Palm Springs is such a unique place! It’s a mecca for mid-century modern homes in the middle of the California desert, and this combination of beautiful design and beautiful scenery elicits a feeling of both joy and relaxation that will have you daydreaming to return as soon as you leave.
When my girlfriend from college called me up and invited me to Palm Springs to celebrate her bachelorette party, I was probably close to the most excited I had ever been in my life. And for me, Palm Springs and the house we stayed in really lived up to the hype and even surpassed my expectations.
Probably the best part of the house we stayed in was the pool. A Palm Springs house isn’t a house unless it has a pool. And in that desert heat, that’s where we spent most of our time! We lounged on our rafts while drinking cocktails all day and it was the most glorious departure from our everyday lives! At night when it got chilly, we were able to relax in the hot tub or sit by the firepit. The house had 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms with an open layout for the living room, kitchen, and dining room so it was great for our group of 7.
Our house was in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood, which was a quiet, walkable neighborhood just north of downtown Palm Springs. We were able to walk almost everywhere from our house and we spent a lot of time just walking the neighborhood and admiring the mid-century modern architecture. When we weren’t lounging in the pool, we ventured downtown for brunch and shopping. And for some nightlife, we hit up Toucan’s Tiki Bar, which you can read a little more about below.
Where to Stay
Mid-Century Modern A-Frame
We highly recommend the house we stayed in, which is available to rent on Airbnb, but now requires a 30-night minimum stay.
The Ace Hotel
If you don’t have the time or money for that 30-night minimum stay above, I highly recommend checking out The Ace Hotel. Mid-century modern meets hipster dreamland in this minimalist hotel. AND with rooms starting at $160/night, you’ll have more money left over for those brunch mimosas! (Book your stay)
Once you’ve booked your accommodations, we’ve got some great recommendations for places to eat and drink and what else you can do while you’re in Palm Springs.
Where to Eat & Drink
Breakfast @ King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel This is a great breakfast spot, especially if you’re already staying at the Ace Hotel. Start your day with the Anson Mill Grits, farm egg salad sandwich, or the Kings Highway Breakfast and soak in all the mid-century vibes of that rock wall and those rich leather diner booths (and to think this used to be a Denny’s back in the day!)
Brunch @ Norma’s
A most delightful brunch patio provides the perfect ambiance for you and your besties to enjoy several rounds of sweet mimosas and Bloody Marys. Located inside the Parker Palm Springs Hotel, make sure to make reservations ahead of time!
Lunch @ Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
A NYC-style deli in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, pick up a bottle of Sherman’s Original Smoky & Tangy BBQ Sauce as a souvenir while you’re there!
Dinner @ Trio
Italian food with a fresh modern twist in a lively atmosphere, rated the #1 Palm Springs Restaurant on YELP, try the Coca-Cola braised short ribs or Tony’s Rigatoni.
Drinks @ Toucans Tiki Lounge & Cabaret
We hit up this spot one night and although I don’t remember much, I do remember having a blast! This gem is the longest-running drag revue in the desert, featuring music and comedy cabaret shows. Make a reservation for the show ahead of time because they can sell out pretty quickly!
What Else to Do
Palm Springs Aerial Tram – ride this to the top of Mt San Jacinto for some epic views of the Coachella Valley
Palm Springs Art Museum – features modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design
Joshua Tree National Park – this would be a day trip but definitely worth it if you have the time
Cove Oasis Trails – head to the next town over, La Quinta, and rent some cruiser bikes to enjoy these trails and while you’re there, stop in downtown La Quinta for some more shopping and dining options
Mid-Century Modern Architecture – take a stroll around the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood for views of some of the best mid-century modern homes in the area
All in all, there is so much to do and see in Palm Springs. You are sure to have a fun and relaxing time no matter what you do or where you stay!
