---
title: "3 Perfect Days in Palm Springs, California | Gray Card Getaways"
description: "Summer looks a little different in Palm Springs, California - in the best way possible!"
url: https://my-gray-card.starconnectinfra.com/guide-palm-springs-california
---

Palm Springs, California

# 3 Perfect Days in Palm Springs, California

**rchavarria** • Jul 1 • 3 min read

Day 1

## Discover Downtown

#### Arrival & Check-In

- Arrive in Palm Springs and settle into Palm Springs Tennis Club or Vista Mirage Resort. Both are in convenient locations, making it easy to begin exploring the area right away!
- Take a stroll through Downtown Palm Springs. Palm Canyon Drive is lined with boutiques, galleries, public art installations, and some of the city's most popular restaurants.

#### Afternoon: Culture & Local Flavor

- Enjoy lunch at Lulu California Bistro. A longtime Palm Springs favorite known for its expansive menu, colorful atmosphere, and people-watching patio.
- Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum. Explore contemporary art, photography, architecture, and rotating exhibitions in one of the city's cultural landmarks.
- Browse the Uptown Design District. Discover vintage shops, home décor boutiques, and galleries showcasing Palm Springs' iconic design heritage.

#### Evening: Dining & Desert Night

- Enjoy dinner at Tac/Quila. This award-winning restaurant serves elevated Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails in a lively setting.
- Walk through Downtown Palm Springs after sunset. The warm desert evenings and illuminated palms create a distinctly Palm Springs atmosphere.

Day 2

## Scenic Landscapes

#### Morning: Breakfast & Adventure

- Start your day at Farm. One of Palm Springs' most beloved breakfast spots, known for its French-inspired dishes and charming courtyard.
- Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Travel from the desert floor to over 8,500 feet above sea level while taking in spectacular Coachella Valley views.

#### Afternoon: Explore Above the Desert

- Enjoy lunch at Peaks Restaurant. Located at the top of the tramway, it offers panoramic views alongside classic American fare.
- Explore Mount San Jacinto State Park. Several easy walking paths and overlooks allow you to experience an entirely different landscape from the desert below.
- Visit Moorten Botanical Garden. This compact but fascinating botanical collection features thousands of desert plants from around the world.

#### Evening: Elevated Dining & Cocktails

- Enjoy dinner at Copley's on Palm Canyon. Located on the former Cary Grant estate, this longtime favorite blends history, atmosphere, and exceptional cuisine.
- Stop by Bar Cecil. Known for its stylish setting and expertly crafted cocktails, it's become one of Palm Springs' most popular evening destinations.
- Return to your resort after a full day of exploring. Time to unwind!

Day 3

## Desert Beauty

#### Morning: Brunch & Exploration

- Enjoy brunch at Cheeky's. A Palm Springs institution famous for creative breakfast dishes and fresh ingredients.
- Visit Indian Canyons. Home to scenic hiking trails, palm groves, and stunning desert landscapes, it's one of the area's most iconic outdoor experiences.

Late Morning: Shopping & Local Favorites

- Browse The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five. This collection of boutique retailers, home décor stores, and local businesses offers a uniquely Palm Springs shopping experience.
- Stop by Great Shakes. Their famous date shakes are considered a must-try desert tradition.
- Spend your final hours poolside or exploring downtown. Palm Springs rewards both activity and relaxation equally well.

#### Departure

- Return to the resort to check out. Its central location makes for an easy departure.
- Take one final drive through the city. The mountain views, palm-lined streets, and desert scenery make a memorable farewell.

Where to stay [Palm Springs Tennis Club](https://my-gray-card.starconnectinfra.com/resort-palm-springs-tennis-club) [See dates & book →](https://my-gray-card.starconnectinfra.com/resort-palm-springs-tennis-club)

Where to stay [Vista Mirage Resort](https://my-gray-card.starconnectinfra.com/resort-vista-mirage) [See dates & book →](https://my-gray-card.starconnectinfra.com/resort-vista-mirage)