If you think the only outdoor activities in Greater Palm Springs for you and your dog can be found on hiking trails and at dog parks, we have a surprise for you. The area is home to one-of-a-kind attractions that promise engaging experiences for everyone. From polo fields to one of the world’s top air museums to lakeside camping and fishing, these dog-friendly attractions welcome leashed dogs.
Empire Polo Club and Eldorado Polo Club
Each January through end of March brings championship horse polo to two spectacular polo clubs in Indio. Pack a picnic basket with champagne to tailgate in style, stomp divots, and watch world-class equestrians and polo ponies thunder across the fields. Dogs tend to love the wide-open grassy spaces, and the energy of the matches makes for a lively afternoon out.
This popular dog-friendly aviation museum houses one of the country’s largest collections of World War II flying aircraft and several other fascinating exhibits. You can actually book a ride in a vintage Warbird! The hangars are spacious and well-ventilated, and staff are used to seeing dogs on leash — just bring water and keep your pup comfortable, as the hangars can warm up on hot days.
Picnic in the Park
Grab a sandwich to go from The Real Italian Deli for a leisurely family picnic at these two well-equipped green spaces: Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs and Civic Center Park in Palm Desert. Both have shaded areas, grassy lawns, and room for your dog to stretch out while you eat.
Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park
Set at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, this 710-acre pet-friendly park — dogs must be leashed — features campsites, a trout-stocked 135-acre lake for fishing, picnic facilities, sand volleyball, pickleball courts, and much more. It’s a full-day destination: bring a fishing rod, a picnic, and your dog’s favorite ball for a long, relaxing afternoon by the water.
With more than 3,000 species of plants from around the world — many of them cacti — you’ll want to keep your dog close and on a short leash in this dog-friendly Palm Springs arboretum. The paths are narrow in spots, so a well-behaved pup is a must. It’s a great stop for a quick, shaded walk that’s unlike anything else in the desert.
Greater Palm Springs has far more to offer than trails and dog parks. Whether you’re watching polo ponies charge across the field, exploring WWII aircraft, or casting a line at Lake Cahuilla, these dog-friendly attractions make the area a standout for traveling dog owners who want variety in their itinerary.
