Palm Springs is world renowned for stylish hotels, great weather and stunning views. It is also famous for its many fine examples of midcentury-modern architecture and design that are visible throughout the city. The core shopping district is on Palm Canyon Drive, which features vintage boutiques, interior design shops and unique apparel. It also has locally owned restaurants, many with beautiful outdoor dining patios.
Palm Springs offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. For these reasons, Palm Springs has long been the preferred desert retreat of Hollywood royalty, presidents, wellness seekers and sunworshippers. The permanent year-round population is about 45,000; however, it doubles during the winter season.
Palm Springs enjoys more than 350 days of sunshine a year. You are at low risk of rain ruining your Palm Springs. This is because the beautiful San Jacinto mountain range, visible from anywhere in the Coachella Valley, protects Palm Springs from the coastal weather.
The desert easily lends itself to a wide range of itineraries. Some folks turn up solely to tune out, spending hours at the pool, spa or on a porch with a cocktail, mesmerized by the purple glow of dusk. Others book their days end to end with activities that start with early morning hikes and finish at a nightclub.
Below you will find a detailed list of things to see and do while in Palm Springs for the 2025 SFMA Conference. For a list of many more activities in the Palm Springs area, visit https://visitpalmsprings.com/
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS
Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza
The newly unveiled Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza is a vibrant cultural hub featuring the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum and The Spa at Séc-he. This state-of-the-art plaza celebrates the sacred Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring. It includes a Gathering Plaza, lush gardens, and the scenic Oasis Trail. The Cultural Plaza’s design reflects Agua Caliente traditions, with influences from basket weaving, pottery and desert landscapes. Highlights include Andreas Canyon rock formations, a serene stream, and Washingtonia filifera palm trees. The Oasis Trail is an interpretive green belt offering a cultural learning experience. The new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is approximately 48,000 square feet and features a main gallery, a changing gallery and an art gallery. The Spa at Séc-he utilizes Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring water, estimated to be over 12,000 years old.
Architecture and Design Center
Located in downtown Palm Springs, the Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion stands as the first historic building in the U.S. to be repurposed into a dedicated architecture and design museum. This modern structure, part of the Palm Springs Art Museum, highlights the region’s unique architectural heritage. E. Stewart Williams, a key figure in the modernist movement, designed this architectural marvel. The building’s exterior boasts a sleek, clean design with a white façade that contrasts beautifully with the desert landscape. Inside, the center offers an open, airy environment filled with natural light. The Architecture and Design Center features a range of exhibitions showcasing various architectural and design aspects. Visitors can explore the work of renowned architects and the evolution of design styles, gaining a deeper appreciation for the creative processes behind these impressive structures.
Palm Springs Air Museum
The Palm Springs Air Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of static and flyable aircraft from WWII through the war on terror. Unlike many other museums, the air-conditioned hangars have no ropes to keep you from interacting with the exhibits. In addition to the aircraft, exhibits and activities allow visitors of all ages to gain a fresh perspective of the history of U.S. Military operations from the last 100 years. The Palm Springs Air Museum also has a 12,700-volume research library located upstairs above the main lobby. In the outer room of the library are computer flight simulators to entertain and teach the principles of flight to people of all ages. (Will require transportation from PSCC.)
Palm Springs Art Museum
Founded in 1938, the Palm Springs Art Museum serves many communities in the Coachella Valley through its compelling art exhibitions and wide range of community programming. Located in downtown Palm Springs, the museum’s extensive permanent collection includes significant works by western, contemporary and glass artists, and features temporary exhibitions from internationally acclaimed artists. One of the most surprising aspects of this museum is its stunning diversity of art, sculpture and objects from a vast variety of genres. Everything from drawings to paintings, each with a fascinating backstory and history laid out.
SHOPPING
Palm Canyon
Palm Canyon is the main street through Palm Springs and is packed with shopping, boutiques, restaurants, and more. It is about a 10-minute walk from the PSCC.
VillageFest
Join thousands of visitors and locals in beautiful downtown Palm Springs for VillageFest on Thursdays for the valley’s finest event. As you step into VillageFest, prepare to be greeted by a sensory overload. The air is laced with tantalizing aromas from the diverse food vendors lining the streets. From gourmet food trucks to international delicacies, there is something to tempt every palate. Savor mouthwatering BBQ, indulge in tasty desserts, or sample exotic cuisines from around the world. One of the highlights of VillageFest Palm Springs is the opportunity to support local artisans and shop for unique creations. Stroll through the rows of artist booths that showcase an impressive array of handcrafted jewelry, paintings, ceramics, clothing and more. From talented musicians to mesmerizing street performers, VillageFest offers a delightful lineup of live entertainment.
NATURE AND SITESEEING
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway — the world’s largest rotating tram car — travels over two-and-a-half miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting visitors to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area. During this 10-minute journey, tram cars rotate slowly, offering spectacular vistas of the valley below. (Transportation required to get to the Valley Station.)
Indian Canyons
Visit Indian Canyons, home to the Agua Caliente Tribe. Undisturbed natural beauty is combined with remarkably easy access—the canyons are located just minutes from downtown Palm Springs. Admission gives access to Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon, and Murray Canyon for hiking and sightseeing. (Note: This requires transportation, but is only about a 10-minute drive from the PSCC. Uber or a taxi will not work because of the long walk from the entry to the canyons.)
