Ways to Beat the Heat

By Gene Hetzel

Well friends, it’s hotter than hell's kitchen (no, not the one in NYC) out here and it’s either dry (great for the eyes) or humid (great for feet). It's times like these when we can truly appreciate the great miracle of air conditioning. But running ours full blast ain't so cheap, and when we aren't at work, the best chance most of us poor plebeians have to live la dolce fria is to go mooch off of someone else’s electricty bill. We thought it might be nice to share with you a few of our favorite hideaways during the summer months, for when going to the movies, jumping in the pool, or going to the restaurant aren't the options worth pursuing.

Got three bucks? The Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Dr., Palm Springs, is offering admission for that measly cost, presenting three different interesting exhibits for each of our hard-earned buckaroos. There's the Beyond Borders art exhibit, running through Nov. 12, that features a bevy of 20th-century interpretations of classical Mexican themes and for those in the mood for art of a harder nature, there is the fascinating Breaking Out collection of wood and metallic sculptures, running through Oct. 8, that captures solid art breaking out of traditional static representations. Finally, the Return of the Masters showcase, running through Aug. 27, located on the top floor of the building, features excellent paintings by the likes of Degas, Van Gogh, and more on loan from a private collector. You can't beat the art or the sub-Arctic temperatures they have their cooling set to, so go get your tour on! For more information, call (760) 325-7186.

Ice skating in a desert? Why yes, in fact, the Ice Garden Skating Rink, 68307 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Cathedral City, is a great place to meet a friend or go on a date, as long as you don't mind the risk of falling on your ass. At the cost of a mere seven bucks ($2.50 for skate rental), you can relive the glory days of yore, ala five months ago, while you trip the ice fantastic. Call (760) 770-7046 for more information.

Caring to get lifted? The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, One Tramway Rd. Palm Springs, is one of those attractions people who live in the area ignore simply because it has always been there. But considering that, as I type this, it's 110 degrees on the valley floor and it's 78 degrees on the top of Chino Canyon, the trip up there on the neat rotating tram is all the more tempting. Once you ascend, camping, hiking (guided or not), and fishing are always options, or you can simply roll out a blanket and have an intimate picnic. Summer passes, good through Aug. 31, are only $50, with regular admission set at $21.95. First tram up during the summer loads at 9:30 a.m. and the last one down is at 10:30 p.m., so pack the car, forget the skis, and get ready to go!

Do you have news, events, or gossip for Palm Springs Confidential? E-mail them to gillkonam@yahoo.com, or fax to (760) 864-1777.