California

The Perfect Palm Springs Vacation – The 11 Destinations That Offer Fun for the Whole Family

Palm Springs offers more than just hot springs, golf, and vintage boutiques. It’s guaranteed fun for the whole family if you plan ahead and know the right spots.

Planning a vacation with kids is usually harder because you have to find activities that will keep everyone entertained. But not in Palm Springs. That’s because there’s no shortage when it comes to a variety of activities for everyone.

There are many unique things to do in Palm Springs that you and your kids will find enjoyable.

1. Go to the Joshua Tree National Park

What sounds fun for the whole family? How about seeing a national park with natural scenery that looks out of this world? It’s one of the best things to do in Palm Springs with kids, especially if the whole family enjoys outdoor activities.

It’s great for photo ops and hiking, or even just for a drive. In fact, you might want to consider driving with your AC on during the summer as it gets very hot.

2. Have Fun at the Knott’s Soak City Park

This waterpark has fun activities for the whole family and is a great spot if you want to keep cool in the summer. It has over 20 water attractions, including a massive wave pool. Be sure to check out the lazy river, too.

You can also enjoy the dining options that are always a kid-favorite. But if you want to unwind after a long and eventful day, the Yacht Club has a more adult-friendly poolside section.

3. Tour the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Palm Springs Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

If your kids like animals, a Palm Springs vacation is the ideal choice for you.

One of the coolest things to do with kids here is visiting the Palm Desert Zoo. It has American and African-native animals, as well as many gardens with desert plans.

Most of the trails are nature trails that showcase undisturbed desert land. The preserve looks amazing and the promoted interaction with some of the animals will certainly keep the kids entertained.

4. Engage in Fun Activities

Palm Springs Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert

Where can you take your overly energetic kids? To the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert. It’s a place where entertainment and educational activities go hand-in-hand. While this is more suitable for younger crowds, teenagers may also find some cool things to do.

For starters, there’s an archaeological dig, animation creation, physical activities, exploration, and much more. They’re great for family bonding and doing hands-on projects.

It’s a top tourist destination, especially for those with an artistic side.

5. Tour the Palm Springs Air Museum

Maybe your kids aren’t history buffs yet, but they probably like anything that flies. Then, you’ll need to see the Air Museum, as it features many Pearl Harbor fighters and other Second World War military planes and helicopters.

The collection is massive and you can spend hours touring the museum. There’s also an exhibit of modern jets and kids will get to see how military aircraft progressed over the years.

6. Play Sports at the Ruth Hardy Park

This park has, admittedly, not much to offer in terms of being unique. It simply does a fantastic job of making the desert feel alive, especially for kids.

If you’re traveling as an energetic bunch and want to simply let loose, the sports facilities in the park are top-notch. You also have access to kids’ playgrounds and a field for playing catch.

It sits on 22 acres and you can spend as much time as you want in the park until 10:00 pm.

7. A Modern Attraction for Modern Kids

When talking about things to do in Palm Springs, it’s a must to visit the Palm Springs Skate Park. The 30,000sq.ft park features every obstacle and type of course your kids can think of. It makes it one of the coolest tourist spots around.

Even better, it has a concrete bowl that resembles the old school swimming pool training grounds of legendary skaters. It’s a nice destination for anyone looking for an adrenaline rush.

8. Visit a Kitschy Jurassic Park

No, there are no real dinosaurs in Palm Springs. But there are large fake dinos that young kids might enjoy at Cabazon Dinosaurs, making it a nice spot for families.

It’s not a museum by any standards. But it does host some cool sculptures and activities, such as fossil panning, but with a twist that kids will enjoy. There’s even a mechanical Brontosaurus ride, as well as other theme-park style attractions.

Don’t forget to pick up something from the gift shop to commemorate your visit.

9. Relax in the Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Palm Springs Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Apart from hosting many themed events, this destination is great for simply hanging out with the whole family. And you don’t have to take the tour just to relax on the green.

There are many paths and trails that you can walk on even without a guide, as well as lots of colorful desert plant species to see. It’s a great place for organizing family vacation photo ops.

10. Embark on Desert Adventures

Outdoor enthusiasts will definitely get more out of a Palm Springs vacation.

For starters, you can take a jeep desert tour and check out the San Andreas Fault. There are many canyons to see, including the Painted Canyons and the Indian Canyons.

And instead of doing it alone, check out one of the local experiences on the Desert Adventures private preserve. It’s easier to get to all the cool nature spots without wasting time or endangering anyone.

