Palm Springs Day Trip: Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from LA | ~107 miles (172 km) |
| Driving Time | 2 hours (no traffic) to 4+ hours (with traffic) |
| Best Time to Visit | October – May for pleasant weather |
| Estimated Cost | $100 – $250 per person (excluding shopping) |
How to Get from Los Angeles to Palm Springs
Your desert escape begins with the journey itself. While there are a few ways to bridge the gap between the city and the oasis, one option stands out as the clear winner for a day trip.
Driving: The Best and Most Flexible Option
Let’s be clear: driving is the most practical, flexible, and recommended way to do a day trip from Los Angeles to Palm Springs. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, visit roadside attractions, and navigate the sprawling desert city with ease. The main route is a straight shot east on the I-10, covering a distance of about 107 miles from Downtown LA.
The Crucial Tip: Traffic is the make-or-break factor for this trip. To make the most of your day, you absolutely must leave Los Angeles by 7:00 AM at the latest. On your return, aim to leave Palm Springs either before 3:00 PM or wait until after 7:00 PM to avoid the brutal rush hour crawl back into the city.
Can You Take a Train from Los Angeles to Palm Springs?
This is a common question, and we have a direct answer: Yes, there is a train, but it is not recommended or practical for a day trip. While Amtrak’s Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle routes do stop in Palm Springs, the service has major limitations for day-trippers. The schedule is infrequent (running only three times a week), the timings don’t allow for a same-day return, and the station itself is located about 10 miles north of downtown, requiring a lengthy and expensive taxi or rideshare to get to the main attractions.
Transportation Options at a Glance
| Method | Travel Time (One Way) | Cost (Approx. Round-Trip) | Flexibility | Day Trip Viability (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (Car) | 2 – 4 hours | $30 – $50 (Gas) | High | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) |
| Train (Amtrak) | ~2.5 hours | $60 – $100 | Very Low | ⭐ (1/5) |
| Bus (Flixbus/Greyhound) | 3 – 5 hours | $40 – $70 | Low | ⭐⭐ (2/5) |
Where is the Best Place to Stop Between LA and Palm Springs?
One of the best parts of a road trip is the journey! If you leave early and have time to spare, consider a quick stop at one of these iconic spots:
- Cabazon Dinosaurs: You can’t miss Mr. Rex and Dinny the Brontosaurus from the freeway. It’s a classic, quirky roadside attraction perfect for a memorable photo op.
- Desert Hills Premium Outlets: A true shopping mecca. If you’re looking for designer deals, you could easily spend hours here, but for a day trip, maybe just a quick browse!
- Hadley Fruit Orchards: Home of the original date shake. This is a must-do stop to grab one of their world-famous, deliciously sweet date shakes to fuel the rest of your drive.
Top 5 Can’t-Miss Attractions for a Palm Springs Day Trip
With only a day, you need to be selective. This curated list hits the absolute highlights, giving you the perfect taste of what makes Palm Springs so special.
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Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Prepare for a breathtaking experience. The world’s largest rotating tram car whisks you up 2.5 miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon in just 10 minutes. At the top, you’ll find the temperature is often 30 degrees cooler, with stunning panoramic views of the entire Coachella Valley. There are restaurants, a museum, and over 50 miles of hiking trails at the Mountain Station. Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the long ticket line. (Adults ~$30.95)
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Take a Self-Guided Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour
Palm Springs is a living museum of Mid-century Modern (MCM) architecture. Hop in your car and cruise through neighborhoods like The Movie Colony and Twin Palms to see these design treasures. While most are private homes, you can admire them from the street. Don’t miss the famous Kaufmann Desert House or the Instagram-famous “That Pink Door” on E Sierra Way.
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Stroll Down Palm Canyon Drive
This is the vibrant heart of downtown Palm Springs. The street is lined with towering palm trees, unique boutiques, world-class art galleries, and fantastic restaurants with bustling patios. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch, do some people-watching, and find the sidewalk stars of Hollywood legends on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
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Find an Oasis at Indian Canyons
Just a few miles from downtown lies the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Indian Canyons is a collection of stunning canyons, but the highlight is Palm Canyon, which features the world’s largest California Fan Palm oasis. The easy, one-mile Andreas Canyon trail is perfect for a short day trip hike. It’s a serene and beautiful escape. (Adults ~$12 per person)
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Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium
For a quick, affordable, and incredibly unique stop, head to this family-owned gem. It features an amazing collection of desert plants and cacti from around the world. The highlight is the “Cactarium,” the world’s first greenhouse dedicated to cacti. It’s a photographer’s dream and a low-effort activity that’s perfect for a hot afternoon. (Adults ~$5)
Sample One-Day Palm Springs Itinerary
Here’s a plug-and-play schedule to maximize your desert day without feeling too rushed. Adjust as needed!
7:00 AM – Leave Los Angeles
Seriously, don’t hit snooze! Grab a coffee for the road and get on the I-10 East. Beating the traffic is the single most important step for a successful day trip.
9:00 AM – Arrive & First Stop
Welcome to the desert! Your first stop should be the iconic Palm Springs Visitors Center. It’s housed in a beautifully restored Tramway Gas Station (an architectural gem) and is right at the turn-off for the Aerial Tramway. Snap a photo with the famous Palm Springs sign.
