Growing up in Southern California means Palm Springs holds a special place in my heart. Whether it was weekend trips to my grandma’s mid-century vacation home in Taquitz Canyon, spending high-school spring breaks at the JW Marriott mega pools, evening golf cart rides at my aunt and uncles house in La Quinta, attending the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in college (and post-college), and now returning most recently for my bachelorette party—simply put, Palm Springs and the greater Coachella Valley is a magical place.
Where to Stay:
I often search and save Airbnb for future lodging options in both my favorite and dream destinations. Given the modernism and mid-century architectural significance of Palm Springs I highly recommend finding one of the amazing mid-century gems (Airbnb or BRBO) and reserving early. The good ones always go fast!
Here are some of my favorites:
The Sycamore House (accommodates up to 8 guests)
Dream Mid Century Modern Compound (accommodates up to 10 guests)
Private Parker Hotel Style Oasis (accommodates up to 8 guests)-- I just stayed here on my most recent trip to Palm Springs & absolutely adored this cute house!
If you are keeping it low-key and don’t want to do a house, these are my favorite hotels in the area. Also check out the app, Hotels Tonight, you can often find some great last minute deals:
1. The Colony Palms Hotel (hip, calm & casual)
2. The Ace Hotel and Swim Club (LA hispter haven & cool moms)
3. The Parker (time transport & uber chic)
4. Korakia Pensione (if Morocco & Greece had a baby)
Things to do:
1. Throw a desert dinner party! Even if your just grabbing takeout, conversations over food with good friends & family will always make lasting moments.
2. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum. This museum is such a gem, check out the latest exhibits here.
3. Take a self-drive Mid-Century home tour. Either pick up a map at the Palm Springs Visitors Center or download the Palm Springs Modern: Mid-Century Architecture Tour App on your phone.
4. Visit the Annenburg Estate. Make yourself at home like many former U.S. presidents.
5. Visit the Living Desert. I love giraffes & the Living Desert has an awesome exhibit on the long-neck creatures.
6. Ride the Tramway to San Jaciento. Escape the heat & explore the jagged landscape & pine forests way above the Coachella Valley.
7. Hike! Hike & more hiking! The desert has some wonderful trails and slot canyons to explore. An easily accesbile and local favorite is the "Bump & Grind" trail.
Ernest Coffee, 1101 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (Serves Stumptown!)
Customs Coffee, 1551 N Palm Canyon Dr, Unit C, Palm Springs (Serves local fave Joshua Tree Coffee Co.)
Brunch:
Norma’s, Located in the Parker Hotel, (all of the beneddicts delish & the huevos rancheros are delish!)
King's Highway Diner & Lounge, Located in the Ace Hotel & Swim Club (healthy hangover food does exist!)
Cheeky's, 622 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (a local favorite!)
Lunch:
Tyler's, 149 S. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (def the best burger in the desert!)
Dinner:
The Purple Palm, Located in the Colony Palms Hotel (Calm, cool, & collected-- just LOVE the atmosphere here!)
Workshop Kitchen, 800 N. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs (they have DUCK FAT FRIES, need I say more?!)
El Jefe, Located at the Saguaro Hotel (Mexican street fare is muy bueno!)
Drinks:
Bootlegger Tiki Bar, 1101 N. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs (a speakeasy with Polynesian inspired cocktails? Yes, please!)
Amigo Room, Located at The Ace Hotel & Swim Club (dancing, tequila cocktails, & a photobooth!)
*Please note unless specified otherwise all photos © 2016 by Charlotte Florance