An Honest Look at the Palm Springs Open-Air Golf Cart Tour
If you’re considering a tour of Palm Springs that combines sightseeing with tasty bites and a bit of celebrity glitz, this open-air 6-passenger golf cart experience could be just what you need. We’ve looked into it for you, and what stands out most are the friendly guides who share local insights and the relaxed, intimate atmosphere of the small group.
What we love about this experience is how smoothly it balances sightseeing with tasting, giving you a taste of both Palm Springs’ famous attractions and its culinary scene. The tour’s personalized feel, paired with the included food and drinks, makes it feel less like a hurried hop and more like a leisurely exploration. One potential downside? It’s a short 2.5-hour trip—so if you’re craving a deep dive into the city’s history or a full-day adventure, you might want to supplement this with other activities.
This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, fun overview of Palm Springs without the fuss. It’s ideal for those interested in celebrity homes, local art, and excellent food stops, all served up in a small-group setting. If you like your tours personable, tasty, and easygoing, this could be your perfect match.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Small-group intimacy: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
- All-inclusive food and drinks: At least 4 stops featuring appetizers and adult beverages.
- Expert local guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights about the city and its history.
- Flexible booking options: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance.
- Authentic sights: Celebrity homes, historic landmarks, and arts districts.
- Fun and relaxed pace: 2.5 hours of exploration—perfect for a quick yet memorable outing.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Palm Springs.
What You Can Expect on the Tour
This 2.5-hour adventure starts from a designated meeting point behind a building near BevMo, marked by a bright orange golf cart. From there, you’ll hop onto a cozy, open-air golf cart designed for a small group—up to six participants—ensuring plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the views and conversation.
First stop: The tour kicks off down Belardo Road, where your guides will introduce you to Palm Springs’ highlights. The initial taste of the city is at ChiChi, a spot perfect for grabbing a quick bite and a drink. Think of it as a warm-up for what’s to come—good food and a chance to chat with your guide about the area.
Next: The group heads to the iconic Forever Marilyn statue in front of the Palm Springs Art Museum. Here, you’ll get about 20 minutes to appreciate the larger-than-life Marilyn Monroe sculpture and other nearby exhibits. This is a great photo opportunity and a chance to understand a bit about the local art scene.
Then: The tour explores the historic Old Las Palmas neighborhood, well-known for its celebrity residences. Your guide will point out a few of the many Hollywood stars’ former homes, giving you a sense of the glamorous past of Palm Springs. The intimacy of the golf cart allows for closer viewing and commentary that larger buses simply can’t offer.
Midway stop: The group makes its way to Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge—famous for its stylish vibe and delicious bites—for another quick food and drink stop. Here, you’ll enjoy more local flavors and perhaps a refreshing cocktail or two.
Uptown & Downtown: The tour then shifts into the Uptown Design District, full of boutique shops and stylish architecture. By the time you reach downtown Palm Springs, you’ll likely be ready for a cold drink, so a stop at La Quinta Brewing Co – Taproom is included, offering craft beers to toast your small adventure.
Final stops: The last part of the tour involves a brief overview of Palm Springs’ history, with commentary on its cultural and social significance. The tour might end at PS Air Bar, a speakeasy-style spot serving champagne and cookies—an unexpected treat to cap off your journey.
Throughout the tour, expect friendly, knowledgeable guides who truly know their stuff. As one reviewer put it, the guides “went above and beyond” to make their guests comfortable, with thoughtful touches like misting fans and cool water on a hot day.
The Value of the Tour
The $189 price tag includes all food and drinks, a gift bag, and the fun of a guided tour through some of Palm Springs’ most interesting neighborhoods and landmarks. Compared to larger bus tours, the small-group format makes this experience more personal, and the inclusion of multiple food stops gives it a culinary edge many other tours lack.
