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If you like to plan ahead, keep an eye open for PSPSH’s summer offers. The hottest deals can be found with mid-week and long stays with new ones offers added regularly.  There’s no better way to beat coastal May Gray or June Gloom than a trip to Palm Springs, where the days are hot, the nights are cool, and the hotels are a cut above special.

If you’re reading this, YAY! You made it to the other side of 2023, also known as 2024! Here’s a roundup of all the good things that happened in 2023:

Scientists discovered that hitting the snooze button on your alarm has positive benefits.

And that concludes our roundup of good things in 2023! 

There is, however, one thing that can soothe a beast of a year away, and that’s a visit to Palm Springs. That’s right, we’ve pretty much got the market cornered on sunshine, and we’re showcasing it 350 days out of 365. And not to brag or anything, but Palm Springs was named one of the top 10 most culturally vibrant cities in the U.S. in 2023. Take that other cities, we got all the culture right here. Don’t believe me? Line up, culture. Let’s go!

Culture roll call

Theatre? Yes ma’am! 

The Bent, Desert Ensemble Theatre, Dezart Performs, and Revolution Stage Company 

Music? Yes ma’am!

The Purple Room, PS Air, PS Underground, PS Cultural Center, Jazzville

Concerts? Yes ma’am!

Acrisure Arena, and the casinos

Museums? Yes ma’am!

Palm Springs Art Museum, PS Air Museum

Hiking? Yes ma’am!

Indian Canyons, Palm Springs Tramway

Art? Yes ma’am!

Desert Arts Center

Michelin Guide restaurants? Yes ma’am!

We even have two places with “Cultural Center” as part of their names, for crying out loud. 

Star power in Palm Springs

We’ve got other stuff, too — in fact we’ve got all the stuff and we’re not wasting any time rolling it out for you, because we’re starting off 2024 with an explosion of star power at the Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF). You can check out the entire schedule and more here. That’s Jan. 4-14, and there is a lot to do. Folks being honored? Well, there’s Colman Domingo, Cillian Murphy, Greta Gerwig, Billie Eilish, Emma Stone, and Carey Mulligan, just to name a few. You might see them out and about town too. 

I mentioned cultural centers a nano ago, and PSIFF actually got its start at the Palm Springs Cultural Center (formerly known as Camelot Theaters). Built in the mid-1960s, Camelot was the first cineplex in Palm Springs, and has morphed into a home for all sorts of cool stuff. It’s not only still home to PSIFF, but abounds with other film festivals throughout the year. And it’s home to two theater companies. Plus there’s live music at least five days a week; just last month, the PSCC was lousy with Broadway stars singing their little hearts out. Yes, you could have seen Megan Hilty had you booked a wee vacation to our little slice of paradise.

The other cultural center is brand new, and it’s pretty exciting. It’s the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum (okay, not center, but close enough), and it’s recently opened to rave reviews. Built on an ancient hot mineral spa that was the foundation of the tribe for years, there are indoor and outdoor permanent exhibitions as well as some that will be ever changing. It’s definitely worth your time. Plus, it’s right next to the Spa at Séc-he, an extravagant indulgence you won’t want to miss. Sometimes an experience is worth every single penny, and this is one of those. 

News and reminders

If you’re not into spas (what?), films, or movie people patting each other on the back, the long awaited Palm Springs Surf Club has opened! Catch a wave, or lunch, or just float down a lazy river — it’s a thrilling new addition to our little city that’s almost 10 years in the making.

We are also saying goodbye to Antigua restaurant, but are welcoming Alice B’s, Minerva’s, and Toucan’s — it’s now under the ownership of the same folks that brought us Chicken Ranch (yum!). A local newspaper tells me that Skylark Hotel is opening their own little eatery, but that’s all I can find. I’ll keep you updated on that as I know. 

Reminders: Modernism Week is in February, and if you haven’t booked anything yet, good luck to you. There may be a few things left to do, but some of the local theaters and venues are rising to the occasion with their own non-Modernism Week mid-mod activities. 

Don’t forget every weekend Crystal Fantasy has their psychic fair, so pop in and see what 2024 holds for you.

Just a reminder of how fun we are, there’s an entire new TV series set here. Palm Royale is an Apple production á la Slim Aarons with Kristin Wiig. She’s always a great anti-hero. The linked article talks about Palm Beach and Palm Springs, which confuses me, but I’m not worried — that’s fairly normal. 

Don’t forget that the first Sunday of every month is the Palm Springs Vintage Market, but if you miss that, we’ve got scads of places off Industrial for you to get your mid-mod fix on (Antique Galleries of Palm Springs, 505 Industrial Pl.; Sunny Dunes Antique Mall, 507 E. Sunny Dunes Rd.; Little Shop of Treasures, 616 E. Sunny Dunes Rd.; Aida’s Antiques, 401 Industrial Pl.).

And then there are the tours:

Desert Tasty Tours — Three hours of foodie fun with a little bit of history thrown in for good measure

Palm Springs Historical Society (and museum!) — Many options here

Red Jeep Tours

Cannabis Express Tours — Call 310-467-6677

Five Star Adventure Tours

The Best of the Best Tours

And just in case you weren’t aware, the folks here are so nice that you just might think we’re Canadian. But we’re not (well, some of us are) — we’re just happy you’re here so we can show off! We’re kinda proud of us, and want to share the love. Plus, it’s more fun when you’re here too. See you soon!

You woke up in Palm Springs — what a great way to start the day! You may be wondering, what kind of things are there to do other than shop, eat, and soak up the rays poolside at my wonderful boutique resort? 

Tons, people, tons! And these are all outdoors so you can enjoy the spectacular weather. Here are some suggestions, ranked in order of how much energy you’re willing to part with.

