springs is a desert get away that is a great spot to visit in the cooler month, or even in the late spring. It is just a couple hours away from San Diego, and we love combining these two locations to create a perfect road trip with our Remote Vans® Series. Here are some of our favorite things to do, and places to eat at when we make our way through the desert to Palm Springs.
Get Out and Explore the Outdoors
Palm Springs is not only close to Joshua Tree National Park, but it also has a hidden gem right outside the city for hiking!
- Indian Canyon Hike: Just a short drive from the city, the Indian Canyon hike is a scenic and relatively easy trail that offers beautiful views of the desert landscape and palm oasis. You truly feel like you’re in an Oasis from a movie scene!
- Joshua Tree National Park: Less than an hour away, this iconic park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The surreal landscape, dotted with iconic Joshua trees, and massive rock formations makes for unforgettable hiking. Explore popular trails like the Arch Rock Trail (1.2 miles) and the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail (3.1 miles). Both offer stunning desert scenery with the promise of discovering hidden oases and unique rock formations.
- Skull Rock: Another gem within Joshua Tree National Park, Skull Rock (1.7 miles) offers a quirky and photo-worthy spot with a naturally formed rock that looks strikingly like a skull.
If you’re keen on a more leisurely way to take in the desert beauty, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a breathtaking ride up the San Jacinto Mountains, where you’ll find incredible views of the desert below. They always play fun music on the ride up, making it a fun activity with the whole family!
And don’t forget to look up at night! Palm Springs is known for its clear skies, making it a stellar destination for stargazing tours. You can head outside at night to check out the stars, or even book a stargazing tour through local agencies in the area.
Our Favorite Bites & Local Fines
Palm Springs is known for its trendy restaurants and wide scene of cultural foods. There are so many places to try, as well as local farms in the area, here are a couple of our favorites:
- Farmers Market: Every Thursday, Palm Springs’ vibrant Farmers Market offers a great selection of fresh, local produce, artisan products, and handmade goods.
- Date Farm: Palm Springs is known for its dates (the dried fruit!), and the Sam Cobb Date Tree Farm is the perfect place to experience the local specialty. Pick up some fresh dates or try out a date shake—a must try when in Palm Springs!
When it’s time to dine out, here are a few local favorites:
- On the Mark: A Palm Springs staple, we think they have some of the best lunches/sandwiches in town.
- Mr. Lyons: A classic steakhouse known for its prime cuts and old-school charm. Ideal for a special night out!
- Townie Bagels: Some of the best bagels in town, perfect for a quick bite to start the day off.
Iconic Architecture and Scenic Drives
Palm Springs is an iconic destination for architecture lovers, especially those drawn to midcentury modern design. The city is home to one of the largest collections of midcentury modern homes in the U.S.
Take a leisurely drive through the neighborhood and enjoy the colorful, sleek homes that have become synonymous with Palm Springs’ chic style. Keep an eye out for famous landmarks like the Palm Springs Visitor Center and the iconic Elvis Presley’s Honeymoon Hideaway.
RV Campsites: Where to Stay in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is an RV-friendly destination, with a variety of campsites that cater to travelers seeking a comfortable place to park their home on wheels. Here are a few of our favorite RV campsites:
- Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort: This resort offers spacious sites with full hookups, a heated pool, and a convenient location just minutes from downtown Palm Springs.
- Jumbo Rocks Campground: If you’re heading to Joshua Tree National Park, Jumbo Rocks Campground is a fantastic choice. Located within the park, it offers stunning views of rock formations and is a great base for hiking and stargazing.
- Shadow Hills RV Resort: Located just outside Palm Springs, Shadow Hills is another highly-rated resort with amenities like swimming pools, hot tubs, and a fitness center.
Local Grocery Stores: Stock Up for Your Adventure
Cooking your own meals while on the road is a great way to save money and enjoy fresh, healthy options. Here are some local grocery stores where you can stock up:
- Pavilions: Located in the heart of the city, this upscale grocery store offers organic and local options, as well as a great selection of wine and prepared foods if you’re in a pinch.
- Trader Joe’s: For a fun and affordable grocery experience, Trader Joe’s is always a hit. With plenty of healthy snacks, frozen meals, and local goodies, it’s a great place to pick up essentials for your RV kitchen.
Plan Your Palm Springs Getaway with Remote Vans®
With so much to discover, Palm Springs is a must-add to your travel list! Explore breathtaking beaches and indulge in delicious dining experiences—all in the comfort of a Remote Van®, giving you the freedom to craft your own island adventure. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable escape.
Onwards,
Remote Vans
