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Where to Stay in Palm Springs

Updated: February 10, 2026 • By Seattle Dave

My Favorite Hotels in Palm Springs

• 5-star: Thompson
• 4-star: ARRIVE
• 3-star: Zoso • Saguaro
• Best resort: Ritz-Carlton
• For couples: Fleur Noire
• For families: Omni Rancho Las Palmas

The pool at the Thompson Hotel during our stay in Palm Springs.

The pool at the Thompson – my favorite hotel in Palm Springs.

Located about two hours east of Los Angeles in the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is the ultimate destination for architecture buffs, couples seeking a retro-chic escape, poolside loungers, and music festival fans.

Southern Californians refer to the Coachella Valley simply as The Desert. While the valley follows Highway 111 from Palm Springs through to Indio, for most visitors, the term effectively means the west end of the valley, with Palm Springs serving as the primary hub for dining, culture, and nightlife.

Choosing Your Base: Palm Springs vs. The Valley

For a first-timer, where you stay depends entirely on the vibe you want:

  • Palm Springs: Best for those who want walkability and historic mid-century charm. Downtown Palm Springs specifically refers to the area around Palm Canyon Drive and Arenas Road, which is the heart of the valley’s social scene. It is vibrant and skews slightly younger.
  • Palm Desert: Located in the center of the valley, this area is more family-oriented and famous for El Paseo shopping. It is much more spread out and less walkable than Palm Springs proper.
  • Rancho Mirage: This area sits between Palm Springs and Palm Desert. It is known for its high-end luxury resorts and offers a much quieter, centrally located experience.
  • La Quinta & Indian Wells: These areas offer a quiet resort feel dominated by golf courses and gated communities. It is much more secluded and requires a car for everything.
  • Desert Hot Springs: A niche, budget-friendly alternative on the northern hillside. It is famous for its natural mineral springs and offers a quieter wellness vibe, though it lacks the polished feel of the other cities.

Logistics and Transportation

A car is essentially required. While you can survive without one if you stay strictly within the downtown core, the valley is sprawling. Distances look short on a map, but driving from Palm Springs to Indio can easily take 45 minutes due to heavy traffic on Highway 111. Furthermore, while Uber and Lyft are plentiful in Palm Springs, availability drops off significantly once you head into the outer desert cities.

  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP): This is an outdoor-style airport and is incredibly convenient, located just minutes from downtown. However, it has fewer daily flights and limited late-night arrivals compared to major hubs.
  • Ontario International Airport (ONT): This is the best alternative, located about 70 miles (90 minutes) west. It often has more frequent and cheaper flight options.

Weather and Temperature Reality Check

Don’t let the phrase “dry heat” fool you. You need to prepare for specific desert conditions:

  • Winter (Dec to Feb): Beautiful daytime highs of 65°F to 75°F, but temperatures drop sharply at night. You will need a jacket for dinner.
  • Spring (March to May): This is the perfect window with highs in the 80s and 90s. This is also Wind Season. While gusts are intermittent rather than constant, they can be strong enough to make outdoor dining or poolside lounging difficult.
  • Summer (June to Sept): Expect extreme heat, often peaking between 105°F and 115°F. You can find massive discounts on hotels now, but be aware that most outdoor activities are impossible during the day.
  • The Shade Factor: When booking, consider that south-facing pools get sun all day, while north-facing pools or those tucked right against the mountains might lose the sun early in the afternoon.

The “Event Weekend” Warning

Check the calendar before booking. During major event weekends, specifically Modernism Week (February), BNP Paribas Open tennis (March), and the Coachella/Stagecoach festivals (April), hotel prices skyrocket. Availability often disappears months in advance, so if you aren’t attending these events, I recommend avoiding these dates entirely.

Hikes in Palm Springs Area.

My favorite outdoor activity in Palm Springs is riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park for the hiking trails. The views are incredible, and the temperature is much cooler at the top.

Me and my family in Palm Springs.

My family and I hiking the Tahquitz Canyon trail near Palm Springs.

