Indian Canyons is a true desert gem—an oasis tucked right in the rocky hills just outside Palm Springs. This land, home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, is rich with history and natural beauty, offering trails lined with California fan palms, trickling streams, and seasonal waterfalls that reach their peak flow in the cooler months. A can’t-miss here is the easy-going 1-mile hike along Palm Canyon, a scenic trail that winds through one of North America's largest palm oases. Walk at your own pace under the towering palms, where sunlight streams through the leaves and creates a natural canopy—miles away from the desert heat and noise. At the trail’s end, you’ll find a small trading post where you can rest, grab a cold drink or hot coffee, and take in the views from under the palms.

Starting near the Plaza Nueva, this passage along the Darro River takes you to stunning views and lovely places. During an evening stroll you can find many bars and restaurants on your way and enjoy a vibrant nightlife.

Discover the rich heritage of Palm Springs’ first inhabitants, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Through exhibits, talks, and hands-on activities, you’ll find everything from ancient artifacts and traditional crafts to historic documents and rare photos. Blending multimedia and interactive displays, the museum brings Cahuilla stories, traditions, and everyday life into focus, offering a fascinating look at this resilient community’s history and lasting legacy.

The Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans over 20,000 acres of striking desert terrain and rare wildlife. This unique habitat is home to wonders like the endangered Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, perfectly adapted to its sandy, shifting environment. At Thousand Palm Oasis—nourished by the San Andreas Fault—towering fan palms create a surprising, shaded escape that feels like another world within the desert. Scenic trails weave through these fascinating landscapes, inviting visitors to discover one of California’s most distinctive desert ecosystems.