The wind turbines at the northern entrance to the Coachella Valley are easy to see from the highway. Palm Springs Windmill Tours turns that familiar landscape into a closer look at the region’s wind-energy history, engineering and operating equipment on a private wind farm.
Best for: engineering and energy enthusiasts, photographers, multigenerational groups and visitors who want a structured outdoor experience without a conventional hike.
Choose between two main formats
Self-driving tour
The self-driving experience begins at the tour center with exhibits and an orientation, then uses a narrated app to guide your own vehicle through ten marked stops. The route includes historical turbine equipment as well as modern operating turbines. The company estimates about 90 minutes, but your pace may vary.
You need your own vehicle. The operator currently restricts RVs and coaches over 28 feet on the wind farm, while Sprinter-style vehicles at or below that length are permitted. Confirm any unusual vehicle before booking.
Guided golf-cart tour
The guided option uses an open-air electric golf cart and includes live interpretation of the early “Wind Rush,” the technology’s successes and failures, and newer turbine designs. The operator describes the tour itself as about 75 minutes, with a video at the tour center beforehand.
Book for the experience you want
Tour days and hours vary by season, and private or group products may have different availability from public tours. Book through the official calendar rather than driving to the wind farm and assuming same-day entry.
Prepare for wind-farm conditions
- Check the operator’s live wind and weather information before leaving.
- Expect an exposed landscape; use sun protection and secure loose hats or papers.
- Download the tour app and instructions before arrival if taking the self-driving route.
- Charge your phone and bring a car charger.
- Allow other vehicles space at marked stops.
- Ask about mobility needs before booking the open-air golf cart.
Accessibility
The self-driving app is described by the operator as fully scripted, captioned and compliant with accessibility guidance. That does not automatically answer every physical-access question at the tour center or stops, so contact the company with specific mobility, hearing or vision needs.
Location
The tour center is at 62950 20th Avenue in Palm Springs. Follow the directions supplied with the booking, since wind-farm access is not the same as pulling over near turbines visible from a public road.
Verify before you go
Operating hours, admission, reservations, trail access, weather closures and individual programs can change. Check the Palm Springs Windmill Tours before leaving. Information checked September 13, 2026.