Playgrounds
3 parks with a playground, closest to downtown first.
- Civic Center Park0.8 mi from downtown
- University Park East4 mi from downtown
- Joe Mann Park4.1 mi from downtown
Family
Things to do in Palm Desert with kids
4 kinds of family outings, with the closest picks for each.
Family-friendly ideas around Palm Desert, built from the city’s parks, libraries, local businesses and nearby public lands. Pick a section for the full list, a map and directions, and check the events calendar for this week’s story times, festivals and shows.
Libraries
Story times, homework help and summer reading, free with a library card.
- Palm Desert Branch Library73-300 Fred Waring Dr.
Picnic spots
Day-use areas for a family picnic.
- Palms to Pines Scenic Byway4 mi southwest
- Lake Cahuilla8 mi southeast
- Black Mountain (San Bernardino)22 mi west
Wildlife and nature
Refuges and lakes to spot birds and animals.
- 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 is there to do in Palm Desert with kids?
Playgrounds (3), Libraries (1), Picnic spots (11), Wildlife and nature (21). Each section links to the full list with maps and directions.
What can kids do in Palm Desert for free?
Parks and playgrounds, library story times and many community events are free. See the free things to do and kids events pages for this week’s options.
What can families do in Palm Desert when it rains or it’s hot?
Try the indoor ideas and the library, or check the kids and family events calendar.