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Palm Springs After Dark: Five Amazing Stops

While Palm Springs may be best known for its sunny skies and daytime activities — such as hikes and walks, bike rides, shopping sprees, and leisurely swims in gorgeous pools —its nightlife is just as abundant and enticing. There are many fabulous bars and nightclubs open until the wee hours, but here are five ideas for your nighttime excursions — from the inspiring and romantic to the hopping and rocking.  These are all classic Palm Springs experiences.

The Purple Room Supper Club is one of my favorite spots for both stellar entertainment and delicious food and drinks. Located in the Trinidad Hotel, the Purple Room will carry you back to the rat pack era of the sixties, when celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Junior crooned on its stage.  There are live shows every night (except Mondays) and all the ones I’ve seen have been wonderful.  On Sundays, owner Michael Holmes presents the Judy Show, a wildly popular parody of Judy Garland’s television show. Other nights feature a variety of talented performers. You can enjoy the shows while savoring classic supper club fare (shrimp cocktails, prime rib, etc.) and specialty cocktails that are reminiscent of days gone by.

Seymour’s is an iconic speakeasy secretly hidden within Mr. Lyon’s, a popular upscale steak house. The secret entrance and dimly lit ambiance harken back to Prohibition days when patrons could sneak in to enjoy illicit alcoholic beverages in an intimate setting. This clandestine bar serves original craft cocktails as well as classic Prohibition-era cocktails, such as my favorite, the Last Word, made with gin, Green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. Vintage film clips above the bar add to the feel of days gone-by. This is the perfect place to wind down after a night on the town in Palm Springs. I’ve met the most interesting people at Seymour’s and the bartenders are personable and full of entertaining stories.

The Casablanca Lounge at Melvyn’s, adjacent to the charming Ingleside inn, is another special place where you can immerse yourself in the Hollywood glamour of the fifties and sixties. After a classic dinner at Melvyn’s, where tableside cooking is featured, you can adjourn to the lounge for an after-dinner drink, a lively piano bar, and perhaps a little dancing. You can just imagine Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe sipping martinis at this favorite getaway from the hubbub of Hollywood.

Moxie’s on Sunday nights is the place to go for a rocking, hip drag show called Foxie at Moxie — widely celebrated as one of the best drag shows in Southern California (also featured during a Sunday brunch). The rotating, talented cast of gorgeous, talented queens will entertain you while you sip on craft cocktails and nibble on delicious appetizers.  There is also live music and dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. The casual rooftop bar is a great place to relax and soak up the midnight skies. For a memorable, authentic Palm Springs experience you can’t miss Moxie’s.

Toucan’s Tiki Lounge is another swinging nightclub where something is hopping every night of the week. This trendy spot features Palm Springs’ longest continuing drag show, Tomi Rose and the Playgirls. Each night has a different theme, such as Latin Fever, Jungle Boogie and Pop Diva Karakoke, and, if you’re lucky, the “Go Go Boys” dancers may make an appearance. The drink specials are creative and fun.

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Fall For Palm Springs This October

Two martini glasses on a table in front of a fireplace outside at the Hacienda at Warm Sands

It’s the eve of what we call “season” here in Palm Springs, and while the usual suspects remain strong contenders for your enjoyment here, there are enough events to fill up everyone’s travel diary. 

It’s a LOT, so I’m keeping this short. And a reminder, if you’re coming to Palm Springs, please consider one of our boutique hotels. That’s where you’ll find authentic Palm Springs digs and hospitality. 

The usual suspects

Palm Springs Historical Society Walking & Biking Tours — OMG I want to do all of them! Even better than last year.

Crystal Fantasy — Reiki Circles first Saturday of the month, and Psychic Healing Art Fairs every weekend. If you’re a fan of spirituality, book your weekend at Korakia Pensione. 

PS Underground — Expect the unexpected here. Creativity and skill abound, from the original show concepts down to the delectable food from Chef Dave (he has his own cooking show!). They are always themed, and often will encourage you to dress in the era of the concept. There’s nothing like it anywhere else.

The Purple Room — Ticketed Shows, Weeknight Shows. Stay through Monday so you can see The Judy Show on Sunday evenings. So good!

Revolution Stage Company — Special Events, 2024/25 Season. The Company garnered over 60 Desert Theater League Award nominations in their first year. So much going on it might make your head spin. 

The Bent — With the shuttering of Desert Rose Theatre, The Bent is the only remaining gay theatre company in Palm Springs. That does not mean other theatre companies don’t have shows that speak to the gay experience. They all do. But Terry Ray and Steve Rosenblum do a great job with their content.

PS Cultural Center — This is the former home of Camelot Theaters, the first cineplex in the Coachella Valley. Built in the mid-to-late 1960s, the screens are still utilized, but they’re an all-around entertainment center. Film festivals, film series, live happy hour entertainment on weekdays, and a full bar. Snacks from Mildred’s Cafe. Old time movie fans will get that reference.

V Wine Lounge — This is one of my favorite places to hang out. Martinis, wine, and tasty mocktails while you listen to the songbirds of the desert. Wednesday is Karaoke!

Drift Hotel — One of the bigger small hotels, Drift has their own restaurant and hosts a few events. I’d call the decor mid-century zen.

Tequila Tuesdays are still happening at Zin, with 25% off tequila drinks from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. That link gets you to the restaurant website. Be tempted by their delicious food as well. Great for people watching.

Desert Tasty Tours is back for the season. A couple of cocktails, delicious food from different vendors, a date shake, sweets that will blow your mind, and award-winning pizza. It’s a walking tour and the guides will give you some local history. Delicious and fun! Lots of photo ops. 

