April’s “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays” Podcast Is All About Spring

Tune in on Saturday, April 8 at 4 p.m. PT for the latest episode of “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays,” the show that’s all about things to do and see in Palm Springs.

In this episode, “Spring in Sunny Palm Springs,” Big Blend Radio’s Lisa Smith and Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels’ Kimberli Munkres will chat about April events in Palm Springs, the new Frisky Business Cat Cafe and Boozehounds restaurant, and the five “gayest” drinks in Palm Springs, as chosen by PSPSH blogger Gregory Douglass.

Palm Springs Sunshine Stays is a partnership between Big Blend and PSPSH, with new shows premiering on the second Saturday of the month. Guests include Palm Springs hoteliers, restauranteurs, and business owners who share their insights on Palm Springs and tips and tricks on how travelers can make the most out of their visits to this vibrant city.

There are several ways to listen to Palm Springs Sunshine Stays, including via YouTube, the Big Blend Radio website, and SoundCloud.

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First! What’s New In Palm Springs

Palm trees flank the old Welcome to Palm Springs sign in Palm Springs, California

Although Palm Springs always maintains her mid-mod aesthetic, she is in constant metamorphosis. Some local haunts are like the stars in the sky, they have been around since “5Eva because 4ever is too short.” (IYKYK!) Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn, Les Vallauris (now operated by SoHo House), the original Las Casuelas — they’re not going anywhere. But people are moving to Palm Springs from all over the world, and with them come new ideas and new businesses. There’s a gleeful mix of old and new and everyone is here for it. The ones that aren’t are literally a dying breed.

Since season started last November, some things have happened fast, and some were pretty big, like the opening of the Spa at Séc-he and Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Because of the buzz around those, a bunch of new businesses didn’t get to fly as close to the sun as they could have, so we’re absolutely going to fix that now. I can’t claim that this is everything, but I tried really hard to find them all. I searched high, and I searched less high, but it all comes down to this: I absolutely deserve the pint of Caramel Cone Haagen Dazs that’s name-calling me from Ralph’s.  

But before I get into that (and another episode of Girls5Eva — I’m obsessed!), it’s about time we showed a little love to… 

The Uptown Design District

Yay! Uptown! It’s a very cool part of town, but not just architecturally — the shops have unique offerings as well. It’s definitely worth taking a coffee on a stroll. Plus, it’s not as crowded as downtown proper, so you can meander at will. 

Not only are Trina Turk and The Shag Store up that way, there’s a great outdoor space in The Corridor. Have a peek while you grab that coffee at Koffi, then head on up north and have a look at some of the dreamiest design elements you’ve ever. Here’s the new:

Wolf Contemporary at 768 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Curated art and design gallery showcasing works by contemporary California artists, rare findings, and unique designs in a gallery setting. Expect an eclectic mix of antique artifacts, rare vintage designer handbags, modern and vintage jewelry, and the occasional piece of statement furniture, each with a story, history, and meaning. All pieces are offered with refinement, style, and supreme quality. 

Phylum at 901 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Color abounds in contemporary housewares, barware, apothecaries, gifts, and furniture, all with complimentary gift wrap and local delivery.

Around town

Aluminaire House at the Palm Springs Art Museum

On the south end of the Palm Springs Art Museum’s grounds, there is now an aluminum and metal prototype residence designed in 1931 by Albert Frey and A. Lawrence Kocher. Called the Aluminaire House, it is the first all-metal house constructed in the United States. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Monday; noon to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Pillars of Palm Springs 

Set to be unveiled April 15 on World Art Day (happy birthday, Leonardo DaVinci!), are six “pillars” individually crafted by six local artists: Roger Reutimann (Inspiring Creativity); Anne Faith Nicholls (Crafting Serenity); Bernard Stanley Hoyes (Celebrating Diversity); Jessup + Cooning (Upholding Civility); MIDABI (Fostering Community); and Scott Froschauer (Highlighting Equality). Located along Tahquitz Canyon Way, the Pillars will replace the Art of Taming Horses sculptures installed during Desert X 2021. 

New restaurants

Wang’s in the Desert at 424 S. Indian Canyon Drive

Iconic restaurant and beautiful event space (formerly Jilly’s 1960s). Reopened March 18 after about a four-year sabbatical. 

