By Crystal Harrell
Valley locals are familiar with the extreme temperatures summer brings to the desert, but Greater Palm Springs recently experienced a blistering 124 degrees on July 5—the hottest temperature ever recorded in the city besting the previous record of 123 degrees set four times before—last done in 2021. With more heat expected in the coming months, people looking for ways to stay cool but also entertain themselves this summer have a variety of choices that won’t make them break the bank or break a sweat.
The Berger Foundation Iceplex serves as a welcoming year-round refuge for locals and visitors to skate, train and have fun. The 36,000-square-foot Iceplex, located adjacent to Acrisure Arena, features a 250-spectator seat NHL ice rink, four locker rooms, two party room areas, and a mezzanine for skaters and viewers to enjoy concessions while connecting with friends. A myriad of special events is open to the public, including hockey and skating programs, tournaments, exhibition ice shows plus themed and charitable activities to include DJ Skate nights, Frozen 5k and more. The Public Skate is open for all ages and levels. Adult Public Skate is for 18-year olds and older. Skating lessons cost $15 per session, plus a $5 skate rental. High School Students with a valid current ID skate free during the Saturday evening Public Skates. Children under 4-years-old skate free. Visit www.bergerfoundationiceplex.com to learn more and purchase tickets.
Another way to stay cool is a trip to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—the world’s largest rotating tram car—which travels over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting riders to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. During an approximately ten-minute journey, tram cars rotate slowly, offering picturesque and spectacular vistas of the valley floor below. Once visitors reach the Mountain Station—elevation 8,516 feet—they can enjoy two restaurants, observation decks, a natural history museum, two documentary theaters, a gift shop and over 50 miles of hiking trails. Tickets are priced for adults at $32.95, seniors 65 and over at $29.95, and children ages 3-10 are admitted for $18.95. Children under 2 years old are free but require a boarding pass which can only be obtained on the day of the visit from the Tram’s ticket booth. Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult of 21 years or older. For tickets and information, visit www.pstramway.com.
Stay cool for the summer with a destination like no other at The Palm Springs Surf Club featuring a state-of-the-art wave technology catering to surfers of all levels. Enjoy resort-style amenities, captivating waterpark attractions, and savor meticulously crafted dining options. The venue boasts versatile and dynamic event spaces. Whether it’s surf lessons, live events, or corporate retreats, the Palm Springs Surf Club has you covered. Private cabanas, nestled alongside the stunning wave pool, provide the ideal spot to relax and enjoy your visit with your group. Equipped with misters and fans, you can stay cool while basking in the sun on our plush loungers or take a refreshing swim in the exclusive heated dip pools. Rent luxury cabanas for the day and discover your own perfect oasis at The Palm Springs Surf Club. From the inviting lounge pool to the winding lazy river, exhilarating water slides, and playful splash pad, there’s no shortage of entertainment awaiting guests. The Palm Springs Surf Club’s food and beverage program showcases a diverse array of culinary delights, featuring three bars and two restaurants. The menus are meticulously curated, presenting a variety of options that cater to all tastes. With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, creative libations, and high-quality options, the Palm Springs Surf Club ensures a delightful dining experience for every guest, at any time of the day. Learn more and purchase tickets at www.palmspringssurfclub.com.
An educational and refreshing experience awaits you this summer at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in Palm Springs, as your gateway to the tribe’s past, present, and future. Explore five different exhibits “areas” dedicated to telling the story of the Agua Caliente people, from the native flora and fauna of the Indian Canyons to ancient artifacts, some of which were unearthed during construction of the museum itself. Browse for Native-made art, books, jewelry and clothing in the gift shop. Wander through an Education Garden blooming with brittlebush, creosote and other indigenous plants. And don’t miss the 360-degree animation of the tribe’s creation and migration stories. Built at the site of the sacred Agua Caliente hot mineral spring (known as Séc-he in the Cahuilla language), The Spa at Séc-he invites locals and visitors alike to soak in the very waters that inspired the tribe’s name. Book one of their 22 private baths to really appreciate the spring’s ancient, healing properties, then unwind with a deep tissue massage or body scrub. For a full sensory experience, check out the spa’s other unique offerings, including salt caves, mineral pools, eucalyptus steam rooms, zero-gravity chairs, and float pods. Book your spa day at the official site, www.thespaatseche.com.