11. See Palm Springs from Above

While your kids can’t fly in any of the planes on display at the Air Museum, there is a way to see Palm Springs from up above. Take the Aerial Tramway and soar 2.5 miles in just 10 minutes. The top of the tram line is 8,516ft above sea level, so you know you’re in for a visual treat.

Apart from the exciting ride to the top and the awesome views, you’ll also get to experience lower temperatures. Not a bad deal at all, and it’s probably even cooler to do this during the winter. Snowball fight, anyone?

Palm Springs Offers Fun for All Ages

There’s a lot you can do in Palm Springs – from hiking to checking out fake Indian villages and dinosaurs. And it covers different seasons, as there are plenty of water parks for you to cool off in the summer and tons of winter activities, too.

Adults can take in the gorgeous scenery or feel young again by taking part in some cool activities with their young ones. So, plan to visit as many attractions as you can with your family.

Related Topics:custom activities adventure

Up Next

The 10 Reasons You Should Visit Portland, Oregon

Don't Miss

Grab a Gondola Ride (And 5 More Things to Do When You Visit Venice)

Trip Ideas

Where to Stay in San Diego, California : 5 Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

San Diego’s sunshine, beaches, and chilled-out vibe reel in travelers from all corners. But with an array of neighborhoods, picking your launchpad can be tricky. No worries, newbie visitors! This guide spotlights five stellar areas, each offering a one-of-a-kind slice of San Diego.

Downtown: Dive headfirst into the city’s center. Downtown San Diego sizzles with energy, boasting a vibrant blend of historic appeal and modern digs. Uncover the Gaslamp Quarter, a Victorian-era district reborn as a dynamic nightlife scene. Score breathtaking harbor vistas at Waterfront Park, or delve into San Diego’s rich past at the captivating San Diego History Center. Foodies will rejoice in the endless parade of restaurants, while craft beer enthusiasts can embark on a brewery crawl through the famed Gaslamp Quarter breweries. Consider the opulent US Grant, a historic hotel that blends modern comforts with turn-of-the-century grandeur for a plush stay. If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of trendy hostels that offer a social and budget-friendly option.

Coronado Beach — Govisitsandiego.com. (2024). Available at: https://img.govisitsandiego.com/ [Accessed 27 May 2024]

Coronado: Ditch the urban buzz and discover Coronado, a charming island paradise linked by bridge. Sink your toes into pristine white sand beaches, like Coronado Beach, consistently ranked among the country’s best. Spoil yourself at the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, a Victorian-era masterpiece offering stunning oceanfront luxury. Explore Coronado’s quaint shops and cafes, or rent a bike and cruise along the scenic Coronado Island Ferry Landing boardwalk. Families will love the calm waters of Coronado Beach, perfect for building sandcastles and making a splash. Coronado exudes a relaxed elegance, ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful escape.

Mission Bay: Calling all water babies! Mission Bay is a sprawling aquatic playground brimming with activities. Glide across the calm bay waters on a kayak or paddleboard, or rent a jet ski for a thrilling ride. Mission Beach boasts a lively boardwalk packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Set sail on a sunset cruise or enjoy a bonfire on the beach. For a history hit, visit Belmont Park, a classic amusement park featuring a vintage wooden roller coaster. Mission Bay offers a variety of places to stay, from family-friendly resorts to beachfront vacation rentals.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park — **Tacdn.com. (2024). Available at: https://media.tacdn.com/ [Accessed 27 May 2024]**

La Jolla: Sophistication meets the sea in La Jolla. This upscale neighborhood flaunts world-class art galleries, chic boutiques, and mouthwatering restaurants serving fresh, California cuisine. Explore the renowned La Jolla Shores, a scenic beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Animal lovers can’t miss the world-famous San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where you can embark on an exciting adventure through recreated African savannas. La Jolla offers a refined atmosphere with luxurious oceanfront accommodations and charming bed and breakfasts nestled in the hills.

Pacific Beach boardwalk — Contentstack.io. (2024). Available at: https://images.contentstack.io/ [Accessed 27 May 2024]

Pacific Beach: Catch a wave and soak up the sun in Pacific Beach, a haven for surfers and beach lovers. Pacific Beach boasts miles of sandy shores ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or trying your hand at surfing. Experience the laid-back beach vibe and explore the Pacific Beach boardwalk, lined with casual cafes, surf shops, and lively bars. As night falls, Pacific Beach transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub, with trendy bars and clubs catering to a younger crowd. This energetic neighborhood offers a variety of budget-friendly places to stay, from beachfront hostels to laid-back motels.

