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The best things to do in Palm Springs with kids are the Aerial Tramway, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert and the Palm Springs Air Museum. The tramway is the one to do first, a rotating car up the mountain to cool forest trails at the top, and it works for every age because the views need almost no walking. The Living Desert has giraffes and a miniature train, the Discovery Museum is the indoor stop for toddlers on a hot day, and the Air Museum’s air-conditioned hangars suit kids who love planes.
| Activity Name | Best For | Key Highlight | Recommended Age | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Springs Aerial Tramway | Outdoor Adventure | Panoramic Views | All ages | View Details → |
| The Living Desert Zoo | Animal Lovers | Giraffe Feeding | All ages | View Details → |
| Children’s Discovery Museum | Indoor Play | Hands-on Exhibits | Toddlers/School-aged | |
| Palm Springs Air Museum | History Buffs | Vintage Aircraft | School-aged |
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The rotating tram up the mountain is the easiest way to cool off and see the whole valley without any hiking.
- The Fun: Kids love the rotating car ride and exploring the cool forest trails at the top.
- Best Age Group: Suitable for all ages as there is minimal walking required to enjoy the views.
- Tip: Bring a light jacket even in summer. It is much colder at the top.
Good to know: Weekend lines get long, so go early in the morning.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
This zoo is beautifully landscaped and offers a much more relaxed, intimate experience than your typical big-city zoo.
- The Fun: Kids can get up close and personal with giraffes and ride the miniature train.
- Best Age Group: Great for all ages, especially toddlers who will be mesmerized by the animals.
- Tip: Rent a stroller at the entrance to save your legs on the desert paths.
Good to know: It is outdoors in the desert, so go early before the afternoon heat.
Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert
When the desert sun becomes too much, this indoor museum is a lifesaver for keeping the kids engaged in a comfortable environment.
- The Fun: Interactive, hands-on stations allow children to explore science and art through play.
- Best Age Group: Perfectly designed for toddlers and school-aged children.
- Tip: Check the calendar online to miss the school field trips.
Good to know: It is small, so plan on about 2 hours, not a full day.
Palm Springs Air Museum
For kids who love machines, this museum offers an impressive collection of vintage aircraft in a spacious, air-conditioned setting.
- The Fun: Getting up close to actual warbirds and hearing stories from volunteer pilots.
- Best Age Group: Best for school-aged children who have an interest in history or planes.
- Tip: Spend your time in the big hangars. They are climate-controlled with room for kids to roam.
Good to know: The museum is big, so skip most of the plaques and follow the kids.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs
Staying near what you actually plan to do is the difference between a relaxed morning and a drive. These two searches cover Palm Springs directly, hotels on one and whole rentals on the other.
FAQs About Things to Do in Palm Springs with Kids
What is the best way to travel around Palm Springs with kids?
Rent a car. You control the schedule and the gear stays in the trunk.
Are these activities suitable for a one-day trip?
Pick one per day. With only one day, choose whichever matches your kids’ interests.
Is it better to visit these spots on weekdays?
Yes, if your schedule allows, weekdays are always quieter. You will deal with fewer crowds and have a much more relaxing experience at each of these attractions.
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