Cocktails with a View
Palm Springs knows how to do elevation — both in scenery and in style. When the sun dips behind the San Jacinto Mountains, the city’s rooftop bars come alive with craft cocktails, warm desert breezes, and sweeping views. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed sunset drink or a lively night out, these are the best rooftop bars in Palm Springs.
High Bar at Kimpton The Rowan
Best for: Iconic Design & Valley Views
High Bar sits seven stories above downtown Palm Springs atop the Kimpton The Rowan, making it the highest rooftop bar in the city. With sweeping, unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the valley skyline, it’s a go-to spot for golden hour, sunset photos, and elevated cocktails.
The atmosphere strikes a balance between upscale and social, attracting both hotel guests, visitors, and locals seeking a polished rooftop experience. Comfortable lounge seating and a stylish poolside setting make it ideal for lingering over drinks as the desert sky shifts colors.
What to Try:
- Baja shrimp tacos
- Poke nachos
- Wagyu burger
- Pricly pear sour
After drinks, make a reservation at 4 Saints for dinner, also on the 7th floor, next to the High Bar.
Address: 100 W Tahquitz Canyon Way, 7th Floor | Open 10 am - 11 pm daily
Sugar High Rooftop Lounge
Best for: Glam & Romance
Sugar High Rooftop Lounge, located atop Azucar at La Serena Villas, offers a more intimate, refined rooftop experience in downtown Palm Springs. Unlike larger party-style rooftops, Sugar High focuses on handcrafted cocktails, elevated ambiance, and relaxed desert sophistication.
Surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains and softly lit in the evenings, the rooftop feels tucked away yet steps from downtown. It’s an ideal spot for date nights, pre-dinner drinks, or winding down after exploring Palm Springs.
What to Try:
- Ahi tuna tartare
- Dungeness crab stuffed peppers
- Poolo mole
- Azucar margarita
Address: 339 S Belardo Road | Opens at 5 pm
Lola Rose Grand Mezze
Best for: Elevated Mezze & Golden‑Hour Cocktails
Perched on the second floor of the Thompson Palm Springs, Lola Rose Grand Mezze blends Levantine‑inspired cuisine with a stylish indoor‑outdoor lounge atmosphere. While not a traditional rooftop bar, its elevated terrace, mountain‑facing views, and golden‑hour cocktail scene make it a standout for those seeking a more culinary‑driven, globally inspired evening experience.
The space channels warm Mediterranean textures and modern desert design, creating a lively yet refined setting ideal for sharing mezze, sipping playful cocktails, and settling into the Palm Springs night. With a menu crafted by Chef Quentin Garcia, Lola Rose offers one of the city’s most transportive dining‑and‑drinks experiences, perfect for groups, date nights, or anyone wanting a rooftop‑adjacent vibe with serious food credibility.
What to Try:
- House‑baked tandoor bread
- Savory spreads & mezze
- Charred meats & fresh seafood
- Her Name Was Lola signature cocktail
Address: 414 N Palm Canyon Drive. | Check Hours as the vary.
Rooftop 262 Bar & Grill
Best for: Downtown Views & Nightlife
Rooftop 262 Bar & Grill sits above Palm Canyon Drive, offering one of the most central rooftop experiences in downtown Palm Springs. From this elevated perch, guests enjoy unobstructed views of the city and surrounding mountains while staying close to the heart of the action. DJs spin on the weekend.
The vibe is approachable and social, making it a popular choice for happy hour, casual nights out, and sunset cocktails. As the sky shifts colors, Rooftop 262 becomes a front-row seat to one of Palm Springs’ most iconic daily shows.
What to Try:
- Shrimp tacos
- Carnitas BBQ Sandwich
- Smash burger
- Paloma
Address: 262 S Palm Canyon Drive | Open late.
