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Thanksgiving in Palm Springs

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Thanksgiving in Palm Springs

Paul Kaplan

I've made it a professional goal to be known as a leader in the Real Estate industry in the Palm Springs market for the past 20+ years...

I've made it a professional goal to be known as a leader in the Real Estate industry in the Palm Springs market for the past 20+ years...

Nov 14 4 minutes read

Celebrate Thanksgiving in Palm Springs with sunshine, mountain views, and delicious dining. Discover top restaurants, outdoor adventures, and festive events with local tips from the Paul Kaplan Group.



🦃 Top Thanksgiving Activities
1. Enjoy a special Thanksgiving dinner out
Many restaurants in Palm Springs host special menus on Thanksgiving Day. For example, there are over 60 restaurants in the Palm/Cathedral Cities area listed for Thanksgiving service.
Tip: Make your reservation early — tables fill up fast.

🍽️ Thanksgiving Dinners & Special Menus
  • Mr. Lyons Steakhouse – Elegant multi-course Thanksgiving dinner; dine-in or take-out options.
  • Melvyn’s at Ingleside Estate – Classic holiday meal featuring roasted turkey, prime rib, and traditional sides.
  • Eight4Nine – Prix-fixe four-course Thanksgiving menu served from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Johannes – Thanksgiving dinner with a modern twist, open 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
  • 4 Saints – Rooftop dining with seasonal Thanksgiving dishes and stunning views.
  • Le Vallauris – Refined fine-dining experience with French flair and holiday specialties.
  • Other local favorites – Many restaurants across Palm Springs and Palm Desert offer Thanksgiving menus — be sure to book early as reservations fill up quickly.




2. Take an outdoor adventure
Spending Thanksgiving outdoors is a local favorite. Consider a ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or a hike in Indian Canyons for fresh air and scenery.
Tip: Pack layers – even desert evenings can cool off.

🌄 Family-Friendly Activities
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – Ride up the mountain for breathtaking views; the Pines Café serves a festive Thanksgiving dinner.
  • The Living Desert’s WildLights – Holiday light show featuring over a million twinkling lights, open select nights throughout the season.
  • Moorten Botanical Garden – Explore the cactus gardens and desert plants during the day before your dinner plans.
  • Downtown Palm Springs – Stroll Palm Canyon Drive and enjoy the holiday decorations and outdoor dining scene.
  • Hiking in Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon – Perfect for a morning adventure before your Thanksgiving feast.




3. Visit a local attraction with family or friends
You can make a day of it with kid-friendly or group-friendly outings: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, the Moorten Botanical Garden, or simply a walk around downtown Palm Springs.
Tip: Check hours ahead — holiday schedules may differ.



4. Plan for accommodations and holiday logistics. If you’re relocating or hosting guests, consider where you’ll stay, where the best dinner spots are, and local transportation. Guides around Palm Springs advise booking early and knowing what’s open over the weekend.
Tip: Look for vacation homes or condos with full kitchens if you also want to cook at home.



🎉 Bonus Suggestions
  • Thanksgiving morning walk or run: Some local 5K events are held on Thanksgiving Day.
  • Drive out to nearby nature: Drive over to Joshua Tree National Park or other desert park for an early outdoor excursion.
  • Shopping & small-business support: The holiday weekend kicks off seasonal sales and local business events in Palm Springs.
  • VISIT OPEN HOUSES! Check out listings available to see: Search Homes in Palm Springs.


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