Where to Stay: Boutique vs. Resort

The accommodation landscape is split between two distinct styles:

  1. Boutique Hotels: Mostly found in Palm Springs. These are intimate and design-heavy. Note that many of these are adults-only (21+), which can be a surprise for first-time visitors with families.
  2. Large Resorts: Mostly found in the mid-to-lower valley. These offer sprawling pool complexes and multiple golf courses. Be aware that resort fees are very common here and can add $40 to $60 per night to your bill.

A final safety and quality tip: Avoid the low-priced motel chains directly flanking the I-10 freeway or the industrial stretches of Highway 111. These areas lack the walkability and the scenic “desert oasis” atmosphere that makes a trip here worthwhile.

I have grouped the following hotel recommendations by vibe and neighborhood rather than just by price, so you can find the spot that fits your specific travel style.

The Best Places to Stay in Palm Springs Area

Best hotel in downtown Palm Springs.

The Kimpton Rowan smack in the center of downtown Palm Springs, and steps to bars, restaurants, and shopping. I love the rooftop pool and bar.

My room at the Thompson Hotel in downtown Palm Springs.

Our room at the Thompson Hotel in downtown Palm Springs.

Palm Springs hotel with patio.

Our room at the ARRIVE Palm Springs.

Palm Springs hotel with balcony.

Our room at the Zoso.

Palm Springs hotel with family suite.

Our room at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club.

Hotel with pool in Palm Springs.

The view from our room at The Saguaro in South Palm Springs. A fun and affordable place to stay.

My room at the Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert.

Our room at the Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert.

Best Areas in Palm Springs & Coachella Valley for…

Best Neighborhood for First-Timers: Downtown & Uptown Palm Springs

Staying in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs is the best choice for first-time visitors. This is the liveliest part of the Coachella Valley and offers the most concentrated selection of boutique hotels, top-tier restaurants, and nightlife. It is the only area I recommend if you do not plan on renting a car, as the core is highly walkable.

Just north of the main downtown blocks is the Uptown Design District. For a first-timer, these two areas function as one seamless experience. Uptown is where you will find the best concentration of mid-century modern furniture shops, art galleries, and trendy clothing boutiques like Trina Turk.

Key Downtown & Uptown Highlights:

  • VillageFest: Every Thursday night, Palm Canyon Drive shuts down for a massive street fair with food vendors, local artisans, and live music. It is a mandatory experience for first-time visitors.
  • Palm Springs Art Museum: Located right downtown, this is one of the best regional museums in the country. Note that admission is typically free on Thursday evenings during VillageFest.
  • Architecture: This area is the epicenter of Desert Modernism. You can easily walk to see the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza or the iconic Forever Marilyn statue.
  • Dining and Nightlife: Most of the valley’s best-known spots, like Lulu California Bistro, Workshop Kitchen + Bar, and the Kimpton Rowan’s rooftop bar, are located here.
  • Proximity to Nature: While you are in the city center, you are only a 10-minute drive from the Indian Canyons for hiking and 15 minutes from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Important Practical Tips:

  • Walkability: While the area is walkable, the desert heat from May to September makes walking even two blocks difficult during the day. If visiting in summer, choose a hotel with a great pool.
  • Transportation: Rideshares are plentiful and cheap within the downtown core.
  • Parking: Unlike many California cities, downtown parking is easy. Most street parking is free for 3 to 4 hours, and there is a large, free public parking garage located directly across from the Art Museum.
  • The Air Museum: The Palm Springs Air Museum is located near the airport (about 10 minutes from downtown) and is widely considered one of the top aviation museums in the world, featuring flyable WWII aircraft.
My wife and I hiking in Palm Springs.

My wife and I hiking near Palm Springs.

