By Karen Sprinkles
The glory of the desert unfolds in scenic wonder in Palm Springs, where upscale shopping,
resorts and golf courses take second billing to magnificent desert landscapes, blue skies, idyllic weather and beautiful mountains. When in this desert oasis, take time to enjoy the area's plentiful historical and natural attractions.
McCallum Adobe
Home to Palm Springs' first non-Native-American settler, the McCallum Adobe (circa 1884) contains authentic mementos of the John McCallum family, offering a unique glimpse into the early days of Palm Springs. The restored adobe showcases a compelling collection photographs, books, paintings, tools and clothing, as well as Indian ware from the period. A 24-minute film about Palm Springs history also is featured. The museum is closed seasonally June through September.
McCallum Adobe
221 S Palm Canyon Drive
Village Green Heritage Center
Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 323-8297
www.pshistoricalsociety.org/
Palm Canyon Drive
The heartbeat of the city can be found in Downtown Palm on Palm Canyon Drive, where shops, restaurants, galleries and museums make for a fun and friendly strolling environment. Held every Thursday night, the popular Villagefest includes a Farmer's Market, live music and more than 100 arts, crafts and food vendors.
Living Desert Zoo & Garden
Visitors will learn about the desert's unique habitats at this 1,200-acre desert reserve that includes a museum, zoo and educational center. Walk or take a tram through the park, which showcases a variety of plants, insects and wildlife, including mountain lions, bighorn sheep, rattlesnakes, reptiles, golden eagles, owls and roadrunners.
Living Desert Zoo & Garden
47-900 Portola Avenue
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-5694
www.livingdesert.org
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Showcasing majestic views of Coachella Valley, the popular Aerial Tramway ascends nearly 5,900 feet up the slopes of Mount San Jacinto. New Swiss funicular cars rotate during the 14-minute ascent, allowing each passenger to enjoy panoramic scenes below. At the summit, Peaks restaurant and a gift shop await. Guided mule rides and cross-country ski equipment are also offered at the top.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
One Tramway Rd.
Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 325-1391
www.pstramway.com
About the Author:
Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.
