Sunshine and Pool Time Are Just What the Doctor Ordered
Who hasn’t dreamed of slipping on a new swimsuit and lounging by a palm tree-lined pool with a cocktail in hand? We sure have! And if you’re itchin’ for some adventure, you’re in luck—Greater Palm Springs is calling your name! It’s time to pack your bags and experience the laid-back luxury of this sun-kissed oasis. From championship golf and poolside cocktails to open-air dining and world-class shopping, there’s a 100% chance you won’t ever want to leave. Here’s how to spend an action-packed 72 hours in Greater Palm Springs. Palm Springs Itinerary
Day 1
Stay at Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert
One of the sleekest hotels in Palm Desert, Hotel Paseo is no slouch when it comes to first-class amenities. This midcentury modern retreat sits just steps away from Palm Desert’s El Paseo, so you can experience world-class shopping and still spend the rest of your day by the pool (with a cocktail in hand, of course).
Palm Springs Itinerary
Breakfast at Wilma & Frieda
For breakfast, head over to Wilma & Frieda’s outdoor patio, which is the perfect setting to watch the shop-lined street of El Paseo rise and shine. Known for its twist on old favorites, this charming cafe whips up a mean short-rib eggs Benedict, one of their crowd favorites. But before you go, be sure to order one of their housemade pop tarts—you won’t regret it.
Head to the Palm Desert Certified Farmers Market
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Locals look forward to this weekly outdoor market. Area farmers bring their fresh produce and are eager to share new ways to prepare old standards like Brussel sprouts. Pop-ups provide an opportunity to help support burgeoning entrepreneurs. Grab a drink or a snack, then snag a seat on the lounge chairs and enjoy music in the fresh air.
Palm Springs Itinerary
Explore The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens continues to grow with exciting new exhibits and an abundance of educational opportunities. Head over to the recently opened, 4-acre Rhino Savanna, which is home to two black rhinos and 12 different African species! Visitors can also feed giraffes and embark on a private safari tour. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers a wonderfully wild experience for people of all ages!
4/2
Hike the Living Desert Wilderness Loop
The Living Desert Wilderness Loop trailhead starts near the working antique carousel. Begin your trek clockwise through a mountain ridge, which leads to a pleasantly shaded picnic area. Here, you can catch your breath after having it taken away by the stunning view of Greater Palm Springs at about 1,000 feet above sea level.
Palm Springs Itinerary
Stroll Through The Shops on El Paseo
Valet parking and golf carts transport you along this seven-block, art-filled center boulevard, often dubbed the “Rodeo Drive of the desert.” Shopping meets luxury at this outdoor destination, where designer stores like Ralph Lauren, Escada and Grayse abound. Be sure to walk through the corridor to The Gardens on El Paseo, where you can sit and take a breather underneath the shade of swaying palm trees.
Dine at Ristorante Mamma Gina
Since opening in 1986, this family-owned Italian restaurant has served secret Florence family recipes. Your taste buds will dance with pleasure as you indulge in an assortment of Italian dishes handcrafted and prepared with fresh ingredients. Order a classic glass of vino or be adventurous and ask your server for a cocktail recommendation; you can’t go wrong with a meal at Ristorante Mamma Gina!
Palm Springs Itinerary
Enjoy a Nightcap at The Nest
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With its classic decor and upbeat atmosphere, this nightlife venue is the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink and some live music. Frankly, this is considered the “in” place to spend an evening if you want to see and experience the underrated nightlife scene of Greater Palm Springs.
Day 2
Stay at Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
This 152-room, high-rise hotel in the heart of Palm Springs is as chic as it gets—and it’s even dog-friendly! Each room is outfitted with stylish furnishings and all the amenities you’ll need for a posh getaway. Head up to the rooftop, where you’ll find a pool, bar and restaurant and far-reaching views of the surrounding Coachella Valley. The best part? Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs lies in the heart of downtown, so you can easily experience the energetic vibe of the city.
Palm Springs Itinerary
Hop on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
This 2.5-mile traverse up the mountain takes 10 minutes and reaches an elevation of 8,516 feet. The tramway car rotates, offering a bird’s eye view of the valley below and a close look at the rock formations and flora that call the mountains home. At the top, explore the trails, museum and gift shop, and enjoy a cocktail at one of the mountaintop restaurants.
Grab Brunch at Trio Restaurant
If you want to dine with the locals, Trio Restaurant is the place to have brunch in the hip Uptown Design District of Palm Springs. The restaurant’s American-inspired plates are prepared with farm-fresh ingredients and are sure to please your palate. If you’re feeling something sweet, order the cinnamon swirl French toast or seasonal Belgian waffle. And for those who prefer savory, don’t miss out on the delicious fried egg sandwich, pastrami Benny or wild mushroom omelet! Note: brunch is only served on weekends from 9 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Shop at The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five
Thankfully, this iconic Modernist building designed by E. Stewart Williams was preserved and repurposed. The building now houses 14 small luxury boutique stores and galleries. Shop everything from handmade pottery and Moroccan rugs to stylish hats and chic accessories. Trust us, you will want to take your time here.
