Travel Guide: Palm Springs


 

Palm Springs is a fave for us LA residents because it's just a quick 2.5 hours drive and makes for the perfect fun-in-the-sun getaway! If you've been following me for awhile then you know I'm no stranger to PS - I've celebrated my birthday there a few times and most recently did a girl's getaway at a super awesome Airbnb. When is the best time to visit Palm Springs? I personally love it all times of the year but I also LOVE heat. For most people, the best times are in the Spring and Fall. Winter can get pretty chilly, especially in the evenings. If you can handle the heat then there's deals to be found at hotels and Airbnbs for high summer dates. Here are some of my tried and true Palm Springs spots to stay, eat, and play: 

 
Palm Springs Travel Guide: where to eat, sleep, and play!

Palm Springs Travel Guide: where to eat, sleep, and play!

 

TO STAY

Palm Springs has some really cool hotels and even more awesome Airbnbs! A few of my faves:

Parker Palm Springs: You can't think of Palm Springs without the Parker. It's the hotel with the iconic orange door and white entrance! The decor is mod mixed with eclectic art and design; it's nothing like I've ever seen before and so picturesque. It's definitely on the pricier side, so I reserve it for special occasions and romantic getaways. Even if you don't stay there, you can stop by and enjoy a cocktail and walk the grounds or have brunch at Norma's - the restaurant within the hotel.  

The Saguaro: This is a great hotel for group trips! It's very colorful and "hip" with a pretty legit pool scene (dj's and all that jazz). The restaurant, El Jefe, is really delicious too! Don't forget to enjoy a marg or two at the inside bar. This is def a hotel that you wouldn't have to leave for an entire weekend if you didn't want! 

Mellow Yellow Butterfly House: Legit the cutest Airbnb ever! I just did a girl's weekend there (read all about it here) and we couldn't have enjoyed the house more. It fits 6 comfortably and has every amenity you can think of. On top of that it's just cute AF and super centrally located to the main drag where all the restaurants and bars are.  

The Amado: I did my 30th birthday here! It's an old motel that has been converted into this incredible desert chic situation - with 5 units that can be rented individually or as a group sharing a common pool and lounge area. I rented the entire thing which was incredible. It's the perfect combo of hotel meets Airbnb. 

I've also stayed at the Ace Hotel years ago and it's great! If you've stayed at an Ace anywhere else it's a similar vibes and they are DOG FRIENDLY which I know is a big draw for some of my friends who visit PS. 

TO EAT + PLAY

Most of the playing that goes on in PS is at your hotel or Airbnb, at least it is for me... all pool all the time! When I do go out, here's where we eat and drink:

Rooster and The Pig: Super yum vietnamese spot! Definitely different than what you would typically find in Palm Springs. 

Lulu California Bistro: Perfect for brunch; their bloody Marys are delicious!

Workshop Kitchen + Bar: New American Farm to table goodness! I go here almost every time I'm in Palm Springs. The cocktails are top notch and the food is mouth watering. Definitely on the pricier side but worth it!

Truss + Twine: If you're looking for a cocktails + small plates this is your spot. Best for two people.

Bootlegger Tiki:  The cutest tiki bar in town! The cocktails are STRONG but amazing. We like to stop by after dinner for a little nightcap. 

Reservoir: Another delicious dinner spot located at the ARRIVE hotel. The ambiance is great and they let you mix and match tacos which makes it a good spot for groups. 

 

What to Pack


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