Save the date

Oct. 2: Art Walk at Backstreet Art District

Oct. 3-6: The Desert Jazz Festival — I don’t often post about events outside of the P.S. ZIP codes, but I’m a sucker for jazz. If you are too, it’s a great evening about 30 minutes away from your small hotel. 

Oct. 4: Desert Ensemble Theatre — Singing with the Desert Stars. One night competition. Another terrific theatre company with original and off-the-beaten-path published works. 

Oct. 5: Rock the City Concert Series starts off with Palm Springs’ favorite The Dreamboats. If you haven’t seen them, now’s your chance to fall in love for free. 

Oct. 5, 12, and 19: Night Swim at Palm Springs Surf Club — Starting at 6 p.m., after regular park hours, and continuing until 10. Party at the Surf Club’s iconic Island Pool and Lazy River and enjoy drinks from the adjacent Island Ba and entertainment from a rotating cast of DJs. Dine casually or in style at Amala Restaurant, which will remain open for service until 9 p.m.

Oct. 6: Palm Springs Vintage Market — It moved! New address is 365 Calle Encilia. Only held once a month, and if you’re in town, GO!! It’s a really fun few hours and people deck out. It’s very Palm Springs. 

Oct. 10-12: Nvision Latino Film and Music Festival at the Palm Springs Art Museum. You have the opportunity to purchase single tickets or passes here.

Oct. 13: An Evening of Liberace — Presented by Amy’s Purpose (pet safety), Casa Monte Vista opens its doors for an evening to benefit the org and a chance to see where Inside the Candelabra was filmed.  

Oct. 16: Wine & Dine Around The World — Any time there is an event at the Palm Springs Air Museum I wish I was there. It’s a wonderful outdoor/indoor experience. This one says the dress is desert casual, and supports several local non-profits. So you get to have fun and feel good about it too!

Oct. 19: Tram Road Challenge — If you’re a runner, you probably already know about this. Also, if you are trying to avoid me, you can rest assured you will never run into me at this event. 

Oct. 24-27: Modernism Week: October. For places to stay authentically for this mid-mod fest, check this out.

Vroom vroom

Oct. 5: Palm Springs Car Show and Festival — You can’t miss it, it’s all over downtown Palm Springs. It’ll be a great weekend because everything is right there, within walking distance of your boutique hotel, so all you have to do is stroll along the charming streets until you find your first car/event. You know where to go for some of your fabulous options. (But if you’re new – hi! — go here.)

Oct. 11-13: Casual Concours Car Show — From the website: “Last year brought out 160 cars from the 1920s through early 2000s. Where else are you going to view nine decades of vehicles? Members are very excited that yet another year we are at the beautiful Indian Canyons Golf Resort. We expect a great number of cars and attendees.”

Oct. 27: BMW Experience Oktoberfest — This is a day trip to Thermal, and if you go to that link scroll way way down and you’ll see how to get tickets. Here’s the description: “Some driving fun and delicious food. Bring your friends and have a thrilling time on track with the Rat Race, Drag Race, Timed Autocross, Lead/Follow and Hot Laps. Dinner is included. Spectators can enjoy our take on the traditional Oktoberfest dinner trackside, with German beer and wine, big pretzels, schnitzel, and much more. Come celebrate a classic and festive German tradition with a side dish of speed.”

Pride

Oct. 5: Pride in the Pines — Get ready for Palm Springs Pride in the gorgeous setting of Idyllwild. There’s even a bus you can take to get there from Palm Springs!

Oct. 31 – Nov. 3: Palm Springs Pride — The best party in Palm Springs. All the flags are flying. So many great events, culminating (officially) with the Pride Parade. Need a place to stay? We’ve got you covered. 

Halloween

Spend the day at the best party around pre-Pride at Halloween on Arenas. Thelma Houston is headlining! 

Thelma, I am absolutely going to leave you this way, but a little songbird told me you will survive!

Be well, have fun, and I’ll meet you back here next month.

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May Events: Let’s Get This Party Started!

We’re in the Orange! We got off to a great start in April with a toe-in-the-water, scaled-down, sold-out Modernism Week, and in May you can wade into Palm Springs well above your knees.

Mornings bring bright-blue, sunny skies, a back-drop for our majestic mountains, with crisp to perfection temperatures. When the sun drops behind the mountains, millions of stars light up the night and you’ll be falling into the cool, cool, cool of the evening when it’s time to hit the town.

So, let’s jump right into all of the wonderful and crazy fun options available to make this one of the most memorable times in your life.

Quick note: *means I have been here and it was fabulous!

Ongoing Events

Fridays and Saturdays: Illusions Drag Queen Show, Pete’s Hideaway – Located just behind Pete’s Hideaway in Wendy’s Hideout. But make sure to have cocktails and a nosh at Pete’s, too. The bar they’ve branded as “the Cheers of Palm Springs” has a new chef!

Saturdays: Saturday Night Flight at PS Air Bar “Boarding time” is 5:00 p.m. Located inside Bouschet is the kitschy PS Air that gives you Mad Men on a plane feels. The three-hour “flight” is described as “​Great Music, Fine Food, Classy Cocktails, First Class Service, Naughty Stewardess”

Naughty Stewardess at PS Air

*V Wine Lounge – all dressed up in 1960s kitsch, this terrific, large wine bar offers unusual wines for you to try. They also have a rental space for private parties. There’s a huge patio, too, as well as live music Monday and Saturday evenings.

