Palm Springs, California is located about 100 miles east of Los Angeles in the Coachella Valley area of the Sonoran Desert. A popular resort city for many years, Palm Springs is renowned for its natural hot springs, hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and sunny weather. It’s been a favorite destination for Hollywood stars since the 1930s, and many celebrities maintain homes in the Palm Springs area.
The climate is one of the most appealing features of Palm Springs, and desert communities have expanded eastward as the demand for homes has increased. Until recently, many Palm Springs hotels, restaurants, and attractions would close during the hot summer months. Now, however, Palm Springs and the nearby communities are home to year-round residents as well as snowbirds and second homeowners.
Palm Springs is a welcoming community with one of the largest numbers of same-sex households in the country. Several resorts cater to LGBTQ+ tourists, and the city hosts the annual White Party in April, along with the Greater Palm Springs Pride Celebration every November, featuring a parade and numerous events.
Downtown Palm Springs is continuously evolving, with new shops, restaurants, hotels, and neighborhoods, such as the north end’s Uptown Design District. The annual Coachella and Stagecoach Festivals have brought attention to the desert cities, and the January Palm Springs International Film Festival attracts top names and an ever-increasing number of visitors.
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time. (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally)
Best Time to Go
The weather remains sunny and dry most of the year, with mild temperatures from October through May, featuring cooler nights during the winter months. Summer temperatures hover around 100℉ and can reach as high as 115℉, often with humidity less than 10%. Many visitors appreciate the hot, dry summer weather, especially if there’s access to a pool.
The high season lasts from December through April when snowbirds arrive from Canada and colder regions of the U.S. During this time, hotel prices tend to be elevated, and restaurants, golf courses, and attractions are busier. December, January, and February are regarded as the rainy months, but precipitation typically amounts to around just an inch, although there have been years with heavier rains.
Major events such as the Palm Springs International Film Festival in early January, and the Coachella and Stagecoach Festivals in April, along with Pride events in November, the PGA Tour’s American Express Men’s Golf Tournament in January, and the LPGA ANA Inspiration Tournament in April draw many visitors. The BNP Paribas Tennis Open is held annually at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.
Things to Know
Greater Palm Springs encompasses eight cities in addition to Palm Springs: Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella.
Tourism is the area’s largest employer and the number one contributor to the local economy.
Dates have been cultivated in the Coachella Valley since the early 1900s, accounting for 95% of the U.S. dates. Other agricultural products include grapes, citrus, artichokes, lettuce, carrots, and many others.
Mid-century modern homes, inns, hotels, and even a former gas station make Palm Springs a destination for fans of the era. The annual February Modernism Week celebrates mid-century modern design, architecture, art, fashion, and culture, with a fall preview in October.
The Greater Palm Springs area boasts nearly 125 public, municipal, and private golf courses.
More than 2,000 years ago, Palm Springs’ first residents were the ancestors of today’s Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Today, they are the largest landowners in Palm Springs, with nearly 6,700 acres within city limits. Many major hotels and facilities are situated on leased tribal lands.
How to Get Around
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is approximately 20 minutes from downtown.
From the airport, car rental company counters (Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo, Budget, Thrifty) are located in the terminal near the baggage claim area. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft services are also available at the terminal.
AM-PM Shuttle Service provides transportation within the Greater Palm Springs area.
Skycap Shuttle Service offers luxury SUV, town car, and van services.
Prime Time Shuttle provides service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Palm Springs.
Lin Lines and Cardiff Limousines offer services with professional, uniformed drivers.
SunLine provides bus service on nine lines across the Coachella Valley. Check their routes and schedules for planning purposes.
Best Hotels
Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel
Address: 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 322-6000
Steps from downtown, the hotel boasts one of the area’s largest pools, complete with poolside private cabanas and a pool bar. Comfortable guestrooms and suites, a spa, and casual restaurant make this a popular choice.