So, whether you crave an urban adventure, a luxurious island retreat, or a sun-soaked beach escape, San Diego has the perfect spot for you. Pick your flavor, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to experience the magic of America’s Finest City!

Best Cities

Where to Stay in Oceanside, California

Beach Bummin’ or Boutique Bliss? Finding Your Perfect Oceanside Stay.

Hey there, travel squad! So you’ve set your sights on Oceanside, California – a place where sun-kissed beaches meet a laid-back vibe.

Awesome choice! But with all those hotels and rentals, choosing a crib can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, this post is here to be your Oceanside accommodation guru.

First things first, what kind of experience are you craving?

Beach Bum on a Budget

Missionpacifichotel.com. (2024). Available at: https://missionpacifichotel.com/ [Accessed 6 May 2024]

You’re all about those epic sunsets and salty breezes, and your wallet prefers flip flops over Ferraris. No problem! Oceanside has a bunch of beachy havens that won’t break the bank. Check out motels near the pier for classic California vibes and easy access to the surf.

Hostels are another option for those cool cats who want to meet fellow adventurers and swap stories about epic wipeouts (or, ahem, triumphant rides) on the waves. Here’s a hot tip: Pack your swimsuit – most budget-friendly spots come with pools for post-beach chill time!

Family Fun in the Sun

Haustay.com. Available at: https://www.haustay.com/ [Accessed 6 May 2024]

Oceanside’s a perfect spot for a memorable family vacay. Look for hotels with waterslides, splash pads, or those epic pool complexes that keep the kiddos entertained for hours. Many places offer suites with kitchenettes, so you can whip up meals without having to eat out every night (hello, saving those vacation pennies for souvenirs!).

Bonus points if the hotel is close to the Oceanside Harbor – there’s nothing like watching cute sea lions basking in the sun while munching on fish and chips (and maybe even bribing the little ones with the promise of an ice cream cone if they behave!).

Luxury Seeker

Visitoceanside.org. (2024). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 8 May 2024]

Do you crave oceanfront views, spa pampering, and an extra dose of fancy? Oceanside has you covered! Splurge on a stay at a swanky resort with an infinity pool overlooking the Pacific. Picture yourself sipping cocktails and watching dolphins dance in the waves – ahhh, relaxation at its finest.

These resorts often have top-notch restaurants too, so you can treat your taste buds as well as your body. Don’t forget to explore the spa menu – a relaxing massage after a day of exploring is pure bliss.

Beyond the Hotel Room: Vacation Rentals

Onthebaymagazine.com. (2017). Available at: https://onthebaymagazine.com/ [Accessed 8 May 2024]

Want to live like a local? Look into vacation rentals! You can find anything from cozy beach cottages with firepits for roasting marshmallows under the stars to swanky penthouses with rooftop decks for sunset cocktails. This is a great option for groups or families who want some extra space to spread out and maybe even have a movie night in your very own temporary beach pad.

Plus, having a full kitchen means you can unleash your inner chef and whip up delicious meals whenever the mood strikes, or you can perfect your California burrito skills (because, let’s be honest, it’s a must-try when in Southern California!).

Unique Stays: For the Adventurous Soul

Hipcamp. (2024). Bailes Farm. [online] Available at: https://www.hipcamp.com/ [Accessed 7 May 2024]

Oceanside offers some unique stays that go beyond your typical hotel experience. Feeling adventurous? Consider glamping (glamorous camping) under the stars! Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean waves and sipping coffee on a private patio surrounded by nature.

Oceanside also has a historic bed and breakfast scene, perfect for those who love a touch of vintage charm and a home-cooked breakfast.

No matter your style or budget, Oceanside has a place for you to rest your weary head and soak up the Cali sunshine. So grab your swimsuit, pack your flip flops, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Pro Tips:

Consider the time of year: Oceanside has a mild Mediterranean climate, but prices tend to peak during the summer months (June-August). Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer pleasant weather and sometimes better deals.

Think about location: Do you want to be steps from the beach or closer to the harbor? If you plan on doing a lot of exploring by car, proximity to the freeway might be important.

Read reviews: Before booking anything, take some time to read guest reviews. This can give you valuable insights into the property, the amenities, and the overall vibe.

Book in advance: Especially during peak season, popular hotels and rentals can book up quickly. Snag your ideal spot by planning ahead.

With a little planning, you can find the perfect Oceanside accommodation to make your trip truly unforgettable. Now get out there and start planning your California dreamin’ getaway!

Weekend Getaways

The 15 Best Vacation Spots in the USA During Covid-19

Plus How to Save Up to 72% on These Vacations

People are desperate to get out of their homes. Google searches for “when can I travel again?” continue to rise.