Saturdays: Not Your Grandma’s Bingo at Chill Bar from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. The name says it all.

*Sundays: Palm Springs Drag Brunch, Roly China Fusion. Located on the North End of Palm Springs. It’s dim sum and it’s delicious. They accommodate vegans, too. And the show is outstanding. Rosemary Galore and her queens work hard for the money!

Me and the drag queens at Roly

Oscar’s: Home of the Sunday “T” dance, the most raucous dance party in PS (which is on hiatus because…pandemic), also has some fun shows:

5/1 Sherry Vine, 5/1/2021 5:30-9:00 p.m.

5/6 Open mic event with former American Idol vocal coach, Michael Orland every 4th Thursday @ 5:00pm.

5/28 & 29 Tiffany Takes Over 7:00 p.m. “Sharing her ‘rocktails, favorite food, and doing an acoustic set.”

Sundays: 11:00 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Bitchiest Brunch that is, as they put it, “Serving Attitude”

Check out Wang’s in the Desert for the Ladies: Hunk-O-Mania Friday’s & Saturdays. Ticketed event starts at 10:00 p.m.

*PS Underground – outstanding, themed dinner shows with some of the best talent PS has to offer. Their unique take on entertainment and their gourmet food is more than worth the price of the ticket. Multiple events during May.

Being “Atmosphere” behind the scenes at PS Underground’s A Night at The Chi Chi

 

*Wednesdays thru Sunday: Melvyn’s Ingleside Inn’s Casablanca Lounge is back! From 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. the iconic lounge is where all the celebrities go to sing with resident maestro Mikael Healey. You gotta play dress up, but how fun is that! For rezzies: 760-325-2323

*Sundays: Jazz fans should definitely carve out 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Palm Canyon Roadhouse. Band leader and solid jazz player Mikale Karr leads the pro jazz jam featuring the best of the best at this unlikely R&R venue.

*5/2 Vintage Market 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of every month. It’s a great walk-about, surrounded by all things vintage.

One-Time and Pop-Up Events

5/14: Green Dragon Dispensary – 353 S. Palm Canyon, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

All born out of the pandemic, up-and-comers PerfectPint760, SmokeyLips BBQ, and The Best Cookie PS have teamed up with Green Dragon to offer a cure for the inevitable munchies. Grab some deliciousness after you shop, and take it home for later.

Perfect Pint760, BBQ Lips & Best Cookie in PS @ Green Dragon Dispensary courtesy of Perfect Pint760

 

Also if you go to any of our hotels or enjoy our recommendations, please be sure to tag us with your photos on IG, or @palmspringspreferredsmallhotel (yeah, it’s a lot to type, but we appreciate it!)  #PSPSH

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December and January Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels LGBTQ Events

PS Gay Men's Chorus - Modern Family Holiday

It’s holiday season here in Palm Springs and the town is buzzing with activity and fun events. Schedule a getaway and get in some room-side pool time and holiday shopping while you’re in town checking out these don’t miss LGBTQ events in Palm Springs:

Holiday Dinner Show: Judy’s Old-Fashioned Christmas  12/1/19 – 12/29/19

At Michael Holmes’ Purple Room, this special holiday show is a blend of hysterical comedy and outstanding music that explodes into an evening of nonstop belly laughs, glamour and high camp, as celebrated entertainer Michael Holmes parodies Judy Garland, who in her 1964 television variety show, played host to some of the greatest female icons of the Golden Age of Hollywood. The spirit of Judy Garland is alive and well and in Palm Springs! Find out more here.

Judy's Old Fashioned Christmas

 

Sanctuary’s Holiday Spectacular  12/8/19

‘Tis the season to support the fourth Annual Holiday Spectacular – Holiday Socks, benefiting the Sanctuary Palm Springs. On Sunday, December 8 from 5 to 7:30pm, at the iconic Spencer’s Restaurant, this fun-filled cocktail reception, smashing hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, not-so-silent auction and a rousing live auction benefits LGBTQ+ youth who are aging out of the foster system. Hear a grand performance from Broadway veteran David Burnham; celebrity emcee – comedian, actor and adoptive parent and star of Desperate Housewives Alec Mapa; and Dottie and Maude (aka Les Dames du Soleil) will add flair to the auctions. Limited tickets available. Find our more here.

Sanctuary's Holiday Spectacular

The Skivvies – I Touch My Elf  12/13/19 & 12/14/19

For two nights at The Purple Room, enjoy dinner and a show: “Alt-cabaret, new burlesque: Whatever you call it, the jolly musical comedy of the Skivvies, a troupe of entertainers who perform in their underwear, joyfully rock.” – New York Times. Acclaimed undie-rock stars, THE SKIVVIES, head to the entertainment capital of the world for “PALM SPRINGS STRIPPED”! Special guests to be announced. Presented by The Purple Room in association with Chris Isaacson Presents. Enjoy dinner at 6pm and a show at 8pm. Find out more here.

The Skivvies - I Touch My Elf

Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus “A Modern Family Holiday” at The Annenberg Theater  12/20/19 – 12/22/19

“A Modern Family Holiday” will be a showcase of traditional favorites along with new music from some of today’s most talented composers and lyricists. The theme of the evening is all about embracing our new modern families. Ticket prices range from $25 – $55. Shows at 7pm on Friday and Saturday and 3pm on Sunday. Find out more here.

