Palm Springs has long been a welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers, blending desert beauty, stylish mid-century design, and a thriving cultural and dining scene. With LGBTQ-owned hotels, lively nightlife, and inclusive experiences, the city makes the perfect setting for a romantic long weekend.
This four-day itinerary is designed for an LGBTQ couple arriving on Thursday and departing Monday morning. It includes diverse dining options (with vegan-friendly choices), activities that range from poolside relaxation to outdoor adventure, and plenty of opportunities to experience the vibrant spirit of Palm Springs.
Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Discovery
Lunch Arrival Recommendations
- Blackbook (315 E Arena Road) – Modern American comfort food in a lively gay bar.
- Tyler's Burgers (149 S Indian Canyon Dr) – A beloved, casual burger spot in La Plaza.
- Chef Tanya's Kitchen (706 S Eugene Rd) – Very popular 100% vegan deli-style café off the beaten track, famous for hearty sandwiches and bowls.
Hotel Check-In
Check into your home base. For LGBTQ-owned resorts, try INNdulge, or Descanso Resort—all men's clothing-optional properties with a strong community feel. Read More: Guide to Gay Resorts in Palm Springs
For boutique stays open to everyone, consider centrally located options like Alcazar Palm Springs. Alternatively, for large and stylish resorts, consider the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs downtown next to the downtown park, or the new Thompson Hotel.
Afternoon Activity - Discover Downtown
Discovering downtown Palm Springs is the perfect way to get acquainted with the city's vibrant energy. Palm Canyon Drive—the main artery—buzzes with a mix of retro-chic boutiques, art galleries, design shops, and sidewalk cafés shaded by towering palms. Stroll past colorful murals and public art installations, pop into LGBTQ-owned businesses, and soak up the lively, welcoming atmosphere. By day, it's ideal for shopping and people-watching; by night, the area transforms into a hub for dining, cocktails, and nightlife, making downtown the beating heart of any Palm Springs getaway.
Evening - Art & Culture
Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum (101 N. Museum Drive). It showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design. The museum features works by internationally recognized artists alongside pieces highlighting the desert's unique landscape and Native American heritage. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions, thought-provoking installations, and a striking outdoor sculpture garden framed by mountain views. With its mix of fine art, performance spaces, and educational programs, the museum offers a dynamic experience that reflects the creative spirit of Palm Springs.
Free Thursday nights, 5–8 pm
Drinks Before Dinner
High Bar (100 W Tahqutiz Way) – Palm Springs' only rooftop pool bar on the 7th floor of the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, it offers retro cocktails, craft beers, shareable seasonal quick bites, and stunning city and mountain views.
Downtown Dinner Recommendations
- LuLu California Bistro (200 S Palm Canyon Dr) – Colorful bistro with large outdoor patio serving eclectic American eats presented in a modern setting. Opens at 9 am.
- Kaiser Grille Palm Springs (205 S Palm Canyon) – USDA PRIME beef, free range organic chicken, sustainable wild seafood, pasta, and pizza, with fresh and local ingredients.
- Johannes (196 S Indian Canyon Drive) – Austrian-Asian fare from chef and owner Johannes.Bacher, including their favorite wiener schnitzel.
After dinner, step outside into VillageFest, a lively weekly street fair that takes over Palm Canyon Drive every Thursday evening. The bustling event transforms downtown into a pedestrian-only promenade lined with local artisans, fresh produce vendors, food stalls, and live entertainers, creating a festive atmosphere where visitors can shop, snack, and soak up the vibrant energy of Palm Springs.
When the night winds down for some but is just getting started for others, head over to the Arenas District—Palm Springs' nightlife hub and LGBTQ+ entertainment epicenter—where you'll find bars, clubs, and lounges that keep the music, dancing, and fun going late into the night.
Day 2: Wellness & Rejuvenation
Morning Activity – Hike Indian Canyons
Hiking in Indian Canyons is one of Palm Springs' most unforgettable outdoor experiences. Located on the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the canyons are home to dramatic desert landscapes, shady palm oases, and clear-running streams that feel worlds away from downtown. Trails range from easy walks beneath towering California fan palms in Andreas Canyon to more challenging routes through Palm and Murray canyons, where you may spot bighorn sheep or hidden waterfalls. It's a chance to connect with the natural beauty and cultural history of the desert, making it a must for couples looking to balance relaxation with adventure.
Breakfast Recommendations After Your Morning Hike
- Cheeky's (622 N Palm Canyon Dr) – Trendy and inventive, with a rotating menu and bacon flight.
- Bongo Johnny's Patio Bar and Grill (301 N Palm Canyon Dr) – serves delicious meals and proudly stands as a locally owned and LGBTQ-loved gem. Its diverse menu and inviting atmosphere capture the spirit of inclusivity and culinary excellence.
- Pinocchio in the Desert (134 E Tahquitz Canyon Way) – Offers casual American and Mexican flavors, indoor and outdoor dining in beautiful downtown. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served all day.
Enjoy a Spa Treatment
Booking a spa treatment at Spa at Sec-he is a truly rejuvenating Palm Springs experience. Built on the site of the sacred Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring, the spa carries forward centuries of tradition with its signature "taking of the waters" ritual—soaking in private mineral-water tubs that soothe muscles and restore balance. Couples can enhance the visit with massages, body treatments, or time in the serene relaxation lounges.
Afterward, linger a little longer and enjoy a light lunch or snack at, Málmal Café, the spa's on-site café, which offers fresh salads, smoothies, and healthy bites—perfect for an afternoon of unwinding in luxury.