After helping tens of thousands of people with their vacation plans during the pandemic we have found that Americans still want to travel, but they have traded the international trips and flights for wide open spaces less than 1 day’s drive from home.

Here at Booksi.com in 2020, our customer data shows that the most popular couples and family vacations in the US are all wide-open spaces without large crowds. These are in order

Mountains
Beaches
Towns in regional areas

See below what we believe are the 15 best Vacations Spots in the US During Covid-19. For many of these by getting access to unsold hotel rooms we can pass on savings of up to 72%. Wherever we have special deals we will share that with you below too so that you can save on your family vacation.

1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

_{B-cdn.net. (2023). Available at: https://zookcabins.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/blog-posts/Jackson-Hole/mountains-close-to-jackson-hole-1900×720.jpg}.

Known for the majestic beauty of the valley, Jackson Hole has long been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. A great place to visit all-year-round for its mountains and terrains, one will never run out of activities in its great outdoors.

Flanked by Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges, Jackson Hole offers powdery skiing spots in the winter and beautiful hiking grounds in the summer. From luxury ski resorts to wild west towns, don’t miss the stunning natural sights of Jackson Hole.

2. Yosemite

_{https://www.facebook.com/BeyondTheTent (2022). The Complete Guide To Yosemite National Park Camping – Beyond The Tent. [online] Beyond The Tent. Available at: https://www.beyondthetent.com/yosemite-national-park-camping/.}

While California is more popularly known as the seat of Hollywood, it’s natural wonders is something to boot. Yosemite National Park in California, one of America’s magnificent national parks, boasts 800 miles worth of hiking trails, glacier-cut rock formations, unlimited panoramic vistas, and waterfalls perfect for adrenaline junkies.

You’ll never run out of things to do from hiking through Yosemite Valley, climbing its rock formations, camping, and enjoying one of its many falls.

3. Grand Canyon

Explore the awestriking sights of the Grand Canyon National Park’s massive expanse of gorges, ridges, and rock formations. Admire the Canyon on the hiking trails of its North and South Rim or rafting via the Colorado River.

Located in Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park encompasses 277 miles (446 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. The park is home to much of the immense Grand Canyon; a mile (1.6 km) deep, and up to 18 miles (29 km) wide. Layered bands of colorful rock reveal millions of years of geologic history. Grand Canyon is unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors from the rim.

4. Lake Tahoe

Surrounded by pristine forests and snow-capped mountain peaks, renowned writer, Mark Twain described the dazzling expanse of shimmering blue waters of Lake Tahoe as “the fairest picture the whole earth affords.”

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers that offers the best of both worlds. During summer, spend the day enjoying nature walks, hiking, cycling, and water sports. In the colder months of December to April, Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland with activities for alpine and cross-country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and sleigh riding.

5. Cape Cod

Spanning a 40-mile stretch along the New England coastline, Cape Cod is considered one of the premier beach destinations in Massachusetts. Its beautiful sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect summer vacation spot for nearby Boston and New York.

When you’ve fully enjoyed basking in the sun, you can take a nature stroll or follow the bike trails in Cape Cod. In spring, you can take a ferry ride and enjoy the peaceful corners in Nantucket’s idyllic islands and Martha’s Vineyard. At any season, there’s plenty of places to go and visit for couples and families at Cape Cod.

6. Colorado Springs

With an elevation of 6,035 ft, Colorado Springs is another American wonder of nature that any hiker or trekker wouldn’t miss in their bucket list. Explore the glacier-carved Pikes Peak or be amazed in the expanse of red-sandstone formations and mountain views at the Garden of the Gods.

Colorado Springs isn’t just for nature lovers but also offers something for the culture hounds. Leisure travelers can enjoy the funky art galleries in Manitou Springs, be brought back to the Old West in the Old Colorado City, or get inspiration with a tour from its four US military bases. Get your dose of adventure in Colorado Springs.

7. Gatlinburg

From nature to human-made attractions, you’ll never run out of things to see and do in Gatlinburg. The city is a gateway to the 520,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can hike, bike, and horseback ride in the summer and fall. In winter, enjoy that snow at its ski destination, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort.

Let loose in Gatlinburg’s other attractions. Explore the Appalachian tradition in a moonshine tasting or visit the galleries and boutiques featuring Appalachian arts and wood crafts. To cap your trip, enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city up at the observation deck of Space Needle or hop on the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram. No matter the season, Gatlinburg is a city worth spending your vacation in.

