Weekend Getaway to Palm Springs, California
Looking for an easy Palm Springs weekend getaway? This guide covers the best places to stay, fun things to do, great food spots, and what to pack for a stress-free trip.
2/1/20266 min read
Relaxing Palm Springs Family Getaway (3-Day Weekend Guide)
If you’re looking for a warm-weather weekend getaway that feels relaxing and easy with kids, Palm Springs is a great choice. With sunny skies, beautiful resorts, kid-friendly attractions, and plenty of downtime built in, this desert escape is perfect for a 2–3 night family trip. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or exploring nearby attractions, Palm Springs offers a slower pace that makes traveling with kids feel manageable.
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Why Visit Palm Springs with Kids
Palm Springs is ideal for families who want a low-stress getaway. Most activities are close together, many resorts cater to families, and you can easily balance sightseeing with rest time. Add in warm weather, scenic views, and great dining options, and it’s an easy destination to revisit year after year.
Why families love Palm Springs:
Sunny weather most of the year
Resort pools kids actually enjoy
Easy-to-plan 2–3 day trips
Great mix of outdoor + indoor activities
Where to Stay in Palm Springs (Family-Friendly Hotels)
If your kids love water slides, this is the one. While technically located in nearby Rancho Mirage, the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Palm Springs area.
Why families love it:
On-site water park with slides
Lazy river
Splash zone for younger kids
Family suites available
If your trip revolves around pool time, this resort is hard to beat.
Check availability for your dates at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Best for families who want water slides and a lazy river.
If you’re looking for a polished, full-service hotel that still works well with kids, the Renaissance Palm Springs is one of the most popular family-friendly hotels in Palm Springs.
Why families like it:
Huge outdoor pool
Comfortable, modern rooms
On-site dining options
Close to downtown and attractions
It’s especially great for families who want resort-style amenities but prefer a more traditional hotel setting.
Check availability for your dates at Renaissance Palm Springs
The Hyatt Palm Springs stands out for its all-suite accommodations — which makes a big difference when traveling with kids.
Why families like it:
Separate living space in every room
Private balconies
Central downtown location
Walkable to restaurants and VillageFest
If you want more room to spread out without booking two hotel rooms, this is a smart family choice.
Check availability for your dates at Hyatt Palm Springs
Best for families who want extra space and separate living areas.
Located right in downtown Palm Springs, the Hilton Palm Springs Resort is a dependable, family-friendly option with plenty of space and a large outdoor pool area.
Why families like it:
Spacious rooms and suites
Resort-style pool
Easy walk to shops and restaurants
Reliable brand comfort
This is a great option for families who want a central location and an easy, stress-free stay.
Check availability for your dates at Hilton Palm Springs Resort
Colorful, fun, and centrally located, The Saguaro Palm Springs is a great choice for families who want a lively resort vibe. The oversized pool is the main attraction, and rooms are spacious enough for parents traveling with kids.
Why families like it:
Large outdoor pool area
Walkable to downtown Palm Springs
Bright, playful atmosphere
Great value compared to luxury resorts
This is a solid pick for families who want energy and convenience without the ultra-luxury price tag.
Check availability for your dates at The Saguaro Palm Springs
Things to Do in Palm Springs with Kids
Between pool time and short outings, Palm Springs makes it easy to keep kids entertained without feeling rushed.
One of the most popular attractions in the area. The rotating tram ride alone is exciting for kids, and the cooler temperatures at the top make it perfect for short walks and scenic views. (Book early, space can fill up fast!)
Get tickets on Viator for Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A family favorite featuring desert animals, wide walking paths, and shaded areas. Best visited in the morning before temperatures rise.
Get tickets for The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Children’s Museum of the Desert
Hands-on exhibits designed for younger kids. This is a great indoor option during warmer afternoons or before heading home.
Pool Time at Your Hotel
One of the best “activities” in Palm Springs is simply enjoying the pool. Planning a dedicated pool day keeps kids happy and helps parents relax.
Explore Downtown Palm Springs
Stroll Palm Canyon Drive for shops, dessert stops, and easy evening walks. It’s stroller-friendly and great for winding down after a busy day.
Where to Eat in Palm Springs with Kids
Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
A longtime favorite for families with generous portions, classic comfort food, and quick service.
Farm
Perfect for breakfast or lunch with simple, fresh options and a relaxed atmosphere.
Cheeky’s
A popular brunch spot known for creative dishes. Best for mornings when kids are well-rested.
Casual Hotel Dining
Many Palm Springs resorts offer kid-friendly menus, making it easy to stay close to your hotel after a long day.
What to Pack for a Palm Springs Family Getaway
Sun & Heat Essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen (spray + lotion)
The desert sun is strong year-round, and pool days mean frequent reapplication. We always pack both a spray for quick touch-ups and a lotion for faces and shoulders.
Our go-to reef-safe sunscreen for kids
Wide-brimmed hats
A wide-brim hat makes a huge difference during zoo walks and stroller rides, especially for little ones who won’t keep sunglasses on.
Lightweight sun hats we use for travel
Sunglasses (kids + adults)
Helpful for bright mornings and midday sun when walking around downtown or heading to outdoor attractions.
Affordable, kid-friendly sunglasses
SPF lip balm
Dry desert air sneaks up fast—keep one in your day bag and another in the car.
SPF lip balm we always pack
Clothing
Lightweight, breathable outfits
Soft, airy fabrics help keep kids comfortable during warm days and long outings.
Swimsuits (bring extras!)
Between pool time and splash breaks, extra swimsuits keep kids comfortable and avoid soggy afternoons.
Our favorite quick-dry swimsuits
Rash guards or swim shirts
Perfect for longer pool sessions without constant sunscreen reapplication.
Sun-protective rash guards for kids
Light jacket or sweatshirt
Evenings cool down quickly in Palm Springs, especially after sunset.
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for zoo paths, museum visits, and tramway walks.
Lightweight walking shoes we travel with
Sandals or water shoes
Easy for pool days and quick hotel outings.
Water shoes perfect for pool trips
Hydration & Snacks
Reusable water bottles
Staying hydrated is key in the desert—especially with kids.
Leak-proof water bottles for kids
Easy, on-the-go snacks
Perfect for between meals, zoo visits, and car rides.
Travel snacks we always pack
Kid Essentials
Stroller (for younger kids)
Even confident walkers get tired in the heat. A lightweight stroller makes outings much easier.
Our favorite travel stroller
Small day backpack
Great for carrying snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers without overpacking.
Kid-friendly travel backpacks
Tablet, books, or small toys
Helpful for downtime at the hotel or during travel.
Quiet travel activities for kids
Nice-to-Have Extras
Cooling towels
An easy way to cool kids down during outdoor activities.
Cooling towels we swear by
Bug spray
Useful for early mornings and evenings around landscaped areas.
Kid-safe bug spray for travel
Swim goggles or floaties
Great for confident swimmers and longer pool sessions.
Pool essentials we pack every trip
Final Thoughts
Palm Springs is an ideal family getaway when you want warm weather, great hotels, and a slower pace that works with kids. By choosing the right hotel and keeping your plans simple, it’s easy to enjoy a relaxing weekend without feeling overbooked. It’s one of our favorite Southern California escapes for families who want sunshine, pool time, and an easy reset.
💕 Planning a parents-only escape?
See our Romantic California Getaways Guide