Palm Springs has a vibrant downtown area, with boutique hotels, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and museums, along the palm-lined streets of S Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive which run parallel to each other.
There are over 20 boutique hotels in Downtown Palm Springs, many within walking distance of shopping and eateries, including the bustling Palm Springs Villagefest market that takes place every Thursday night along Palm Canyon Drive.
Visitors can also stroll along Museum Way to get a photo in-front of the 26-foot Forever Marilyn statue, then visit the impressive Palm Springs Art Museum which is free on Thursday evenings.
The must-see Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is two blocks from the Palm Springs Art Museum, amd opened in 2023. It was built on sacred land at the site of the Cahuilla Hot Springs, and is surrounded by an Oasis Trail and Gathering Plaza, that connect to the luxurious Spa at Sec-He.
One block south is the Village Green Heritage Center on S Palm Canyon Drive, with free attractions including the McCallum Adobe (1884), Cornelia House (1893), and Ruddy’s General Store.
While strolling along S Palm Canyon Drive in Downtown Palm Springs, don’t forget to look down at their Walk of Stars, celebrating famous residents in this city.
10 best things to do in Palm Springs Downtown
1. Dine out along Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive.
The colorful umbrellas at California Bistro on Palm Canyon Drive.
Enjoy alfresco dining in Downtown Palm Springs.
Shop along bustling Palm Canyon Drive.
Stop for a coffee at this outdoor patio.
Las Casuelas restaurant has been open since 1958, and is the oldest restaurant in Palm Springs.
2. Stay at a boutique hotel.
The luxurious Kimpton Rowan Hotel is in Downtown Palm Springs.
3. Get a photo at the 26-foot Forever Marilyn Statue.
4. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum.
5. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center.
6. Stop by the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum.
7. Book a spa day at The Spa at Sec-He.
8. Check out the free attractions at the Village Green Heritage Center.
9. Stroll along the Walk of Stars.
10. Attend the Palm Springs VillageFest market, each Thursday night.
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