I’ve got about an eighth of a tank

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
This could belong in every category depending on what you choose — the red pill or … nah, no pills involved, except perhaps Dramamine; the gondola can sway a titch. For the ‘not too active,’ shop in the gift store, ride the gondola up, have lunch, check out the views, ride the gondola back. For the very active, get a list of the trails and stick around. If you do some planning before you go, you can hike just about anywhere. But that’s for a very aggressive day, which I hear some people like. You need a full tank and a generator for those.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Downtown Park
By the Palm Springs Art Museum. Peep the Marilyn statue, the babies, the car, and snap some very cool photo ops. Highly Instagram worthy.

Sunnylands
Bird walks and outdoor films. Truly gorgeous grounds.

Palm Springs POWER baseball
Not a lotto game, but our baseball team. Games start in June. Wear a hat.

Living Desert
It’s a beautiful zoo — the animals are well cared for, and you can feed the giraffes. FYI: They’re not walking around willy-nilly and you feed them a leaf in passing, during supervised feeding times. Sorry if I crushed any dreams.

The Living Desert. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Red Jeep Desert Tours
Take a ride in a Jeep and go see things. They’ve got plenty of options.

Path of the Bighorn (self-tour of bighorn sheep sculptures)
Scattered all over the Coachella Valley are 33 bighorn sheep sculptures. The Peninsular desert bighorn is an endangered species, and the Path of the Bighorn gives visitors the opportunity to appreciate incredible art and the beauty of the animal. I haven’t seen an IG story about them yet, so someone get on that.

A bighorn sheep in the wilds of Palm Springs. Photo credit: Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Indio
Is it romantic, is it thrilling, or will it scare the birthmark off of you? You decide. But the Coachella Valley is spectacular from the sky.

Skywatcher star tours
State-of-the-art telescopes give you views of the cosmos, while “experienced guides weave together the myths and legends behind each constellation,” Skywatcher’s website states. These tours combine “breathtaking views and awe-inspiring astronomy with the heroes, lovers, and tragic figures from cultures around the world.” Also, they’re pretty.

The Dinosaurs Exhibit
Artist Ricardo Breceda’s public art installation Jurassic World consists of 11 life-sized dinosaurs, complete with name tags (one’s name is Steve, he’s a T-Rex. Okay, that’s just what I call him). This one is courtesy of Museum of Ancient Wonders and Cathedral City. Brecada also has sculptures in Borrego Springs.

I’ve got at least a half a tank

Boomers
Fun for all ages: Go-karts, three mini-golf courses, batting cages, bumper boats, arcade games, and a rock wall. I went here for my birthday one year and I’m an overgrown adult.

Bucket of balls
At Indian Canyons Golf Course. They’re like $8, and after you’re done, you can have a cocktail at the full bar and eat a tasty lunch in the clubhouse. And the grounds are stunning.

Palm Springs Historical Society walking and biking tours
So many to choose from! Put on some comfy shoes, pick your decade, and giddy-up.

Full tank and four-wheel drive

Smoke Tree Stables
Probably should have saved the giddy-up for this sentence. Instead, I’ll tell you that there are three ride options, but one is on hold. Prices per person are $80-$200, depending on your choice. Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

If you’re enjoying riding one of the bikes provided by your hotel and want to go exploring, then check out the City of Palm Springs bicycle routes map.

Guests at Talavera Palm Springs can use these bikes to tool around town. Photo credit: Talavera Palm Springs

Bring your balls

In bold are the sporty things you can do at our local parks.

DeMuth Park
4200 E Mesquite Ave., in Demuth Community Center
Colorful playground, four lit tennis courts, baseball fields, and a youth center.

Ruth Hardy Park
700 Tamarisk Rd.
This 22-acre park features tennis, basketball and sand volleyball courts, plus picnic tables and grills.

Sunrise Park
480 S Sunrise Way
Basketball court, baseball field, picnic tables, grills, drinking fountains, restroom facilities, and play structures, including water-squirting turtles. Also here: Library Center, Swim Center, Palm Springs Stadium, and Palm Springs Skate Park.

Baristo Park
296 S Calle Encilia
Local two-acre park with play equipment, a basketball court, picnic tables, and grills.

You’re not my mom. No, I’m not, but I care. So wear sunscreen, always have water on hand, and drink it (rinse, repeat). Also, throw a few snacks in the backpack. No one likes a hangry hiker. Especially not the (ridiculously handsome) EMTs who have to rescue your sorry tush because you didn’t hydrate.

If you think about it, tag us in your photos. We love seeing your adventures, and with your permission and photo credit, we’d love to share them here if that’s cool with you. 

Speaking of cool, no — you are.

A large table bought at an estate sale and rejection of a lease for space changed the trajectory of two Palm Springs restaurant owners’ lives. Mindy Reed, owner of Zin Restaurant, and Willie Rhine, an owner of Eight4Nine and 1501 Uptown Gastropub, prove it is important to pay attention to the little things.

When Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels asked me to interview these two prominent people in our community, I jumped at the chance. Here are their stories:

Mindy Reed 

Mindy was born in Michigan but moved to Alabama, where she lived for 18 years. When asked how she ended up in Palm Springs, she replied, “I got married, and we left Alabama and moved to Joshua Tree on acres of land surrounded by the beauty of the desert. I happily was a stay-at-home mom and raised my children, surrounded daily by the stunning landscape.”

Working in Palm Springs

When her children went to school, “I wanted something to do, so I headed to Palm Springs,” Mindy said. “I found a waitress job at what was then known as Chillers, recently called Moxie.” She enjoyed the work and appreciated the people, and ended up staying there for five years. When a casino job came along, Mindy applied and ended up being a cocktail waitress there for 10 years, before moving on to the Chophouse and then AJ’s.