10:00 AM – Head for the Sky
Drive up to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. By arriving relatively early, you’ll miss the peak midday crowds. Enjoy the ride up, soak in the views, and maybe take a short walk on one of the nature trails at the top.
1:00 PM – Lunch Downtown
Head back down the mountain and make your way to Palm Canyon Drive. It’s time for a well-deserved lunch. Grab a table on the patio at a vibrant spot like Lulu California Bistro or Trio Restaurant to refuel and soak up the lively atmosphere.
2:30 PM – Architecture & Shopping
With your energy restored, it’s time for that self-guided architecture tour. After you’ve cruised the neighborhoods, park your car (there are several free public garages downtown) and explore the shops and galleries along Palm Canyon Drive on foot.
4:30 PM – A Sweet Treat
No trip to the Palm Springs area is complete without a date shake. Pop into a local favorite like Great Shakes or Shields Date Garden (a short drive) for this iconic, refreshing dessert.
5:30 PM – Head Back to LA
Begin the drive back to Los Angeles. Leaving at this time should help you get ahead of the worst of the evening return traffic, getting you back to the city at a reasonable hour.
Where to Eat in Palm Springs (For Every Budget)
From classic delis to award-winning cuisine, Palm Springs has a spot for every taste and budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
- Sherman’s Deli & Bakery: A Palm Springs institution. Huge sandwiches, classic matzo ball soup, and incredible baked goods. You won’t leave hungry.
- Great Shakes: As the name implies, they make fantastic shakes (especially the date shake!), malts, and floats. A perfect cool-down treat.
Classic Palm Springs Vibe ($$)
- Lulu California Bistro: A large, colorful, and always-busy spot right on Palm Canyon Drive. Their extensive menu and happy hour are legendary.
- Trio Restaurant: Located in the chic Uptown Design District, Trio offers a great prix-fixe menu and a lively, modern atmosphere.
A Special Treat ($$$)
- Workshop Kitchen + Bar: For the design and food connoisseur. Housed in a stunning concrete building, this James Beard award-winner offers an inventive, farm-to-table menu.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for 2025
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable day.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The desert air is incredibly dry. Bring more water than you think you’ll need and sip it constantly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Check Hours in Summer: From June to September, the heat can be extreme. Many businesses, restaurants, and attractions operate on reduced “summer hours” or may close entirely. Always check websites before you go.
- Book in Advance: For popular attractions like the Aerial Tramway, booking your tickets online a day or two before your trip can save you from waiting in a very long line.
- Dress in Layers: This is essential for the Tramway! It can be 100°F (38°C) in the city and a cool 70°F (21°C) at the top of the mountain. A light jacket or sweater is a must.
- Mind the Sun: The desert sun is intense, even in the cooler months. Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable.
- Parking is Plentiful: Don’t stress about parking. Downtown offers ample free street parking and several large, free public parking garages. It just gets a bit more competitive on weekends.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack light but smart for your desert adventure. Here’s a quick checklist:
- ✅ Reusable Water Bottle (a large one!)
- ✅ Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a Hat
- ✅ Comfortable Walking Shoes
- ✅ A Light Jacket or Sweater (for the Tramway)
- ✅ Portable Phone Charger / Power Bank
- ✅ Camera (you’ll be using it a lot!)
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend per person for a day in Palm Springs.
| Item | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (Round Trip from LA) | $30 | $50 |
| Lunch | $20 | $40 |
| Snacks/Drinks/Date Shake | $15 | $25 |
| Main Attraction (e.g., Tramway) | $31 | $31 |
| Total Per Person (Approx.) | $96 | $146 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from LA to Palm Springs?
Yes, it’s a very popular and perfectly achievable day trip! The absolute key to success is planning around traffic. You must leave Los Angeles very early (by 7 AM is best) to maximize your time in the desert. Driving your own car is the only practical way to do it in a single day.
Is Palm Springs worth a day trip?
Absolutely! If you love stunning desert landscapes, unique mid-century modern architecture, a chic shopping scene, and a relaxed, resort-town atmosphere, Palm Springs is one of the best and most rewarding day trips you can take from LA. You can easily see several of the main highlights in a well-planned day.
Is there a train that goes from Los Angeles to Palm Springs?
While Amtrak technically operates a route that stops near Palm Springs, its infrequent schedule (only three times per week) and the inconvenient station location (10 miles from downtown) make it completely unsuitable and not a viable option for a day trip.
Where is the best place to stop between LA and Palm Springs?
The three most popular and worthwhile stops are the Cabazon Dinosaurs for a fun and quirky photo, the massive Desert Hills Premium Outlets for designer brand shopping, and Hadley Fruit Orchards for one of their legendary date shakes.
TL;DR: The Perfect Palm Springs Day Trip in a Nutshell
Pressed for time? Here are the four most important things you need to know:
- Drive, Don’t Train: It’s the only way to have the flexibility needed for a day trip.
- Leave LA by 7 AM: This is not a suggestion, it’s a rule! Beating traffic is everything.
- Must-Do’s: Ride the Aerial Tramway (book online!) and take a driving tour of the mid-century modern homes.
- Hydrate & Protect: Drink tons of water and bring sun protection, no matter the season.