PS Gay Men's Chorus - Modern Family Holiday

31st Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival – Gay!La (Date TBA)      1/1/20 – 1/13/20

The famous Palm Springs International Film Festival is one of the largest film festivals in North America, welcoming over 135,000 attendees each year for its lineup of new and celebrated international features and documentaries. The Festival is also known for its annual Gay!La event, honoring the LGBTQ community and film industry. This event is an annual highlight during the Palm Springs International Film Festival. With lots of great music and lots of great fun, you won’t want to miss this evening’s vibrant event. The full festival offers 12 days of events and film screenings featuring over 200 films from 60+ countries. We welcome you to join us at our venues in Palm Springs and Cathedral City. See you at the movies! Find out more here.

Palm Springs International Film Festival - Gay!La

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Things We Don’t Do In The Shadows: October In Palm Springs

Did you know that the Latin root for October is “octo” which means … yep, eight. So, why is it the 10th month? Who cares, let’s get going on what’s happening in Palm Springs this month!

Ya Get One Chance This Year, And This Is It

Oct. 6-8: Power Trip featuring Metallica, Iron Maiden, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, AC/DC, and Judas Priest. The festival is being described as the “sequel to Desert Trip.” Ozzy Osbourne was scheduled to perform on Oct. 7, but canceled his appearance less than three months prior to the event due to ongoing health issues.

Oct. 13: Wine & Dine Around The World. Yes, it’s a fundraiser, however Wine & Dine Around the World is a wine-tasting event featuring hundreds of wines from multiple countries, paired with regional hors d’oeuvres. The culmination of “Wine Down Wednesday,” general admission for the event is 6 to 9 p.m.; VIP has early entry at 5 p.m. with an after party ’til 11 p.m. A portion of the proceeds benefits your choice of one charity per ticket. The dress code is desert casual.

Oct. 15: Alohana at Palm Springs Cultural Center. All things tiki — market, movies, and mai tais.

Oct. 19-22: Modernism Week October. 50+ events. See article posted here.

Sunnylands tours. These are part of Modernism Week, but I’m putting them here because if you’re gonna spend some $$ on something, think about a Sunnylands tour.

Oct. 28-29: Taste of On The Mark Fall 2023. A variety of delicious foods and drinks from our favorite vendors — savory to sweet, and everything in between. 111 N. Palm Canyon Drive (at On The Mark). $70-95

Oct. 29: Halloween is such a big deal in Palm Springs it has its own website. From 4 to 9 p.m., if you’re into Halloween, it should be on your bucket list. It’s a scare with flare.

Recurring

A man hikes on a mountain in Palm Springs

There are trails everywhere to explore in Palm Springs. Courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Hiking with T. If you’re an enthusiast, she has the scoop about what’s going on with all the hiking trails.

Mid-Century Moderns, last year’s hit show, will be playing at a brand new theater, The Revolution Stage Company. Besides it being a fun and funny jukebox musical, the theater itself has a full bar, 128 gorgeous blue cushioned theater seats, and an ice cream bar!

Sunday Tea N’ Shade with Sabryna Williams and the Luchettes. “Prepare to sashay into the most fabulous Sunday afternoon experience in Palm Springs!” Every Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Boozehounds dining room, Sabryna Williams and The Lunchettes will host a drag lunch extravaganza, with two guest queens joining in on the fun every week. If that’s not enough, know this: you can order bottomless drinks!

Desert Tasty Tours. There are six restaurants on this terrific tour of Palm Springs that touches on all things iconic along downtown’s three most buzzy blocks. There’s a little booze, a lot of food, and some fun facts to take home with you.

MOGO Silent Disco is back! All you need to know is in their motto: “Shut up and dance!” I’m definitely going this year.

Jazzville. Always a great time with an eclectic mix of music from around the world.

PS Underground. Truly an experience to remember. The food, the entertainment, and the sheer creativity in the heads of Producer Michael and Chef Dave is nothing short of astounding.

The Purple Room. A classic Palm Springs experience, the ambiance at the Purple Room is Rat Pack heaven. During the week you can expect to be entertained by some of Palm Springs’ finest performers and musicians, and the ticketed shows on the weekend are worth way more than the price of admission. The food and drinks are also superb. And lordamercy book a ticket for The Judy Show and do it well in advance. What a show!

VIP Lounge at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Formerly known as “Come On Up,” they’ve got the same terrific acts as they had when it was Come On Up and some new things too!

Reforma. Modeled after a supper club, guests enjoy their dinner in a dramatic environment. After dinner, the space is transformed into a large dance floor with a state-of-the-art sound system and light show. A private lounge and bar offer additional environments to have a meal or late-night bites with a unique craft cocktail. Entertainment will include DJs and live performances. (They had very cool drag show themes this past summer, but that seems to have fallen off the schedule. Hope it’s back soon because a Taylor Swift Drag Brunch? Yes please.)

Three In The Pink. Drag show at Trixie Motel. This is brand new.

New Restaurant/Bar Alert

A row of chairs lined up at the bar at Maleza in Drift Palm Springs

Share a toast with friends at the Maleza bar. Photo courtesy of Drift Palm Springs

Maleza — In the new Drift hotel. That hotel has got it going on!

Sol Agave — I’m seeing rustic yet fancy Mexican. Looks divine.

Mickey’s Mexican Cuisine — Located in Shamrock’s Irish Pub.

Low Desert — In the Smoke Tree Village shopping center. Not far from downtown, and if you’re staying in one of our boutique hotels on the south end, you can probably walk.

Impala Bar and Grill — Next to Reforma, it’s more of a bar that serves Mexican fare, but it’s cool.

Zadie Cafe — Not named after one of my local heroes, Zadie Bunker, the flying grandma. But it is actually the Yiddish word for grandma.