“Located next to Sammy G’s was a small space that became available,” Mindy said. “After thinking about it, I made a plan to open a sandwich-to-go shop. By mortgaging my house, I had all the paperwork done. Then, much to my disappointment, the owner turned me down. He felt I did not have enough experience to make it work.”

The urge to own a place didn’t go away

Directly across the street, another space, once occupied by Jimmy’s Kitchen News Café, became available. “With a location on the corner of Arenas and South Palm Canyon Drive, I could see it was a great location,” Mindy said. “This time my offer went through, and work began while I maintained my position at AJ’s.” The origin of the name has a nice twist — they had no liquor license, so only wine could be served. The name decided on was Zin American Bistro, since they wanted to keep an American bistro feel, and Zinfandel grapes thrived in the United States.

Mindy Reed. Photo by Gregg Felsen/Visit Palm Springs

Expanding her empire

Zin flourished, and when the beauty supply store next door closed, Mindy started thinking about expansion. “I got the space,” she said. “The wall was knocked down, enlarging the restaurant. Then by 2009, the itch began. I wanted to do something different. The space next door opened on Memorial Day 2009, under the name Zini Café Mediterraneo, Aliante, and finally we settled on Revel House, painting the picture of fun and partying.”

Before heading to Europe for a trip, Mindy received an offer for Revel House. She turned it down, but “reconsidered when I came back,” she said. “I was delighted to accept his offer, which was exactly the price I determined would entice me to sell.” She kept the chef, and was able to start offering catering services. That’s not the only change, she added. “With the help of my partner, we are expanding Zin’s wine list and looking forward to doing wine dinners and adding beer pairings,” Mindy said.

I asked Mindy, “You are known for your generosity to the community. What compels you to be such a supporter?” She replied, “Kathy, this community supported me when I just starting out, and they haven’t stopped. Without people helping at every stage, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you in Zin, which became part of my reality in 1992.”

Willie Rhine  

With an 8th-grade education, Willie Rhine learned to listen to his intuition long ago. After years of construction work, Willie took his skills and developed 100 Top Hats Playhouse, where he served as director and producer for 13 years. Then he realized he had to close it, facing the fact that he had run out of money.

Needing work, he applied for a job at Cheeky Monkey, on the corner of Sunrise and Ramon. He stayed there for two years, serving mainly fish and chips and cider. He left for Le Vallauris Restaurant, and within five years, he moved up the ranks to maître d and head of catering at this fine-dining French restaurant.

His next stop was Piero’s Acqua Pazza in Rancho Mirage, where he was hired as manager and moved up to general manager within two months. When Barbara and Jerry Keller decided to open Lulu’s California Bistro in downtown Palm Springs, they asked Willie to go with them.

A catering gig changed his life’s path  

Lulu’s does many catering events, and was hired for the wedding of John Paschal. John took notice of Willie, and later approached him about opening his own restaurant.

With a partnership agreed upon, the search for space began. Willie had learned through his positions what the need was in Palm Springs. Each place he worked served a different client. What if they had a space large enough to put all of these needs — corporate meeting spaces, weddings, intimate dining — under one roof?

It wasn’t an easy place to find, so it took a while. Then, Willie walked into a building serving as a consignment shop, originally built as a post office, at 849 N. Palm Canyon Drive.

John believed in Willie’s vision, and the space was named Eight4Nine after its address. This was a huge place to furnish, and once again, Willie’s vision not only seemed practical, but was also a great idea and inexpensive to implement.

Willie Rhine. Photo courtesy of Willie Rhine

Remember at the beginning of this article, I said a large table bought at an estate sale changed the trajectory of Willie’s life? Willie said, “Let’s buy furniture at estate sales and paint it all white and use it throughout the entire restaurant.” Thus, that large table he stored for years was painted white, and now serves as a communal space for dining.

All the white furniture in the other rooms is a result of Willie’s enjoyment of perusing garage and estate sales, with the exception of the white furniture seen when entering the restaurant, which was made per Eight4Nine’s specifications.

Today, Willie oversees the restaurant operation, and John is running the kitchen with no executive chef. They continue to ensure that each one of us who dine there can get the same quality food and service we have come to expect when we bring guests to Eight4Nine.

Not enough to do? Let’s start two new restaurants 

Willie had been working with Chad Gardner, who owns 533 View Fusion and Roly China Fusion, at various catering events. They saw that the space at the defunct Draughtsman next to Arrive was vacant, and after a tour of the place, they were enthralled with the walls that opened to the outside and views from the outdoor patios. They decided to form a partnership and start another restaurant, again named after its address: 1501 Uptown Gastropub.

Today, the restaurant is thriving and equally attracting lunch and dinner guests, who come for the ambiance and once again the outstanding cuisine.

Willie and Chad’s partnership went so well that they recently opened Willie’s Restaurant in Rancho Mirage. When I smiled and asked, “Why was it named Willie’s?” he laughed and said, “We thought we were so smart we could name all the restaurants after their addresses. Then we learn that the new building’s address was 69830 CA-111. Thus, that wouldn’t work, so since we just kept calling it Willie’s, the name stuck.”

Willie believes he would not have accomplished what he has without the community supporting him in his theater days, during his serving jobs, and now at his restaurants. “I don’t look at giving to the community as an obligation,” he said. “It gives me great pleasure to give back to the community that supported me.”

Mindy and Willie are the spirit of Palm Springs 

After thinking about these two interviews, there are some things very clear in my mind. These are wonderful individuals who use their skills and intuition to build their businesses versus relying on educational degrees. Both Mindy and Willie learned from their own serving days what good customer service looks like and make it clear to all under their employ that the highest serving standards must be upheld. Without excellent food, people will not come back — I can assure you will not be disappointed in a meal at any of the restaurants mentioned above.

