9 Secret & Hidden Gems in Palm Springs, California

These are the 9 best hidden gems in the Palm Springs area to explore:

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum

Desert Hot Springs, California

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum looks like a life-sized sand castle. This one-of-a-kind museum in Desert Hot Springs was built by hand by Cabot Yerxa. This Coachella Valley hidden gem is a fascinating example of Native American and Hopi architecture.

Old Town La Quinta

La Quinta, California

It’s easy to spend the whole day strolling through La Quinta’s charming, small-town atmosphere. Sometimes called the “gem of the desert,” La Quinta is known for its adorable Old Town. Step back in time on Main Street, with its cobblestone paths, sun-bleached adobe buildings, and sweeping views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. 

Moorten Botanical Garden

Palm Springs, California

This hidden gem in Palm Springs is a family-owned botanical garden specializing in desert plants. The Moorten Botanical Garden is home to thousands of varieties of desert flora from around the world, a fascinating collection of cacti and succulents.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Rancho Mirage, California

Located in Rancho Mirage, Sunnylands is a historic estate with stunning gardens and a mid-century modern aesthetic. This peaceful retreat has been visited by 7 U.S. presidents, the British royal family, and countless celebrities.

The Salton Sea

The Salton Sea is actually California’s largest lake. While not exactly hidden, this saltwater lake is often overlooked by tourists. It’s a fascinating yet eerie place with abandoned buildings, a vast shoreline, and incredible bird watching opportunities. Bird enthusiasts can also check the nearby Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge off their birdwatching bucket list.

The Cafe at Shields

Indio, California

The Cafe at Shields has Mexican-inspired cuisine and lovely outdoor seating. People come here for the dates, though – 

Order a date shake from the 1960s shake counter and have lunch in the Cafe. Walk through the date grove and browse through the sculptures in the botanical gardens. Sample every kind of date imaginable and watch a free movie about dates. There are endless ways to date at this Cafe!

Indian Canyons

Palm Springs, California

Visit the ancestral home of the Cahuilla Indians and learn about their traditions and heritage in Indian Canyons. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in the Coachella Valley’s Native American history. 

The Integratron

Homestead Valley, California

Located in Landers, just a short drive from the Coachella Valley, the Integratron is a unique yet simple structure designed by George Van Tassel. It’s believed to be an energy machine, and visitors can experience sound baths inside its interior, which supports spiritual healing. Does it really work? You tell us.

Pioneertown

San Bernardino County, California

Pioneertown is a quirky western-themed space built in the 1940s as a movie set. These days, it’s home to shops, restaurants, and live music venues. It’s a fun place to explore and soak up some Old West charm. 

These hidden gems in and around Palm Springs are worth wandering off the beaten path for.