Where to stay, eat and what to do in Palm Springs, California
Known for its relaxed vibe, trendy boutique hotels and mid-century modern architecture, Palm Springs makes the perfect year-round getaway. While I generally enjoy a packed itinerary, there is something about being in Palm Springs that makes me want to slow down, ditch the itinerary and lounge at the pool instead. No matter what you are looking for, this Palm Springs Travel Guide highlights some tried and true Palm Springs favorites to help you craft the perfect trip!
Palm Springs VS. Palm Desert
Palm Springs & Palm Desert are often both grouped into being called “Palm Springs,” but they are different cities, each with a unique feel. Think of neighboring Palm Desert as the rich cousin of quirky Palm Springs. It feels much more suburban and less “retro” than Palm Springs. If you are seeking indulgent spa retreats, luxury shopping or top-notch golfing, Palm Desert is probably more your speed. While you can easily explore both in a single trip, unless you have a car, it can get expensive. Ubering between the two cities is about $30 one way.
At the end of the day, both cities have perfect weather, excellent dining and plenty of things to do, so it is impossible to go wrong!
Palm Springs Guide
Hotels
Overall, the hotels in Palm Springs are small, boutique properties rather than large resorts. The luxury resort chains are concentrated in Palm Desert. The most important aspects for me personally when selecting a hotel are: pool, location & noise level. There are definitely some louder, party hotels which is not my desired vibe. With that being said, these are some of my favorite Palm Springs hotels.
1. Alcazar Palm Springs (Downtown) $$ — The Alcazar is nothing fancy, but simplicity is what makes this place wonderful. You have everything you could need without any pretentiousness. The location is ideal, walking distance to the downtown shops. It is also located next door to the popular breakfast place Cheeky’s as well BIRBA, where you can grab a cocktail or dinner. If that isn’t enough to convince you, the complimentary bikes and snacks should do it!
2. Korakia Pensione (Downtown) $$$ — If you are truly seeking an escape, this place is it. The Mediterranean inspired property is stunning and the attention to detail leaves nothing to be desired. It is perfect for a romantic getaway. Bonus: the delicious complimentary breakfast & outdoor movies!
3. Le Cactus (Uptown) $$ — While I haven’t stayed here, I have heard wonderful things about this little gem. With 27 uniquely decorated rooms, this quirky hotel screams Palm Springs.
4. L’Horizon Resort & Spa (Uptown) $$$ — The most luxurious of the properties listed, L’Horizon has 25 custom curated bungalows and has hosted some famous hollywood stars. The history here speaks for itself. It is also adults-only, making it perfect for couples.
Dining
Honestly, I have yet to have a bad meal in PS, so you really can’t go wrong, but these are some places worth mentioning.
1. The Farm $$ — Don’t let the fact that this restaurant is located in a strip mall fool you. This French-inspired restaurant delivers. It has incredible food, excellent service and a gorgeous outdoor space. Go for brunch and get the mushroom crepe and signature bloody mary! Open daily 8AM-2PM for Breakfast & Lunch and Fri-Tues 5:30PM-9:30PM for dinner (pre-set menu for dinner).
2. Cheeky’s $$ — Cheeky’s is a Palm Springs staple. Their menu changes frequently to reflect the freshly sourced ingredients and their fun take on breakfast favorites is what makes them popular. They are well-known for their bacon flight. Come early as they don’t take reservations and it gets BUSY. Open Wed – Mon, 8AM-2PM.
3. Ta/Quila $$ — Owned by the husband and wife team that owns FARM, this modern Mexican concept is also a hit. The restaurant has a great cocktail menu, especially if you like mezcal, and I could have eaten the vegetarian nachos for every meal. Open daily 11AM -10PM. They get busy on the weekends, so make a reservation.
4. The Workshop Kitchen & Bar $$$ — If there is one place I would definitely go to again, it is The Workshop. The interior design is striking and the outdoor courtyard elevates the meaning of dining al fresco. Their menu is seasonal, but if it is available, get the citrus & beet salad. It is quite possibly the best thing I have ever tasted. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance. As of our visit (Dec 2021), they did require proof of vaccine to dine indoors.
5. Rooster & The Pig $$ — Due to their hours, I wasn’t able to eat here. However, the reviews speak for themselves. Can’t wait to try this Vietnamese-American restaurant next time! Open Wed – Sun, 5PM-9PM.
Activites
As mentioned earlier, the only activity I really want to do in Palm Springs is sip cocktails by the pool. However, if you are so inclined — here are some suggestions if you want to get out and explore.
1. Rent a bike — Palm Springs covers a small area, but has several notable neighborhoods, each with its own distinct charm. Biking is the perfect way to get around and take in the beautiful architecture. Several of the hotels provide complimentary bikes, but you can also rent them in downtown. The Movie Colony was a beautiful area to bike and it is near downtown. Additionally, you can use this bike map to find routes that work for you. We did a mix of the different class paths.
2. The famous “Pink Door” — Instead of seeking the “Pink Door” or other famous doors for that matter, bike or drive around the area to simply appreciate the mid-century architecture. I promise, it is much more impactful. Still, if you are interested the exact address of the Pink door it is 1100 E Sierra Way, Palm Springs, CA 92264.
3. Moorten Botanical Garden — This family run garden, will only take about 30 mins of your time, but is must see for plant-lovers (i.e. me). The little greenhouse and resident tortoise are also fun to visit.
4. Aerial Tramway — Get panoramic views of Palm Springs by taking the 10 min ride tram up Mt. San Jacinto. Once at the top, you can dine at one of the two restaurants, explore the museum or wander off on one of the 50 miles of hiking trails. It can be significantly colder at the top, so be sure to dress accordingly.
5. Joshua Tree National Park — About 1 hour from Palm Springs is JTNP. While you can easily do a day trip and cover the whole park. The park also has several glamping opportunities in unique abodes such as yurts or teepees. I have been to Joshua Tree, but staying overnight is on my list. The stargazing is unreal!
6. VillageFest — Every Thursday from 6PM-10PM, the downtown area closes Palm Canyon Drive to thru traffic and sets up for the VillageFest Night Fair. Over 180 vendors come out to showcase their products and businesses stay open late. There is also live music, food trucks and of course, spectacular people watching.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide has inspired you plan your trip or at least inspired you to visit Palm Springs! Feel free to ask any specific questions in the comments!
