Poised for a Glamorous Comeback, the Riviera’s Next Chapter Begins
The Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs has been a symbol of glamor, entertainment and opulence since its inception in 1959. Originally designed by architect Irwin Schuman, the Riviera was an embodiment of midcentury optimism and modernism. It quickly became a cherished retreat for the stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age and stood as a testament to the enduring allure of Palm Springs.
Now, in a significant shift for this iconic property, Welcome Group Inc. has acquired the property, which transitioned to Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs in 2020 and has plans to return the storied hotel to its original name. This rebranding, set to begin this fall, not only revives the resort’s rich history but also ushers in a modernized experience that merges classic Palm Springs charm with contemporary luxury.
The upcoming transition promises to bring a range of refreshed offerings, from modern guest rooms and tranquil spa treatments to dining options that celebrate the area’s vibrant culture and stunning desert landscapes. Set for a full unveiling by mid-2026, the Riviera Resort & Spa is positioned to reclaim its status as an iconic destination for leisure travelers and locals alike, adding new layers of sophistication to the Palm Springs hospitality scene. The resort’s legacy continues to evolve, reflecting both its storied past and its vibrant future. With that said, let’s take a trip back in time and look at the riveting history of this legendary Palm Springs hotel.
The Birth of an Icon
The story of Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs begins in the late 1950s, when Schuman, already famous for his Chi Chi Club in downtown Palm Springs, purchased a 21-acre site at the northern edge of the city. He envisioned a luxury resort that could rival the glamor of the Las Vegas Strip, and in 1959, his vision came to fruition. The design of the resort was innovative, featuring a radial, spoke-wheel layout—a bold choice that reflected the optimism of the era. This modernist design provided an ideal backdrop for the burgeoning midcentury modern aesthetic that was synonymous with Palm Springs.
The Riviera’s aesthetic was further elevated by the architectural genius of Homer A. Rissman, who designed spaces such as the Riviera Dining Room, the Lido Lounge and the Capri Coffee Shop, all flowing seamlessly into one another. The Riviera Room, with its vast mural depicting the Mediterranean coastline, set the tone for the hotel’s sophisticated European-inspired theme. Formal wear was often the standard for evening events, and the glamorous atmosphere was underscored by performances from the likes of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, who, along with their Rat Pack counterparts, frequented the property.
A Playground for the Stars
Throughout the 1960s, the Riviera was the place to be for Hollywood’s elite. The likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe and Sonny and Cher were regulars, lounging by the pool or attending one of the resort’s legendary events. The hotel’s expansion in the mid-1960s, which added 155 rooms and a grand convention center, only bolstered its status. At its peak, the hotel could accommodate over 500 guests and host conventions and events of national significance.
The resort’s design was luxurious yet modern, drawing inspiration from the glamorous resorts of southern Europe. The new grand ballroom, added during the expansion, featured a Grecian exterior design, complete with gold columns and floor-to-ceiling windows. These details solidified the Riviera’s place as the preeminent destination for both leisure and business in Palm Springs.
Changing Times and New Incarnations
As the decades passed, the Riviera underwent multiple renovations and transformations. By the 1980s, Sonny Bono, one of the resort’s famous regulars, had opened a restaurant adjacent to the hotel. But as Palm Springs evolved, so too did the Palm Springs hotel. The once-bustling amphitheater that hosted performances by Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. was eventually transformed into a spa, signaling the property’s shift from a purely entertainment-focused venue to a more well-rounded retreat.
In the 2000s, the resort received a significant makeover that embraced a bold Hollywood Regency style, marked by red lighting and opulent decor reminiscent of its Rat Pack heyday. However, this iteration was short-lived. As Palm Springs attracted a younger, more design-conscious crowd, it became clear that the Riviera needed to adapt once again.
The Margaritaville Era and Beyond
In 2020, the Riviera underwent yet another transformation, this time rebranded as Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs. Catering to fans of Jimmy Buffett’s laid-back, island-inspired lifestyle, the resort offered a distinctly different vibe from its continental European roots. While the shift to Margaritaville marked a playful departure from the Riviera’s classic elegance, it still embraced the same ethos of escapism that had always drawn guests to Palm Springs.
Now, as the resort transitions back to its original name, it is poised to reclaim its place as a luxury destination that pays homage to its storied past while looking toward the future. The upcoming renovations, led by Miami-based designer Liubasha Rose, will modernize the property while maintaining its connection to the midcentury design principles that first made it famous. Guests will be greeted by a soothing palette of greens and whites that echo the natural beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, and spaces like the Gypsy Rose Lounge and Cantala dining area will evoke both retro glamor and modern sophistication.
A Timeless Destination
As the Riviera prepares for its next chapter, it remains a symbol of the enduring appeal of Palm Springs. The resort has evolved with the times, yet it has never lost sight of its original mission: to provide an oasis of luxury, relaxation and entertainment in the heart of the desert. From the golden age of Hollywood to the modern-day resurgence of Palm Springs as a design mecca, the Riviera Resort & Spa has been a constant, adapting to the changing tastes and styles of its guests while always remaining true to its roots.
With its return to its original name, the resort signals not just a return to the past but a reimagining of what it means to be iconic in Palm Springs. Whether you’re lounging by the pool like Frank Sinatra or enjoying a craft cocktail in the newly designed lounges, this oasis promises to continue its legacy of glamour, luxury and unrivaled experiences.
Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs
1600 N Indian Canyon Dr
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760.3278311
@rivieraps