Each stop is carefully chosen to offer a mix of sightseeing, local flavor, and cultural insight. The stops for food and adult beverages—at least four—mean you won’t be left hungry or thirsty. Plus, the gift bag provides a small memento of your day, enhancing the overall value.
Given the glowing reviews—many rate it a perfect 5/5—the consensus is that this tour offers a memorable, fun, and insightful snapshot of Palm Springs. Guests appreciate the friendly guides, the well-curated stops, and the chance to see celebrity homes in a relaxed setting.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a taste of Palm Springs without committing to a full day. It’s an excellent option for those who enjoy food and beverages as part of their sightseeing, and for visitors who want a behind-the-scenes look at celebrity homes and local art.
Since children under 21 are not eligible, families with younger kids may want to explore other options. But for adults wanting a light, social, and tasty introduction to the city, this tour hits the sweet spot.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts
This golf cart tour offers a fresh, intimate way to explore Palm Springs. The combination of friendly guides, tasty stops, and a relaxed pace makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting a practical yet memorable outing. The inclusion of food, drinks, and a small group ensures personalized attention and a fun atmosphere.
If you’re interested in seeing celebrity homes, exploring arts districts, and sampling local cuisine—all in a manageable 2.5 hours—this tour delivers excellent value. It’s a great way to get a feel for Palm Springs’ unique character without the hassle of larger, more hurried tours.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this experience offers a charming, enjoyable way to see the city through the eyes of knowledgeable locals. We think it’s ideal for travelers who appreciate good food, friendly guides, and a little Hollywood glamour in a laid-back setting.
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FAQ
Is this tour suitable for groups larger than six?
No, it’s limited to 6 participants, which keeps the experience small, personal, and comfortable.
What’s included in the price?
All food and adult beverages at at least 4 stops, a gift bag, water, and transportation on the golf cart.
Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.
What kind of guide will I have?
A local, English-speaking guide who shares insights about Palm Springs’ attractions, history, and celebrity homes.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for anyone under 21.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable outing for most schedules.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Behind a building near BevMo, where you’ll see a big orange golf cart.
Is this tour good for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. It provides an excellent overview of the city’s highlights, with friendly guides and tasty stops to keep everyone engaged.
In summary, this Palm Springs golf cart tour provides a friendly, tasty, and visually engaging way to get to know the city. With knowledgeable guides, a focus on local flavor, and a small-group setting, it’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a fun, relaxed introduction to Palm Springs’ unique charm.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Palm Springs
- Private Shopping Tour from Palm Springs to Desert Hills Outlets
- Bombay Beach Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain Guided Art Tour
- Self Guided Audio Tour of Joshua Trees Hidden Valley Trail
- Palm Springs: Private Walking Tour “Twin Palms” Neighborhood
- Idyllwild Day Tour
- Joshua Tree National Park and Pioneertown Tour
More Tour Reviews in Palm Springs
- Private Shopping Tour from Palm Springs to Desert Hills Outlets
- Bombay Beach Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain Guided Art Tour
- Self Guided Audio Tour of Joshua Trees Hidden Valley Trail
- Palm Springs: Private Walking Tour “Twin Palms” Neighborhood
- Idyllwild Day Tour
- Joshua Tree National Park and Pioneertown Tour
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Palm Springs we have reviewed
- Private Shopping Tour from Palm Springs to Desert Hills Outlets
- Bombay Beach Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain Guided Art Tour
- Self Guided Audio Tour of Joshua Trees Hidden Valley Trail
- Palm Springs: Private Walking Tour “Twin Palms” Neighborhood
- Idyllwild Day Tour
- Joshua Tree National Park and Pioneertown Tour
- Guided Electric Motorbike Tour inside Joshua Tree National Park
- Take Me to the Mountain A Spiritual Hiking Experience
- Soundbath Under The Stars-Joshua Tree
- Mods & Icons Tour of Palm Springs
- Healing Cacao Ceremony in Palm Springs
- Soul Reconnection Retreat in Joshua Tree