La Cocina at Reforma at 333 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Elevated Mexican inspired menu inside Reforma nightclub. Opened in March. 

Crudo Cerveceria at 515 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite B8

I’ve mentioned it before, but it’s worth the rerun. Terrific new addition to the Uptown Design District with drinks and fresh seafood. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sundays. 

Holiday House Brunch at 200 W. Arenas Road

On Saturdays and Sundays, Executive Chef Shawn Applin offers a sweet and savory menu that pairs perfectly with a special selection of rosé wines and Champagnes.  Highlights include the photogenic and delicious Shellfish Plateau for sharing, Dutch Baby pancakes, fried chicken and waffles, ricotta-stuffed French toast, and much more.  11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Cipolline Osteria at 1260 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Great menu, and plenty of parking on the south end of Palm Canyon Drive. Formerly known as The New York Company, long time visitors will remember it as Banducci’s Bit of Italy. Meaty mains, pasta, pizza, salads, full bar. They call it a bar before they call it a restaurant, but the menu looks fancy. 

Coming Soon

Tony’s Burgers at 665 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Delicious burger joint with a full bar that’s been consistently named best burger in the Coachella Valley. Not a burger person? Try the famous fish tacos, hot dogs, fresh salads, and avocado fries. Just like the Date Palm location, but in Palm Springs.

Livs at 101 N. Museum Drive

Livs is taking over the downstairs space at the Palm Springs Art Museum that used to be the Muse Café. They are currently doing a pop-up on Thursday evenings with VillageFest. Opening date of brick-and-mortar TBD.

I’d love to tell you that Churrasco Steakhouse has opened, but it hasn’t done that yet (announced two years ago, chop chop on the chops, please). Starring all-you-can-eat meats roasted to perfection on a wood charcoal grill, Churrasco will feature a sleek modern decor with inside seating for 140 and additional outdoor patio seating for another 30. 

A large imported fresh market table will be filled with favorites, including chilled salads and hot sides, sauces, imported cheeses, their famous mushroom risotto, and 15 meat selections like the house specialty picanha. The website says it will open this spring, and it’s spring, so…

Keep your eyes out for announcements about the Oasis Music Festival

Miscellaneous

Perry’s Fine Wines & Liquor at 625-641 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Owner is a transplant from Provincetown, Massachusetts, a.k.a. Palm Springs East. 

Carmela Ice Cream at 750 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Specialty house-made ice creams. They even have classes you can take to learn how to make your own, too. Inside the Flannery Exchange.

Women’s clothing

Pink Palm Springs at 263 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way

Fashion-forward women looking for unique and trendy pieces need search no further. Their carefully curated collection has made it a destination for fashion enthusiasts searching for one-of-a-kind pieces.

Sunny Days at 174 N. Palm Canyon Drive

A woman’s clothing boutique with styles from Bella Dahl, Johnny Was, Z Supply, and more. 

New small hotels

There are over 70 unique boutique hotels and small resorts in Palm Springs. These are the five newest kids on the block, and I encourage you to click the links and check them out. Stun-ning.

Velvet Rope — Nine themed rooms, each with its own very big personality, plus the soon-to-open bar, Valerie’s.

Mahala — Bursting with personality and just a touch of well-placed kitsch, it’s right across the street from old school Billy Reed’s Restaurant. 

Yara — The Mediterranean/Moroccan style of this hotel looks like a cool breeze on a sunny day. You know, if you could see a breeze.

Blackhaus — High-end bedding, towels, and toiletries; small private patios. Shared spaces include a pool, fireplaces, and outdoor cooking, as well as multiple bocce ball courts around the property.

Jazz Hotel — Gallery and modern art collection. Pool. Spa. Gym. Lounge.

And that’s the skinny on all things new in Palm Springs. You’re welcome, happy to help. Now I’m off to get that Haagen Dazs and spend some time with my new favorite girl group. 🎶Girls5Eva because 4ever is too short! 🎶

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Craving the Sun? Palm Springs’ Boutique Hotels Open Just in Time to Fight the Winter Blahs.