Cafe Mon Amour — I hear it’s very French. They don’t have a website. Make your own joke.

The Evening Citizen — Easily the most fun website entrance; click on “subscribe” to get it. I also can’t tell you where it is. You’ll have to make a reservation at the 30-seat bar to find out. I have a hunch it is on or near Arenas, as it seems to be owned by the former head bartender from Blackbook.

Coming soon: Play Lounge with games, a bar, and food. I hear they’re going to have a pool table too!  

November Alerts

Participants in a Pride parade in Palm Springs

Pride is right around the corner. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Nov. 3-5 is Pride! 

Starting Nov. 8, Cabaret6: Desert Stars will take place every Wednesday for six weeks at the Revolution Stage. Full bar and ice cream station. All of Palm Springs’ favorite performers — Keisha D., Francesca Amari, Tod Macofsky, Brian Scott, and Rose Mallett — will be doing shows they’ve performed in the bigger cities and rarely in town.

And finally, from timeanddate.com: As we established earlier, the meaning of October comes from the Latin word octo meaning eight. The old Roman calendar started in March, so October was the eighth month. When the Roman senate changed the calendar in 153 BCE, the new year started in January, and October became the 10th month.

Which reminds me, the latest trend on TikTok is to ask a man how often he thinks about the Roman Empire and see what happens. Tell me about it when I see you.

Ciao!

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Independent Films. Independent Stays.

Alcazar’s salt water purified pool in the daytime

If you love the creative style of independent filmmakers, then staying at a small independently-owned hotel will fit right in with your ethos.  Every hotel is beautifully curated for an extraordinary experience. And if you’re heading to the 30th Palm Springs International Film Festival in January, at least two of our member small hotels are offering festival rates including Alcazar Palm Springs and Los Arboles Hotel.

Alcazar Palm Springs offers a great location that is close to both downtown and the arts district. Two fabulous restaurants, Cheeky’s and Birba are right on site.  Alcazar’s contemporary style has a distinctly hip European vibe.  It boasts imported Italian linens, flat screen TV’s, fireplaces, poolside and private patios, salt water purified pool, cooling misters, Jacuzzi and a beautiful garden courtyard in which to lounge. Festival Rate Code: PSFF

The Courtyard at Alcazar Palm Springs
The Courtyard at Alcazar Palm Springs

Charming and historic, href=”https://www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com/stay/los-arboles-hotel”>Los Arboles Hotel is home to the iconic, El Mirasol Mexican Restaurant and bar.  Family owned and operated, it features 21 well-appointed rooms, a heated pool, Jacuzzi, room service and is located walking distance from shopping, dining, and nightlife.  This is one of those places where delighted guests return year after year. Festival Rate Code: PSFF19 for 10% off.

The patio at Los Arboles Restaurant and Bar, Palm Springs

The patio at Los Arboles Restaurant and Bar, Palm Springs

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Relax! It’s June In Palm Springs

A man relaxes on a chaise lounge by the pool in Palm Springs, California, with a rubber duck float in the water

“Doing nothing is hard. You never know when you’re done.” — Steve Martin

Welcome to June in Palm Springs! The temps are hot, and the pools are cool, so it’s the perfect time for a rain-free vacation in the land of sun and stars. 

Days are spent lounging poolside, shopping for vintage, or enjoying a nosh at one of our local restaurants. If it’s particularly warm, and you can’t take the heat, you can spend a day up in the cool of Mount San Jacinto State Park (take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up). If you’re going to hike make sure to take water, follow the trail, bring a flashlight, and check for the time of sundown. No one likes to get stuck on the mountain, although it is interesting for locals watching your little lights trying to find their way down at night. 

Speaking of night, there’s still plenty of stuff to do, but make sure you spend a few moments gazing at the stars. We have low light pollution outside of the major streets, so there are lots and lots of bright twinkly stars to be seen in the night sky. 

Must-dos in Palm Springs this June

A woman pours dressing on her shrimp and crab Louis salad at Ingleside Inn in Palm Springs, California

Melvyn’s Restaurant at the Ingleside Estate is participating in Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week. Photo courtesy of Melvyn’s

June 1: PS Card Show convention offers all the collectibles in cards — sports, Pokémon, whatever else card collectors collect, I have no idea. I am trying to get rid of stuff. But you do you. No judgment. (Maybe a leeetle — just a skoosh!)

May 31-June 9: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week — pick a couple of places you’ve always wanted to go, and benefit from their discounted prices. Not everything on the menu will be available at this special rate, but you’ll get a good taste and a feel for the place.

June 7 and 8: Big Gay BBQ — June is Pride month for most cities who celebrate, but we have it in November. That doesn’t mean we can’t throw a party in June though. On Arenas.

June 11: Movies in the Park: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in the Downtown Park next to Marilyn. 

June 18-24: PSIFF presents ShortFest at the Palm Springs Regal Theaters. Short films from around the world. Check it out.

June 20: GameAcon West at the Palm Springs Convention Center. “Where fans unite for competition, cosplay, merchandise, parties, and more.” I hope they dress up and come out to play. I miss Let’s Make A Deal.

Crystal Fantasy Psychic/Healing Fair on Saturdays and Sundays. There’s usually at least two psychics/readers in different practices. Plus they’ve got crystals galore. Robert Downey Jr. has been a customer for over six years.

Historical Society private tours — group walking and biking tours are over for the summer, but you can still book a private tour. You bring the ride, they provide the guide. 

PS I Love You scavenger hunt at PS Art Museum — unleash your inner detective as you delve into the heart of Palm Springs. Engage with friendly locals, discover intriguing tales of history and culture and capture the essence of the city in photos, videos, and audio files.