Finally, don’t you find it interesting that Mindy Reed and Willie Rhine’s thriving restaurants were created by people who have lived and worked in Palm Springs for many years? Their generosity, including to the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, is impeccable. Next time you are going out to dinner, we encourage you to support these restaurants by making a reservation and dining at places that firmly have their roots planted in Palm Springs.

When it comes to holidays, nothing says “gay” as loud as Halloween. While Arenas never lacks for action, it can’t be beat at Halloween — there’s a wild party with bands and costumes galore. It’s merrier than Christmas.

And you know what Halloween rolls right into, right? Pride! So why not come out and stay for both? Most of the men’s boutique resorts in Palm Springs have their own fridge, with many, if not all, supplying breakfast, and a few even have lunch brought in for their guests. You just need to worry about dinner. Some hotels have kitchenettes, and some are homes away from home with lots of living space, kitchens, and patios. Of course they all have pools — this is Palm Springs!

With many businesses allowing their employees to work remotely, you can (if necessary) bring your laptop and plug in. We have work space available if being in your room, poolside, or at a coffee shop is not your style (but we’ve got plenty of those too).

Halloween

“There is magic in the night when pumpkins glow by moonlight.” Unknown

Halloween is so special in Palm Springs that it has its own website. But there are other very fun and notable Halloween-y events not on their agenda.

Oct. 27: From the owner of Chill Bar, new-ish nightclub Reforma is having a four-hour party with Gasolina for a night of reggaeton, a combo of EDM, hip hop, and Latin American-spiced music en español. I haven’t been yet, but word on the street is, “It’s fuego.”

Oct. 28: Four Twenty Bank & Dispensary is haunting the very cool lounge with some spooky fun. Enjoy a game of billiards or giant chess, play Operation or pinball, or just groove back and enjoy the atmosphere and the music.

Oct. 27, 28 & 31: Every year, PS Underground brings Bite back to life. The twist? Each resurrection it morphs into something different, straight from the brilliantly twisted brain of Michael Fietsam, but it’s always a thriller of a dinner show.

Oct. 31: If scary movies are your jam, catch Night of the Living Dead on the big screen at PS Cultural Center. Wear the adult diapers.

Pride

If Halloween is Gay Christmas, then Pride is Gay Independence Day. And it’s an even bigger, gayer party than Halloween. Let’s get into it.

Leather Pride

Oct. 26: Leather Pride Pop Up Museum benefit party in Hotel Zoso lobby

Oct. 28: Leather Pride Pool Party — The title says it all, except whether leather speedos are required. If you’re interested, you likely already know.

All the Pride

Nov. 4: Pride Ride from Townie Bagels — Grab a bagel with some protein, and get one for the road with a schmear. If you brought your own bike, yay. If not, your Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel likely has a cruiser you can use.

Nov. 3-5: Desertopia Festival — An entire weekend planned for you at some very cool places. You’ve gotta find your own hotel though, and luckily I know a guy. Gays go here. All the other letters go here.

The hyperlinks on the official Pride website weren’t all working, so I’ve broken them out because I got you, boo.

First is the official Pride Guide with every event and a few working links; there’s also a party for those in recovery. For folks that aren’t traveling that road, you’ll definitely want to go to Friday night’s kickoff party, and of course I’m going to give you the link to parade details.

Curious about the colorful LGBTQ+ history of Palm Springs? Here’s a primer.

I can’t encourage you hard enough to book your Palm Springs stay now. It’s one of the busiest times of the year, and absolutely the best party you’ll ever attend outside your own wedding — and the success of that relies entirely on your family. Do the math.

See you on the street!

Lunch can be solely for sustenance or you can make it an event. You’re in Palm Springs, so make it an event with adult beverages or festive mocktails. Here are some spots to have a boozy or an inspired lunch while you enjoy our stellar Palm Springs weather and hospitality. 

On the Strip

Maracas — The aroma from their fajitas will call to you like a cartoon finger. Located right next to Sonny Bono in the Mercado Plaza, their margaritas are some of the best you’ll ever have, and the street tacos are delish. In fact, everything is fantastic all the way down to the service.

JimmyB’s — On the other side of Sonny Bono, this is a new-ish restaurant. It was Ruby’s before the pandemic, then it was Sammy’s, and now it’s Jimmy’s. Breakfast and lunch served, there’s live entertainment and great people watching, and they plan to open for dinner at a later date, which is likely why their sign says “Grill, Steaks, Cocktails.”

Grand Central — In La Plaza where the anchor department store for the mall used to live. It’s a very big space, and it’s loud. Less so outside. Food is good too.

Bill’s Pizza — Only beer and wine on the alcohol front, but they have about five beers on tap and their pizza is the best in the Valley. Try the Elton John. I don’t know why it’s called that, it’s more like a Greek pizza with artichokes, onions, dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese — no red sauce. Not a lot of atmosphere here, so I’d get it to go and eat it by the pool with a six-pack. Like Ryan Gosling.

French Miso — Located in La Plaza, but kinda behind it. That area is one of my favorite parts of Palm Springs because it feels like you just stepped into old Palm Springs. And there’s a record store back here, a hairdresser, some art galleries, and the biggest cactus I’ve ever seen. French Miso is a great spot for an upscale experience that won’t break the bank. Nice-sized wine selection, and Sapporo beer. It’s a little hidden gem that’s not as hidden as it used to be. 

Pomme Frite — Lunch on Saturdays and Sundays only. French bistro food known for their mussels. 

