Palm Springs provides the perfect backdrop for a sunny girls weekend – just two hours from LA and San Diego, the desert oasis is a hip and fun getaway. With mod hotels, great food, unique shopping, plenty of pool and spa options, and a stunning mountain backdrop, you’ll find plenty to do in Palm Springs.
See our list of hotels to pick your perfect basecamp for the weekend.
Day 1
Start your day with a yummy brunch at Wilma & Frieda‘s for your favorite comfort food with a twist in this cheerful cafe. Try scrumptious options like the marionberry vanilla custard french toast or the short rib eggs benedict on house-made English muffins.
After brunch, stroll downtown Palm Springs and the Uptown Design District for fun vintage and modern clothes, accessories, and housewares.
The balmy afternoons in Palm Springs are perfect for pool time. If you’re looking for a party, The Saguaro is known for its buzzy pool parties. El Jefe offers poolside drinks and tacos.
For a more restful afternoon, check yourself into the Yacht Club (which is actually a spa) at The Parker for an afternoon of indulgent pampering on the lovely ground of this hotel.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong at The Workspace for innovative cuisine and cocktails in this hip industrial space.
Day 2
Start your day off with some healthy eats at Fresh Juice Bar with fresh juices (obviously), smoothies, and breakfast bowls. Take water and snacks with you for your next adventure.
Make your way to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to ascend two and a half miles up to the top of the mountains. From the top, soak up the views and enjoy this pristine wilderness with over 50 miles of hiking trails.
If you prefer a guided hike, have a local expert show you the best views in Palm Springs.
After a day of hiking, enjoy drinks and dinner with a view at 4 Saints. On top of the Kimpton Rowan hotel with views of the mountains, craft cocktails and global cuisine.
Day 3
Start your day at Ernest Coffee, for Stumptown coffee and delicious baked goods.
If you’re a fan of mid-century architecture and want to learn more about the history and glamour of Palm Springs, consider a guided tour where you’ll see the former homes of luminaries including Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Nat King Cole.
The Palm Springs Art Museum has 28 galleries and outdoor sculpture gardens as well as a theatre and popular local bistro.
If you have more time in the area, consider a day trip (or longer) from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park – one of the most magical national parks in the US with its distinct trees and desert terrain. Here two deserts, the Mojave and Colorado come together in a vast wilderness. The park is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset with its dark skies.
Featured Image by Fred Miller
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