Palm Springs offers blue skies, palm trees, and snow-capped mountains. Photo courtesy of visitpalmsprings.com

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels — a collection of more than 70 boutique hotels — have reopened just in time for those who crave the sun and need a change of scenery from the recent California lock-down orders. Many hotels have special offers to celebrate the reopening, including free nights and percentages off.

“Palm Springs small hotels are ideal for those who need a change of scenery but aren’t ready to be around many people,” says Michael Green Chair of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels/TBID commission. “It’s the perfect time to escape to somewhere bright, sunny and safe.”

The comfort and safety of guests continues to be a top priority. Over the past few weeks, the owners and general managers of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels have collaboratively created a baseline of safety sanitation standards.

Most Palm Springs boutique hotels have fewer than 30 rooms, making them easier to thoroughly clean and keep sanitized. Common areas are typically outside, and a majority of rooms have their own private entrances and HVAC.

Hoteliers will continue to take every precaution during this time, from sanitizing surfaces throughout the day to rearranging patio furniture to ensure social distancing,” says Green.

As Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels are independently owned with unique property designs and configurations, each one will have its own safety guidelines in addition to the requirements set forth by the city of Palm Springs and the ones they collectively developed. This information will be shared with guests when they receive their reservation confirmation. Those who have visited before can expect some changes when it comes to checking-in and food and beverage services.

Some hotels, such as The Alcazar Palm Springs, La Serena Villas, Los Arboles, Villa Royale, Holiday House, and the iconic Ingleside Inn, have restaurants on site. Additionally, many Palm Springs restaurants and bars offer cocktail and food curbside pickup and hotel delivery services for those who don’t plan to leave their pool lounge chair.

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Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels is a consortium of independently owned boutique hotels, which are an essential part of this desert resort town’s uncommon culture and economy. From quirky to charming, mid-century modern to clothing-optional, Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels has got your stay. Follow the fun on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. Please visit Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels special offers page for details.

 

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Palm Springs Boutique Hotels Receive Michelin Keys Honors

Rocky ledges and palms surround the beautiful pool at Sparrows Lodge Hotel in Palm Springs, California

For the first time, the Michelin Guide has awarded Michelin Keys in the United States, and four Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels made the list: Dive Palm Springs, Holiday House, La Serena Villas, and Sparrows Lodge.

Michelin said its Keys are bestowed upon hotels that “significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting.”

Palm Springs boutique hotels that made the cut

The La Reve Room at Dive Palm Springs with a floral design on the ceiling and hardwood floors and a white bed

The La Reve Room at Dive Palm Springs is a Parisian dream. Photo courtesy of Dive Palm Springs

The Michelin Key is the equivalent of the Michelin Star for restaurants, with hotels able to earn one, two, or three Keys. Dive Palm Springs, Holiday House, La Serena Villas, and Sparrows Lodge all received one Key, denoting “a very special stay.” 

The colorful art-filled lobby at Holiday House greets guests

The colorful lobby at Holiday House greets guests. Photo courtesy of Holiday House

Michelin praised Dive for having an “atmosphere … nothing short of restorative,” and applauded Holiday House’s ability to “cater to the whims of modern travelers.” As for Sparrows Lodge, it is “like a dreamy hipster version of the summer camp of your childhood,” while visitors to La Serena Villas would be “hard pressed to find a lovelier example of colonial-contemporary architecture and design.”

A view of the pool at La Serena Villas in Palm Springs, California, at sunset with the San Jacinto Mountains in the background

Sunset at La Serena Villas. Photo courtesy of Kirkwood Collection

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Palm Springs Welcomes New Boutique Hotels In 2022

From the boldly chic Cheetah Hotel to the artsy Fleur Noire, visitors to Palm Springs now have even more options for boutique hotels.

“We are delighted to welcome these new hotels and their owners to Palm Springs,” Michael Green, owner of the Triangle Inn and chair of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, said. “They bring such creative vision and energy. And now visitors will have even more fabulous places to stay.” 