Lulu — You’ve likely heard of Lulu. They’ve got a great menu, something for everyone, and it’s tasty too. The decor is fun, and it’s great for people watching. Check out the bathrooms. Uptown Funk plays on a loop, and there are videos. The guys have a two-way mirror to the service hallway. 

Thirsty Palms — Their lunch/dinner menu is just as creative as their breakfast menu; half of it is refreshing and half of it is hearty, so pick your adventure. They have an extensive and fun cocktail list, and they’re kinda new. Let me know what you think — it’s on my short list to try.

Groups of diners eat under yellow umbrellas at Eight4Nine in Palm Springs, California

Lunch tastes even better when dining outside at Eight4Nine. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Eight4Nine — It used to be the Palm Springs post office, but now it’s one of the most popular restaurants in town. Dressed in white with red accents, the interior is pretty swanky. Dine al fresco here — you’ll get good food while enjoying our fantastic weather.

TacQuila — Upscale and fun. Lunch is a little less pricey than dinner, but you should definitely try it. And get the deep fried avocado. SO good.

Farm — As I mentioned in the breakfast blog, it’s like the French countryside when you dip in off the street. If the line’s too long, and you’re early enough, you can get a drink and something light off the menu at their sister restaurant, The Front Porch. This one is also in La Plaza. 

Fuzion Five — At Baristo on Palm Canyon, this place has been around for awhile, and I recently tried it. I can whole-heartedly recommend their shrimp and avocado roll. Their noodles were pretty fire too.

Thai House Palm Springs — I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s easy to miss because it’s sandwiched between The Village Pub and Las Casuelas Terraza. It’s vegetarian, and I’ve heard it’s good. Let me know, ‘k?

El Patio — The sister to Felipe’s (see below), with the same good food but a marketing flare: your tacos are served on a clothesline with clothespins.

Bongo Johnny’s — Tiki bar above La Quinta Brewing. Fun atmosphere, and there’s often a line.

1501 Gastropub — In the former Big Boy’s restaurant, it’s co-owned by two local restaurateurs, Willie Rhine and Chad Gardner. The food is inspired, and the drinks are good. Close to Arrive.

The Heyday — Across the street from Gastropub, this burger joint went from street vendor to hotel residences to their own brick and mortar in four years. That’s pretty impressive. Their burger is a local favorite — they have a mushroom burger that will rock your world — and the vibe is great; a DJ was spinning the afternoon I went, and the place was swinging. Takeout too.

Tyler’s — It’s a burger joint in La Plaza, and it’s good. Beer on tap.

A red plate filled with rice and tacos and a pink margarita from Las Casuelas Terraza in Palm Springs, California

Lunch is served as Las Casuelas Terraza. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Las Casuelas Terraza — Decent food, party atmosphere, usually a band. I just learned it’s in an old casita (I thought castitas were small, this one was not). Open Thursday through Monday for lunch.

Mickey’s Kitchen — This is behind the Shamrock’s Pub, and if you’re looking for a place to get your Irish on and eat Mexican food, just pop on into Shamrock’s. You can order and have it delivered to the pub.

Off the Strip

Billy Reed’s Many people make this the last stop on their way out of Palm Springs. Their homemade potato chips are a big draw too. Very big place. 

El Mirasol North and South — If you’re staying at Los Arboles, you’ve got a direct line to the North property and its lovely patio. The food (all family recipes) is always good, and their margarita menu is extensive. The restaurants and hotel are owned and managed by the Castaneda family, so there’s a lot of pride there. 

The Pantry at Holiday House — You definitely need a reservation, but I hear it’s a great experience. And lucky you, if you’re staying at Holiday House you’ve got an in!

The Barn at Sparrows LodgeSparrows Lodge and Holiday House are sister properties, and Sparrows is pretty special. You’ll need a reservation here, and good parking skills. 

Six white chairs lined up in front of the white bar at Drift Hotel in Palm Springs, California

The bar at Maleza. Photo by Erin Feinblatt

Maleza — In one of the newest of our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, The Drift. The menu isn’t extensive, but it’s good. And again, if you’re staying at Drift you don’t need to drift anywhere else for lunch. 

Fisherman’s Market & Grill — Much like the fish joints you see on the boardwalks, but it smells better. Order your food cafeteria style, then they’ll give you a number and find you either outside or inside, your preference. Fish is fresh, prices and food are both good. You can be healthy or get it fried. 

Ruben & Ozzies — You can make a meal on appetizers alone. Featuring mostly seafood, they do have other options (chicken, steak) for those who are landlubbers. 

Sherman’s Deli — It’s a nice deli. It has sandwiches, soups, desserts, booze, and more. 

Boozehounds — On the north end near Toucan’s. Food is good, and your pooch is welcome to have cocktails and food with you.

Felipe’s – Waaay off the beaten path, Felipe’s is on El Cielo just west of the airport. Food has a Jalisco influence with an emphasis on seafood. Also a local favorite.

Loco Charlies — In the Albertson’s shopping mall, the food is quite good, and so are the drinks. It’s pretty far off the beaten path, so you’re going to find a lot of locals here. It is not in the least bit trendy or chi-chi. Just good food and booze.

Arenas

Blackbook — Fun, finger-food kind of menu. Wings, burgers, fries.

Hunters — At first it looks like it’s all bar food, but their menu is pretty extensive.

I may have missed a few — it happens, I’m a perfectly imperfect human and that’s okay. But now I’m also a perfectly imperfect hungry human … and there’s so many choices I can’t decide where to go! See you at dinner, coming up next. 

Recently we took our sweet cocker spaniel, Fender, on a short trip to Palm Springs. It was a beautiful afternoon when we arrived at the so aptly named Azure Sky, one of the most recently renovated Palm Springs Small Preferred Hotels. Yes, the sky and enticing pool were both sparkling azure when we arrived at this stunning boutique hotel. 