  • Best Neighborhood for Couples: Uptown Palm Springs
    Uptown is my favorite area for a romantic getaway. This neighborhood is home to the region’s best luxury boutique hotels and is the epicenter of the Uptown Design District. Discreet, adults-only hideaways like ARRIVE Palm Springs and Fleur Noire are perfect for couples seeking privacy and a sophisticated atmosphere. For a splurge, The Colony Palms Hotel offers a stunning, secluded pool area and one of the most romantic outdoor restaurants in the valley. The main strip, North Palm Canyon Drive, is lined with hip indie shops, art galleries like the Uptown Design District galleries, and some of the most inventive restaurants in the Coachella Valley. It offers a blend of mid-century glamour and modern style that is much quieter and more intimate than the center of downtown. This is where I recommend heading for a sunset cocktail at the Kimpton Rowan’s rooftop or a quiet dinner at Copley’s on Palm Canyon, which sits on the grounds of Cary Grant’s former estate.

Best Mid-Century Modern Shops in the Uptown Design District

The Uptown Design District is the heart of Palm Springs’ mid-century modern (MCM) scene. If you are looking for authentic vintage pieces or high-end desert decor, these are the essential stops along North Palm Canyon Drive.

  • Modern Way: This is one of the longest-running and most respected vintage shops in the valley. They specialize in impeccably curated furniture from the 1950s through the 1970s. I particularly like their “Listening Room” which features collectible vintage hi-fi and stereo equipment.
  • A La Mod: For serious collectors, this shop is a must. It features museum-quality mid-century furnishings, rare burlwood case goods, and sculptural lighting. The focus here is on high-end, iconic designers and statement pieces that define the “Desert Modern” look.
  • The Shops at 1345: Housed in a stunning 1955 building designed by architect E. Stewart Williams, this is a collective of over a dozen independent boutiques. You can find everything from vintage furniture and textiles to modern art and luxury apothecary items all under one roof.
  • Bon Vivant: If your interest leans more toward accessories than large furniture, come here. They have one of the best collections of vintage Blenko glass, colorful ceramics, and Atomic Age tabletop items in California. It is a great place to find a unique, packable souvenir.
  • Just Modern: This shop offers a mix of authentic vintage pieces and new furniture designed with a mid-century spirit. It is also an excellent resource for vibrant outdoor rugs, locally produced art, and unique home accessories that capture the Palm Springs aesthetic without the “antique” price tag.
  • Iconic Atomic: A fun, high-energy shop that blends vintage fashion with home decor. Expect to find bubble chairs and kitschy accessories alongside 1960s cocktail dresses and classic menswear. It is less formal than the high-end galleries and perfect for a casual browse.

Pro Tip: Most of these shops are located within a six-block radius of each other. Parking is generally easy to find on the side streets, allowing you to park once and walk the entire district. Keep in mind that many boutique shops in Uptown close on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your shopping trip for the weekend or late in the week.

Forever Marilyn in Downtown Palm Springs.

Forever Marilyn in Downtown Palm Springs.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Food and Restaurants: Downtown Palm Springs and Indio
    Downtown Palm Springs is the culinary heart of the valley. For a modern take on Mexican, Tac/Quila is my top pick—their “jewelry-box” decor and specialty margaritas are excellent, but show up early as they don’t take reservations for small groups. For a classic Palm Springs experience, stalwarts like Johannes (Austrian-Asian fusion) and The Tropicale (festive patio and great martinis) never miss. If you want the most sought-after table in town, you must book Bar Cecil exactly 14 days in advance at 8:00 AM PST; the prime booths go in seconds. For something more casual, Juniper Table at the Kimpton Rowan offers great Mediterranean-inspired breakfast and lunch, while Rooster and the Pig is the go-to for incredible Vietnamese-American fusion (be prepared for a wait, as they are walk-in only). For the old-school Sinatra vibe, Melvyn’s and Johnny Costa’s Ristorante are the places to be.

