Palm Springs, California, is renowned for its luxurious resorts, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant arts scene. However, beyond the typical tourist attractions, there are plenty of unusual things to do in Palm Springs California that offer a unique and memorable experience. From exploring abandoned places like the Salton Sea to taking a ride on the world’s largest rotating tramcar, Palm Springs is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, history buff, or nature lover, Palm Springs has something out of the ordinary to pique your interest. Join us as we uncover the unconventional side of this desert oasis.
Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden
Essential Information
– Address: 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
– Fee: $5 for adults, $2 for children
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, botany enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs, California, stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its fascinating collection of cacti and succulents. Unlike traditional botanical gardens, Moorten Botanical Garden offers visitors a unique experience with its focus on desert flora.
One of the most unusual activities at the garden is the opportunity to see rare and exotic cacti species from around the world. From towering saguaros to delicate lithops, the garden showcases a diverse array of plants that have adapted to thrive in arid environments. Visitors can marvel at the unusual shapes, sizes, and textures of these desert plants, gaining a newfound appreciation for their resilience and beauty.
Another distinctive feature of the Moorten Botanical Garden is its Cactarium, a greenhouse filled with rare and unusual cacti specimens. This climate-controlled environment allows visitors to observe cacti that are not typically found in the wild, making it a must-see attraction for plant enthusiasts.
For those looking for a hands-on experience, the garden offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the unique characteristics of various cacti and succulents. Additionally, the on-site gift shop provides an opportunity to take home a piece of the desert with a wide selection of cacti and succulents available for purchase.
In conclusion, the Moorten Botanical Garden offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors seeking to explore the beauty and diversity of desert plants. Its unusual focus on cacti and succulents sets it apart from traditional botanical gardens, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts alike.
Explore the Palm Springs Air Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 745 N Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: Adults $18, Children (5-12) $10, Children under 5 free
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, aviation enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Palm Springs Air Museum stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its immersive experiences that offer visitors a glimpse into the world of aviation history like never before. Unlike traditional museums, this aviation-centric establishment offers hands-on activities and interactive exhibits that bring the past to life in a captivating way.
One of the most unusual features of the Palm Springs Air Museum is the opportunity for visitors to take flight in a vintage warbird aircraft. Aviation enthusiasts can fulfill their dreams of soaring through the skies in iconic planes such as the P-51 Mustang or the B-17 Flying Fortress. This rare chance to experience history firsthand sets this museum apart from others in the area.
In addition to the thrilling flight experiences, the museum also hosts regular events that showcase live demonstrations of vintage aircraft in action. Visitors can witness aerial acrobatics and flyovers that pay homage to the heroes of aviation history. These dynamic displays provide a unique and unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of aviation, the Palm Springs Air Museum offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to sit in the cockpit of historic planes, try their hand at flight simulators, and learn about the technological advancements that have shaped the industry. This hands-on approach to learning makes the museum a standout destination for both casual tourists and dedicated aviation enthusiasts.
Overall, the Palm Springs Air Museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines education, entertainment, and excitement in a way that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you have a passion for aviation history or simply enjoy exploring unique attractions, this museum is a must-see destination in Palm Springs, California.
Take a tour of the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
Essential Information
– Address: 1350 Ladera Circle, Palm Springs, California
– Opening Hours: Tours available daily, check website for specific times
– Fee: Admission fee required, check website for current rates
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
– Ideal for: Elvis Presley fans, history buffs, architecture enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When exploring Palm Springs, one of the most unusual yet fascinating attractions to visit is the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway. This iconic residence, also known as the “House of Tomorrow,” offers a unique glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to step inside the very rooms where Elvis and Priscilla Presley spent their honeymoon in 1967. Visitors can marvel at the retro-futuristic design elements that were ahead of their time, from the futuristic furniture to the cutting-edge technology integrated throughout the house.
One of the most unusual features of the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway is the “Honeymoon Suite,” a lavish bedroom that exudes vintage charm and opulence. Guests can imagine themselves in the same space where the legendary couple once shared intimate moments and created lasting memories.
Additionally, the tour offers insights into the architectural significance of the home, designed by renowned architect William Krisel. The mid-century modern style, combined with futuristic touches, makes this residence a true gem of Palm Springs’ architectural landscape.
For Elvis enthusiasts, the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the music icon and his bride is a rare and unforgettable experience. From the preserved decor to the anecdotes shared by knowledgeable guides, every aspect of the tour is designed to transport visitors back to the glamorous era of the 1960s.
Overall, the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway stands out as a must-visit attraction for those seeking a glimpse into the private life of a cultural icon and a unique piece of architectural history in the heart of Palm Springs.