The grounds are lushly landscaped with blooming native plants and palm trees that help create a tranquil getaway in the middle of the desert, but Azure Sky is also still ideally located in the heart of Palm Springs. Here you can have it all — a peaceful hideaway that is still close to the activities and restaurants that attract so many visitors to Palm Springs.

As we entered the hotel grounds, we were especially impressed by the striking, steel entryway gate, which introduces guests to the innovative contemporary design of the hotel.

The pool area of Azure Sky. Photo courtesy of Azure Sky

This hotel was originally built in 1959 and was a timeshare and then apartments for many years. In June, an extensive two-year renovation was completed, resulting in a stylish retreat featuring wood and stone with an emphasis on natural light. The hotel has a modern vibe while still retaining its original mid-century charm that is so characteristic of Palm Springs. There are only 14 rooms so you almost feel as if you are staying in your own personal, private retreat — and since this property caters to adults, you can expect peace and quiet.

We were warmly welcomed in the chic, inviting lobby with a refreshing cocktail, and Fender was even greeted with a little doggie bag holding a special healthy treat, which he eagerly devoured. It is so nice to be able to visit such a wonderful hotel that is also dog friendly.  

We were then shown to the Agave Suite, which was spacious and comfortable. Our room included a lovely living room with a kitchenette and a separate comfy bedroom with a unique floating wooden bed featuring linens that were as soft as clouds — just like the clouds in the azure sky. We also enjoyed the outdoor private patio connected to our room. There are four different room configurations at different price points.

An Azure Sky bedroom. Photo courtesy of Azure Sky

This suite included almost every amenity possible except a TV, which we did not miss at all. It was nice to tune out the news of the day and enjoy our quiet retreat. The soothing palate of subdued colors enhanced the serenity of our room; even our dog was ready to curl up and take a snooze. There were bottles of cocktail mixes to purchase in our room so we enjoyed drinks as we embraced the restful atmosphere. My husband and I agreed that Azure Sky provided a much-welcomed escape from our busy, daily lives.

The luxurious courtyard with spectacular views of the dramatic San Jacinto Mountains offers guests ample outdoor areas for relaxing and contemplating life. Guests can gather around one of the two fire pits for pleasant conversation or quiet reflection. The expansive terrace surrounding the pool had plenty of lounge chairs and is another ideal place to relax after a refreshing swim or dip in the warm waters of the jacuzzi. Azure Sky is truly an enchanting getaway designed with the comfort of guests in mind. 

The inviting pool at Azure Sky. Photo by Todd Montgomery

After relaxing in our room, our only decision was where to go for dinner. So we adjourned to the comfortable Azure Sky lobby lounge and warmed ourselves in front of the fire crackling in the fireplace while we savored a cocktail and considered our dinner options. Of course Palm Springs offers many superb restaurants, but we found ourselves enjoying the ambiance of Azure Sky so much that we were reluctant to venture out for dinner. Instead, we ordered a pizza (which was delivered right to the lobby) and talked with a few of the other friendly Azure Sky guests while we nibbled and sipped. We met two pleasant young women from Paris who had been traveling around Southern California on business and they were also genuinely impressed with the upscale charm of Azure Sky.

Susan Montgomery and Fender enjoy Azure Sky. Photo by Todd Montgomery

Azure Sky offers a complimentary continental breakfast and freshly brewed coffee every morning, which helped us launch our day ahead in Palm Springs. We learned that the hotel is also the perfect venue for weddings and other special occasions. Sometimes all the rooms are sold out for events so that guests can have the entire property to themselves.

By the way, while we were in Palm Springs we had a delightful lunch with a friend at another PSPSH property, La Serena Villas, where the much celebrated restaurant, Azúcar, is located. We dined on delicious swordfish tacos, scrumptious chicken lettuce wraps, and a shrimp cocktail while we sipped the restaurant’s special margarita called the Rosearita, which is made with tequila, rose liqueur, and agave nectar. Azúcar’s outdoor patio setting around the La Serena Villas pool captures the quintessential relaxing spirit of Palm Springs. Our friendly restaurant server even brought Fender a bowl of water. We’ve learned that dogs are generally very welcome in Palm Springs.

The Rosearita. Photo by Todd Montgomery

We could not have had a more perfect day and of course we ended it at Azure Sky, which truly is over the top and quickly became our home away from home. We will be back — and so will Fender who loved Azure Sky as much as we did!

More than any other meal, dining out for supper is special. I mean, a meal under the desert sun is very different from a meal beneath the light of the desert sky.  Dinner could be a celebration, a romantic evening (for two or three — whatever floats your boat), or a get together with friends. No matter which one you’re here for, I’m here for you.

Fine dining in Palm Springs

Empty tables and a fire pit on the outdoor patio at Spencer's in Palm Springs, California

Spencer’s is a special occasion type of place. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Spencer’s — This is often the go-to for special occasions. The Bougainvillea Room is nice, but so is the inner space. I’d choose this for a classy celebration.

Tropicale — Outside is a party, but the booths inside offer the feel of your own little room. I’d recommend this for a birthday dinner with a small group of friends.

Johnny Costa’s — Very old school Italian, Rat Pack. Johnny was Sinatra’s favorite chef (both now gone). The waiters are pros — no college students here.

Le Vallauris — A fine dining experience, and rife for romance.

Eight4Nine — I’d call this the alternative to Spencer’s, but it’s on the strip. Owner and restaurateur Willie Rhine is well known and beloved by our town. Feel free to love on him too.

The Purple Room — Best dinner club in Palm Springs. Super Rat Pack atmosphere, great jazz-leaning acts, very old school Palm Springs.

