We are thinking of spending a couple of nights in Palm Springs. Is there much to do? (we have an 18 month daughter). What is the Hyatt in Indian Wells like?

Are you asking about the Grand Champion Hotel in Indian Wells? It's a great resort! The rooms are nice and large and there's a great tennis center there at the resort.

For a 18 month old, I'd recommend a trip to the Living Desert. Your daughter will enjoy getting to pet the goats and see Zebras and Giraffes up close. And as parents, you'll enjoy the beautiful setting as well.

Keep in mind that Palm Springs and Indian Wells are around 20-30 minutes apart (depending on traffic) on Hwy 111.

We stayed next door to the Hyatt at the Renaissance Esmerelda in February. The Hyatt looked very nice. It's in a great location. While it isn't in Palm Springs it is a fun drive through the streets to downtown PS. We drove there for dinner at Al Dente which was great. Really small place inside but also has outside dining. We didn't take the afementioned 111 as we opted to see the area via surface streets. There are plenty of eateries etc in the Indian Wells area. Have fun.

Highway 111 is essentially a surface street. It's not a freeway - the 10 Freeway is the major freeway connecting these desert towns. Highway 111 is lined with commercial uses and is the main throughfare through the desert communities.

Well of course Thomas is correct. I checked out Mapquest and it said it would take 42 minutes to go from Indian Wells to Palm Springs on 111. I do not remember it taking that long. I think we would have missed our dinner reservations if it had.

Stayed at the Hyatt about 5 years ago with 2 kids. It was OK, but somewhat plain. Better choice would be the Renaissance Esmerelda next door--more ambiance, better pool, more luxury!

not a whole lot for one so young but the living desert is a good idea. there is also the tram in palm springs you can take up if you want. i believe they offer a deal that includes a ride up and then dinner at the top. people who have done that say it's a good deal. make sure your hotel has a great pool area - ask them, at that time of year (you didn't mention) how much sunshine it gets. plan on time just hanging around the pool - always enjoyable & kids love the water.

There's a great discovery musuem for children in the desert. A young child might be quite frightened by the height of the tram. The Living Desert is also a good place to take kids.

Tes, Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert--CDMOD--in Rancho Mirage. Good for younger kids, maybe up to 10.y.o.

Also agree with The Living Desert. Kids love the animal exhibits especially and the African village.

If fear of heights is not an overwhelming issue, the tram really is a great ride.

PS L