Hotel Zoso
Address: 150 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 325-9676
Located in walkable downtown, Hotel Zoso offers a spa, a supper club with entertainment, fitness center, and casual dining spot along with stylish guestrooms and suites.
Hyatt Palm Springs
Address: 285 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 322-9000
Set in the center of downtown Palm Springs, the Hyatt features luxury guestrooms and suites along with a pool, bistro, patio restaurant and bar, and balconies overlooking lively Palm Canyon Drive.
Les Cactus
Address: 555 Warm Sands Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 422-5500
This new boutique hotel for adults (21 and over), set in a quiet neighborhood, boasts stylish decor, comfy beds, outdoor fire pit, pool, hot tub, complimentary bicycles, and continental breakfast.
Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs
Address: 1600 North Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 327-8311
Minutes from downtown, this hotel features a casual-luxe island feel, tropical-inspired drinks, and the town’s largest resort spa. Guestrooms come with refrigerators, microwaves, and Keurig coffee makers for added convenience.
Kimpton Rowan
Address: 100 West Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 904-5015
Conveniently located in downtown, this hotel offers 153 spacious guestrooms and suites. The rooftop pool and bar provide spectacular views, as does the rooftop restaurant serving well-prepared seasonal dishes.
Ingleside Inn
Address: 200 West Ramon Road, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 325-0046
This romantic retreat was once a private estate for Hollywood’s Golden Age. Thirty renovated and uniquely designed rooms and suites feature various amenities like fireplaces, patios, and vintage-style furnishings. The property includes a pool and hot tub along with the classic Melvyn’s for superb dining and cocktails.
Villa Royale
Address: 1620 South Indian Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 327-2314
This adults-only hotel combines the era of Hollywood’s Golden Age with modern comforts and an eclectic mix of unique furnishings and art. Lush landscaping, a pool, intimate dining at Del Rey, and a variety of distinct guestrooms ensure relaxation and fun.
Dive
Address: 1586 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 323-2231
This adults-only boutique hotel features 11 unique rooms, landscaped grounds, a restored vintage pool, cabanas, and a 12-person hot tub. The inviting outdoor areas, koi pond, and cushy daybeds guarantee a relaxing stay. The vibe is reminiscent of 1960s French beach culture.
Hilton Palm Springs
Address: 400 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 320-6868
Located downtown, the Hilton offers a spacious pool and deck, spa, and dining options at Al Fresco located in the pool courtyard. Cocktails and small plates are on the menu, with room service dining available.
Arrive
Address: 1551 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 507-1650
This small, friendly hotel features 32 comfortably furnished rooms, a pool with fire pits, poolside bar, and lounges. Stylish accommodations provide bicycles to borrow for rides around the neighborhood.
Parker Palm Springs
Address: 4200 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 770-5000
This mid-century retreat offers a variety of guestrooms and suites on its exquisitely landscaped property, whether guests prefer a poolside room, one with a private hammock, or a standalone private villa. Dining options include swanky Mister Parker’s or al fresco at Norma’s.
Best Restaurants
Johannes
Address: 196 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 778-0017
This excellent dining establishment reflects the cuisine of Austrian-born chef/owner Johannes Bacher. The creative menu features a diverse array of meats, seafood, and side dishes artfully presented, with the wiener schnitzel being a favorite among patrons.
Kaiser Grille
Address: 205 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 323-1003
Located downtown, the restaurant offers various seafood, steaks, salads, and desserts in a comfortable setting with outdoor tables overlooking the lively Palm Canyon Drive scene.
Farm
Address: 6 La Plaza Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 322-2724
This casual restaurant in the courtyard of La Plaza serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a traditional Provencal style that transports guests to the South of France, utilizing only fresh seasonal ingredients.
Spencer’s
Address: 701 West Baristo Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 327-3446
This picturesque restaurant is nestled against the San Jacinto Mountains, offering both indoor and outdoor dining in elegant surroundings focused on American cuisine.
Trio
Address: 707 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 864-8746
This popular dining location in the Uptown Design District emphasizes American cuisine with Italian touches and features a varied menu based on local, seasonal ingredients.
