Parks
13 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Civic Center Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Joe Mann Park4.1 mi from downtown
- University Park East4 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Palm Desert
4 kinds of free outings in and around Palm Desert.
Good days out in Palm Desert don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Palm Desert Branch Library73-300 Fred Waring Dr.
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Lake Cahuilla8 mi southeast
- Santa Rosa Wilderness15 mi southeast
- Fern Basin21 mi west
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Palms to Pines Scenic Byway4 mi southwest
- Santa Rosa Wilderness15 mi southeast
- Ryan Campground22 mi northeast
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Searching for some fun in #palmdesert? Here are seven activities that should be in your radar!
A local activity Short shared by Locale .
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Palm desert 🏜 pool 🏊♂️ 🏝 and resort
A local activity Short shared by shorts .
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Palm Desert?
Parks, Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Palm Desert this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.