Planning a trip to Palm Springs? With so much to see, experience and photograph in this beautiful desert oasis, you could spend weeks exploring here. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to maximize your weekend in this relaxing California retreat.
While Palm Springs’ reputation has grown over the years, it’s still a relatively small town with positive vibes and a laid-back feel. It became known as a wellness destination nearly one hundred years ago when movie studios came to Los Angeles. It exploded as a popular Hollywood escape in the 1950s and has grown into an eclectic and iconic destination, suitable for any vacationer.
When To Go
There is really no such thing as a bad time to visit Palm Springs. Deciding when to visit all comes down to what type of escape you’re looking for. In summer, Palm Springs gets quite toasty, reaching temperatures in the triple digits. However, even in summer time, it offers far less humidity than coastal destinations and there are plenty of ways to stay cool.
In the winter, you can still expect abundant sunshine and the same comfortable dry heat. Keep in mind that several big events happen here throughout the year, including Coachella and the Palm Springs Film Festival. These events bring thousands of additional visitors to Palm Springs, making it more crowded during these times.
Where To Stay
There’s no shortage of hotels in Palm Springs. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, 7 Springs and Riviera Palm Springs both feature a great pool, dining options and quintessential Palm Springs’ details at an affordable price. If the party scene is more your style, check out Ace or Colony Palms Hotel; both offer plenty of opportunities to party at the pool during the day or hang out by the bar at night.
For an intimate and private stay, Sparrows Lodge is a rustic, adults-only retreat that was once reserved only for the Hollywood elite. If you’re able to spend a little more money, the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage is the most upscale option you’ll find in Palm Springs. In true Ritz form, it boasts opulent details and amenities against a breathtaking desert mountain backdrop.
What To See
Palm Springs is loaded with fun things to see and do. It’s well known for mid-century and modern architecture, bohemian greenery, and bright accents. There are several guided architecture tours you could hop on, or grab some bicycles and do a self-guided tour of the town. If your weekend trip is short, just take in the architectural details as you pass by.
Moorten Botanical Gardens, The Living Dessert Zoo and Palm Springs Art Museum are three great family-friendly attractions. If you prefer a uniquely Palm Springs experience, take a ride up the aerial tramway to take in a bird’s eye view or drive a few minutes out of town to take a dip in the Two Bunch Palms Hot Springs.
Where To Eat
Start your day out with brunch at Cheeky’s. You may encounter a long wait time on weekends, but rest assured the food is worth it! If you’re not looking for a big breakfast, check out Koffi. With multiple locations and lots of excellent coffee drink options, this is a great quick stop for a pick me up or a snack.
For lunch, check out Tyler’s Burgers or Norma’s Diner inside the Parker hotel, which serves up great diner food and all-day breakfast. You’ll be hard-pressed to have a bad dinner experience anywhere in Palm Springs; food is one of the many things this town gets right. For a total dining experience, we recommend Melvyn’s, the famous go-to restaurant for all the 1950’s Hollywood royalty like Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor.
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Where To Relax
Whether you relax with a nice game of golf, a crystal blue pool or a swanky salon, Palm Springs offers no shortage of places to kick back. Golfers can play a round surrounded by mountains and Spanish details at the Waldorf Astoria La Quinta resort. While you’re at the La Quinta, you can also take advantage of the swanky Spa La Quinta. For a less expensive option, look into The Spring or The Terra Cotta day spas.
Most hotels have a great pool to lounge at; so, you may not have to even leave your place to relax in the sun. If you’re looking to elevate your poolside experience, check out the Holiday House. With it’s chic blue and white accents, this hotel is a laid back place to easily spend the whole day soaking up rays. Meanwhile, the new Marriott Renaissance hotel offers a multitude of brand new pools and plenty of space to spread out.
We hope the above suggestions lead you to a great time for your next trip to Palm Springs, California! Have a favorite Palm Springs attraction or activity of your own that didn’t make our list? Let us know in the comments section below!
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