Southern California family guide
Things to Do in Palm Desert with Kids
Curated by Punita Patel
Reviewed & updated June 2026 · we check listings regularly, but hours and prices change — confirm before you go.
Things to do in Palm Desert
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
A 1,200-acre desert zoo and botanical garden where you can walk giraffes right up to a feeding platform and ride the endangered-species carousel. In cooler months come at opening (8am) so the animals are active and you beat the heat, and don't skip the model-train garden near the entrance. Summer hours end early, so plan a morning visit June–September.
Adults $39.95, kids 3–17 $29.95, under 3 free (buy online)
Palm Desert Civic Center Park
A 70-acre green heart of the city with a playground, skate park, dog park, amphitheater, rose garden and a lagoon with a waterfall to circle on the walking paths. Shaded picnic pavilions and public art are scattered throughout, so pack a lunch and let the kids roam. It's also home to free First Weekend and holiday events, so check the city calendar.
FreeFreedom Park
A sprawling 44-acre park in north Palm Desert with a modern playground, ball fields, a skate park, basketball, pickleball and wide multi-use fields. There's plenty of room and picnic pavilions for a big family gathering or birthday. Bring shade and water, as the open turf gets hot in the afternoon.
FreeSanta Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains Visitor Center
About four miles up Highway 74 from the 111 junction, this small free visitor center has kid-friendly exhibits on desert wildlife and geology, and staff who'll point you to easy trails. The gentle 2-mile Randall Henderson Loop starts right out back and is a great first desert hike for families. Go early and carry water — the trails are fully exposed.
Free
The Gardens on El Paseo
The open-air anchor of the El Paseo shopping district, with fountains, courtyards and shaded seating that make it an easy free wander even if you're not shopping. Kids like the fountains and the seasonal decor, and there are casual dining spots for a break. Come in the evening in summer when it cools and the courtyards light up.
Free to strollSeasonal & outdoors near Palm Desert
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from Palm Desert.
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Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.