Southern California family guide

Things to Do in Cathedral City with Kids

Cathedral City is the Coachella Valley's family-fun hub — go-karts and bumper boats at Boomers, replica big-league ballfields at Big League Dreams, a bargain-Tuesday cinema at the Mary Pickford, and award-winning splash-pad parks like Ocotillo and Panorama.

Curated by Punita Patel

Reviewed & updated June 2026 · we check listings regularly, but hours and prices change — confirm before you go.

💡 Local tip: The bumper boats at Boomers and the free splash pads are the smart move on a scorching afternoon — but everything outdoors is a morning-or-evening activity in desert summer.

Things to do in Cathedral City

Parks & Hiking

Big League Dreams Sports Park

This city-run sports park has ballfields built as scaled replicas of famous stadiums like Fenway and Wrigley, plus a stadium club with food. Kids love watching or playing tournaments here on weekends. Come early or for an evening game to dodge the midday desert heat, since much of the seating is uncovered.

Varies

Parks & Hiking

Boomers! Palm Springs

A classic family fun center with go-karts, two mini-golf courses, bumper boats, laser tag and a big arcade, with free parking. The bumper boats are a lifesaver on a hot afternoon since you'll get pleasantly soaked. Bring a hat and water; evening visits are the most comfortable.

Varies

Arts & Culture

Mary Pickford Theatre

This landmark cinema in the downtown arts district shows first-run films with recliner seating, house-made ice cream and hand-crafted pizza. Tuesdays are the bargain day with most movies around $6.95. A perfect midday escape when triple-digit desert temps make an air-conditioned theater the smartest plan.

Varies (Tue ~$6.95)

Parks & Hiking

Panorama Park

At 7.5 acres this is Cathedral City's largest park, with a spray pool, playground, sports courts, picnic areas and a dog park. The splash pad is a free way to cool the kids off in warm months. Aim for morning shade under the trees before the desert sun climbs and the play equipment heats up.

Free

Parks & Hiking

Ocotillo Park

This award-winning park packs in a splash pad, an all-ages playground with a separate tot lot, a skate park, sports fields, shade structures and free Wi-Fi. Shaded ramadas and the splash pad make it one of the more heat-friendly parks in town, with restrooms and free parking for an easy family morning.

Free

Parks & Hiking

Cathedral City Community Amphitheater & Park

The heart of the downtown arts district, this open-air amphitheater and festival lawn hosts free community concerts and events beside the Fountain of Life. Kids enjoy running on the Commons lawn and the fountain plaza on cooler evenings — sunset shows are the sweet spot as the desert cools fast.

Free

Seasonal & outdoors near Cathedral City

The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from Cathedral City.

Toddler spot · 5 miChildren's Discovery Museum of the Desert

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Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.