Not going to lie, the triple digits in the desert are pretty brutal. But, I’m always determined to still find things to do to make summertime fun and memorable.
Here is a list of everything I know of to do this Summer here in the Coachella Valley.
Grab a Sweet Treat
Nothing beats the heat like something sweet and refreshing! From creamy scoops to fruity blends, Palm Springs has no shortage of spots serving up frozen happiness. Whether you’re wandering downtown or just need a reason to leave the house, grabbing a cold treat is a summer must. Here is a list of favorites for locals and tourists alike.
- Shields Date Garden (Indio)
- Ice Cream & Shop(pe) (Palm Springs)
- Monster Shakes (Cathedral City)
- Nitroinfusions (La Quinta)
- La Dolce Piccola Gelateria (Palm Desert)
- Brandini Toffee (Rancho Mirage)
- Lappertโs Ice Cream (Palm Springs/Palm Desert)
- Great Shakes (Palm Springs)
- Kreem (Palm Springs)
- Handelโs Homemade Ice Cream (Palm Desert)
Have a Pool Day
Book yourself a little staycation, or localsโ tip, check out ResortPass and book a day at a resort pool! Thereโs a ton of options, and prices start at just $22.00.
Outdoor Adventures
While there is a bit of a shortage on outdoor adventure options during summer, here are a few great ones to still consider!
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway โ One of the best summer escapes. Ride the rotating tram up to Mt. San Jacinto, where temperatures are often 30 degrees cooler. Enjoy walking trails, scenic views, and even a cocktail at the top.
- Palm Springs Surf Club โ The desertโs coolest new hangout. Whether youโre into wave riding or lazy river lounging, this reimagined waterpark is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to make a splash.
- The Living Desertโs New Water Feature โ In Palm Desert, this zoo and garden now offers a shaded, interactive splash area for kids โ a fun (and educational!) way to stay cool while spotting giraffes, meerkats, and more.
- Thursday Night VillageFest โ When the sun goes down, head downtown. VillageFest transforms Palm Canyon Drive into a buzzing street fair with live music, local makers, and late-night eats. Itโs a favorite summer tradition for locals and visitors alike.
Indoor Activities
Letโs be real, afternoons in Palm Springs are made for the indoors. Luckily, thereโs no shortage of fun, air-conditioned ways to escape the heat while still making the most of your day.
- Go Ice Skating at Berger Foundation Iceplex โ Yes, you can ice skate in the desert! This cool escape in Palm Desert offers public skate sessions and rentals for all ages and skill levels.
- See a Concert or Event at Acrisure Arena โ From big-name artists to comedy shows and sporting events, this state-of-the-art arena is a must for summer nights.
- Palm Springs Art Museum โ A stunning mix of contemporary art, Native American work, and sculpture. Bonus: admission is free on Thursday nights from 5โ8 PM.
- Paint Your Own Pottery โ Get creative (and stay cool) at Old Town Artisan Studio in La Quinta or Paint & Fire in Palm Desert โ perfect for a relaxing solo outing or a fun date idea.
- Agua Caliente Cultural Museum โ Dive into the rich history and traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. A beautiful and meaningful cultural experience right in downtown Palm Springs.
- Spa Day at the Spa at Sรฉc-he โ Treat yourself to ultimate relaxation at this luxurious new mineral spa. The architecture is stunning, and the amenities are top-tier.
- Escape Room Fun โ Try Escape Room Palm Springs or Escape Games at The River in Rancho Mirage for a cool, puzzle-filled group activity (great for teens or visiting friends!).
- Childrenโs Discovery Museum of the Desert โ Recently reopened and full of interactive exhibits, this is a favorite for families with younger kids looking to learn and play indoors.
- See a Magic Show at Marvynโs Magic Theater โ A fun, offbeat evening of comedy, illusion, and jaw-dropping sleight of hand. Perfect for a date night or something different with friends.
- Catch a Movie โ Cool, dark, and comfortable, sometimes the best summer plan is just popcorn and a good film. Try Palm Springs Cultural Center, Mary Pickford Theatre, Century La Quinta, Century at the River or Regal Rancho Mirage for the latest releases.
- Shopping โ Browse unique boutiques, vintage stores, and galleries along Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs, or head to El Paseo in Palm Desert, known as the โRodeo Drive of the Desert,โ with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Saks Fifth Avenue. Both offer plenty of indoor air-conditioned shopping to help you beat the heat.
Eat & Drink
Visit Greater Palm Springs actually offers summer dining deals through their Summer Eats Pass. Itโs an app you can download and check in to win weekly prizes! Itโs from June 9 – September 1, 2025 this year.
I hope this blog helped spark some inspiration! I love summer and I am always trying to make the most of it. As always, travel on my friends!