According to forum posts, popular dining options in Palm Springs include Spencers for its reservations and good food, and Las Consuelas Mexican restaurant known for its lively atmosphere with Mariachis. Tropicale was also frequently mentioned for its fun and vibrant setting.

Travelers have called out specific spots for their unique offerings and ambiance. The Purple Room Supper Club and Palm Canyon Roadhouse were recommended for enjoying live music. For a quieter, upscale experience, Miros, Le Vallauris, and Mr. Lyons were suggested.

For those looking for outdoor dining with a casual vibe, users recommended Cheeky's for its convenient location and Tommy Bahama's Marlin Bar for tapa-style menus and people-watching opportunities. Lulus and Acqua California Bistro were also noted for their outdoor seating arrangements.

Sammy G's was mentioned several times; however, it was also noted to have had poor health inspection results recently, affecting its recommendation status among users.

According to forum posts, Joshua Tree National Park is a popular day trip destination from Palm Springs. Travelers enjoy the unique landscape and outdoor activities available there. Some users suggested spending a day in Santa Monica, exploring the beach and nearby attractions before heading to Palm Springs in the evening.

Travelers have called out other nearby attractions for day trips, including the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and the aerial tramway for panoramic views. Additionally, the Palm Springs Art Museum and Indian Canyons offer cultural and natural experiences, respectively, suitable for a day’s visit.

For those interested in historical sites, some users recommended visiting the Old Mission and the Cheech Museum in Riverside as part of a day trip. These spots offer cultural insights and are complemented by nearby shopping opportunities.

According to forum posts, several travelers have discussed renting cars in Palm Springs. Major rental services like Avis, Alamo, National, Enterprise, and Hertz offer both airport and off-airport pickup options. Prices and policies vary, with some locations offering more flexible hours and potentially lower rates than those at the airport.

Some users noted that off-airport rentals might be cheaper and more convenient depending on the travelers' schedules. However, off-airport locations tend to have more restricted operating hours, which could influence the rental choice. It's recommended to check specific operational times as they might close early on weekends or be closed on Sundays.

Travelers have called out that renting directly at the airport might be more expensive upfront but can save money and time on additional transport costs to and from off-airport rental locations. For instance, one user mentioned a significant price difference when choosing between airport and neighborhood rental options.

According to forum posts, tickets for the Palm Springs tram can be purchased online in advance via the official tramway website to ensure a specific time slot. However, some travelers mentioned that only a limited number of tickets are available for pre-booking, and many are sold on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.

Several users noted that arriving early at the tram station is beneficial, as tickets are also sold at the station for various time slots throughout the day. It's possible to purchase tickets upon arrival for immediate boarding or for a later time in the day, depending on availability.

While there was curiosity about secondary ticket sources, there are no indications from the posts that tickets are readily available through other channels like Craigslist. Most travelers recommend either pre-booking online or purchasing directly at the tram station.

According to forum posts, several self-guided and guided tour options are available for exploring Joshua Tree National Park. Some travelers recommend self-driving tours, which can be enhanced with inexpensive audio guides that provide detailed commentary on the park's highlights. Additionally, various websites offer GPS self-guided tour options that start up again in February, entering the park via less-traveled back roads.

For those preferring guided tours, some travelers have mentioned companies like Desert Adventures, although they note the prices can be steep due to the tours being private. Another recommended option is the Red Jeep tours, known for knowledgeable guides and thorough exploration of the park. Prices for guided tours like those from Wandering Mojave start around $90 per person for approximately 4.5 hours, but some tours require payment for a minimum number of participants.

Travelers have called out the importance of planning, especially regarding the park's vast size (over 1200 square miles) and lack of amenities such as food, water, and cell service. They advise bringing sufficient supplies and starting early to maximize the experience.

According to forum posts, some travelers have recommended the National Weather Service for reliable and detailed weather forecasts in Palm Springs. It offers hourly updates and forecasts for specific grid points across the U.S., which can be particularly useful for precise locations like golf courses or specific areas within Palm Springs.

Other users have suggested Weather Underground as a better source compared to the Weather Channel, particularly for the Coachella Valley area. Additionally, local news websites like KESQ.com are also mentioned as good resources for local weather updates.

Travelers have noted that weather predictions can be quite variable, especially when it comes to rain in desert locations like Palm Springs. Layering clothes is advisable due to significant temperature differences between sun and shade, as noted by some visitors.

Some travelers recommended the Marriott Shadow Ridge in Palm Desert for its multiple pool areas, appealing to families with children. Additionally, the Omni Splashtopia and Hyatt HyTides were highlighted for featuring mini water parks, making them ideal for family stays.

For travelers without children, several posts pointed to the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells, both offering deluxe pool experiences with adult-only pools. These resorts cater to adults seeking quieter, more serene poolside relaxation.

The La Quinta Resort was praised for having 41 swimming pools and large rooms, providing a luxurious and expansive setting for pool enthusiasts. This resort combines a traditional luxurious feel with extensive pool options, ideal for relaxation and enjoyment.

The Avalon Hotel in Palm Springs was mentioned for its proximity to downtown and family-friendly pool facilities, including a children's pool. This offers a balance of accessibility to local attractions and on-site amenities for both adults and children.