Wanted to go to Palm Springs in Feb, and see Joshua Tree Mnt, but wondering if there are hotels better for teenagers than others. Any with expansive pools?? Other suggstions for keeping the darlings happy, or just less surly than usual??

The pools at the Desert Springs Marriott are nice, but you can't count on February being great pool weather. So, I hope the "darlings" are into golf or tennis.

Another thought.... a hot air balloon ride. I think there are riding stables in the area, too.

My kids were totally bored in Palm Springs last time we took them (as teens).

Take them on the Tram to the top of the San Jacinto Mtns.
Available at the west end of P/S.

Every hotel heats their pool and you can almost certainly use the pool in February. I've used pools in PSP in December and January and February is warmer than those months.

If they like to shop send them to El Paseo in Palm Desert (high end expensive) or the Cabazon outlets (cheap designer outlets).

Tahquitz Canyon is a nice hike to a waterfall. Its at the very western end of Mesquite.

Just north of town you can rent ATVs for off-roading. If you don't mind spending the money, hot air balloning over the desert will impress and entertain almost anyone.

The Thursday evening street fair. It's a bit boring for shopping but it's a bit of freak show too. There's usually some band playing.

The Living Desert in Palm Desert is quite a nice small zoo and also has hiking trails.

If they're boys, maybe the Air Museum.

There's an IMAX theatre in Cathedral City on 111.

Check the local paper the Desert Sun when you're there for special events. There is always something on. Look for the Desert Post Weekly, too.

We stayed at Chase, loved it, but I must say this one is not for teens, mostly retired age and maybe small children.

Do you know, there is a Date Festival in February, Google the dates for next year, I recommend to visit. Tell your teen, the skateboarders will perform there.

On Thursday night there is a farmers market, I didn't know there are so many teens in that area, it's like those hermits come out on that night only

Beachbum, you have a message on TA.

Yes, some hotels have better pools. We don't stay in PS anymore, but check out Esmeralda, Hyatt Grand Champions or Marriott Desert Springs. We loved them all.

A couple weeks ago we took the family on the Tram, that's fun to do every so often. There is some hiking at the top of Mt. San Jacinto. It's chilly, so bring a jacket. We also went to the Living Desert, the Air Museum and got a date shake.

Check out The River in Rancho Mirage, movie complex, restaurants, kids hanging out.