A room at the Tiki Hotel. Photo courtesy of Tiki Hotel

Husband and wife team Tracy Turco and Jerry Turco have revamped and renewed three mid-century modern Palm Springs properties, all within a few blocks of each other. Their first project, the 8-room Art Hotel at 1339 N. Indian Canyon Dr., is vibrant and colorful, with the works of local artists on display across the grounds and a large outdoor mural by Damon Johnson greeting guests. Next, they transformed the former Carlton Hotel at 1333 N. Indian Canyon Dr. into the 11-room Tiki Hotel, a Polynesian paradise with ukuleles in every suite and a gift shop with necessities for every Palm Springs vacation. 

A Cheetah Hotel bedroom. Photo courtesy of The Cheetah Hotel.

Their latest property is the 12-room Cheetah Hotel at 354 E. Stevens Rd., featuring a black and yellow color scheme and cheetah icons designed by Tracy (she picks out or creates all of the wallpaper, linens, and furniture for the Turco hotels). All of the rooms are just steps away from the courtyard pool and separate spa, and $10 from each booking goes to the Cheetah Conservation Fund.

“What I love most about Palm Springs is nature’s beauty,” Tracy said. “I love the sunsets, love the mountains with the palm trees, and all of the fruited trees.” While walking around town, Tracy loves to stop and take in the “gorgeous flowers in full bloom all year round,” she added. “The beautiful bougainvillea makes it like you’re living in technicolor. It’s just magical.”

A room at the Descanso Resort. Photo courtesy of Descanso Resort.

At the new Descanso Resort, it’s all about that indoor/outdoor living. This men’s resort, formerly the East Canyon Resort & Spa, is the brother property to the Santiago, and provides the same luxe accommodations. Located at 288 E. Camino Monte Vista, the hotel underwent a total transformation, with all guest rooms and areas undergoing renovations. The rooms are equipped with new furniture, high-end linens and bedding, and Gilchrest & Soames luxury bath products. The pampering starts as soon as guests arrive — at check in, a snack bag is provided, and complimentary food and beverages are available in the cantina; a continental breakfast and poolside lunch is also offered. The private grounds feature native plants, a heated pool and spa, day beds, and a garden shower.

A beautiful mural at Fleure Noire. Photo courtesy of Fleur Noire

The Fleur Noire at 1555 N. Indian Canyon Dr. offers an eclectic mix of 21 casitas, bungalows, and suites, each one with its own distinct design — and a refrigerator that is stocked daily with complimentary water. There are stunning floral wall murals by artist Louise Jones (a.k.a. Ouize) on display across the property, and guests can lounge by the heated pool and multiple fire pits or in the club house, which has a communal pantry and working and dining areas. La Boisson, a speakeasy champagne and rosé bar, is opening later this spring.

An Azure Sky bedroom. Photo courtesy of Azure Sky

Azure Sky, a 14-room luxury hotel at 1661 S. Calle Palo Fierro, is set to open in the early spring, and is already causing a stir. Originally built in 1959, new owners Acme Hospitality and Eastern Real Estate have lovingly restored the property, bringing in vintage lighting and custom woodwork to dazzle guests. Most of the rooms have private patios with hammocks and kitchenettes, with built-in beds, stone tile flooring, and mid-century modern inspired design accents. The lounge boasts a premium cocktail bar, and outside, there’s a sparkling pool, fire pits, two courtyards, and a large hot tub that can hold up to 25 people. 

Whether it’s for a weekend getaway, a romantic retreat, or a long much-needed workcation that’s not too far from home, there’s a small boutique hotel waiting for you in Palm Springs with just the vibe you crave.

About Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels is an association of independently owned boutique hotels, which are an essential part of this desert resort town’s uncommon culture and economy. From quirky to charming, mid-century modern to clothing-optional, Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels has got your stay. Subscribe to our Monthly e-Newsletter, Boutiquely Palm Springs. From tips on what to do, see and eat in Palm Springs, to interviews with hoteliers, it’s the insider’s guide to everything great about Palm Springs and its iconic boutique hotels. Follow the fun on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest.

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One-Of-A-Kind Palm Springs Boutique Hotels Featured In New Commercial

A giant mural of yellow and blue flowers at Fleur Noire Hotel in Palm Springs, California

Four of Palm Springs’ most stunning boutique hotels are featured in a new commercial touting the benefits of a desert vacation.

