Curator’s statement
Palm Springs is my go-to for a quick reset, where midcentury charm and effortless style come together in the sun. I’m all about the retro architecture, that soft winter light, and the kind of laid-back vibe that still feels intentional. The food scene hits the sweet spot—creative but unpretentious—and the hiking trails deliver wide-open views and a deep exhale. And if you're up for a little adventure, Joshua Tree’s surreal beauty is just around the corner.
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Where to stay in Palm Springs
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Things to do in Palm Springs
Cesar Sid Real Estate Videographer/ Photographer based in the Coachella Valley: @imagestate.homes
Palm Springs favorites
Hike Indian Canyons: Just a few minutes from town, Indian Canyons offers stunning trails like the Palm Canyon Trail, lined with California fan palms and dramatic rock formations. Go early to beat the heat and soak up the peaceful desert energy.
Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Ride up to 8,500 feet in a rotating tram car and enjoy cooler temps, hiking trails and panoramic views from Mount San Jacinto. It’s a great midday break from the desert heat.
Tour Midcentury Homes with The Modern Tour: Explore the architecture that made Palm Springs famous. This private tour takes you inside iconic midcentury homes and gives you the backstories that make the design come alive.
Soak at Two Bunch Palms: Escape to Desert Hot Springs for a mineral-rich soak in a serene, adults-only setting. Book a massage or just float and listen to the wind in the palms.
Visit Sunnylands Center & Gardens: This peaceful estate features beautifully landscaped gardens and rotating exhibitions. A former retreat for presidents and diplomats, it’s a low-key cultural gem.
Wander the Palm Springs Art Museum: Compact, cool (literally) and full of contemporary and Native American art, plus sculpture gardens and special exhibits. A great midday activity.
Explore the Backstreet Art District: Chat with local artists and browse galleries in this relaxed and funky stretch of working studios. First Wednesdays and Saturday afternoons are great times to drop in.
Browse Uptown Design District: Home to some of the city’s best vintage and design stores, like The Frippery for clothing and Modernway for furniture. Ideal for strolling and treasure hunting.
Stroll Palm Springs VillageFest (Thursdays only): Every Thursday night, downtown transforms into an open-air street fair with live music, artisan vendors and excellent people-watching. A fun way to feel the local pulse.
Side Trip to Joshua Tree National Park: About an hour away, Joshua Tree is otherworldly in the best way. Head there for a golden hour hike or sunset photos among boulders and cholla cacti. Keys View and the Cholla Cactus Garden are unforgettable.
Places to eat & drink in Palm Springs
Bar Cecil back when you could still walk in!
Bar Cecil: The hardest-to-get reservation in town. A polished brasserie vibe with great art on the walls, strong martinis and standout dishes like the pork chop and steak tartare. Book exactly 14 days out at midnight.
Del Rey at Villa Royale: Intimate, candlelit and tucked away inside a boutique hotel. Small plates with Spanish influence, a great wine list and moody midcentury romance. Easier to get into than Bar Cecil but just as memorable.
Mr. Lyons: A modern take on the classic steakhouse. Think leather booths, prime rib and retro glam done right. Great for a final night dinner or if you want to lean into old-school Palm Springs.
Jake’s: A local institution for lunch or dinner. Friendly service, a charming patio and dependable favorites like ahi sandwiches and their famous coconut cake.
Sherman’s Deli: A classic New York-style deli that feels straight out of a Scorsese movie. Huge sandwiches, matzo ball soup and killer black-and-white cookies. Go casual and go hungry.
Colony Club: Understated and elegant, located inside the Colony Palms Hotel. A great spot for lunch on the patio—especially if it's not too hot. Quiet, tucked away and very Palm Springs.
Elmer’s: A retro diner best known for its Dutch Baby pancakes. Expect a wait on weekends, but it moves quickly. Go early for the full experience without the crowds.
Wilma & Frieda’s: Comfort food with a twist—churro waffles, short rib eggs Benedict and friendly vibes. Popular but not overly scene-y, and great for a proper sit-down breakfast.
FARM: A charming Provençal-style café with a hidden courtyard. Perfect for a romantic breakfast or brunch, with dishes like lemon-ricotta pancakes and lavender lattes.
Mr. Parker’s (inside The Parker Hotel): Dimly lit, velvet-draped and perfectly over the top. Go for a moody nightcap or dinner in a setting that feels straight out of a Slim Aarons photo shoot.
Need to know
Reservations: Book your lunch and dinner spots as far in advance as possible. Places like Bar Cecil and Del Rey fill up fast.
Spa Days: If you plan to visit Two Bunch Palms or any spa, schedule ahead, especially if you want specific treatments or time slots.
Weather: Plan for hot days. Mornings are best for hikes or walks. Have indoor backups like art galleries or boutique shops in case it’s too warm. Bring layers, desert nights can be surprisingly chilly even after a 90-degree day.
Travel Advisor
Lara Srinivasan
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Palm Springs page.