Jake’s
Address: 664 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 327-4400
Positioned in the Uptown Design District, Jake’s provides indoor, courtyard, and streetside dining within a stylish yet casual environment known for superb service and creative cuisine.
Lulu California Bistro
Address: 200 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 327-5858
This lively bistro serves as a popular lunch and dinner destination, featuring streetside tables, a variety of indoor seating, and a vibrant atmosphere with generous portions and quality dishes.
Las Casuelas Terraza
Address: 222 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 325-2794
This classic Mexican restaurant is known for its patio dining, vibrant menu, outdoor bar, dance floor, and extensive cocktail selection featuring over 100 varieties of tequila.
Zin American Bistro
Address: 198 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 322-6300
Located in the lively downtown area, Zin offers a delightful menu for both dinner and weekend brunch, featuring popular dishes in a chic atmosphere ideal for enjoyment.
Sherman’s Deli and Bakery
Address: 401 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 325-1199
The New York-style deli is cherished by locals and visitors alike, providing specialties like hot pastrami sandwiches, generous salads, and a selection of desserts.
533 Viet Fusion
Address: 1775 East Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 625, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 778-6595
This featured restaurant showcases a unique menu with delightful Asian-style dishes presented artfully, along with traditional items such as pho and green papaya salad.
Additional Dining Options
For a variety of tastes and preferences, Palm Springs presents numerous culinary experiences, allowing visitors to indulge in delightful meals throughout the vibrant city.
Things to Do
Village Green Heritage Center
Address: 219–221 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 323-8297
This center is dedicated to the area’s Native Americans and early settlers, featuring the McCallum Adobe and Ruddy’s General Store, recreating historical aspects of Palm Springs.
Palm Springs Art Museum
Address: 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 322-4800
The museum offers three floors of diverse art media, including painting and sculpture, along with a theater for performances and lectures.
Palm Springs Air Museum
Address: 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 778-6262
Featuring aircraft from various wars, this museum tells the story of the role of air power in American history through permanent and temporary exhibits.
Indian Canyons
Address: 38500 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 323-6018
Offering beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and hiking trails, this area within the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation is perfect for exploring outdoor beauty.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Address: 1 Tramway, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 325-1391
As the largest rotating aerial tramway globally, it transports guests to the Mountain Station for breathtaking views and various recreation options.
Moorten Botanical Garden
Address: 1701 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 327-6555
This private arboretum showcases a collection of desert trees, plants, and cacti from around the world along a nature trail.
Shopping in Palm Springs
Just Fabulous
Address: 15 North Palm Canyon Drive, Suite A4, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 864-1300
This upscale gift boutique offers unique items and hosts special events for its diverse clientele, making it a fun place to browse.
Antique Galleries of Palm Springs
Address: 505 East Industrial Place, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 322-8740
This two-story gallery showcases over 40 vendors’ collections, featuring jewelry, mid-century furniture, artwork, and collectibles.
Parker Palm Springs
Address: 4200 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 770-5000
This upscale shopping destination combines unique designer stores amidst a beautiful shopping experience.
Neighborhoods to Know
Palm Springs comprises 37 distinct neighborhoods, each identified by unique signage to encourage local pride. Some notable neighborhoods include:
The Movie Colony
This historic area is recognized for its celebrity homes and has become known as “Hollywood’s Playground.”
Old Las Palmas
Close to downtown, this neighborhood attracts Hollywood elites and was formerly a citrus grove.
Andreas Hills
Features elevation and breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountains, with trails leading to mountain paths.
Weather
Palm Springs enjoys a desert climate with minimal humidity and rainfall. The area experiences sunshine about 350 days a year, making it an attractive spot for outdoor activities.
Apps to Download
SunBus Tracker: For trip planning and bus arrival information.
Uber, Lyft: Popular ride-sharing apps for convenient transportation.
Palm Springs Modernism App: Guided tours of mid-century landmarks in Palm Springs.
