Palm Springs: Golf Cart City Tour with Celebrity Homes & Food

Summary

Golf cart rides, celebrity homes, local bites and quirky statues in Palm Springs

You’ll roll through Palm Springs on a golf cart with a small group, stopping for appetizers and drinks at local spots, hearing stories about celebrity homes in Old Las Palmas, snapping photos by quirky statues, and ending downtown with one last round at a dive bar. Expect laughter, desert sunshine, unexpected moments—and plenty of chances to taste something new along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll just say it: I almost missed the start because I couldn’t find the right parking lot (there’s more than one on that street, who knew?). But our guide, Tony, waved me down from this bright six-seater golf cart—he was already joking about “desert time.” That set the tone. We took off through Palm Springs with a breeze on my face and that faint smell of citrus from someone’s backyard. The first stop was ChiChi at the Avalon Hotel for an appetizer and a mimosa. I probably should’ve eaten breakfast, but hey—free snacks and drinks included? Yes please.

We cruised past these old-school hotels from the 1950s. Tony kept pointing out little details—like the neon signs or how some palm trees were older than Sinatra’s career. There was this moment where we all tried to pronounce “Belardo” properly (I still think I got it wrong). Then came a string of statues: PS I Love You sign, that naked lady statue (which is way less scandalous than it sounds), and Forever Marilyn just towering over everyone. I didn’t expect to laugh so much at public art but here we are.

The real highlight for me was rolling through Old Las Palmas. You hear about celebrity homes in Palm Springs but seeing Liberace’s place or Clark Gable’s old house up close is different—you can almost picture their pool parties. Tony had stories about tunnels under Don the Beachcomber that sounded half-true, half-myth. We stopped again for appetizers (I lost count of what I ate by then) and sampled a cocktail somewhere along the way—I remember something with grapefruit? It blurred into good conversation.

Later we hit La Quinta Brewing Co for beer samples—my friend tried to order in Spanish and got a high five from the bartender. The last bit downtown felt like wandering with new friends; Tony pointed out spots to check out later if we wanted to keep going (I did). We ended at Hair of the Dog dive bar for one last drink and darts. Honestly, I never thought a golf cart tour would feel this laid-back or random—in a good way. Still thinking about those weird statues sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Palm Springs city and food tour

• Leave parking lot to Avalon Hotel
• Arrive at ChiChi restaurant for appetizer and mimosa
• Leave ChiChi restaurant
• Pass by 1950's hotel landmarks
• Take pictures of PS I love you sign and statues
• Drive Belardo Rd past golf course to Old Las Palmas
• Pass by celebrity homes and landmarks
• Enjoy appetizers and cocktail sample
• Discuss shopping places in uptown
• Arrive at La Quinta Brewing Co for beer samples
• Tour downtown and see historical sites
• End at Hair of the Dog bar for cocktail and darts

Top questions

How long does the Palm Springs golf cart tour last?

The tour lasts several hours with multiple stops for food, drinks, sightseeing, and photos around Palm Springs.

Are food and drinks included on this city tour?

Yes, appetizers and drinks—including cocktails or mocktails—are included throughout the tour.

Does this tour include visits to celebrity homes?

You’ll pass by several famous homes in Old Las Palmas like Liberace’s house and Clark Gable’s former home.

Is pickup included for this Palm Springs golf cart tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at a designated parking lot in downtown Palm Springs.

What kind of vehicle is used on this tour?

The tour uses an electric six-passenger golf cart driven by your local guide.

Is this city tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes—it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as most time is spent riding in the golf cart with short walks at stops.

Are there vegetarian options for appetizers?

The description doesn’t specify; you may want to ask when booking if you have dietary needs.

What’s included

Your day includes riding in a six-passenger electric golf cart around Palm Springs with your local guide; all appetizers and drinks (cocktails or mocktails) are covered; you’ll stop at restaurants like ChiChi and La Quinta Brewing Co; plus there’s time to explore downtown sights before finishing up at Hair of the Dog bar—all food and beverages are part of your experience before returning to your car nearby.