Palm Springs is one of the top resort destinations in the world, so it figures there would be a good choice of hotels. Indeed, among the very first buildings in Palm Springs were hotels or guest houses. Palm Springs’ reputation as a Hollywood was launched at glamorous digs such as the El Mirador Hotel, the Desert Inn and the Ingleside Inn.
Lately, Palm Springs has flourished with a new generation of noteworthy hotels and hip accommodations for vacationers. When searching for a place to stay in Palm Springs, decide on what kind of amenities, environment and vibe you prefer. You’ll easily find something that suits you.
From Budget to Exclusive
As resorts go, Palm Springs is not just for the rich and famous. You can find a reasonably priced motel or hotel, especially closer to the entrance to town and along East Palm Canyon Drive. Families on a budget can enjoy the sun and a sparkling pool and find wallet-friendly dining and shopping all over town.
For those with deeper pockets, you’ll find glamorous resorts and boutique hotels, too. These are scattered throughout town, but primarily close to the downtown district. The beautiful, exclusive boutique hotels tend to be clustered in the Tennis Club neighborhood just west of downtown, up against the soaring San Jacinto Mountains. The original Ingleside Inn from the 1930s is still in this neighborhood, and nearby you’ll find a collection of fashionable spots, some with a distinctive mid-century modern flair, such as the Avalon, and others with eclectic charm such as the Mediterranean-inspired former estate, the Willows, the romantic Korakia Pensione and the historic, first hotel in Palm Springs, Casa Cody. Another popular location, just off Palm Canyon Drive is the Rowan, one of the few multi-story hotels in town, with its famous rooftop pool, bar and restaurant.
There are also some terrific locations along East Palm Canyon Drive as well, some featuring renowned restaurants. For genuine luxury, you can’t beat the Parker, a vintage, mid-century resort, now updated with incredible grounds, fantastic accommodations and bars and restaurants that redefine hip elegance.
There are Big Chain Hotels, too
If you’re more comfortable staying at places you already know from past experience, Palm Springs has its share of Hiltons, Hyatts, Marriotts and their various affiliates, which are too numerous to keep track of, but you know their names. These hotels are large enough that rooms can still be found even during major Palm Springs events, such as the International Film Festival, Modernism Week, the White Party, and the two Coachella Music Festival weekends.
Many hotel apps and sites direct users to these major hotel chains that are in the other desert cities of Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells. But if you’re looking to spend your vacation in a resort town with a village atmosphere, a chic shopping, dining and entertainment district, and with proximity to the mountains and canyons that made it famous, redirect yourself to the Palm Springs locations. You can stay at a big brand hotel and still experience the fun, vitality and diversity of Palm Springs.
Whatever Your Identity
What are you looking for in your vacation? A place for kids, a place to party, someplace peaceful and quiet, a gay resort, or even a place where clothes are optional? You’ll find it in Palm Springs. The Ace Hotel, The V, the Saguaro along East Palm Canyon cater to a hip, young crowd, as does the Riviera and Arrive on the north side of the Uptown Design District. These hotels are also larger and more affordable than some of the boutique hotels downtown, but they still have all the fantastic amenities you’d expect from a first-class resort.
The quieter, secluded and more peaceful boutique hotels tend to be around the Tennis Club area. And if it’s a family vacation you’re after, some of the brand name hotels along Tahquitz Canyon Way may be a good bet. Palm Springs is home to many exclusively gay resorts in the Warm Sands neighborhood, and the Tahquitz River area. But, really, a hotelier would have to be an idiot not to put out the welcome mat to LGBT tourists. Palm Springs is a major gay destination.
Hotel Alternatives
Palm Springs is famous for its residential architecture (hence the popularity of Modernism Week, which features tours of some of the city’s architecturally significant homes). And many residences are available as vacation rentals. You’ll find these on vacation rental apps, but in season, they go quickly. Some are condos in complexes complete with multiple pools, spas and tennis courts. Others are single family homes, or guest houses, or rooms with separate entrances. All would most likely have pools, and entire homes would be turnkey furnished.
Perhaps one of the best ways to enjoy Palm Springs on your own terms is simply to find your own permanent or vacation home. Visitors to this fabulous desert city enjoy it so much they never want to leave and turn into full- or part-time residents. During your stay, check with Palm Springs Realtor, Geoff Moore, to arrange some showings of homes that will meet your needs and fulfil your dreams of a beautiful, Palm Springs home.
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