Palm Springs Windmill Tours

If you’re looking for something outside the usual Palm Springs sightseeing circuit—say, celebrity homes, desert hikes, or the San Andreas Fault—then the Palm Springs Windmill Tours might be exactly what you need. This self-driving experience takes you behind the fences of some of the area’s most iconic wind turbines, providing a rare blend of education, adventure, and fantastic photo opportunities.

What’s especially appealing is the chance to explore at your own pace, with curated audio guides complementing the scenery. Plus, you get special access to the turbines, allowing for a more intimate look than a typical bus or guided tour. It’s a niche experience that appeals to those curious about renewable energy, engineering buffs, or anyone wanting a different perspective on Palm Springs’ landscape.

That said, it’s not a large-group experience, and at $59.99 for a vehicle that seats up to two adults, it’s definitely aimed at couples, friends, or small families. If you’re after a fun, informative, and slightly unconventional activity that combines fresh desert air with some surprisingly fascinating insights, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Self-guided exploration allows flexibility to stop and learn at your own pace
• Up-close views of historic and operational wind turbines make for great photos and understanding
• Audio guide offers expert insights into the evolution and industry of wind energy
• Accessible to most travelers with most participants able to join, and kids under 12 are free
• Affordable for a private experience compared to many guided tours with limited access
• Educational value backed by positive reviews about knowledgeable staff and informative displays

What is Palm Springs Windmill Tours?

This is a self-driving tour designed for visitors who want to see the wind turbines from a safe, close-up perspective without the constraints of a large bus or group. Curated by Tom Spiglanin, the tour offers behind-the-fence access to some of the most impressive wind energy structures in the U.S. It combines a short but engaging video with an app-based audio guide, making the experience both visual and auditory.

Pricing is $59.99 per vehicle, accommodating up to two adults, with an additional $10 fee per extra adult. Kids under 12 ride free, which makes it a practical choice for small families or couples. The tour takes roughly 1 to 30 minutes, depending on how leisurely you want to be.

What makes this tour standout?

Unlike typical Palm Springs activities, this experience zeroes in on renewable energy. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of wind turbines, from historic models to modern giants. The tour’s highlights include special access to operational turbines and a unique opportunity to walk close to the old Enron machinery—something hard to find elsewhere.

Many reviewers appreciated the personalized, private feel of the tour. The audio guide is well-produced, with reviews praising the clear narration and detailed information about wind power and turbine mechanics.

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Closer Look

The tour kicks off at a display yard featuring non-operating turbines, which serve as a visual history of wind energy’s ups and downs. This initial stop is perfect for those interested in the industry’s successes and failures, giving a tangible sense of progress and challenge in renewable energy.

Next, you’ll visit an actual working wind turbine—an exciting moment for many reviewers who loved getting up close and taking photos. The experience of seeing the size and scale of these structures firsthand is awe-inspiring. Reviewers like Michelle H noted that gusty winds on her visit added an extra layer of fun, making the turbines sway and spin.

The final stop takes you to the old Enron machines, where you can exit your vehicle to explore on foot. This part of the tour offers more detailed insights into how wind energy is harnessed and stored, making the experience both educational and visually impressive.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The core benefits are the audio program and the curated app, which guides you through each stop with detailed narration. The tour is designed for self-paced exploration, so you can linger or move quickly depending on your interest.

It’s worth noting that the tour does not include transportation—you must bring your own vehicle—and extra charges apply for additional adults beyond two. The tour’s price reflects the value of personalized access and educational content, but some might find it slightly pricey compared to free viewpoints or larger group tours.

What Do Visitors Say?

The reviews paint a picture of a generally positive, engaging experience. Travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value for money. Michelle H called it a “unique event,” while Gail B mentioned how easy the self-guided format was to navigate.

Some reviews noted the size and scale of turbines as “incredible,” and several travelers highlighted how close they could get to the turbines—something they couldn’t experience from afar before.

On the flip side, a few felt the cost could be higher, especially given the short duration. Roy P pointed out that while the presentation was interesting, the price didn’t seem justified for some, particularly those already supportive of renewable energy. Still, most reviews agree the educational component and the chance to see wind turbines up-close make it worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is perfect for energy enthusiasts, families with curious kids, or couples wanting a unique photo opportunity. If you’re a renewable energy supporter or just fascinated by engineering marvels, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The flexibility of the self-guided format makes it suitable for those who prefer to control their pace and spend extra time at specific points of interest.

It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples who want an intimate experience. Those expecting a lengthy tour or looking for a comprehensive introduction to wind energy might find the 30-minute length a bit light, but the quality of insight and close-up access more than compensates.

In short, the Palm Springs Windmill Tour offers a rare, personal perspective on the silent giants that generate clean energy in the desert. The opportunity to get up close to operational turbines and explore historic machinery makes this experience stand out from other desert activities.

The knowledgeable guides, combined with the ability to go at your own pace, ensure this tour can be both educational and fun. It is particularly appealing to those with an interest in renewable energy, engineering, or photography. While the price might feel steep for some, the private, curated experience and insider access make it a worthwhile investment for a niche but memorable activity.

If you’re after an offbeat, educational, and interactive activity that combines technology with nature, this windmill tour could very well be a highlight of your Palm Springs trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 are free, and most kids can participate if accompanied by an adult.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is roughly between 1 to 30 minutes, depending on how long you choose to spend at each stop.

Do I need to bring my own vehicle?
Yes, this is a self-driving tour, so your own vehicle is necessary.

What’s included in the price?
You get access to the app, an audio guide, and the ability to explore the wind farm at your own pace. Extra adults beyond two incur an additional charge.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are guides present during the tour?
While it’s a self-guided experience, staff in the office are very helpful and knowledgeable, ready to answer questions before you start.

What makes this experience different from other Palm Springs tours?
It offers behind-the-fence access and the chance to walk close to turbines, unlike typical bus tours of celebrity homes or natural landmarks.

Is the tour worth the cost?
Most reviews suggest it’s a good value considering the private access and educational content, but some feel the price is slightly high for the duration.

Can I extend my visit or explore more?
Yes, you can take as much or as little time as you like, making it flexible to combine with other Palm Springs activities.

This self-driving windmill tour in Palm Springs offers a distinctive chance to learn about renewable energy while enjoying the stunning desert views. For anyone curious about how wind turbines work or simply wanting an unusual adventure, it’s a worthwhile stop—and a memorable way to see Palm Springs from a different angle.