This post is sponsored by Palm Springs but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.
I have a long history of visiting loving Palm Springs. When I was a kid my parents would rent a home there and we’d spend a week hanging out by the pool, chasing lizards (I was 10 or so), enjoying the dry heat. We’d bring family and friends along and have a wonderful time. Years later, I lived and worked in Palm Springs, and about 19 years ago, I got married there.
An Active Person’s Palm Springs Travel Guide
When I had the opportunity to take a trip to Palm Springs and enjoy being a tourist there, I was really excited to return and take a look at one of my favorite cities from a different point of view. Of course, I am what I am, so my Palm Springs experience choices were the kinds of things an athlete would enjoy doing. So, with that, here is my Palm Springs Travel Guide for Active People.
There are so many things to do in Palm Springs! The weather is perfect, so getting outdoors is a natural, whether you’re taking a hike, a run, or a walk.
Take a Hike
There are so many amazing hiking trails in Palm Springs! From short flat loops to challenging treks up the San Jacinto Mountains, there is something for everybody and every level.
Alan and I chose to hike the Museum Trail, which is a moderate two-mile hike. It’s easy to find the trailhead because it’s located right behind the Palm Springs Museum! It also connects to the Skyline Trail, which is truly a challenging hike that will take you to the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway!
Some of the other hiking trails in Palm Springs include the Indian Canyons, Murray Canyon, Tahquitz Canyon, and the Lykken Trail. Check here for other hiking trails. Trails are rated according to their difficulty and length, so you’re sure to find the perfect hike for you and your family.
Ride a Bike
Whether you bring your own bicycle or rent a bike from a local business, there are many places you can get to by bike in Palm Springs. You can pick up a bike route map at your hotel, Palm Springs Cyclery, or Palm Springs Bike Rentals. Or you can download a map here (search for bike trails).
Stop by Running Wild
Running Wild is a locally owned running store in Palm Springs. The owner, Don Kick, is a friend of ours, so it was fun to stop by and chat (and shop!). The store has been open for 16 years and is still the only running specialty store in the Palm Springs area.
In addition to running shoes and clothing, you will also find sandals, hiking and walking shoes, nutrition, and accessories like sunglasses and watches. Don and his staff can also clue you in about the best places for running and walking.
Walk Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Canyon Drive is the iconic “strip” that has dozens of shops, restaurants, hotels, and bars. It is very walkable and Alan and I had a lot of fun people watching as we walked. The restaurants were hopping as we walked by, even though it was the middle of the afternoon. It’s fun to see the “Walk of Stars” and to see the many famous names engraved on them.
This time of year, Palm Canyon Drive is especially pretty because it’s decorated for the holidays. There is something cool about palm trees decorated for Christmas!
Eat!
If you are going to be this active you need to refuel! Alan and I picked up an early lunch from Chef Tanya’s Kitchen, a plant-based eatery located near the airport. It is owned and run by Tanya Petrovna, who was the chef behind Native Foods. Unfortunately, Tanya wasn’t there when we visited, but Robert, who took our order (and our picture) was very helpful.
Everything at Chef Tanya’s Kitchen is vegan and made from scratch, right there on the premises. Alan and I ordered the Chupacabra Chicken Sandwich (yes, it’s vegan) and brought it with us to snack on our hike. Other dishes include the Pastrami Mami, the Cubana, and the Oh My Gato Taco Salad, all of which are plant-based and delicious.
After a busy day in Palm Springs, we were hungry again in the afternoon, so we visited the Palm Greens Cafe, another locally owned cafe that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Palm Greens Cafe serves delicious organic food that is free from additives and preservatives and is freshly made on premises. They really have something for everybody, vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike.
Alan had the Black Bean Burger, while I went with the BTLA (with tempeh bacon of course). Alan wanted to start our meal with a side of French toast, and I was so happy to find that it was vegan that I ate at least half! Everything was very good.
It was fun to spend the day in Palm Springs! There is so much going on, new hotels and restaurants since the last time I was there, along with plenty of people enjoying the beautiful weather. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway or vacation! Learn about everything Palm Spring, including more hotels, restaurants, shops and things to do.
Have you ever been to Palm Springs? Do you enjoy active vacations?
Weekly Linkups
My weekly linkups! Please stop by and check out all of the great recipes, workouts, and information that all these awesome bloggers share every week!
Meatless Monday with Sarah and Deborah
Tuesdays on the Run with Marcia, Erika, and Patty
Wild Workout Wednesday with Annmarie, Jen, and Nicole
The Running Coaches’ Corner with Lora Marie, Marc, and Me!
Friday 5 2.0 with Rachel and Lacey and Meranda
Weekly Wrap with Wendy and Holly
It’s fun to be a tourist in your hometown, isn’t it? I loved visiting the area last year, but we didn’t get to Palm Springs. I need to come back!!! You’re lucky to live there.
Yes you do need to come back! I’d love to show you Palm Springs!
I have never been to Palm Springs but I am on board with great weather, hiking, biking and yummy food
You should visit someday like in the middle of winter when it’s in the 70s! I’d love to show you around.
I’ve never been to Palm Springs but it sounds like a blast! Especially all the hiking. Also, you sold me with dry heat, lol!
Yes, it’s usually very dry. And the hiking is amazing!
We were just there over spring break this year. Loved it, and yes the hiking was amazing!