Afternoon Pool Time
Few experiences capture the essence of Palm Springs quite like lounging by the pool. With the sun shining nearly year-round and mountain views as your backdrop, poolside relaxation becomes an art form—whether you're stretched out on a chaise with a good book, sipping a refreshing cocktail, or taking a dip to cool off. Many resorts and vacation rentals offer chic cabanas, stylish midcentury settings, and tranquil desert gardens, making it easy to spend an entire day basking in the laid-back, sun-soaked vibe that defines Palm Springs living.
Credit: Descanso Resort
Cocktails Before Dinner
V Wine Lounger & Martini Bar (600 E Tahquitz Canyon Way) - Serves all the fabulous boutique California wines, small-production international wines, craft beer, and throwback cocktails.
Dinner Recommendations
- Trio Palm Springs (707 N Palm Canyon Dr) – LGBTQ-owned and locally loved, where midcentury style meets modern California cuisine.
- John Henry's Café (1785 E Tahquitz Canyon Way) – A cozy neighborhood gem with European-inspired dishes. Note, they do close in the summer.
- Alice B. (1122 E Tahquitz Canyon Dr) – Modern American classics with a West Coast twist, highlighting locally sourced ingredients
- Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge (849 N Palm Canyon Dr) – Bold décor and a creative menu with a huge lounge that offers happy hour all evening.
After Dinner Entertainment
See a show at The Plaza Theatre. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, the historic Plaza Theatre is a premier destination for live entertainment, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year. From concerts and theatrical productions to comedy shows and special events, visitors can purchase tickets in advance to secure a front-row seat to some of the city's most exciting cultural experiences. Its historic charm combined with modern programming makes it a must-visit stop for any Palm Springs itinerary.
Day 3: Adventure
Breakfast Recommendations
- Grand Central (160 La Plaza) – Funcky-chick café serving California fare with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Townie Bagels (650 E Sunny Dunes Rd) – Fresh bagels, pastries, and locally roasted coffee.
- Wilma & Frieda's Café (155 S Palm Canyon Dr) – Comfort classics like griddled meatloaf and house-made Pop-Tarts.
Morning Adventure – Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers one of the most breathtaking adventures in the desert. In just ten minutes, the rotating tramcar ascends over 8,500 feet from the canyon floor to the cool alpine forests of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Along the way, sweeping views reveal the Coachella Valley, rugged cliffs, and distant mountain ranges. At the top, couples can explore miles of hiking trails, take in the panoramic vistas from the Mountain Station, or enjoy dining with a view at the Peaks Restaurant or Pines Café. It's the perfect escape from the desert heat and a must-do for those seeking both adventure and romance.
Lunch Recommendations
- Las Casuelas Terraza (222 S Palm Canyon Dr) – Family owned since 1958, this Mexican Restaurant offers live music on weekends.
- Sherman's Deli & Bakery (401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way) – A New York–style deli and bakery institution.
- Sonny's Bar & Grill (214 E Arenas Road) – This local and gay owned Restaurant serves up traditional American-style comfort food.
Afternoon Activity – Take a Tour
Architecture tours in Palm Springs are a must for design lovers, offering an inside look at the city's world-famous midcentury modern homes and buildings. Knowledgeable guides share stories of visionary architects, Hollywood celebrities, and the desert lifestyle that shaped this distinctive style.
Drag & Fly caters to the LGBTQ+ community, hosted by Anita Doll.
Bonus– For those with a sweet tooth. Grab a sweet snack at Hot Cookie (155 S Palm Canyon Dr.) - Originally founded in San Francisco's Castro District in 1997, Hot Cookie is famous for its fresh-baked cookies and proudly inclusive vibe. The Palm Springs location continues that legacy with a desert twist—serving up gooey, delicious cookies with a LGBTQ+ welcoming environment.
Afternoon Shopping Recommendations
- Peepas (120 N Palm Canyon Dr.) - A vibrant, gay-owned boutique offering uniquely curated gift items, apparel, cards, and home décor—many designed by owner Jeff and local artists.
- Destination PSP ( 170 N Palm Canyon Dr.) - A locally owned shop producing Palm Springs–inspired, mid-century modern apparel, souvenirs, and lifestyle goods—celebrated for its original designs and strong community ties.
- PS Homeboys ( 108 S Palm Canyon Dr.) - A stylish home-staging and decor showroom by a gay couple, offering mid-century home décor.
- Ball Beachwear (170 E Arenas Road) - a vibrant and fashion-forward boutique specializing in high-quality men's swimwear designed to turn heads at the beach or poolside.
- El Tuggle (388 N Palm Canyon Drive) - This locally owned boutique combines easy-breezy fabrics with hand-worked details. It brings the spirit of travel and vintage cabana style to a new collection of pool and resort wear for men and women.
Drinks Before Dinner
PS Air Bar (611 S Palm Canyon Drive) -Tucked inside Bouschet, this airline-themed speakeasy is where aviation enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs unite for an unforgettable night of high-flying fun.
Dinner Recommendations
- Spencer's Restaurant (701 W Baristo Road) – Exudes an unparalleled charm that has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike. It is renowned for its four-star American cuisine with a delightful French-Pacific Rim influence.
- Jake's (664 N Palm Canyon Dr) – Intimate and romantic, with upscale American cuisine.
- Tropicale (330 E Amado Road) – Their menu showcases a fusion of California cuisine with flavors inspired by Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Dinner Show at The Purple Room (1900 East Palm Canyon Drive)
Experiencing a dinner show at the Purple Room is a quintessential Palm Springs evening. This iconic supper club combines classic Rat Pack–era glamour with modern entertainment, featuring live music, cabaret performances, and intimate shows in a swanky, mid-century-inspired setting. Guests can enjoy a full dinner and cocktails while being serenaded by talented performers, creating a vibrant and unforgettable night out in the heart of downtown. (Note, they close during the summer) Get Tickets
