Palm Springs and its neighboring communities are a melting pot for the retirement and resort industry, but there is also a plethora of things to do in the area with kids. Here's our suggestions for fun times without breaking the bank.
For school aged kids and adults, go for a nature hike in Taquitz Canyon! Located just off of the main drag of Palm Canyon Drive, a bountiful of native plants and cactus surrounds you. This two-mile hiking loop brings you to the beautiful Taquitz Falls waterfall; an ideal backdrop for snapping a few photos to commemorate your hike. Admission into the canyon is $12.50 for adults and $6 for kids 12 and younger. If you go in the Spring or Summer months, be sure to keep an eye out for snakes both on the ground and in the water.
For the younger kids, take a drive to the eastern part of the Coachella Valley and take in the sights and smell of The Salton Sea. Kids interested in learning about fish can see thousands of fish bones that line the shore as well as marvel at the pelicans that call the Salton Sea home. Pelicans in the desert? You betcha! No cost to visit!
Want to still explore science and nature, but being outdoors isn't your thing? Head to Hemet and take in the Western Science Center Museum. It offers an amazing display of dinosaur fossils discovered locally, as well as traveling exhibits. Be sure to take in the impressive 270-degree screen theater that features two short films. There are a few hands on projects for kids to explore. Highly recommended for all ages. Admission prices for adults $8, kids 5-12 $6 and ages 4 and younger are free.
Of course, there's always Joshua Tree National Park, too! Whether your interested in escaping the low-desert heat during the summer or exploring a unique setting of Joshua Trees and rock formations, Joshua Tree National Park is a fun all day hiking excursion in the hi-desert. Temperatures tend to be much cooler in Joshua Tree than they are in the low-desert where Palm Springs is located. There are also campsites scattered throughout the park for families interested in roughing it in the desert. Park entry fee is $15 for a seven day permit, per carload, so you can come back more than once, within a week's time.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to bring your camera!
Shannon Duffy is the Palm Springs Parenting Editor for Examiner. Have a story or event you'd like covered? She can be reached at ParentingEditor@yahoo.com
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