About a 2-hour drive to the east of Los Angeles and set in a tea-cup shaped valley, Palm Springs is completely surrounded by mountains that rise to nearly 11,000 feet. In between the towering peaks are miles of lush hiking trails, interesting rock formations and lovely waterfalls that nature lovers adore. A stay in Palm Springs offers the visitor a diversity of experiences, from the fashionable shops, restaurants and galleries of downtown’s Palm Canyon Drive to a close-up view of one of the most menacing geological forces in North America, the San Andreas fault.

Connect with the wonder of the sea as you enter the park via Explorer’s Reef^® and encounter a beautiful, underwater-themed world. Discover how to protect the ocean at SeaWorld’s latest attraction, Ocean Explorer™, be thrilled on Manta^®, SeaWorld’s first double-launch coaster and get close-up views of sea lions, penguins, sea turtles dolphins and orca whales. Splash into fun at Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark^®, a whimsical, tropical oasis, where you can catch waves from serene to extreme, be amazed by up-close animal experiences or simply relax on the white sandy beach. The biggest thrill in the park is at Taumata Racer^® – a high speed competitive mat ride where you’ll find adventure head first!

You can see it all when you alight onto the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, a rotating gondola rising 8,500 feet across two and a half miles of amazing views on its way up and down. You may have left warm temperatures below but don’t be surprised if there’s snow on the ground at the top! Back at ground level, the Backstreet Art district is worth seeking out on South Cherokee Way. A community of a dozen or so acclaimed artists have opened up shop and offer an opportunity to spend time milling and perhaps buying unique artwork.