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Essential Information
– Address: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Mon-Fri), 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Sat-Sun)
– Fee: $26.95 for adults, $17.95 for children
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a unique experience for visitors seeking an adventure off the beaten path. Unlike traditional attractions, the tramway provides a thrilling journey up the rugged cliffs of Chino Canyon, showcasing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. What sets this attraction apart are the unconventional activities available at the mountain station.
Upon reaching the Mountain Station at an elevation of over 8,500 feet, visitors can explore the pristine wilderness through various hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. For the more adventurous souls, snowshoeing in the winter months offers a rare opportunity to experience a snowy wonderland in the heart of California.
The Mountain Station also houses a natural history museum, providing insight into the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Guests can participate in guided nature walks to learn about the unique ecosystems found at high altitudes. Additionally, stargazing events are held regularly, allowing visitors to marvel at the clear night sky away from city lights.
For those seeking a culinary adventure, the station’s restaurant offers a dining experience with panoramic views of the Coachella Valley below. Indulge in a meal while taking in the stunning vistas, making for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Overall, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway stands out as an unusual attraction due to its combination of thrilling transportation, outdoor activities, educational opportunities, and scenic dining options. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a different kind of tourist experience, this tramway offers something truly unique for all types of visitors.
Discover the Cabazon Dinosaurs
Essential Information
– Address: 50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: Adults $13, Children (3-12) $11
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, Dinosaur enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Cabazon Dinosaurs in Palm Springs, California, stand out as a unique tourist attraction due to their massive size and quirky charm. These larger-than-life dinosaur sculptures, named Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex, offer visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the prehistoric era in a fun and interactive way.
One of the most unusual activities at the Cabazon Dinosaurs is the opportunity to climb inside Mr. Rex, a towering T-Rex structure, and marvel at the desert views from his mouth. This experience provides a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity and a thrilling adventure for both kids and adults alike.
Additionally, visitors can explore the dinosaur-themed gift shop, where they can find a variety of unique souvenirs and dinosaur-themed merchandise to commemorate their visit. The on-site museum offers educational exhibits about dinosaurs and paleontology, making it a great learning experience for families and school groups.
For those seeking a bit of nostalgia, the Cabazon Dinosaurs were featured in several popular movies, adding to their allure and making them a must-see attraction for film buffs and pop culture enthusiasts.
Overall, the Cabazon Dinosaurs offer a blend of entertainment, education, and novelty that sets them apart as a truly unusual and memorable destination in the Palm Springs area.
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center
Essential Information
– Address: 300 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
– Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
– Fee: $5 for adults, free for children under 18
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Art and design enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a different perspective on art and design. Unlike traditional art museums, this center focuses specifically on the intersection of architecture and design, making it a standout attraction in Palm Springs.
One of the unusual activities you can enjoy here is exploring the innovative exhibitions that showcase the evolution of architectural and design trends. From mid-century modernism to contemporary avant-garde creations, the center presents a diverse range of styles that will captivate any design enthusiast.
Another distinctive feature of this center is the opportunity to attend lectures and workshops led by renowned architects and designers. These events provide valuable insights into the creative process behind iconic structures and objects, offering a deeper understanding of the significance of architecture and design in our daily lives.
Visitors can also participate in guided tours that delve into the history and significance of the center’s unique collection. By learning about the stories behind each exhibit, guests can gain a newfound appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating architectural masterpieces.
In conclusion, the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its specialized focus on architecture and design, offering a refreshing and enlightening experience for those looking to explore the creative world of art and innovation.
Explore the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Essential Information
– Address: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: Adults $24.95, Children (3-12) $14.95
– Visit Duration: 3-4 hours
– Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When you think of a zoo, you might picture rows of animal enclosures and guided tours. However, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Springs, California, offers a unique experience that sets it apart from traditional zoos. Here, visitors can engage in activities that go beyond just observing wildlife.
One of the most unusual features of the Living Desert is the opportunity to feed giraffes up close. Imagine standing face to face with these majestic creatures as they gracefully extend their long necks to accept a snack from your hand. This hands-on experience allows visitors to connect with these gentle giants in a way that few other zoos offer.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Living Desert also provides the chance to go on a camel ride through the desert landscape. Climb aboard one of these resilient animals and embark on a journey that transports you back in time to the days of desert caravans and trade routes.
In addition to these unique activities, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens boasts a remarkable collection of desert plants from around the world. Wander through the cactus garden and marvel at the diverse shapes and sizes of these resilient plants that have adapted to thrive in arid environments.
Whether you’re feeding giraffes, riding camels, or exploring the desert flora, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your visit to Palm Springs, California.
