February Fave: Tour de Palm Springs

Palm Springs isn’t just a fun town to explore by bicycle, it’s also home to one of the largest charity cycling events in the country. Every February the Tour de Palm Springs attracts up to 10,000 riders and spectators to Greater Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. Created to raise money for local nonprofit organizations, the annual event is well-known for its festive race day atmosphere which usually includes up to 20 live bands, lots of street food vendors, and more.

Part of what makes the Tour de Palm Springs so much fun is that the race includes mileage options to fit every fitness level, from laid-back pedal pushers to lean weekend warriors. Routes start in the heart of downtown and range from 7 miles clear up to 102, winding through the scenic streets and into the desert beyond with rest stops along the way. If you’re not up for cycling, you can help raise funds by joining in a 1- or 3-mile walk honoring first responders and veterans, or just cheer on the participants from the sidelines.

Coachella Valley’s famous February weather, gorgeous mountain scenery, and thousands of enthusiastic cyclists and spectators make the Tour de Palm Springs an event like no other. So if you love to bike (or cheer on guys in bike shorts) get yourself to Palm Springs in February for this amazing event.