Nestled in California’s arid Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is an oasis resort town known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, spas, and epic pool parties. Once a playground for Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra, JFK and Elvis; today Palm Springs is making a major comeback with its mid-century modern architecture, art scene, and on-trend restaurants.
For sophisticated travelers looking to indulge in a quick weekend getaway, Palm Springs offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. This 48 hour itinerary highlights the top spots to stay, eat, drink, and experience to make the most of your time in this desert paradise. From luxurious accommodations at the Parker Palm Springs to cocktail hour at the Ace Hotel’s poolside bar, you’ll feel like a celebrity escaping the hustle and bustle.
DAY ONE
CHECK IN: The Parker
The Parker Palm Springs is the ultimate place to stay for a stylish and indulgent Palm Springs experience. Hidden away amid 13 acres of manicured grounds, this hip hotel boasts bright and airy rooms decorated in Jonathan Adler’s signature mid-century modern style. Lounge poolside surrounded by mountain views, unwind at the spa, or kickstart your night at the energetic Lounges Lobby Bar. With whimsical decor throughout, the Parker feels like an oasis where you can soak up the Palm Springs vibes in luxury.
Read more on our love of the Parker Hotel here!
The Parker Palm Springs: 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States. +1 760-770-5000. parkerpalmsprings.com
AFTERNOON: Poolside Bliss
With your bags dropped and room sorted, it’s time for the pool. The Parker boasts not just one pool, but three—a main rectangular pool, a more private and secluded pool, and an adults-only plunge pool. Order poolside food and drink service and spend the afternoon lounging in a private cabana or on a pool floatie under the Palm Springs sun. Plus, If the sun’s too much for you, walk over to the Palm Springs Yacht Club right on the grounds of the Parker. The cheekily named hub is a fully indoor pool and spa experience.
GRAB A DRINK: The Lobby Bar
Before dinner, head to the Parker’s lively Lobby Bar which is centered around a 13-foot open fire pit and decorated with jewelry box-inspired chairs. Order a creative cocktail like the Smoked Grapefruit Margarita or the Blackberry Mojito and mingle with other stylish guests. The bar menu features a range of bites like short rib sliders, truffle fries, and tuna tartare tacos to whet your appetite.
Dinner Out: Workshop
For a trendy dinner spot with seasonal fare, head to Workshop Kitchen + Bar located right at the Parker Hotel. The ingredient-driven menu features dishes like seared diver scallops, pan-roasted local catch, and Wagyu steak frites. With indoor and outdoor seating, Workshop has a lively ambiance and an extensive wine list emphasizing California regions. Don’t skip dessert—the Bourbon Caramel Pot de Creme is sublime.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar: 800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States. +1 760-459-3451. workshopkitchenbar.com
Cocktail Hour: Truss & Twine
Adjacent to Workshop, you’ll find Truss & Twine, an establishment that has redefined the desert cocktail experience. It’s not just about drinks, but an ode to mixology’s evolution, offering classics from every era. Their mastery lies in crafting cocktails that tell a story, each sip reminiscent of Palm Springs’ illustrious past and its vibrant present.
Truss & Twine: 800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States. +1 760-459-3451. trussandtwine.com
Dance the Night Away: Hunters
End your night at Hunters, one of Palm Springs’ many insanely fun gay clubs on Arenas. Whether you’re into disco, techno, or pop, the DJs here spin a blend of music that keeps the energy high. Dance the night away and let the beats guide you into the early hours. Be forewarned, the drinks are standard gay bar fare so one or two will take you to the floor.
Hunters Palm Springs: 302 E Arenas Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States. +1 760-323-0700. hunterspalmsprings.com
DAY TWO
Morning Out: Mid Century Modernism Tour
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through time with the Mid Century Modernism Tour. Palm Springs stands as a testament to Mid-Century architectural genius, with landmarks like the Sinatra House and the iconic Frey House II. Witness firsthand the juxtaposition of sleek lines against the rugged desert backdrop, a visual treat only this city offers.
LUNCH: Cheeky’s
Following a morning of visual delight, refuel at Cheeky’s, a perennial culinary hotspot. The buzz you’ve heard? It’s all true. Despite the occasional queue, patience here is always rewarded. From its signature bacon flight to juices freshly pressed from local produce, Cheeky’s never disappoints.
Afternoon: Palm Springs Art Museum & Shopping on Palm Canyon Drive
Spend your afternoon exploring the Palm Springs Art Museum, where you’ll find a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary art. Afterward, indulge in some retail therapy and Shop Palm Canyon, the city’s main shopping street lined with boutique stores and vintage shops. Some of our faves? Trina Turk for the wild colors, The Frippery for the best curation of vintage kaftans and SHAG for the best mod art in town.
Pre’s: Counter Revolution at the Parker
Counter Reformation isn’t just a wine bar; it’s a sanctuary for vino lovers. Hidden away from prying eyes, this spot boasts an Old World charm (including a real confessional!), with a curated wine list featuring handpicked selections and delectable charcuterie boards, making it a coveted spot for those in the know.
Dinner: So.Pa at L’Horizon Hotel & Bungalows
So.Pa has long been a favorite of ours. It’s nestled within the grounds of L’Horizon hotel, which is a swanky and exclusive bungalow-only hotel property on South Palm Canyon hidden behind a high hedge. It’s classic Palm Springs at its very best. This fully outdoor restaurant (do not try to eat there in July and August, they’re closed for the summer!) features a fabulous rotating menu from Chef Michael Hung. The wine list is artfully looked after and the cocktail list remains one of the most wildly inventive and underrated in the Valley.
Drinks Out: The Ace Hotel
Close the night at the Ace Hotel. You can grab a late night bite at Kings Highway diner featuring killer burgers and negronis or go for the moodier ambience at the Amigo Room. This isn’t just a bar; it’s an institution. Frequented by those seeking a blend of rock nostalgia and a bit of decadence, the venue is known for its great beers, artisanal cocktails and rotating roster of DJs, making it a hub of nocturnal activity.
DAY THREE
Morning Session: Se che Day Spa
Spend your last morning at the newly-opened Seche Day Spa at Aqua Caliente. This brand new and expansive spa is getting loads of attention from all over the Southland. Indulge in treatments that harness the healing properties of mineral waters, enjoy a session of yoga, or take a rejuvenating salt bath. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge before you head back to reality.
Lunch on the Go: Farm
Bid adieu to Palm Springs at Farm, where France’s bucolic charm seamlessly mingles with Californian flair. Nestled in a quaint nook, its rustic Provençal décor sets the scene for a menu bursting with flavors. Patrons rave about the duck confit and lavender crème brûlée, epitomizing the venue’s commitment to authenticity. It’s a culinary love letter to France, but with a distinct Palm Springs postscript.
48 hours might seem like a short time, but as you can see, Palm Springs packs a punch when it comes to experiences and activities. From luxuriating poolside to exploring Mid-Century Modern gems, this itinerary provides a balanced mix of relaxation, culture, and good food. Until next time, Palm Springs!
