View of Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Cabin in front of  mountains
Kate Scott/Shutterstock.com

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Updated by Dianne Titos on May 1 2024

Scenic Views and Adventure Above Palm Springs

Address: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States

Tourists standing on the viewing platform of Palm Springs Aerial Tranway
Marvel at the stunning scenery from the viewing platform.Jeff Whyte/Shutterstock.com

💲 Adult entry from $30.95 (Round-trip)

👩‍🦽 Wheelchair accessible

🍽️ Dining options (Restaurant open 11am-4pm then 5pm-8pm, Pines Café 11am-8pm)

🚽 Public Restrooms

Where can I find Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a remarkable engineering feat that transports visitors from the desert floor to the mountain station near the peak of San Jacinto Mountain.

To reach the tramway, drive west from downtown Palm Springs along Tramway Road, which leads directly to the tramway's valley station.

Why should I visit Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers amazing panoramic views of the desert below as it ascends to the mountain station at 8,516 feet.

It's the world's largest rotating tram car, offering a unique and thrilling way to experience the beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains and the surrounding area.

At the top, visitors can enjoy hiking, dining, and simply taking in the stunning views. A must-visit.

What are the opening hours at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

General opening hours

Monday - 10am - 8pm

Tuesday - 10am - 8pm

Wednesday - 10am - 8pm

Thursday - 10am - 8pm

Friday - 10am - 8pm

Saturday - 10am - 8pm

Sunday - 10am - 8pm

Cars depart at least every hour.

Closures and holidays

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is open year-round, however check the tramway's official website for the latest information on closures and holidays, as these can vary.

Trees of the Mount San Jacinto State Park Forest Outside of Palm Springs
Mount San Jacinto State Park offers many beautiful hiking trails.Steph Couvrette/Shutterstock.com

Where should I park when visiting Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

Free parking is available at the tramway's valley station.

During busy times, additional parking may be used, and shuttle services are provided to transport visitors to the valley station.

Is Palm Springs Aerial Tramway accessible by public transportation?

Limited public transportation options are available to the tramway, so the most convenient way to reach it is by car or taxi and rideshare services from Palm Springs.

When is the best time to visit Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

The tramway offers a great escape from the desert heat in the summer and a snowy wonderland in the winter.

Early morning or late afternoon rides provide the most dramatic lighting for photography. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

What are the best things to see near Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

There are plenty of great places close to Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to also explore. Here are some favorites.

  • Mount San Jacinto State Park - Offers over 50 miles of hiking trails at this amazing park.
  • Downtown Palm Springs - Known for its shopping, dining, and mid-century modern architecture.
  • Indian Canyons - A beautiful collection of canyons with stunning palm oases and hiking trails.
  • Palm Springs Art Museum - Features contemporary art, Native American artifacts, and performing arts.
View of rocks and palm trees with blue sky at Indian Canyons, Palm Springs
Indian Canyons offers spectacular scenery.Vladislav Firtich/Shutterstock.com

Common questions about Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

A visit to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the desert, and a spectacular adventure to Mount San Jacinto State Park. Here is what else you can expect.

Is Palm Springs Aerial Tramway accessible to those with lower mobility?

✔️ Yes, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is fully accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.

Is Palm Springs Aerial Tramway free to enter?

❌ No, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has a fee for a round-trip.

❗ Purchase tickets in advance from the tramway's website to avoid long wait times.

❗ Only a small portion of tickets are available as pre-booked reservations. If the day you choose is not available, there should still be tickets.

Is Palm Springs Aerial Tramway pet-friendly?

❌ No, pets are not allowed on Palm Springs Aerial Tramway except for service animals.

Is Palm Springs Aerial Tramway child-friendly?

✔️ Yes, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a family-friendly, offering educational and recreational activities for all ages.

Is Palm Springs Aerial Tramway a year-round attraction?

✔️ Yes, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway operates throughout the year.

Are refreshments available at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

✔️ Yes, dining options at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway include Peaks Restaurant and Pines Café.

Are there restrooms at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway?

✔️ Yes, there are public restrooms available at both the valley and mountain stations along Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

What else is useful to know before I visit Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

As there is an altitude change, temperatures at the top can be cooler than at the base, so make sure to dress warmly.
Bright red aerial car with Palm Springs signage, part of from Palm Springs Aerial Tramway California
You are sure to enjoy a memorable ride when you take to the skies over Palm Springs!

Where to stay near Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

There are plenty of great hotel options in the Palm Springs, for all budgets, to head back to after the giddy heights Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Check out some of our favorites below.

  • Life House, Palm Springs - You can expect a tranquil setting, lush gardens and pool, and the most stylish, contemporary décor around, when you stay at Life House, Palm Springs.
  • The Paloma Resort - A visit to The Paloma Resort is anything but budget, with luxury surroundings, chic, retro design, and top-notch service.