    At the eastern end of the valley, Indio and Coachella offer authentic, high-quality food with much lower price tags. TKB Bakery & Deli is legendary for its massive sandwiches—voted one of the best in the country on Yelp—and is a mandatory stop. For authentic Mexican, head to El Tranvia in Coachella for no-frills tacos or Tu Madres Cantina & Grill for a lively sit-down experience. If you are looking for heat, CIE Sichuan Cuisine is the best spot in the area for authentic Chinese. No trip to Indio is complete without a date shake from the iconic Shields Date Garden, which has been a local staple since 1924; grab a shake and walk through the date groves in the back.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Nightlife: Downtown Palm Springs and Palm Desert
    Downtown Palm Springs is the epicenter for nightlife in the region. Most of the action revolves around upscale pool parties and al fresco cocktail lounges rather than high-energy nightclubs. The pool bar and the Amigo Room at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club are iconic for their bohemian, hipster vibe and frequent DJ sets. For a more elevated scene, High Bar on the roof of the Kimpton Rowan Hotel offers the best sunset views in the city. For late-night dancing, Copa Nightclub and the massive, multi-space Reforma are the top choices for a high-energy floor. If you prefer a hidden gem, the Tonga Hut is a classic tiki bar with a great “secret” room, while The Evening Citizen and PS Air Bar (a fun aviation-themed speakeasy hidden inside a wine shop) offer excellent craft cocktails. The Arenas Road district is the heart of the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene; Hunters is a long-standing favorite for dancing, while Chill Bar offers a massive patio and Quadz is famous for its show-tune singalongs.

    In the mid-valley, Palm Desert offers a sophisticated but quieter nightlife scene concentrated around El Paseo and Palm Desert Drive. The Desert Fox Bar is a stylish cocktail lounge known for its cozy atmosphere and live jazz or soul performances. Little Bar is an intimate, speakeasy-style spot with an oversized oak door and a “peep” window; it is famous for its craft drinks and is a favorite for local industry insiders. For those staying in this area, the Hotel Paseo is the best home base for walking to the bars and galleries.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Shopping: Uptown Palm Springs & Palm Desert
    Uptown Palm Springs is the absolute best spot for locally owned businesses and curated mid-century finds. North Palm Canyon Drive is the primary strip where you will find everything from vintage furniture to specialist books. I highly recommend checking out the vintage fashion at Iconic Atomic, the quirky home décor at Just Fabulous, and The Shag Store for unique pop art. For a dense collection of independent boutiques in one spot, do not miss The Shops at 1345, which is housed in an iconic E. Stewart Williams building. The Trina Turk flagship store is also a must-visit for its quintessential desert-chic aesthetic.

    For a completely different, high-end experience, head to El Paseo in Palm Desert. Often called the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” this mile-long, walkable district features high-end jewelry at Leeds & Son and fine antiques at Maison Felice. You will also find major luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Saks Fifth Avenue at The Gardens on El Paseo. If you are looking for more approachable but stylish apparel, Wil Stiles in Uptown offers great prints and a mid-century vibe that is unique to the area.

  • Safest Areas of Palm Springs & Coachella Valley
    The upscale communities of Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, and La Quinta remain the safest in the valley. These cities are largely composed of gated communities and high-end resorts with very low rates of violent crime. Within Palm Springs, the Indian Canyons, Canyon Estates, and Toledo Sierra neighborhoods are exceptionally safe. The Historic Tennis Club and The Movie Colony are also very secure, though their proximity to the downtown core means more foot traffic. Recent 2025 statistics show a significant double-digit drop in overall crime across Palm Springs, but property crime—specifically vehicle break-ins at trailheads and shopping centers—remains the primary concern. My rule is simple: never leave anything visible in your car, not even a charging cable or a bag of gym clothes.
  • Areas to Exercise Caution
    Most of the Coachella Valley is very visitor-friendly, but there are areas where you should be more observant. In Cathedral City, the Dream Homes neighborhood continues to have a reputation for higher crime. In North Palm Springs, the Desert Highland Gateway Estates area can still feel a bit rough compared to the resort zones. While Desert Hot Springs has made massive strides and currently reports some of the lowest crime rates in the valley due to increased tax revenue and policing, it still has “hot spots” in its older residential sections. If you are staying there for the mineral springs, stick to the well-established spa hotels and avoid wandering through the unlit residential blocks at night. In Indio and Coachella, stick to the main commercial corridors and festival-related areas; like any city, the residential outskirts can be hit-or-miss for those unfamiliar with the layout.

The 8 Best Places to Stay in Palm Springs & Coachella Valley for Tourists

1. Downtown Palm Springs

Hotel with outdoor pool in downtown Palm Springs.