Cascade Lounge in Agua Caliente Palm Springs. Check website for special events. Throw some money in a slot while you’re there, or save your dough and have dinner in their terrific steakhouse.

Agua Caliente Cultural Museum and Séc-he Spa

Get cultured

PS Underground — there’s nothing like it anywhere but Palm Springs: creative and themed live shows featuring some of Palm Springs’ finest entertainers, with delicious culinary delights sprung straight from the mind of Chef Dave. Great event space, too.

Revolution Stage Company — you should definitely book an evening or afternoon show here. There’s nothing like live entertainment, and Palm Springs is all entertainers and artists, so Revolution has a little bit of everything. Musicals, cabarets, comedy, piano riots, burlesque shows, and well, you just never know. Their homegrown productions have been fantastic so far, and next up is Baby the Musical running through June 9. 

Coming in from far away places:

June 15: Irene Tu, an L.A.-based stand-up comedian of Comedy Central and Netflix fame. 

June 27, 28, and 29: The Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy, a chilling cocktail experience lifting four of his stories off the page and onto the stage. Poe historians are pairing each tale of horror with four classic cocktails to set the mood. 

Palm Springs Cultural Center — film festivals and special events fill the Center during the summer. Located in the historic Camelot Theatre, they have the largest screen in the Coachella Valley.

June 14: Leanna and the Free Agents Space Odyssey, an immersive music experience

Wine, tequila, and tacos — what more do you need?

The Plush Cosmo in a martini glass

The Plush Cosmo at V Wine Lounge. Photo by Gregory Douglass

V Wine Lounge — Live music Monday through Friday (Karaoke on Wednesday)

Reforma Nightclub — it’s a nightclub and a restaurant. Check their schedule for DJs and music. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

Tequila Tuesday’s at Zin — 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., get 25% off tequila cocktails. (OT: I recently had their mussels in wine and frites. Thumbs up!)

Tuesdays at Maleza (in Drift Hotel) there’s live Latin music from 7 to 9 p.m.. Happy hour starts at 3 p.m.

Thursdays at Drift: 7 to 10 p.m. is Jueves de Drift. Tap into the Cabo spirit weekly with live DJs, $5 tacos a la plancha, $5 beer, $8 cocktails, and night swims.

Village Fest — Thursdays, 7 to 10 p.m., Tahquitz and Palm Canyon is a great place to start. Parking can be an issue, but not if you’re staying in one of our downtown boutique hotels! 

Wang’s in the Desert is back. In the Rat Pack era it was called Jilly’s (he was one of Frank’s guys). I just checked and they’re bringing back entertainment, and it looks like Keisha D will be headlining. She’s a terrific performer with an incredible voice, so have a meal and let one of our desert divas take you to church!

And last, the Twin Palms neighborhood has opened a mid-mod little free library on Navajo Road between La Jolla Road and Marion Way. The neighborhood is also sponsoring a $2,000 scholarship in architecture. 

And that’s it for June. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and please stay and shop local. It’s imperative in small towns, and if you’ve ever been here, you know ours is pretty special. 

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Desert X Brings Thought-Provoking Art Installations To The Coachella Valley

Art by Paloma Contreras Lomas on display at Desert X

You know your idea is successful when locals and visitors alike ask if Desert X is happening in the Coachella Valley again this year. With fanfare, we can proudly say the fourth Desert X is not only alive and well, it once again has produced some outstanding art installations definitely worth planning a weekend trip to check them out.

Many of our terrific Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels said their occupancy rate increased immediately after Desert X announced it was taking place March 4 through May 7, 2023. Our boutique hotels, with all their different vibes, are helping people find the perfect atmosphere to launch their journeys to discover the art installations.

What is Desert X? 

This biennial event is an exhibition of 10 art installations throughout our desert landscape. Through a juried process, international and local artists were selected from their portfolios and invited to participate. Desert X identified a theme for 2023 that focuses on how we design our environments and live, which may or may not serve our world well. With the theme in mind, the selection committee hosts the artists and takes them to locations across the Coachella Valley that are accessible to the public and suitable for art to be installed.

How do you find the art installations?  

Physical maps are available at the Ace Hotel. You can also download a map from the Desert X website. If you want to rely on your phones, here are the apps for Desert X for both iOS and Android.

Pro tip: From experience, I can tell you the GPS to these installations may not be totally accurate. Just keep an eye open; sometimes, the art is just on the opposite side of the road that GPS tells you.

Photo by Kathy Condon

What do I need to explore the area? 

Now that you have the map or app, you should know a couple more things. First, you will need a car to explore Desert X — the installations are too spread out for walking.

Even though it feels like 70 degrees is perfect for exploring, our desert sun can be deceiving.  Make sure you apply suntan lotion, take your sunglasses, wear a hat, and have plenty of water. Some of the artworks are located out in the open desert with nary a bit of shade to be found.

In fact, the best way to look at it is to prepare like you are going on a hike in the desert, and you will have all that you need. Oh, and wear closed-toe shoes. Trust me, you will be glad you did, for some paths are loose sand, filled with little spurs that find their way between your toes.

Pro tips: Desert X, upon request, will make reasonable accommodations to ensure people with disabilities have access to the art — email info@desertX.org with inquiries.

Also, take note: there are no restrooms available at the sites.

Desert X is a family event 

Each time Desert X is held, I marvel at the laughter of families who have chosen to explore this free event together. Teenagers seem to relish being the directors to the various locations, while the younger ones frolic on the grounds surrounding each piece of art.

