Planning A Family Vacation to Palm Springs with Kids? Here’s What You Need to Know

Over the years we’ve found ourselves hitting the post-holiday-blues slump after the holiday season festivities when we’re bundled inside from the cold. We’ve started venturing out to Palm Springs, CA in January or February for a family getaway over the years, and we love every minute!  It’s an ideal time for our immediate family to connect, relax and enjoy some sun and warm temperatures.  Another benefit of traveling this time of year is flights are typically significantly cheaper and there aren’t as many crowds (just be mindful of traveling on MLK or Presidents weekend).

Flights to Palm Springs

Most major airlines fly into Palm Springs (PSP), which also might be one of the coolest outdoor airports we’ve ever experienced.  While you may have to connect in another city when flying from Wichita, other airports around Wichita may be cheaper and have direct flights.  We typically rent a car, and PSP houses all major car rental companies.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

There are so many options of where to stay, depending on what your family (or you and your partner) are looking for!  There are many different towns in the Coachella Valley with accommodations ranging from budget hotels, luxury resorts and AirBNB/VRBOs

We personally opt for staying in La Quinta.  It’s about a 30 minute drive from PSP but the quaint town is so relaxing and the La Quinta Resort is a perfect place for our littles to run.  We stay next door to the La Quinta Resort at the Legacy Villas.  They have awesome accommodations available via Air BNB or VRBO.

Things To Do in Palm Springs with Kids

An absolute “must visit” is the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens (discounted admission with Sedgwick County Zoo membership card).  It truly is enjoyable for all ages and in addition to seeing the animals and attractions, you can also hike the adjacent trails.  

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you 2.5 miles up into the mountains where you can see beautiful views of Palm Springs and explore the area.  Tickets can typically be purchased online in advance, except for major holidays. 

Joshua Tree National Park located in Twentynine Palms and perfect for all levels of adventurers!  They have family-friendly hikes and more intense hikes for experienced hikers.

Other Palms Springs Family Favorites:

Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert
Palm Springs Air Museum
Cabazon Dinosaur Museum
Palm Desert Aquatic Center
Fantasy Balloon Flights

Fun for Adults

Outdoor Adventures:  In addition to hiking, there are plenty of opportunities for biking and walking.  Being in the desert, the weather is almost always gorgeous and perfect for exercising outdoors!

Golf: There are many courses around the Coachella Valley area, including PGA West.  The American Express tournament even takes place here every January.

Spa: If relaxation is more your vibe, you’re in luck!  The area is abundant with relaxing spas.  La Quinta Resort offers a spa and salon that is open to the public.

Shopping: Even if you aren’t a big shopper, it’s still nice to walk outside and explore the beautiful shops, restaurants and areas of Downtown Palm Springs and Palm Desert.  If you love searching for a good deal, be sure to visit the Desert Hills Premium Outlets.

Check out more family travel ideas here!

Lindsay Britton
Lindsay is a Kansas City gal who moved to Wichita in 2017. She has been married to her husband, Mike, since 2017. Although they attended the same high school they didn’t meet until their mid-20s. Formerly an Early Childhood teacher and curriculum consultant, Lindsay now stays at home with her daughter (July 2020) and is expecting a son (October 2021). She is also a mom to two fur baby Golden Retrievers. Originally from Michigan, Lindsay loves traveling and spending time outdoors. She is excited to navigate life with two under two and a large coffee in her hand!