Rising from the Sonoran Desert like an oasis of midcentury modernism, Palm Springs has completely transformed itself over the decades. The onetime Hollywood playground is now a year-round destination featuring a unique blend of architectural heritage, desert beauty, and culinary sophistication.
The city's rich history is evident at every turn, from the iconic Palm Springs Visitor Center to the playful "Forever Marilyn" statue that towers 26 feet above downtown, paying homage to the city's golden age of Hollywood glamour. While the destination has evolved far beyond its roots as a celebrity hideaway, Palm Springs retains its singular character as a place where desert adventures and poolside cocktails coexist in the sort of harmony the Rat Pack could only dream about.
Take a Morning Ride on the Aerial Tramway
Begin your Palm Springs exploits with an early morning ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world's largest rotating tram car. As you ascend 8,516 feet through five distinct climate zones, the desert floor recedes beneath you, replaced by the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. At the Mountain Station, crisp alpine air and spectacular views await.
Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to explore one of the park's shorter hiking trails—the Desert View Trail offers a manageable 1.5-mile loop with panoramic vistas of the Coachella Valley below. For the truly fit, the 12-mile round-trip hike to San Jacinto Peak presents one of Southern California's most rewarding summit experiences.
Grab Breakfast at a Top Palm Springs Spot
Post-hike, descend back to the desert floor and head to Farm for a well-earned breakfast. The French countryside–inspired restaurant transports diners to Provence with its intimate garden setting and farm-to-table cuisine. The house-made pastries and locally famous eggs Benedict make it worth the wait for a table. If Farm is fully booked, Cheeky's offers an excellent alternative thanks to its weekly changing menu and “world-famous bacon flight.”
Tour Midcentury Icons
No visit to Palm Springs is complete without diving into the architectural scene. Join the Palm Springs Mod Squad for an intimate tour of the city's most significant midcentury landmarks. Led by architectural historian Kurt Cyr, these tours offer unprecedented access to private homes and insights into the desert modernism movement.
The highlight? A stop at Cyr's own painstakingly preserved midcentury home, where vintage furnishings and period-perfect details showcase the movement's enduring appeal. Architecture enthusiasts should also consider visiting during February's Modernism Week, when many private properties open their doors to the public.
Experience Native Culture at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
Shift your focus to the area's indigenous heritage at the newly opened Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. This state-of-the-art facility offers compelling exhibits on the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' history, culture, and ongoing connection to the desert landscape. Interactive displays and numerous artifacts provide insight into the tribe’s traditional lifestyle and their ongoing presence in the region.
Following your cultural exploration, walk next door to indulge in some desert-inspired renewal at The Spa at Séc-he, where the tribe’s ancient healing traditions meet modern wellness practices. The spa's thermal mineral pool, fed by the sacred Agua Caliente Hot Spring, offers a unique opportunity to experience the same waters that have drawn people to this oasis for thousands of years. Book the Blue Sage Botanical Mud Wrap for an authentic local experience, then spend time lounging by the serene adults-only pool.
The Greater Palm Springs region is no stranger to spa services, of course, and you can find similarly rejuvenating treatments at Parker Palm Springs, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, and elsewhere.
Check Into Boutique Luxury
As the desert sun begins to soften, check into the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs, a Spanish-style hideaway that recalls Palm Springs' golden age. The property's pristine white buildings and manicured gardens create an atmosphere of secluded luxury, and the three pools provide ample opportunities for a cooling plunge. In a truly special perk, the Avalon also houses Melvyn’s, a throwback lounge that features sturdy drinks, an eclectic menu, and live music seven nights a week.
If you prefer a different lodging vibe, consider the ultra-private L'Horizon Resort and Spa, the youthful and exuberant Ace Hotel Palm Springs, or the campy Trixie Motel.
Savor Modern Mexican Cuisine at Tac/Quila
Cap off your perfect day with dinner at Tac/Quila, where traditional Mexican cuisine gets a contemporary upgrade in a stylish setting. The restaurant's innovative takes on street tacos and hand-crafted margaritas have made it a local favorite. To ratchet up your experience, request a table on the climate-controlled patio and try the Chiles en Nogada, a seasonal specialty featuring stuffed poblanos.
End the Night Under the Stars
After dinner, take advantage of Palm Springs' dark desert skies for some impromptu stargazing—ideally back at your hotel patio with a brandy snifter within reach. As you seek out and spot the Big Dipper and Orion’s Belt, you may find yourself reconsidering your decision to spend just one day in this alluring city. Don’t be surprised if you elect to extend your stay.