Built in the early 1400s, around the same time as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven was where emperors prayed for good harvests. The vast park contains several ceremonial buildings, the most striking being the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests with its blue-tiled roof and intricate wooden ceiling. The original hall was destroyed by lightning in 1889 but rebuilt soon after. Other highlights include the Hall of Abstinence, where emperors fasted before rituals, and the Circular Mound Altar — a three-tiered marble platform symbolising heaven itself. Today, the park is as much about everyday life as it is about history: locals gather here in the mornings for tai chi, dancing, and music.

The Crack in the Mountain Trail winds through a stunning slot canyon along the Lower Colorado River, offering breathtaking desert scenery. This 4.7-mile moderate hike involves some climbing and culminates at a serene lakeside cove near the iconic Balance Rock. Keep an eye out for Bighorn Sheep along the way, they’re frequent visitors to the area. Locals affectionately call this trail 'SARA's Crack,' given its striking geological formation and Sara Park is where the adventure begins.

Palm Springs feels like an open-air gallery of mid-century modern architecture, where the work of legends like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and E. Stewart Williams shapes nearly every block. From iconic glass-walled homes to bold commercial buildings, these designs embody the minimalist lines and creative spirit of the era. Stop by the visitors center for a map or hop on a guided tour to uncover architectural gems that blend mid-century flair with desert landscapes.