If you have been meaning to come to Palm Springs with a group of friends, Desert X provides the perfect daytime activity. Then, you have the whole evening to enjoy some of our patio restaurants, which offer a variety of cuisines.

What will I see? 

That is the great thing about this exhibition. Every stop is different and is open to interpretation by the person viewing it. I was at the event’s opening and met some artists. Interestingly, most of them were reluctant to explain their art. They want you to experience and come up with your own interpretation.

My experience at an installation

With a friend and a map in hand, we decided to head out to see London artist Rana Begum’s “No. 1225 Chainlink” in Palm Desert. Once we found the site, we parked the car and headed down the pedestrian path to the enormous chainlink fence structure.

To our delight, Rana was onsite and being filmed, so we listened in on the interview. What struck me was that she said, “When you are walking through it, there is a sense of openness and then a sense of things closing in on you, and even a sense of panic for some.”

Rana Begum’s “No. 1225 Chainlink” art installation. Photo by Kathy Condon

I entered the maze, and as it narrowed, I ended up in the middle, where round metal poles allowed me to feel the openness of the space. Then the task of finding my way out was not that easy. Admittedly, I sense panic for a moment — just like the artist predicted. The panic was short-lived, and I was smiling as I walked out.

I stood back and marveled that while the structure was massive, the lemon-colored fencing was somehow at home in its spot. Since it is going to remain in place through May, I can see taking visitors to Palm Springs out to experience it.

Sunnylands hosts an installation  

Frankly, I never need an excuse to visit Sunnylands. Since one of the installations is there — “Amar A Dios En Tierra De Indios, Es Oficio Maternal,” by Mexican artist Paloma Contreras Lomas — we headed out to see it.

It was opening day, and I was once again blessed with the ability to meet the artist, perched on one of the many benches that grace the grounds of Sunnylands. The weather was beautiful, after a couple of rare rainy days in Palm Springs, and we discussed how her art contained several fragile touches and how they were created. 

Desert X certainly does not disappoint. With eight more installations to visit, I am fortunate to live in Palm Springs and able to take off whenever I want to see them. If you plan to visit, I suggest you head to the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website to make reservations for your accommodations. Word is spreading about this quality and often provocative art scattered throughout Coachella Valley, which adds the adventure of a scavenger hunt. Join in the fun and experience our lovely spring weather while taking in the beauty of our valley, surrounded by our majestic mountains.

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But It’s A Dry Heat: August Events In Palm Springs

Two colorful rafts float in the courtyard pool on a sunny day at The Wesley Palm Springs hotel

Well kids, it’s been hot, hot, hot. Still, a three-day bake is an absolute must for the sun lover in you. Every hotel in Palm Springs has a pool (as with other things, sizes vary), and many have continental breakfasts. You can stock your own bar, or there’s often a Happy Hour by the pool if you’re craving a little company.

For those looking to hang out poolside during the day, and perhaps make your own romantic dinners or eat in with a delivery from one of our five Michelin Guide restaurants (psst Michelin, you missed a few), Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels offers accommodations with kitchens and dining areas.

For all you party monsters, there’s still plenty to do: clubs are breaking out the karaoke, Star Wars is on the big screen, and a bunch of Happy Hours await you. Let’s get to it:

One and done-ish

The entrance to the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in Palm Springs, California

Summer events at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum give visitors a chance to cool off while learning something new. Photo by Kathy Condon

Aug. 2: Frisky Business Cat Café presents Mrs. Frisky’s Cat and Eccles Cake Night, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Palm Springs’ only cat café offers a fun experience. If you don’t know what an Eccles cake is (I didn’t), it’s similar to a turnover with fruit filling (usually currant, but I don’t think we have those here, although there’s always Amazon). I have been here, it is delightful. They also have a book club. Cats and books and baked goods? I think I need this.

Aug. 4: Adult hip-hop dance class, Palm Springs Dance Academy

Aug. 4: Summer Sundays at Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Today’s topic: weaving patterns. Discover basket techniques in the classroom and galleries. Complete a step-by-step round reed basket project with cultural educator Lorene Sisquoc (Fort Sill Apache/Cahuilla) and view coiled Cahuilla baskets on display.

Aug. 7: LGBTQ Fundraiser with Del Shores at Revolution Stage Company (to RSVP)

Aug. 7: Backstreet Art District. First Wednesday of every month. It’s a bit off the beaten path, down East Palm Canyon.

Aug. 9-11 and 16-18: Splash House. Two weekends of DJs and splashing.

Aug. 18: PS Art Museum Family+ Artist’s Studio, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A fun and free event for everyone. The museum is transformed into a creative hub where artists, makers, and musicians come together to offer a variety of exciting activities and workshops for kids, teens, and families.

Aug. 22: H3K Wine & Design Event, 4 to 6 p.m. Very cool mid-mid designed furniture (indoor and out), clocks, and other household design items. And wine. Don’t forget the wine.

Recurring events

Large art installations inside the Palm Springs Art Museum in California

An inside view of the Palm Springs Art Museum. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Art Museum

Thursdays: Free admission to the Palm Springs Art Museum, Village Fest, and official after party at Maleza in Drift. Tap into the Cabo spirit weekly with live DJs, $5 tacos a la plancha, $5 beer, $8 cocktails, and night swims.

Sundays: Summer School Wine Tasting Class with a Palm Springs Bottleshop sommelier, inside Mojave Flea Trading Post, 383 North Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs.

