Palm Springs, California is a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern charm, Hollywood history, and laid-back resort atmosphere. Its downtown section offers activities that combine history, culture, shopping, and entertainment.
My sister and I were given a gift from my daughter of two nights in Palm Springs, a popular side trip if you live near or in Los Angeles. She came from Quartzite, Arizona and I came from Sherman Oaks. The distance between both locations and Palm Springs was two hours and 7 minutes.
Palm Springs is more built up than when I was there last. (about 10 years ago) It’s grown with over $3 billion invested in commercial developments, airport expansion, and cultural projects.
We stayed at the new Thompson Palm Springs Hotel (414 Palm Canyon Dr.) which features 168 bungalow-inspired guest rooms and suites, two rooftop pools, coming soon retail stores, and restaurants. It was gorgeous and the staff was super friendly.
Our only complaint was that the self-parking, behind the hotel, was not finished and did not lead to the hotel, which was a little confusing. I’m sure it will be worked out as parts of the complex are still under construction but not noisy or annoying.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Thompson Palm Springs. It has almost a spa feel in architecture and is very comfortable.
In the evening, we had cocktails on the roof, soaked in the hot tub, and were treated to a thrilling SpaceX rocket launch.
Strolling onPalm Canyon Drive
During our two-night stay, we did a lot of walking on Palm Canyon Drive which is the main drag in town. It features boutiques, world-class restaurants, bars, art galleries, historic buildings, and tourist shops. Statues of Marilyn Monroe can be found in various locations.
“Forever Marilyn” off Palm Canyon Drive, is a 26-foot-tall sculpture of Marilyn Monroe in her iconic white dress pose.
Surrounding Forever Marilyn is an art walk with statues, graffiti, and a pickleball court.
Be inspired at the Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum (101 Museum Dr.) is a quick walk from Palm Canyon Drive past “Forever Marilyn” at the end of Museum Dr. We missed it this time as the museum is open Thursday – Monday. It houses an impressive collection of contemporary and Native American art and desert-inspired sculptures.
If you love architectural design visit the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, (300 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262) located in a mid-century bank building.
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum (140 N. Indian Canyon Dr.) was open so we went there to view its exhibition. It is a new addition to downtown Palm Springs next to the Agua Caliente Casino. The museum celebrates the history and culture of the Agua Caliente and Cahuilla people from that region.
The Spa at Séc-he is at the Cultural Center. It is a sacred mineral hot springs that now offers spa services. Rainwater and melted snow collected underground over 12,000 years ago and became a critical resource for the Agua Caliente people. Séc-he is the Cahuilla translation for Palm Springs.
Step back in time at Palm Springs historical landmarks
The Plaza Theatre (128 S. Palm Canyon Dr) was built in 1936 and has hosted legends such as Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. It was originally a movie house. Restoration efforts are underway to bring back its former glory.
Welwood Murray Memorial Library (100 S. Palm Canyon Dr.) is a 1941 Spanish Colonial Revival building that houses the Palm Springs Historical Society.
Del Marcos Hotel is a mid-century style establishment (1947) built by Architect William Cody. It is a classic example of retro post-WWII design.
The McCallum Adobe (221 S. Palm Canyon Drive) was built in 1884 and was the home of the first white settler. It is the oldest building standing in Palm Springs.
If you love mid-century design, you can take an architectural self-guided tour of some of the homes owned by celebrities and other notables. It is called Desert Modernism.
Some of the oldest restaurants in Palm Springs that were frequented by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Presley, Liberace, and others include Melvyns (1975), Original Las Casuelas (1958), Purple Room Supper Club (1960s), Sherman’s Deli (1963), Le Vallauris (1974), and Johnny Costa’s (1976), and The Colony Club at The Colony Palms Hotel (1936).
Walk the Palm Springs Walk of Stars
Palm Springs Walk of the Stars, has plaques on the sidewalk dedicated to Palm Springs celebrities, civic leaders, and pioneers who have helped make the city what it is today. It is not as extensive as the Hollywood Walk of Fame but fun.
Restaurants we savored:
My sister and I met at Sherman’s Deli & Bakery (401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way) when we got into town. It is a classic New York-style eatery known for its massive sandwiches and famous desserts. The deli opened in 1963 and is a beloved landmark in Palm Springs. I devoured a bowl of incredible chicken noodle soup and a half-corn beef sandwich! It was divine!
Later that evening, we dined at Lola Rose, a lovely Mediterranean restaurant at the Thompson Palm Springs Hotel. I recommend the roasted Octopus.
The next day we had breakfast at Farm (6 LA Plaza) a farm-to-table restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can walk in for breakfast and lunch but must have a reservation for dinner. I had a fabulous mushroom crepe with a bowl of mushroom soup. As we were in Palm Springs for R & R, we downed our breakfast with an incredible Bloody Mary.
That evening we dined at Tac/Quila (415 Palm Canyon Dr.) which shares the same owners as Farm. I enjoyed delicious carnitas tacos with a craft mescal drink. The restaurant has earned several Michelin stars.
Breakfast on our last day was at Grand Central (160 La Plaza) where we had to-die-for chunky avocado toast with heirloom tomatoes, goat cheese, and walnut pesto.
Things to do outside of downtown Palm Springs
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is technically outside of downtown but is a popular attraction. It is the world’s largest rotating tram car which will take you from the desert floor to the cooler heights of Mount San Jacinto State Park with stunning views along the way.
Once on top, you can go hiking, sip a cocktail at the lodge, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Sadly, our time in Palm Springs ended way too soon. But I will gladly go back anytime.
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