Palm Springs has always been one of my favorite getaways—a place that feels like stepping into another world.
There’s something about the warm desert air, the pops of mid-century design, and the way time seems to slow down here that just resets me. Over the years, I’ve found a few spots that have become staples whenever I visit—whether it’s a cozy hotel with the best poolside views, a hidden vintage shop, or the quietest trails to clear my head. Lately I have been spending quite a bit more time in this close getaway to LA.
This guide is my personal list of favorites, tried and true, for anyone looking to soak in all the magic Palm Springs has to offer. I have also shared a little round-up of pieces I packed on my most recent trip.
Where to Stay
The Parker – Quintessential and very “Palm Springs.” Dripping with Jonathan Adler designs and a mecca for taking Instagram-worthy images.
Sparrows Lodge – I have always wanted to stay here and love the design. My friends say it is super charming and has excellent food.
Holiday House – Also have not stayed here but it’s on my list. It’s a very retro, hip, two story motel.
Villa Royale – I stayed here during my most recent visit to Palm Springs and loved it. It’s an adults only hotel with beautiful character. I really love Del Rey restaurant. Highly recommend!
Colony Palms and L’Horizon– I’ve heard wonderful things and hope to stay here on my next visit!
Where to Eat
Bar Cecil – Probably the best place in PS but a very tough reservation. You can always swing by at 5:00 and put your name in for an 8ish reservation. It’s a very early dining city so you can get in almost anywhere late…
Del Rey – Very charming and tasty tapas restaurant in the Villa Royale hotel. (Get their Pan and order a False Alarm)
La Villauris – French, on the formal side, and kind of tired looking, but owned by SoHo House so the food is very good
Colony Club at the Colony Palms Hotel – Very attractive restaurant overlooking the hotel pool. Good for lunch or dinner. Food isn’t stellar but it’s pretty charming
So Pa at the Colony Palms sister hotel, L’Horizon, is also very pretty and good food. It’s 100% outside with heaters, and the nights here are cold (think high 40s).
Farm – Good for lunch or dinner. Country French
Sandfish – Very good sushi for the desert
Kings Highway – Good for breakfast or lunch
Gabinos Creperie – Great for lunch
Kreem – Definitely make a pit stop here if you like ice cream!
Rooster and the Pig – Vietnamese, no reservations – maybe the best food in PS (get the crispy beef noodles)
The Heyday – Burgers and martinis. Very laid back and fun for a quick bite.
Where to Drink
Melvyn’s – old school, Sinatra vibe piano bar. Do NOT eat there even though you might be tempted!
Seymours – speakeasy at Mr. Lyons steakhouse
Evening Citizen: an unmarked speakeasy on Arenas downtown – service is pretty terrible though
Where to Shop
Market Market
Mojave Flea
The Webster
Perez Rd (in Cathedral City) – Great vintage section
What To Pack
LAYERS. It gets very chilly at night in Palm Springs. People always think to pack maxi dresses and scrappy sandals but the weather in PS outside of high summer runs quite chilly. Be sure to bring a cable knit sweater or cardigan to pop on as a layer and don’t be afraid to wear pants over your swimsuits.
Bond-Eye Black Swimsuit // Hunting Season Bag // Posse for Moda Jacket // Jenni Kayne Cable Knit Sweater (code: JACEY15) // Jenni Kayne Pleated Skirt // Hunting Season Medium Basket Bag // Heaven Mayhem Silver Necklace // Heaven Mayhem Gold Earrings // Toteme Black Sleeveless Dress // Janessa Leone Black Felix Bucket Hat // Steamline Luggage // Polo Ralph Lauren Pleated Trousers // Demylee Old Cable Knit Sweater (similar one here by Doen)
