Many visitor centers are little more than a place to grab a brochure, map, or other tourist information. Some have small, interesting exhibits, gift shops, and even museums that add interest and education regarding a particular destination. But there is one the best visitor center in Southern California. It is located in Palm Springs and is quite a bit more than a source of information and a hub for activity in the area. Come along as we show you why a visit to the area must include spending some time here. You'll be so glad that we told you all about it!

Get ready for an amazing adventure!

The world’s largest rotating tram car, The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, carries visitors on a 10-minute journey from the valley floor to the visitor center at Mountain Station.

This extraordinary visitor center sits at 8,516 feet above the valley floor.

It is not only a place to get to know this pristine natural area, but is a cool destination in its own right. It is also a perfect base station for hiking enthusiasts.

Above the main visitor center are several dining options.

This includes a bar called Lookout Lounge and a cafeteria-style eatery, Pines Café , which offers pre-packaged salads, sandwiches, and beverages.

Peaks Restaurant offers a fine dining experience above the clouds with stunning views from every table.

It has a lovely menu of dry-aged meats, fresh vegetables from the Coachella Valley below, fresh breads from local bakeries, market-fresh seafood, and more.

Observation decks are situated around the visitor center with tables and benches (depending on the season). Visitors enjoy spectacular picturesque views, from the forested wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park to the sprawling desert floor below.

The Long Valley Ranger Station and a small natural history museum help visitors to discover the great variety of flora and fauna that occupy the San Jacinto Mountains. The visitor center also features a gift shop full of little treasures and souvenirs, as well as two documentary theaters where visitors learn about the area, its history, the tram, and more.

There are a series of paved trails that lead in gentle switchbacks downhill from the building and are maintained for a fun hike any time of year. The visitor center also features a gift shop full of little treasures and souvenirs, as well as two documentary theaters where visitors learn about the area, its history, the tram, and more.

The visitor center is a gateway to over 50 miles of hiking trails in Mount San Jacinto State Park, ranging from easy walking trails to challenging technical hikes and rock climbing.

Mount San Jacinto State Park is one of Southern California’s premiere hiking destinations and the visitor center at Mountain Station is an unbeatable place to begin and end an epic hiking adventure.

Have you explored this beautiful area? If so, what was your favorite part? Did you take some epic photos while up there?

Find more information about the tramway and visitor center on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway website or you can purchase tram tickets online with TripAdvisor. We'd love to hear your Palm Springs visitor center reviews, so leave them in the comments section below. And make sure you have your hiking essentials and hit the trail!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of our favorite outdoor activities and nature adventures!

Thinking about taking a vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.

If you’re still in the mood for more California adventures, take a look at this video about Yosemite National Park's Legendary Firefall.