You step off the plane and into the sunshine—there's no long shuttle ride, no car rental line, and no stress. Within minutes, you're cruising past palm trees and mountain views in a ride-share, en route to a hotel close to everything and far from ordinary.
This is Palm Springs, the easy way: no car, no problem. Sun-soaked sidewalks, midcentury magic, rooftop cocktails, and desert breezes guide your next move.
✈️ Touch Down, Ease In
Landing at Palm Springs International Airport feels more like arriving at a resort than a busy travel hub. It's just two miles from downtown, which means you're already dreaming of brunch by the time your luggage hits the carousel. Ride-shares and taxis are just outside the terminal—no need to pre-arrange, just tap and go.
In less than 10 minutes, you're in the heart of it all.
Stay Where the Action Is
To truly embrace the car-free lifestyle, base yourself downtown. Everything's within reach here—boutique shops, buzzy restaurants, and iconic sights are just a short stroll away. You don't need wheels when your hotel is steps from the scene.
Chic + Boutique Hideaways
- La Serena Villas – A chic adults-only hideaway with a rooftop bar, spa, and luxe bungalows.
- Korakia Pensione – Mediterranean meets Moroccan with serene courtyards.
- Casa Cody – Palm Springs' oldest operating Inn with historic charm, reimagined with Spanish-style casitas, a citrus grove, and mountain views.
Midcentury Modern Gems
- Holiday House – Playful mid-century style with vibrant art and poolside service.
- The Three Fifty Hotel – Small and sleek, just steps from restaurants and shops.
- Del Marcos Hotel – A true mid-century gem, adults-only and pet-friendly.
Full-Service Favorites
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs – A rooftop pool, on-site dining, and mountain views right on the main strip.
- Hyatt Palm Springs has spacious suites, a walkable location, and is great for families or groups.
- Palm Mountain Resort & Spa – A resort feel with easy access to downtown and affordable rates.
- Hotel Zoso – Hip, modern, and just a block off Palm Canyon Drive, with a lively pool scene and walkable nightlife access.
Things To Do (Car-Free Fun!)
Your itinerary unfolds as easily as the sidewalk beneath your sandals. Start by wandering Palm Canyon Drive, where midcentury storefronts house quirky boutiques, sidewalk cafés, and vibrant street art.
Pop into the Palm Springs Art Museum, where world-class contemporary works are tucked inside cool concrete walls and sculpture gardens bloom under the desert sun. Just around the corner, the Architecture and Design Center dives into the city's iconic design story.
📍 Don't Miss: The new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, a stunning, modern space that honors the history, culture, and enduring spirit of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Through immersive exhibits, storytelling, and artifacts, the museum offers a powerful sense of place and perspective, right in the heart of downtown.
Look down as you stroll—you're walking among legends. The Palm Springs Walk of Stars honors over 400 celebrities, civic leaders, and trailblazers who have left their mark on the city. From Marilyn Monroe to local heroes, it's a tribute to the many personalities who helped shape Palm Springs into what it is today.
Come Thursday night, VillageFest transforms the street into a lively open-air market filled with local artists, food vendors, live music, and the occasional friendly pup in sunglasses.
And yes, Forever Marilyn is here too, towering in her white dress and ready for your next Instagram post. You will find her in the Palm Springs downtown park.
🛍️ Shop the Style of Palm Springs
Strolling through downtown Palm Springs is as much about discovery as it is about destination. One moment you're admiring a vintage car parked on Palm Canyon, the next you're ducking into a boutique filled with retro sunglasses or handmade ceramics.
Whether you're hunting for midcentury treasures, fashion-forward finds, or just the perfect souvenir, here are some must-visit stops—all within walking distance:
- Destination PSP – Palm Springs-themed everything: graphic tees, retro home décor, glassware, and gifts you actually want to give.
- Mitchells Palm Springs – Vintage fashion with flair, from colorful resort wear to sharp casual pieces.
- Just Fabulous – Books, art prints, and quirky gifts with a Palm Springs twist. The name says it all.
- Thick As Thieves – Artisan-crafted jewelry, candles, and desert-inspired home accents.
