Your Ultimate Palm Springs Weekend Guide

Last Updated: December 21, 2023

Palm Springs is an oasis nestled between mountains, roughly 2 hours away from Los Angeles and about the same distance from San Diego. What once was a haven for retirees, now it has become a world-famous destination. 

It is not only the hip festival of Coachella, nor the Palm Springs International Film Festival that attracts an increasing number of visitors each year. It is rather the overall vibe that makes you fall in love with it. The great weather, the cool hotels, and the palm-lined streets were reasons enough to convince me to visit.

However, if you’re looking for more reasons to visit Palm Springs, continue reading to find out what makes this city so irresistible.

COOLEST HOTELS TO STAY IN PALM SPRINGS 

I do believe that Palm Springs would not be the same if it wasn’t for the cool hotels which added a fun element to the city. Whether it is pool parties while mingling with the cool kids or relaxing retreats that strike your fancy, this beautiful city has got you covered.

Below are a few of the BEST HOTELS TO STAY IN PALM SPRINGS.

THE SAGUARO

The Saguaro Hotel needs no introduction. It is known for its vibrant exterior, in colors that resemble California’s Desert. As well, for having one of the biggest pools in Palm Springs, this is one of the most Instagrammable hotels in the city. 

LA SERENA VILLAS

If you’re looking into staying within a walking distance of downtown, then La Serena Villas is a great option. This unique Hispanic-inspired boutique hotel has only 18 rooms and kids are not allowed (which is a selling point for some). The first thing you will notice as you enter is the elegant clean interior and the incredible views over the mountains. 

KORAKIA PENSIONE

Welcome to “One of the sexiest hotels in America”, according to The New York Times. This Moroccan-meets-Mediterranean oasis will win you over with its vintage decor. Korakia is a perfect hideaway if you’re looking to stay somewhere quiet and unwind. The rooms have no TVs, instead, you will find plenty of vintage books to help you escape into a different world and go offline. 

ACE HOTEL PALM SPRINGS

This mid-century modern hotel is very well known, especially amongst the Angelinos who come to Palm Springs for the sun-soaked pool parties. Ace Hotel appeals more to the youngsters who are after a trendy place to party by the pool, with a cocktail in hand while listening to the beats of the DJ. It has two big swimming pools where undoubtedly you will be spending most of your time. What is also cool about this place, is the decor which is inspired by the 70s, with record players and vinyl in the rooms. 

FOOD SCENE IN PALM SPRINGS

Whilst you stroll around the palm-lined streets of downtown Palm Springs one thing is for sure, you will eventually get hungry. Thankfully, this city has an abundance of great places where to eat that will not only satisfy your appetite but (if I dare say) will have you returning for more. 

ROOSTER AND THE PIG

This Vietnamese-inspired restaurant is very well known amongst those who visit Palm Springs frequently. Rooster and the pig serve excellent food and unique cocktails. The only downside is that due to its popularity, there is almost always a queue. It is worth the wait though! 

KING’S HIGHWAY 

King’s Highway is a classic American diner, located at Ace Hotel, popular for being one of the best breakfasts in Palm Springs. Slide into one of its cozy booths, relax and enjoy the delicious food in its chic-retro environment.    

KREEM

The heat will soon have you craving something cold. If you have a sweet tooth (like I do), then be sure to stop by Kreem and try their delicious ice cream. The lemon meringue pie is simply heavenly! 

WHAT NOT TO MISS

Palm Springs is famous for having the largest concentration of mid-century modern architecture. There are plenty of remarkable buildings in Desert Modernism, from hotels to galleries and from shops to private residences. 

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN PALM SPRINGS

Palm Springs has a great location if you plan on a desert road trip. Most people combine it with a visit to Joshua Tree, to experience glamping in the California Desert. If you have time to spare then a great place to explore is also Salvation Mountain. A colorful man-made mountain built with adobe clay and straw and decorated with painted art. Pretty unique!