The rooftop pool and bar at the Kimpton Rowan.

Downtown Palm Springs, anchored by Palm Canyon Drive, is the best place to begin any tour of the region. It is packed with boutique hotels, trendy restaurants (Tac/Quila and Bill’s Pizza are my favorites), poolside bars, and Desert Modern architecture, whose butterfly rooflines and minimalist bungalows defined the city in the 1940s and 1950s.

The headline for 2026 is the beautifully restored Plaza Theatre. Following a massive multi-million dollar restoration, this historic landmark reopened in late 2025. It is now the city’s premier intimate venue for a world-class inaugural season of Broadway stars, comedy, and live music. Just a few blocks away, the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza is another must-visit. It features the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, dedicated to the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and the Spa at Séc-he, which has been named the #1 spa in North America for two consecutive years.

Key Highlights and Logistics:

  • Palm Springs Art Museum: A world-class collection located right in the heart of downtown. Do not miss the Forever Marilyn statue located just outside.
  • Village Green Heritage Center: Home to some of the oldest buildings in the city, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding modernism.
  • Dining: Beyond the staples, the Thompson Palm Springs (opened late 2024) offers excellent rooftop dining at Lola Rose Grand Mezze with incredible mountain views.
  • Palm Springs Air Museum: Located two miles east near the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), this is one of the top aviation museums in the world and features flyable WWII aircraft.
  • East Palm Canyon Drive: A mile south of the main core, this area features the iconic Ace Hotel & Swim Club and Mr. Lyons Steakhouse, which is the best spot in town for a classic, high-end desert dinner.
  • Indian Canyons: Located another three miles south, these ancestral lands offer tranquil, palm-shaded trails that provide the best hiking experience within the city limits.

2. Uptown Palm Springs

Best hotel for couples in Palm Springs.

The Fleur Noire in the Uptown neighborhood.

The Uptown Design District, centered on North Palm Canyon Drive between Vista Chino and Alejo Road, is the coolest neighborhood in the valley. It is the premier destination for independent boutiques, world-class vintage furniture shops, and modern art galleries. After sunset, Uptown transforms into a sophisticated dining hub. My top recommendations here include Eight4Nine for its vibrant, color-drenched atmosphere, Workshop Kitchen + Bar for industrial-chic dining and the best seasonal cocktails in the city, and Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey for an incredible Scandinavian-Japanese fusion experience.

Originally the Las Palmas Business District in the 1920s, the area was revitalized in the late 1990s and early 2000s, spearheaded by local icons like Trina Turk, whose flagship boutique remains a mandatory stop. While exploring, you can easily drive by architectural landmarks like the Kaufmann Desert House (designed by Richard Neutra) and the Liberace House, though both are private residences and can only be viewed from the street. One of the region’s must-do activities, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, is just a 10-minute drive from the heart of this district. This neighborhood is quieter and more refined than the main downtown core, making it my favorite area for a long afternoon stroll followed by a high-end dinner.

3. Rancho Mirage

Luxury resort with pool in Palm Springs Area.

Five-star luxury at the Ritz-Carlton in Rancho Mirage.

Located about 10 miles southeast of Downtown Palm Springs, upscale Rancho Mirage is known as the “Playground of the Presidents” due to its long history with US leaders. Gerald Ford was a resident, and the city continues to be a hub for high-level summits. The city is defined by 13 exclusive golf clubs and sprawling luxury resorts. The Omni Rancho Las Palmas is a standout for families, featuring its own Splashtopia water park with a lazy river and dual 100-foot waterslides.

There is plenty to do beyond the golf course. Families should visit the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, which recently completed a major reimagining and reopening with nearly 40 new hands-on exhibits in its main gallery. For science lovers, the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory offers fantastic public exploration nights and solar viewings that are among the best free activities in the valley.