The Forever Marilyn Statue
The Forever Marilyn statue in Palm Springs is an iconic landmark that captures the essence of old Hollywood glamour. This 26-foot-tall sculpture, created by artist Seward Johnson, depicts Marilyn Monroe in her famous pose from the 1955 film The Seven Year Itch. The statue is a must-see visitor attraction in the heart of downtown Palm Springs and a popular spot for photos.
Palm Springs Downtown Park
The brand new Palm Springs Downtown Park, nestled in front of the Palm Springs Art Museum, is a beautifully designed public space that promises a refreshing experience for both locals and visitors alike. As you step foot into Palm Springs Downtown Park, you’re greeted by an oasis of greenery and pristine desert beauty. Native palm trees provide shade and a sense of tranquility throughout the park. The manicured landscape invites visitors to relax, soak up the sun, or enjoy a leisurely picnic with friends and family.
FOOD AND DRINK
Within a 15-minute walk of the Palm Springs Convention Center you will find a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite, a leisurely meal or a stylish cocktail, these nearby restaurants offer everything from classic American dishes to vibrant international flavors, all set against the backdrop of Palm Springs’ unique desert charm. (Walking distance from convention center in parentheses with each listing).
Koffi – Central
650 E Tahquitz Canyon Way (7 min.)
Closest independently owned java option with a large hot coffee menu, plus cold brew fusion, iced cappuccino, coffee freeze and iced mocha, all made with beans roasted down valley at their Rancho Mirage kitchen. Also on offer are hot and cold teas, Koffi-made baked goods, breakfast sammies and salads.
The Steakhouse at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
401 E Amado Road (7 min)
Award winning al la carte steakhouse offering prime cuts, seafood, grill chicken, roasted duck. veal chop, and rack of lamb.
V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar
600 E Tahquitz Canyon Way (7 min.)
V Wine has a cool midcentury modern design and offers a large selection of wines, as well as beer, and fun specialty cocktails. Next to Koffi, the menu is very casual and sharable with selections like flatbreads, wraps, meatballs, salads, and cheese boards. Live music or karaoke during most weekday evenings.
The Tropicale
330 Amado Road (8 min.)
Tropicale in Palm Springs is a vibrant, tropical-themed restaurant known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic menu and retro-chic décor. The restaurant offers a mix of American and international cuisine. Lunch includes salads, sandwiches, pizza, and specialty entrees like salmon, and flat iron steak. Dinner entrees change, but you can expect selections like brisket burger, skirt steak, fried chicken, salmon and pasta.
Alice B.
1122 E Tahquitz Canyon Way ( 10 min.)
The menu evolves frequently with the seasons. You will discover an incredible bounty of vibrant Mediterranean influences. Bar menu is available at 4 p.m. and dinner reservations begin at 5 p.m. There is live entertainment on select nights.
El Patio
139 E Andreas (10 min.)
With authentic Mexican flavors from Guadalajara, El Patio is locally owned and family run. Enjoy classics like burritos, fajitas, and tacos. Has indoor and outdoor seating.
Sherman’s Deli
401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way (10 min.)
Sherman’s Deli in Palm Springs is a classic New York-style deli that has been a local favorite since 1963. Known for its generous portions and authentic flavors, Sherman’s offers a wide range of traditional deli fare, including towering sandwiches, hearty breakfasts and homemade pastries. The menu highlights include a wide range of breakfast selections, their famous Reuben sandwich, matzo ball soup, and a variety of freshly baked cakes and pies.
Ruben & Ozzy’s Oyster Bar
241 E Tahquitz Way (11 min.)
This lively and casual dining restaurant celebrates fresh seafood and classic American favorites. The lunch menu is served from noon to 4 p.m. and features soups, seafood tacos, sandwiches, oysters, and a variety of other fresh seafood entrees. Dinner is elevated with menu selection like the Surf N’ Lobster, Cajun lamb chop, grills swordfish and seafood kabob.
Clandestino
175 N Palm Canuyon Drive (12 min.)
Modern Mexican menu including street tacos, empanadas, tamales, burritos, salmon and ceviche. There are a number of vegan menu options. Enjoy a large outdoor patio with views of the San Jacinto mountains and downtown park.
Bongo Johny’s Bar & Grill
301 N Palm Canyon Drive. Second floor. (12 min.)
American classic menu including gourmet burgers, salads, wraps, sandwiches, mac & cheese, fish tacos and fish & chips.
Tonga Hut Restaurant & Tiki Bar
245 N Palm Canyon Drive (second floor) (12 min.)
Tonga Hut in L.A. is the oldest Tiki Bar, since 1958, and Palm Springs has its sister. This retro oasis offers an immersive experience with its thatched roofs, bamboo accents and tiki torches. The menu features a range of expertly crafted tropical cocktails, including classics like the Mai Tai and the Zombie, served in vibrant tiki mugs.
For more nearby restaurants, visit https://visitpalmsprings.com/restaurants-by-the-palm-springs-convention-center/