8. Lake Placid

Tucked in the mountains of Adirondack, Lake Placid boasts great hiking scenes, world-class alpine skiing, and winter sports activities. Home to two Winter Olympics game, Lake Placid is a small town with wondrous sights and activities to behold.

Whether you’re a snow sports pro or an adventure seeker, Lake Placid offers numerous trails and waterways to explore. A perfect getaway from the noises and bustles of New York City.

9. Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a Colorado town at the base of the Rocky Mountains’ Tenmile Range. It’s known for its ski resort, year-round alpine activities, and Gold Rush history. Gearing for an ultimate outdoor experience? Breckenridge will not disappoint.

During winter, take skiing or snowboarding at Breckenridge Ski Resort. And in the summer, discover Breckenridge nature from amazing hikes and bikes, to fly fishing or whitewater rafting. Whether it’s relaxed or ragged, there’s an activity for you in this town.

10. Connecticut Coast

_{Visit CT. (2021). A Coastal Connecticut Road Trip. [online] Available at: https://www.ctvisit.com/articles/coastal-connecticut-road-trip.}

Coastal Connecticut or Connecticut Shore, spans Connecticut’s southern border along Long Island Sound from Greenwich in the west to Stonington in the east, as well as the tidal portions of the Housatonic River, Quinnipiac River, Connecticut River, and Thames River. The place is a popular weekend destination for families, couples.

Soak in the sun while on a river cruise or enjoy a romantic getaway while exploring its breathtaking beauty from Bear Mountain to Long Island Sound. Brush up on your history and culture with the many sightseeing tours of this colonial town whether aboard a steam train or a riverboat. Coastal Connecticut is a definite vacation for all ages.

11. California Wine Country

Take your palette on a joyride and get a taste of fine wine and cuisine in the premier wine-growing region of California Wine Country. Famed for its Michelin-star restaurants, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts, it offers one of the best gastronomic experiences in the United States.

Start the day driving around the gorgeous scenery of Napa Valley or Sonoma County, then visit one of the many wineries and walk along its vineyards. If you’re looking to excite your senses and whet your appetite, California Wine Country is an excellent place to be.

12. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is home to America’s vast natural wonders and wildlife species. With nearly 3,500 square mile wilderness recreation area atop a volcanic hot spot, you can’t miss exploring this nature park any time of the year.

Know for its red-tinged Grand Canyon walls, Yellowstone also features alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs, and gushing geysers, such as the famous, Old Faithful. A perfect vacation trip for any adventurous traveler.

13. Ogden, Utah

_‌Travellers-autobarnrv.com. (2023). Available at: https://www.travellers-autobarnrv.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/snow-basin-utah-skiing-road-trip.jpg

A gateway to ski resorts like Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, and Nordic Valley, Ogden in Salt Lake City, Utah, is anything but the typical mountain town. Its three world-class ski resorts offer powdery snow landscape for anyone to traverse.

This place is also a hot spot for anglers, canoers, and kayakers looking for adventurous waterways. The Ogden and Weber Rivers, along with over 13,000 acres of freshwater lakes are teeming with largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, perch, bluegill, tiger muskie, and walleye.

14. Vail, Colorado

Right at the base of Vail Mountain, Vail, Colorado, is a small town with a massive ski resort. The Vail Ski Resort boasts 5,289 skiable acres, making it one of the largest single-mountain resorts in the country and a popular retreat for skiers and snowboarders.

Summer travelers shouldn’t rule Vail out yet. It’s also a summer destination for some trekking and hiking with Eagles Nest and the Holy Cross Wilderness Area. Whether it’s tackling the snowy slopes or trailing through the wilderness, Vail’s small town has a vast nature opportunity to discover.

15. Hotsprings, Arkansas

‌Kxcdn.com. (2023). Available at: https://nationalparks-15bc7.kxcdn.com/images/parks/hot-springs/20210214173842-Hot%20Springs%20National%20Park.jpg?

True to its name, Hot Springs in Arkansas is known for its naturally heated springs. Most of the springs are located north of Hot Springs National Park, where you can find Bathhouse Row, a stretch of historic bathhouses from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center and the Buckstaff Bathhouse are two of the more popular bathhouses for its ornate interiors and luxurious feel. If you haven’t tried soaking in a natural hot tub and benefiting from it’s therapeutic properties, Hot Springs should be in your next relaxing getaway.

Treat the cabin fever and travel safely with these fantastic destinations that could just be a drive away from your town. Get access to unsold hotel rooms and save up to 72%. Catch these amazing deals before it ends.