A white wall with a gate that reads "So•Pa"

So•Pa is a must-try while staying at L’Horizon Resort and Spa. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

So•Pa — I spent Thanksgiving here, and wowie wow wow. It’s at L’Horizon Resort and Spa and is stunning. If you want someone to fall for you, take them here.

Miro — I love this place. Excellent food, great staff, and lovely ambiance.

Mr. Lyon’s — It’s not what I expected as far as ambiance. It’s kind of “cozy LA” inside. This is another spot for special occasions and DO NOT pass on the rolls.

Melvyn’s — Another old school spot, inside Ingleside Inn which is also an old estate with a great story. You can read all about it in Mel Haber’s books about Palm Springs, which you can purchase here. There’s also terrific music.

Azúcar — Inside La Serenas Villas, this teeters between fine dining and casual dining. The food is modern contemporary cuisine, and the view is to die for.

Johannes — Clean lines, great art on the walls, the schnitzel’s the thing here. Have it just about any way you like, it’s gonna be good. It’s not the only thing, there’s seafood too, and desserts. This is not for groups, but maybe a nice evening between two or three friends. Maybe four, but if you’re loud, like I am, keep it small.

Del Rey — If I were trying to seduce someone, I’d take them here. Located at Villa Royale, it has sexy decor and tapas, which are sexy because there’s just enough for two. It’s somewhere between casual and fine dining, but the energy is swanky.

Casual dining

1501 Gastropub — Great menu, great atmosphere. There’s a nice, big, seatable full bar. Super casual, but don’t take that to mean you don’t need a reservation. It’s a hot ticket.

Las Casuelas Terraza — Take the party here.

Upscale casual dining

Diners sit at tables outside of Lulu California Bistro in Palm Springs, California

Lulu’s is always hopping. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Lulu — Everyone has to go to Lulu at least once. The atmosphere is great, and the food is terrific too. The owner, Jerry, does great things in the community, so you can thank him by taking the party here. Although they can accommodate just about any size group, they can also give you a quieter space, or you can people watch on the patio.

Gigi’s — Take your chi chi friends here for a fun Palm Springs experience.

John Henry’s — This is off the beaten path, hard to find, and the parking is horrible, but once you find it, it’s charming. Eat outside and take someone you’re sweet on.

Birba — Pizza, but fancy.

Trio — I haven’t been since their facelift and new menu, but it used to be “the spot” for cocktails and dinner. Limited parking in the back, but there’s parking.

Maracas — I mentioned it for lunch, but it’s also great for dinner with friends.

Pomme Frite — Chef wants you to know it’s a French/Belgian bistro. It’s adorable. Go here to catch up with a friend and stay for a bit.

For foodies

French Miso — Tucked back, it’s actually part of La Plaza but, like I said, it’s tucked so it’s kind of hidden (although they now have big old signs). It’s quite lovely.

Freddie’s Kitchen — On the northern end, inside The Cole hotel, is this little French gem. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s on my list.

Sandfish — It’s sushi. A lot of people love it. I went when it first opened, and I was short of impressed. But that was a few years back — try it out and let me know.

Farm — Farm curates a menu for dinner that is very different from its breakfast and lunch. There’s an amuse bouche to start, and then some choices, prices are fixed. It’s quite a lovely space too. Closed Wednesday and Thursday for dinner.

Michelin Guide

Blue leather chairs lined up in front of the bar at Bar Cecil in Palm Springs, California

If you can, try to score a seat at Bar Cecil. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Bar Cecil The darling of the jet set.

Tac/Quila Jalisco, which means it’s seafood forward. Same owners as Farm. Same great attention to detail in decor and food choices.

Workshop Kitchen & Bar — It’s very L.A.

Boozehounds — Chef Aric Ianni has worked for Kimpton, but his sensibilities run more to beer pairings with fine food.

The Barn Kitchen — At Sparrows Lodge. Good food, great atmosphere.

Colony Club

4 Saints

A little something about dress. You can pretty much dress any way that you like, although resort casual seems to be the go-to these days. There has been a recent trend that I am crazy about, and that’s fashion forward streetwear. Even more specific are those that embrace the mid-mod aesthetic of yore. It’s fun, and it’s flirty. And it makes Palm Springs feel like the technicolor part of Pleasantville. It’s a gas, man. A real gas.

Paul Kurdian and Sam McDermott started their married life off with a bang.

While they were dating, the couple imagined one day starting a business together, and the opportunity arrived on the morning after their wedding.

“On our way to Sunday brunch at my brother’s house, Paul received a call from a former client who had owned another hotel he sold for her,” Sam said. “She told Paul she was ready to retire completely and called to see if he could help with the sale of this hotel. We decided to purchase it ourselves, and nearly eight months later, we began our journey, and the rest is history!”

There were several things about the 18-room property in Palm Springs that appealed to Paul, a real estate broker with corporate experience in operations and management, and Sam, who has a background in strategy, marketing, and business development. The timing was “pretty remarkable,” Sam said, especially since she had once “flirted” with the idea of buying a hotel, and owning one was something Paul had always dreamed about.

“How this came about was surreal because we wanted to extend our life partnership in a new and exciting way,” Sam said. “Many newlyweds have children within their first year of marriage — we gave birth to a new business.”

The hotel was in need of some serious sprucing up, and Sam and Paul started by removing “anything old and outdated.” They replaced “everything that guests could see and touch,” and added conveniences like Qi wireless charging stations in every room. 

All of the carpeting was ripped out, new flooring was installed, and each room now has its own air conditioning and heating unit. The walls are covered with fresh paint, the rooms are filled with new furniture, beds, linens, and towels, and the pool is surrounded by colorful umbrellas and loungers. Perhaps the biggest change Sam and Paul made was giving the property a new name: The Inn at Palm Springs.