The Descanso Resort, Fleur Noire, The Art Hotel, and Hotel El Cid all have their moment in the spotlight, showing off their pools, grounds, and hotel decor. The 30-second commercial, “Unique Stays,” makes it clear that staying at a Palm Springs boutique hotel offers an authentic experience guests cannot find at a large hotel or home rental. 

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, in collaboration with the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau and Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, created the spot. The trio worked with Summerland Creative and JNS Media for production and talent, with Panoramic serving as the agency.

Now is the perfect time to plan an escape to Palm Springs — for residents of the West Coast, it’s a leisurely drive for a playcation or workcation, and domestic and international travelers can easily fly into Palm Springs International Airport. Visit the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website to learn more about our unique properties and pick the right boutique hotel for your trip. 

 

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July’s Palm Springs Sunshine Stays Podcast Is All About Art

Tune into “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays” on Saturday, July 8, at 4 p.m. PT to learn all about the cultural side of the desert with guest Scott Slaven of the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Slaven will be joined by Big Blend Radio host Lisa Smith and Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels’ Kimberli Munkres. The Palm Springs Sunshine Stays podcast drops on the second Saturday of the month, and is the ultimate source for information on everything travelers need to know to make the most of their time in Palm Springs, one of the world’s most popular desert destinations.

Palm Springs Sunshine Stays is a partnership between Big Blend and PSPSH, and guests range from local hoteliers to restauranteurs and business owners. To listen to previous shows, including a Pride-centric episode with Kent Taylor of Descanso Resort; PSPSH blogger and musician Gregory Douglass; and Bill Sanderson, co-owner of Townie Bagels and vice president of the Desert Gay Tourism Guild, visit the Palm Springs Sunshine Stays Acast page.

Palm Springs Sunshine Stays is also available on YouTube, the Big Blend Radio website, Spotify, iHeartRadio, SoundCloud, or Audible.

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Jump Into Hot Summer Hotel Deals In Palm Springs

Summer Splash 2024 jumping into pool

Make Palm Springs, California, your affordable summer vacation destination thanks to Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. To celebrate the season, several boutique hotels — all with amazing pools to cool off in — are offering special Summer Splash deals for guests, including free nights, percentages off, welcome gifts, and lower rates.

The luxurious Amin Casa is offering its lowest rates of the year, valid every day from June 1 to Sept. 30, 2024. Use the code “Summer Luxury Rate” to take advantage of this deal. 

Book direct with the vibrant Inn at Palm Springs and receive 15% off your stay, plus breakfast for two every day. Use promo code “Super.” Some exclusions and blackout dates apply.

The pool at Hacienda at Warm Sands on a sunny day

The relaxing Hacienda at Warm Sands pool. Photo courtesy of The Hacienda at Warm Sands

From June 3 to Sept. 26, 2024, stay four nights at the gorgeous Hacienda at Warm Sands men’s clothing-optional hotel and receive one free night. For an even longer vacation, book eight nights and receive two nights free or book 12 nights and receive three nights free. On top of that, The Hacienda is offering lower summer rates. Full payment is due at time of booking and is not refundable. Some exclusions apply.

Have a sizzling summer at the men’s clothing-optional Triangle Inn Palm Springs with $99 weekday rates. Valid for studio suites. Some exclusions apply. To book, call the Triangle Inn Palm Springs at 760-322-7993.

The lights glow around the sparkling pool at Alcazar Palm Springs

Alcazar Palm Springs glows in the evening. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

 

One, two, free! At Alcazar Palm Springs, stay two nights in a queen room and get your third night free, Sunday through Thursday. Valid through Aug. 29, 2024. Some exclusions apply. To book this offer, call the hotel at 760-318-9850 or online use code “WDB.” 

At the chic Azure Sky Resort, stay two nights and enjoy 15% off, stay three nights and take 20% off, or stay four nights and receive 25% off. Each guest will also be greeted with a bottle of Notary Public rosé. 

A quaint bungalow with a tile roof at Casa Cody boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California

Casa Cody is the oldest standing inn in Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Casa Cody

The choice is yours at the historic Casa Cody. Book by July 2 and take 20% off a stay of two nights or more (reservation must be made at least 14 days in advance). From July 8 – Aug. 29, 2024, take 20% off your stay.

For more information on the Summer Splash 2024 deals and all the fine print, click here. 

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