Sunnylands, the historic 200-acre Annenberg estate, is a mid-century masterpiece. While the gardens are free to roam, the guided tours of the historic house are a top architectural attraction and require booking well in advance (tickets are released on the 15th of each month for the following month). For shopping and dining, head to The River, an outdoor mall built around fountains and waterfalls. The big news for 2026 is the progress of Cotino, the first “Storyliving by Disney” community; the Cotino Bay area with its turquoise lagoon is slated to open to the public for day-use in late 2026.

4. Palm Desert

The pool at Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert.

The Hotel Paseo is steps from Palm Desert’s shopping district.

Two miles east of Rancho Mirage and roughly 12 miles from downtown Palm Springs, Palm Desert is an affluent hub known as the “World’s Golf Capital” due to its incredible concentration of championship courses and high-end resorts. Since the 1980s, it has evolved into the commercial heart of the Coachella Valley, offering a more suburban, polished feel than the mid-century grit of Palm Springs.

The center of the action is El Paseo, a mile-long stretch known as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert.” This walkable, tree-lined boulevard is packed with designer boutiques, fine art galleries, and upscale dining. For a more traditional shopping experience, you can explore the open-air Gardens at El Paseo or The Shops at Palm Desert (formerly the Westfield Mall). While the mall is currently undergoing a massive multi-year redevelopment into a mixed-use residential and entertainment district, it remains the only large indoor shopping center in the region.

Top Attractions and Experiences:

  • The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: This is a mandatory visit. It is one of the best zoos in the country, focusing on desert conservation. I highly recommend the giraffe feeding (usually available until 3:00 PM) and the new Australian Adventures habitat where you can walk among wallabies.
  • McCallum Theatre: Located on the College of the Desert campus, this premier venue hosts everything from Broadway tours to world-class musicians and comedy.
  • Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden: A hidden gem located at the Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert. It is a peaceful, four-acre park featuring significant outdoor sculptures and desert-native landscaping—and it is free to the public.
  • Dining on El Paseo: For a splurge, book a table at Pacifica Seafood or Mastro’s Steakhouse. For something more relaxed but quintessentially Palm Desert, Wilma & Frieda’s is my top pick for a massive, creative brunch.
  • Outdoor Adventure: The Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center sits at the edge of town and provides access to excellent trails like the Bump and Grind (popular with locals for a workout) and the more scenic Cross Hike.

5. Indian Wells

Located about two miles east of Palm Desert, Indian Wells is the wealthiest and most manicured city in the Coachella Valley. The landscape is defined by pristine gated communities, towering palm groves, and a notable absence of chain restaurants and commercial clutter. It is the premier destination for high-end resorts and world-class golf, including the celebrated Indian Wells Golf Resort and its 36 holes of championship play.

The city is a major international hub for sports and culture. Every March, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden hosts the BNP Paribas Open (early March 1–15), often referred to as the “Fifth Grand Slam.” The city also hosts the Desert Town Hall lecture series, which features high-profile speakers like Bret Baier and a joint discussion with Ben Shapiro and Van Jones.

Top Activities:

  • Shots in the Night: This is a fantastic after-dark experience at the Indian Wells Golf Resort. It features laser putting on glow-in-the-dark greens and a Toptracer driving range with colorful targets, music, and food. It is available most Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from November through May.
  • Indian Wells Arts Festival: Held every April, this is a top-ranked national juried art show featuring over 200 artists, live demonstrations, and a festive “Jazz Bubbles and Brunch” atmosphere.
  • The Village at Indian Wells: While smaller than El Paseo, this upscale shopping center is home to local favorites like Eureka! for burgers and Vicky’s of Santa Fe for live jazz and prime steaks.

6. La Quinta

La Quinta is located directly east of Indian Wells and is famous for the historic La Quinta Resort & Club, which is celebrating its massive 100th anniversary in 2026. This iconic property was the original desert hideaway for Hollywood stars like Greta Garbo and Clark Gable in the 1920s. To celebrate the centennial, the resort is hosting special events throughout the year, including retrospective historical tours and themed dining experiences. Even if you are not a guest, I highly recommend stopping by for a cocktail at Morgan’s in the Desert, which perfectly evokes the glamour of old Hollywood.