“Inn at Palm Springs is the very first property you see on your way into Palm Springs on Highway 111,” Sam said. “We like to tell people we are the Gateway to Palm Springs. When you visit, you’ll see a happy and colorful vibe throughout the property.”

The hotel is dog-friendly — Sam and Paul’s own pup, Gus, lives with them on-site — and able to host small groups for special occasions. 

“We’ve had several guests tell us they plan to come back with a group and take over the inn,” Sam said. “We find joy in helping our guests create great memories with their friends and family, and we look forward to hosting more intimate gatherings in the future.”

Because Paul and Sam have both traveled so extensively for work and fun, they came into this with a clear vision for their hotel: It had to be comfortable, clean, and private, a space where guests felt welcome the instant they stepped onto the property and left feeling they had a positive experience that was an excellent value. The effusive response they have received from patrons shows they accomplished what they set out to do.

“We’ve been very grateful for the wonderful guests who have stayed with us,” Sam said. “It is the positive feedback we receive from guests that keeps us motivated each day.”

The Palm Springs International Airport serves as a hub for welcoming people from all over the world, and visitors arriving in our open-air terminal marvel at the fact they can remove their jackets and immediately start breathing in the fresh desert air.

The first thing on the agenda is either getting through security or heading to the baggage claim area, both of which can be done effortlessly and efficiently at the streamlined facility. This modernist airport has kept up with the times, introducing the latest technology to make arrivals and departures seamless, and it’s also filled with several art installations. As these can be easy to miss amid the hustle and bustle, here’s a guide to several must-see pieces:

In the glass area by security:

“Tang,” aluminum with epoxy paint, by Tom Holland. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Tom Holland is considered one of California’s most important contemporary artists. He grew up in San Mateo and started his studies at Willamette University while also working for Oregon Gov. Mark Hatfield. While waiting for Hatfield between political events, Holland started painting in the car. When he transferred to the University of California, Berkeley, Holland’s work turned from watercolors to oil on canvas and was labeled “funky.” He went on to experiment with aluminum and fiberglass, as it is light and didn’t need to be framed. By adding epoxy paint, Holland was able to have his sculptures reflect light and shadows.

Immediately outside the door of the main building:

“Caprice de Luberon,” French limestone, by Yasuo Mizui. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Yasuo Mizui served as a technician during World War II doing casting. After the war, he enrolled at Tokyo University, where he wrote his thesis “Art – Casting Daibutsu.” Mizui received a scholarship from the French government, which resulted in him working in monumental stone art and participating in the International Sculpture Symposium. “I am for unification,” Mizui said. “The stone sculpture becomes my act, and my act becomes stone sculpture.” 

In the courtyard near the escalator:

“Mai Chan IV,” lacquered steel, by Michael Todd. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Born in Omaha, Michael Todd graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of fine art degree from Notre Dame. He was awarded both a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship and Fulbright Fellowship, and when offered a teaching job at the University of California, San Diego, he accepted and began working with steel (wood had been his previous material of choice). The steel from the shipbuilding industry activated his artistic design sense, and he started the compositions in space and the cosmos. Today he lives and creates in Encinitas, California. 

On the walkway to the Regional Terminal (Regional Terminal Concourse):

“Model for Meditation,” mandala sundial in bronze, by Paul Jenkins. Photo credit: Nadine Conger.

Paul Jenkins was considered an abstract expressionist and exhibited with artists like Jackson Pollack. His abstract work was created by dripping, pouring, bleeding, and pooling acrylic paint directly on a bare canvas, then scattering it with an ivory knife. “I try to paint like a crapshooter, throwing dice and utilizing my experience and knowledge of the odds,” Jenkins once said. “It’s a big gamble, and this is why I love it.” In the 1970s, Jenkins finished his first drawing of “Meditation Mandala,” and in the 1980s took that same concept and poured it into bronze. 

Outside the Regional Terminal:

“Big Horn Springs” by Joe Wertheimer, sculptor, and Mark Junge, painter. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Joe Wertheimer spent 15 years in London as a conceptual and design artist for films and television productions created by American companies. After a highly successful career, he realized his true passion was creating sculptures. Today, his sculptures are found throughout the world in restaurants, hotels, and private residences. Wertheimer lives in Agoura Hills, California, where he said he continues to “take things off the page and put them into three dimensions.” 

Mark Junge, a native of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, spent most of his life in California and now lives in Yucca Valley. He earned degrees in microbiology as well as fine arts, which worked together to help him develop his classical and traditional realism style. Junge specializes in Southwest desert and western landscapes.

Inside the Regional Terminal:

“A Tale of Survival in the Face of Crushing Inertia,” a collaboration between Debi Grupe and Linda Maxson. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Scenes at the U.S.-Mexico border triggered a conversation between Debi Grupe and Linda Maxon. Grupe felt the heaviness of the situation and felt powerlessness; Maxon thought of the opposing forces at work and wanted to illustrate the restorative power of creating through color, symbols, and movement. Thus, they made a massive floor to ceiling art installation, unveiled at the Maxson Art Gallery in Rancho Mirage.

Russel Pritchard of the Palm Springs Arts Commission approached the artists about creating a similar piece for the Palm Springs International Airport. Today, a four-piece similar art installation hangs in the ceiling of the Regional Terminal waiting area. 

The ambiance of the Palm Springs International Airport would be hard to match any place in the world — couple that with excellent boutique hotels and beautiful weather, and travelers can’t go wrong. Now is the time to book a flight, make a reservation at a boutique hotel, and explore everything Palm Springs has to offer.