fun things to do in palm springs with kids
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Another fun option is the Palm Springs Art Museum’s interactive exhibits, which are perfect for curious minds. They often have kid-friendly workshops and rotating displays that spark creativity. If you’re looking for something more active, the Palm Springs Zoo and Botanical Garden is a must. The animals are well-cared for, and the gardens are beautiful, especially in the spring when the desert blooms. Plus, there are plenty of playgrounds and walking trails to keep the little ones engaged.
fun things to do in palm springs with kids in 2026
1. Great Places Kids Within
Kids near Palm Springs will love exploring the desert’s natural wonders. Nearby, the Catalina Island Ferry offers short ferry rides to a kid-friendly island with beaches, boat rides, and gentle waves. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides scenic mountain views and a fun lift ride for younger children. Local parks like Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Park and Desert Botanical Garden feature interactive exhibits and wildlife, perfect for educational fun.
For adventure, Indio’s Lake Casitas has a small water park and boat rentals, while Palm Springs’ Palm Springs Air Museum lets kids see vintage planes up close. The Desert View Park offers easy trails and a playground. Nearby Joshua Tree National Park has short, kid-friendly hikes with stunning rock formations. These spots blend education, play, and desert charm.
2. Cool Things Grandkids Within
Exploring the desert’s hidden gems keeps kids engaged and tired out. Ride ATVs through rugged trails at Palm Springs ATV Park, then cool off with a dip in the natural pools of Havasu Falls (just over the border). For a hands-on adventure, visit the Desert Botanical Garden where kids can press flowers and learn about desert ecosystems. At Palm Springs Air Museum, they’ll marvel at vintage planes and maybe even spot a real pilot.
For a mix of adventure and relaxation, take a scenic drive to Canyon XW for rock climbing or zip-lining. Stop at The Ranch at Palms for a petting zoo and mini-golf. On rainy days, Palm Springs Art Museum offers interactive exhibits, while The Children’s Museum of Palm Springs lets them build, play, and explore. Nearby, Desert Botanical Garden’s seasonal events—like the Desert Botanical Garden’s holiday lights—keep the fun going year-round.
3. Rub It In
Kids in Palm Springs will love this easy-to-use lotion that keeps little hands soft and dry during outdoor adventures. Perfect for hiking trails, beach days, or exploring the desert, it’s lightweight and won’t stain clothes. Parents will appreciate how it prevents chafing from climbing or running around, so they can focus on the fun without constant fussing.
A must-have for families visiting Palm Springs, this lotion is ideal for warm weather activities. Its quick-absorbing formula means no sticky residue, so kids can play freely without discomfort. Whether at the playground or a desert picnic, it’s a simple way to keep hands happy and hands-free.
4. Don’t Push
Don’t Push Me is a great way to keep little ones entertained in Palm Springs’ sunny outdoor spaces. It’s a simple, interactive toy that lets kids push, pull, and explore without screens, making it perfect for stroller rides or park play. The design encourages movement and curiosity, fitting well with the desert’s open-air vibe.
Kids love the tactile fun, and parents appreciate how it keeps them engaged during car rides or quick errands. Its lightweight, compact size makes it easy to toss in a bag for spontaneous adventures. It’s ideal for the warm climate, blending activity with the natural surroundings.
5. Rub It In
Kids in Palm Springs will love this easy-to-use lotion that keeps them cool and comfortable during outdoor adventures. Perfect for sunny days at the pool or hiking trails, it’s lightweight and won’t leave sticky residue. Parents will appreciate how it dries fast and won’t require constant reapplication, making it ideal for active play without the hassle.
A must-have for families visiting Palm Springs, this lotion prevents overheating while keeping skin smooth. Its formula absorbs quickly, so kids stay fresh without needing frequent breaks. Great for beach trips, sports, or exploring the desert—it’s a simple way to keep little ones happy and protected.
6. Tactics Skills Shooting
Kids in Palm Springs can sharpen aim and teamwork with shooting lessons that teach proper stance, tracking, and quick reactions. It’s a hands-on way to build focus and discipline while keeping them active outdoors. The structured approach helps them understand how to move safely and strategically, making it both fun and educational.
Perfect for summer, these sessions turn practice into a game. Parents see improved coordination, and kids enjoy the thrill of hitting targets. It’s a great way to spend time together, blending skill-building with adventure in the desert’s open spaces.