Historical Society Private Tours

Sukha Life’s Elevate Sound Bath

Crystal Fantasy: All the woo you can possibly handle in one place. Fun shopping, browsing, great energy, classes. Events include a Reiki Healing Circle and Weekend Psychic Fair.

Groovy locations with libations

A document with flamingos on it and the summer hours of V Wine Lounge

Take note of V Wine Lounge’s summer hours to plan accordingly

V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar: This fantastic retro lounge has entertainment five days a week from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Happy Hour on Saturdays from 3 to 7 p.m.

Cascade Lounge: Ticketed entertainment. Comedy and music. 

PS Cultural Center events:

Movies

Star Wars

Encore: A Summer Concert Film Series: Jazz on a Summer Day, Woodstock, Wattstax

Hitchcock retrospective on Aug. 2: Strangers on a Train

Bob & Bing

Desert Film Society – Great series including foreign films.

Quadz: Gay bar on corner of Arenas and Indian Canyon. Tuesdays are for Tiki & Trivia; Thursdays are Karaoke Night; showtunes on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays; and the fourth Sunday of the month is Comedy Night.

Reforma Nightclub:

Thursdays, Banda Night

Fridays, Gasolina Party

Saturdays, Belico Party

Aug. 31: DaddyPop! A Labor Day Tea Dance from 3 to 7 p.m.

Hunters (on Arenas)

Aug. 6: Karaoke Night

Aug. 7: Drag Me to Bingo

Drift Hotel (great hotel with a great restaurant, and a ton of stuff to do):

Savasana Yoga (free with RSVP), shaded but outdoors

Friday Comedy Nights: Reviews are in, first show a huge success!

Aug. 8: Good Vibrations Soundbath by Sukha

Happy Hours

Zin American Bistro: Tequila Tuesdays and daily Happy Hour 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed Wednesdays) and 3 to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Stay for dinner!

Quadz: Daily (yes, there’s one in Vegas)

We’re a sleepy town during the summer, so Labor Day events have not been announced yet. Check out the Chamber of Commerce for updates if you’ve got a hankering to know. Or just show up and ask. We’re sleepy but we’re super friendly. Ciao for now!

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Azuñia Tequila & Azúcar Palm Springs Crafts Four-Course Pairing Dinner

By Brian Garrido, La Serena Villas

Located in the heart of glamorous Palm Springs, Azúcar, the charming restaurant within the luxury boutique hotel, La Serena Villas, couples with the delicious, estate-crafted tequila, Azuñia tequila. For one evening, starting at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, four tequila cocktails will be paired with carefully prepared dishes by the chefs at Azúcar.

The cost per person is $60 and includes all food and tequila pairings. Gratuity and tax not included.  Reservations can be made via Opentable.com or by calling (844) 932 – 8044. Azúcar is located at 339 South Belardo Road, Palm Springs, CA, 92262, inside La Serena Villas.

To learn more about this exclusive event, follow Azúcar on Facebook and Instagram or visit the website at www.azucarpalmsprings.com. Breakfast is served from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; lunch is from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.; happy hour is only at the bar from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.; and dinner is 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and on Friday and Saturday until 10:00 p.m. Light appetizers served from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. This is a 21 and over establishment. Reservations are strongly suggested.

Since opening late 2017, Azúcar Palm Springs has become a culinary star in Southern California’s desert dining scene with enticing food and handcrafted cocktails. A 2019 OpenTable Diners Choice awardee, the 110-seat restaurant, showcases modern contemporary cuisine with an emphasis and focus on flavor while utilizing exceptional local ingredients. Located on the second floor, Sugar High is a cozy Boho chic meets cool Palm Springs retreat where area locals are often gathering for the perfect slice of heaven sipping on amazing cocktails, noshing on appetizers while being surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the San Jacinto mountains.

About Azuñia Tequila

Azuñia is smooth, clean craft tequila with authentic flavor from the local terroir in every sip. It is the exclusive export of Agaveros Unidos de Amatitán and its second-generation, family-owned-and-operated Rancho Miravalle estate, which has created exceptional tequila for over 20 years. Made with 100% pure Weber Blue Agave grown in dedicated fields of the Tequila Valley, we harvest by hand and roast the organic agave in traditional clay hornos to ensure authenticity and depth of flavor. We then finish with a natural, open-air fermentation process and bottle onsite in small batches using a consistent process to deliver field-to-bottle quality. For more information, please visit Azunia.com. For media inquiries, contact Jenn Barber, jbarber@azuniatequila.com, 760-331-7914.

About La Serena Villas: 

Originally built in 1933, La Serena Villas is a luxury boutique property with 18 rooms, a serene pool and an intimate spa called Whispers. The historic hotel sits on more than an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Set a peaceful block away, but within walking distance to the famous Palm Canyon Drive, guests will find the resort city’s local restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.

Our 18 guest rooms are uniquely different in design with several offering outdoor tubs, fireplace, plunge pool, or a private spa. Many also feature private front patios with a swing or large back deck for privacy. Villa 18 offers a full kitchen and can be joined with Villa 16 for a two-bedroom retreat. The stunning San Jacinto Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for La Serena Villas and visitors to the restaurant. All rooms are well-appointed featuring luxurious Frette linens and towels. Amenities include L’Occitane, La Serena Villas robes, hairdryers, Keurig coffeemakers, and 40-inch flat screen televisions.

La Serena Villas is located at 339 South Belardo Road, Palm Springs, CA, 92262. Phone is (844) 932-8044. You can find us on social media at Facebook and Instagram.  This is a non-smoking, pet-friendly and 21 and over only hotel. 

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