My Guide to Palm Springs, CA

We visited Palm Springs and absolutely fell in love with its mid-century modern charm, breathtaking mountain views, and relaxed yet luxurious vibe. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, we’ve put together a list of the best places to eat, shop, stay, and explore based on our personal experience.

Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Palm Springs

• Cheeky’s – Famous for its bacon flight and farm-to-table dishes.
• Norma’s – Located at The Parker, offering all-day breakfast with a chic ambiance.
• Farm – A charming French-inspired restaurant with an outdoor patio.
• Wilma & Frieda – Known for its homemade pop tarts and comfort food.
• King’s Highway – A stylish diner at the Ace Hotel with California-inspired cuisine.

Dinner Spots

• Le Vallauris – A romantic French restaurant with a stunning patio.
• Workshop Kitchen + Bar – A modern dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.
• Mister Parker’s – An intimate, upscale spot with a moody ambiance.
• Birba – Italian cuisine in a cozy outdoor setting.
• Rooster and the Pig – A local favorite for Vietnamese fusion dishes.
• Lost Property – A speakeasy-style restaurant and bar offering elevated comfort food in a unique, intimate setting.
• The Lion’s Den – A stylish and upscale restaurant offering a mix of steakhouse classics and modern dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.

Coffee Spots

• Ernest Coffee – A neighborhood coffee shop with a warm atmosphere.
• Koffi – A local staple with several locations and delicious cold brew.
• Cartel Coffee Lab – Trendy spot known for high-quality beans and strong brews.
• Ristretto – Hidden gem offering expertly crafted espresso drinks.
• 4 Paws Coffee Co. – A pet-friendly café with great coffee and pastries.

Palm Springs Shopping Spots

• The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five – A collection of stylish boutiques in a historic building.
• Elizabeth & Prince – Chic fashion finds with a minimalist aesthetic.
• Candice Held – A boutique filled with vintage-inspired resort wear.
• Modernway – A must-visit for mid-century modern furniture lovers.
• Palm Canyon Drive – The main shopping street lined with unique boutiques and galleries.

Luxury Hotels

• The Parker Palm Springs – A stylish and secluded resort with lush gardens.
• L’Horizon Resort & Spa – A chic, adults-only retreat with a Hollywood past.
• The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage – Perched on a hillside with breathtaking desert views.
• Korakia Pensione – A Moroccan and Mediterranean-inspired hideaway.
• Colony Palms Hotel – A historic boutique hotel with an iconic purple pool.

Palm Springs Golf Courses

• PGA West – A premier golf destination with multiple championship courses.
• Indian Wells Golf Resort – Offers two world-class courses with breathtaking views.
• Escena Golf Club – A stunning course known for its modern clubhouse and challenging layout.
• Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort – A scenic and affordable option with two unique courses.
• Classic Club – A high-end, Arnold Palmer-designed course with a luxurious experience.

Things to Do/Visit in Palm Springs

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – Take in panoramic views as you ascend into the mountains.
• Moorten Botanical Garden – A living museum of desert flora.
• Indian Canyons – Explore scenic hiking trails and waterfalls.
• Palm Springs Art Museum – A mix of contemporary and classic art exhibits.
• Sunnylands Center & Gardens – The historic estate known as the “Camp David of the West.”
• Mid-Century Modern Home Tours – See some of the best examples of iconic architecture.
• Joshua Tree National Park – A short drive away for an unforgettable desert adventure.
• Palm Springs Windmill Tours – Learn about the history and sustainability of wind energy with a guided tour through the iconic wind farms.

Fun Activities for Toddlers

• Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert – An interactive space for hands-on learning and play.
• The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens – A great way to introduce little ones to desert wildlife.
• Boomers Palm Springs – Mini-golf, go-karts, and arcade games for an afternoon of fun.
• Palm Springs Air Museum – Kids will love seeing historic aircraft up close.
• VillageFest – A lively Thursday night street fair with food, entertainment, and vendors that kids enjoy.
• Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs – A water park perfect for cooling off in the desert heat.

Palm Springs is a true oasis in the desert, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re sipping a handcrafted latte, lounging by the pool, or exploring the stunning landscapes, this guide ensures you experience the best of what this destination has to offer. We had an unforgettable time and can’t wait to return!

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