The BMW Performance Center at The Thermal Club is one of the most underrated experiences in the Coachella Valley. Tucked behind some very unassuming walls in Thermal, this place lets you do something most people only talk about: drive high-performance cars on a real track with professional instructors.

This isn’t a gimmick. It’s not a “drive fast in a parking lot for five minutes” situation. It’s structured, legit, and surprisingly educational — even if you show up thinking you already know how to drive.

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What is the BMW Performance Center?

The BMW Performance Center operates out of The Thermal Club, a private motorsports facility about 30–40 minutes east of Palm Springs. It’s where serious drivers, car collectors, and racing teams play — and where regular people can get a controlled taste of it.

Programs are led by certified instructors and focus on:

• Car control and handling
• Braking and cornering techniques
• Performance driving fundamentals
• Putting it all together on a real race track

No racing license required. Just a valid driver’s license and a willingness to realize you’ve been taking corners wrong your entire life.

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Where it’s located

BMW Performance Center – Thermal
86-050 Jasper Ln
Thermal, CA 92274

This is not in Palm Springs proper. Plan for a bit of a drive, especially if you’re visiting from out of town.

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What kind of experiences are offered?

The exact programs rotate, but most experiences fall into two general categories:

Short Performance Driving Experiences (around 2 hours)

These usually include multiple driving exercises in different BMW vehicles, followed by a hot lap where an instructor takes you around the track at speeds that feel… aggressive.

• Best for first-timers
• Great intro to performance driving
• Perfect if you’re short on time

Extended Track Experiences (half-day formats)

Longer sessions often include timed autocross runs, lead-and-follow laps on the track, and more seat time overall. These are more immersive and skill-focused.

• Best for people who want more driving time
• More structured learning
• Still beginner-friendly

Nearly all programs end with a hot lap that will permanently recalibrate what you thought “fast” meant.

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What to expect on the day

• Professional instructors who actually teach, not just supervise
• Clear safety briefings before you touch a car
• Real instruction, not just “floor it and hope”
• Heat — this is Thermal, after all

Dress comfortably, bring sunglasses, and hydrate. You’ll be more mentally tired than you expect.

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Is it worth doing?

If you like cars even a little, yes. If you love cars, absolutely. And if you’re just looking for a unique experience in the Coachella Valley that doesn’t involve brunch lines or pool parties, this is an easy win.

It also makes a legitimately great gift for birthdays, Father’s Day, or anyone who says “I don’t need anything” while absolutely needing this.

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How to book (and how to save money)

BMW Performance Center programs can be booked directly through BMW, but discounted options frequently appear on Groupon. The exact deal, pricing, and availability change often, so think of this as a rotating opportunity rather than a fixed offer.

Current deals (if available):
BMW Performance Center experiences on Groupon

Sometimes we write about stuff we think you’ll like. Cactus Hugs may earn a small commission if you book through affiliate links. It helps keep the site running and doesn’t change your price.

Pro tip: If you see a solid deal and your schedule is flexible, grab it. Availability can disappear quickly, especially during peak desert season.