- Mojave Flea Trading Post is a beautifully curated marketplace featuring over 70 makers and indie brands across California and the Southwest. Expect everything from handmade leather goods and ceramics to desert-inspired skincare and art. It's part boutique, part gallery, and 100% worth the visit.
📍Insider tip: Many shops stay open late on Thursday evenings during VillageFest, making it the perfect time to shop, snack, and stroll under the stars.
🏳️🌈 Nights Out in the Arenas District
As the sun dips behind the San Jacintos Mountains, the Arenas District comes alive. It's the LGBTQ+ heart of Palm Springs, and the energy is infectious.
Grab a drink and people-watch at Chill Bar, catch a themed dance night at Hunters, or relax into the classic vibe of Streetbar. Want something stylish with strong cocktails and a cool crowd? Blackbook has you covered. Prefer something leather-and-Levi's? Take a stroll to Dick's on Arenas.
Every spot is walkable. Every crowd is welcoming.
🚲 Two Wheels, Endless Views
Palm Springs is flat, sunny, and super bike-friendly. Rent a cruiser and glide through scenic streets lined with palm trees and colorful doors.
Bike Rentals – Available at many hotels or through local shops like Bike Palm Springs.
- Palm Springs Big City Loop Bike Tour
- Explore Historic Deepwell Ranch Neighborhood: Self-Guided Bike Tour
- Pedal Through Palm Springs: A Self-Guided Tour of Midcentury Charm
🍸 Eat + Drink Local, No Driving Required
Waking up in Palm Springs means one thing: brunch. Here's where to start your day—and where to keep the culinary adventure going.
🍳 Breakfast & Brunch
- Cheeky's – Famous for its inventive brunch menu, including the beloved bacon flight and seasonal dishes. Perfect for a casual but flavorful breakfast or brunch.
- Wilma & Frieda's – Comfort food with a twist, featuring dishes like crab benedict, French toast, and Southern-style breakfast classics.
- Broken Yolk Café – A beloved local breakfast spot offering a wide variety of classic breakfast items, from omelets and pancakes to healthy bowls and smoothies. A great go-to for a traditional, hearty breakfast.
🥗 Lunch
- Lulu California Bistro – A lively bistro with a broad brunch menu, offering everything from fresh salads to hearty egg dishes and waffles.
- Chicken Ranch – A relaxed spot known for its rotisserie chicken, southern sides, and easy-going vibe. Great for a laid-back lunch.
- Farm – A cozy, European-inspired spot serving fresh, farm-to-table brunch options that highlight local ingredients in a rustic setting.
🍽️ Dinner
- Kaiser Grille – A long-time downtown favorite with a diverse menu featuring steaks, seafood, and pasta, plus a large outdoor patio.
- Il Corso – Elegant Italian dining with handmade pastas, classic entrées, and an intimate, romantic vibe.
- Las Casuelas Terraza – A festive downtown staple serving traditional Mexican dishes, margaritas, and nightly live music on a beautiful open-air patio.
- Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate – This upscale classic Palm Springs institution has old-school charm, live piano music, and timeless cocktails like martinis and Manhattans.
🍸 Cocktails
- High Bar – Located atop the Kimpton Rowan, this rooftop bar offers stunning mountain views and a selection of craft cocktails, perfect for sunset sips.
- Bootlegger Tiki – A cozy tiki bar located in the former Don the Beachcomber space, offering expertly crafted tropical cocktails in a vintage Polynesian setting.
- Tonga Hut – The sister bar to North Hollywood's original, this kitschy tiki lounge serves up potent classics like the Zombie and features a hidden room behind a phone booth.
🍸 Pro tip: Many downtown restaurants offer happy hour menus—perfect for early birds wandering in on foot.
✨ Final Thoughts: Walk This Way
Ditching the car in Palm Springs doesn't mean giving up freedom but embracing it. With everything you need right at your feet, the best way to see this desert gem is the slow way. The scenic way. The no-stress, sunshine-filled, drink-in-hand kind of way.
So go ahead: take a stroll, rent a bike, or follow the music. You're not just getting around—you're experiencing Palm Springs, one step at a time.
Ready to plan your car-free escape? Start with places to stay downtown.