Winter in the Coachella Valley is magical — cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and some of the most consistent weather in the country. While the rest of the country is snowed in, local families and visitors get to explore, play, and enjoy the outdoors without overheating.
If you're looking for fun winter activities to keep the kids busy, engaged, and making memories, here are our favorite local ideas!
1. Visit the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens (Palm Desert)
Winter is the best season for zoo visits — the weather is cool, animals are active, and little ones can walk without getting too tired.
Why families love it:
The model train exhibit is a kid's favorite
Petting zoo & wildlife encounters
Beautiful walking paths for strollers
Shade + snack spots for breaks
For extra fun: ride the carousel and feed the giraffes!
2. Take a Day Trip Up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
For a mini winter wonderland, this is a must.
Kids get to see snow at the top of the mountain
Snow play areas for sledding and snowmen
Beautiful views that make for great family photos
Perfect for children three and up (just bundle up — it’s chilly at the top!).
3. Outdoor Movie Nights & Holiday Light Displays
Many communities across the Valley host evening family events during winter:
Movies in the park
Holiday tree lightings
Christmas village pop-ups
Light parades & festivals
Check city recreation calendars and local event pages — these events are usually free!
4. Playtime at Freedom Park or Civic Center Park
Local parks are way more comfortable in winter than summer — enjoy it while you can!
Pack snacks, scooters, and a blanket
Let kids play for hours without the summer heat
Great spot for family picnics or bike riding
5. Family Hikes on Cool Mornings
Some of the best kid-friendly hiking trails:
The Cross Trail (Palm Desert)
Tahquitz Canyon (Palm Springs)
Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area (La Quinta)
Bring water and snacks, but winter makes it easy for kids to explore nature, climb rocks, and enjoy wildlife spotting.
6. Winter Art & Craft Events
Libraries, art studios, and community centers offer:
Holiday craft days
Story time
Kid workshops
Gingerbread making
Check your nearest library — many programs fill up fast!
7. Ice Skating at the Rink
During the holidays, we love to visit the Berger Foundation Iceplex in Thousand Palms!
Fun for all ages
Great for holiday photos
Kids love trying (and slipping!) for the first time
🌟 Winter Activity Tips for Parents
✅ Layer clothing — mornings are chilly, afternoons are warm, nights can be frigid
✅ Pack snacks & water for outdoor days
✅ Sunscreen is still needed in winter
✅ Weekday mornings = less crowded for toddlers & strollers
❤️ Want Extra Help Keeping Kids Busy This Winter?
Our sitters plan fun outings, crafts, and activities so kids stay active, entertained, and learning — while you enjoy a little time to relax, work, or plan for the holidays.
✅ Background-checked
✅ CPR & First Aid certified
✅ Experienced and fun
✅ Available for weekdays, weekends, school breaks, and holidays
Whether you need help for a few hours or full days, we’re here for your family.