Palm Springs Itinerary
Snag a Scoop at Ice Cream & Shop(pe)
Treat yourself to a scoop of pomegranate chip or vegan date ice cream from Ice Cream & Shop(pe) at ARRIVE Palm Springs. This local ice cream parlor and gift shop serves up an assortment of unique flavors like passionfruit, cappuccino crunch and more!
Relax at Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa
Soak and rejuvenate at this oasis in the heart of Desert Hot Springs! Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis offers an unbeatable spa experience with amenities like mineral water spas, a dry sauna, fire pits and breathtaking mountain views. Fresh mineral water emerges from the ground at 174 degrees, and vistas of Mt. San Jacinto in the distance provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing space where you can soak your worries away.
Palm Springs Itinerary
Dine at Lulu California Bistro
Lulu‘s patio is the perfect place to people-watch while having a casual dinner right in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Try their signature meatloaf made with red-glazed Angus beef and tangy tomato sauce served with mashed red skin potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables. It’s okay—let your eyes wander, as the eclectic art on the walls is awesome.
Day 3
Stay at La Quinta Resort & Club
Enjoy a desert getaway at the iconic La Quinta Resort & Club! This 781-room destination features 45 pristine acres of lush landscaping, 41 temperature-controlled pools, three on-site restaurants and plenty of outdoor space to rest and relax. Check-in to one of their spacious Spanish-style casitas or villas to enjoy sumptuous amenities like private patios, indoor fireplaces, bathrooms with dual vanities and proximity to the pool.
Palm Springs Itinerary
Grab a Smoothie From Fresh Juice Bar
Whether you’re in the mood for a smoothie, juice or bowl, Fresh Juice Bar’s eclectic menu is sure to hit the spot. Each item features raw and organic ingredients and is packed with healthy fiber, antioxidants and omegas. For a sweet treat, order the Desert Delight, which is made with local Coachella Valley dates, homemade almond milk, ice, vanilla bean, banana and cinnamon! And if you had one too many cocktails by the pool (no shame), opt for the Hangover Helper: green apple, cucumber, kale, ginger, lemon, aloe vera juice and a dash of pink himalayan sea salt.
Visit Old Town La Quinta
With its cobblestone sidewalks, white-washed adobe buildings, local boutiques and dreamy mountain views, it’s no wonder Old Town La Quinta is a popular place to spend a day. This enclave is often referred to as “the gem of the desert”—and for good reason. Peruse through the many boutiques, pamper yourself with a trip to the spa or salon and enjoy al fresco dining at one of the many charming Old Town restaurants!
Palm Springs Itinerary
Stop for Lunch at Heirloom Craft Kitchen
Heirloom Craft Kitchen sources the finest ingredients and incorporates them into a variety of fresh California dishes. Award-winning celebrity chef Andie Hubka is constantly changing things up and finding new ways to tantalize the taste buds of all who visit. And while the food is elevated, the atmosphere is casual. Simply order at the counter and enjoy your lunch either inside or on the spacious patio!
Take a Self-Guided Art Tour Through La Quinta
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With your hat, sunglasses and water bottle in hand, set out to wander the art-filled streets of La Quinta! From paintings and sculptures to beautiful murals, this sunny city is chock-full of things to see. For a taste of local history and art, visit La Quinta Museum. If you prefer modern art, the “Bloom,” “Hydra” and “Volta” murals at La Quinta Public Library are all must-sees!
Palm Springs Itinerary
Tee off at SilverRock Resort
Golfers marvel at the stunning views on this 200-acre course at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The course’s natural bunkers and water features are sure to challenge even the most proficient of golfers. SilverRock is open to the public—both to La Quinta residents as well as visitors.
Sip a Beer at La Quinta Brewing Company
Making history in Greater Palm Springs, this brewery was the first to open its doors in 2013. Stop by during their weekday “hoppy” hour and order award-winning beers like their Tan Line Brown Ale, Una Mas Por Favor! or Even Par 7.2 IPA starting at just $4 per pint. You’ll love the vibe of this local taproom!
Palm Springs Itinerary
Dine at Adobe Grill
Alas, your whirlwind trip through Greater Palm Springs is coming to a close, but before you return home, a meal at La Quinta Resort & Club’s Adobe Grill is a must. Sit down to an al fresco dinner and enjoy a taste of traditional Oaxacan cuisine. From hand-shaken cocktails and tasty appetizers to a curated menu of entrees that includes mole poblano enchiladas and skirt steak with avocado chimichurri, Adobe Grill is, no doubt, a cut above.