While the city is a world-renowned golf destination with over 25 courses—including the famous PGA West Stadium Course, which hosts The American Express PGA Tour event every January—it also has a charming and walkable center known as Old Town La Quinta. This open-air, Spanish-style village is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and great local restaurants.

Top Highlights in La Quinta:

  • Old Town Farmers’ Market: Every Sunday morning (October through May), Main Street in Old Town hosts a premier certified farmers’ market. It is the best place in the valley to find local dates, fresh flowers, and artisan breads.
  • The Grill on Main: This is my go-to for high-quality American fare. Their Prime Rib French Dip and Coachella Salad (featuring local dates and goat cheese) are excellent. It also features a great dog-friendly patio.
  • Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant: A mandatory stop for any golf fan. The restaurant serves as a museum for the legend’s memorabilia and offers one of the best patios for live entertainment and “The King’s” favorite dishes, like the porterhouse steak.
  • La Quinta Brewing Co.: Visit the Old Town Taproom & Grill to sample the Poolside Blonde or Even Keel IPA. It is a lively spot with a full food menu and a great local crowd.
  • La Quinta Art Celebration: Held at the Civic Center Campus, this is consistently ranked as the #1 fine art festival in the United States.
  • Hiking the La Quinta Cove: At the top of the Cove, you will find a network of trails ranging from easy walks to the challenging Boo Hoo Slump. The Bear Creek Oasis trail is a beautiful four-mile round trip that leads to a hidden grove of palms.

7. Desert Hot Springs

Located on the north side of I-10, about 12 miles north of Downtown Palm Springs, the laid-back city of Desert Hot Springs is world-renowned for its natural hot and cold mineral springs. The water is odorless and remarkably clear, piped directly from two underground aquifers into the pools and spas of local boutique hotels. The primary reason to stay here is for a wellness-focused retreat. Azure Palm Hot Springs and The Spring Resort & Spa are two of the best spots for a restorative soak. Azure Palm recently added a Himalayan Salt Room and a Desert Ice Room, though keep in mind these specific amenities are strictly reserved for overnight guests.

While the city is a quiet alternative to the busier valley towns, the dining and local scene is gaining momentum. A new Certified Farmers Market recently launched at 66120 Pierson Blvd (on The BLVD), typically running every other Sunday morning through April to coincide with local community events. For sightseeing, the main attraction is Cabot’s Pueblo Museum. This whimsical, four-story structure was built by hand by Cabot Yerxa using reclaimed materials and found objects. It serves as a fascinating monument to desert homesteading and offers guided tours Tuesday through Friday (9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM), as well as self-guided audio tours that are excellent for exploring at your own pace.

8. Indio

Located at the eastern end of the valley, Indio is known as the “Festival Capital of the World.” It is most famous for hosting the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and the Stagecoach Festival at the Empire Polo Club. If you plan to visit during these weeks, you must book your accommodations at least nine months in advance, as hotels across the entire valley sell out and prices triple. Even if you aren’t a festival-goer, the Empire Polo Club is worth a visit during the winter season (January to March) for Sunday polo matches, which are surprisingly accessible and a great way to spend a desert afternoon.

Beyond the big-name music events, Indio maintains a deep agricultural heritage centered on its date groves. Shields Date Garden is a local landmark that has been operating since 1924 and is celebrating its 100th anniversary through 2026. It is mandatory to try a Date Shake here and watch the quirky 15-minute film, The Romance and Sex Life of the Date, which has played in their small theater for decades. For authentic food, TKB Bakery & Deli (frequently ranked as the #1 restaurant in the country on Yelp) is essential for a massive “Trump Card” or “Sexy Panini” sandwich. If you are here in early December, the Indio International Tamale Festival is one of the best food events in California, featuring a “Tamale Trail” and live Lucha Libre wrestling.

Airbnbs in Palm Springs

Airbnb Homes in downtown Palm Springs

An Airbnb house we rented in Palm Springs.

I’m not very familiar with Airbnb rentals in the Palm Springs area. For most visitors, I think a hotel is the better choice. But I can vouch for this house (pictured above), walking distance from downtown Palm Springs.