Flying solo? That’s so yes! Single travelers enjoy freedom, flexibility, and fierce times in Palm Springs, a hotbed of happenings for gays on the go.
Don’t get us wrong - we love every member of your LGBTQ+ fam, but we also want to spend some one-on-one time with you! So clear your calendar and follow our lead, because we’ve designed an itinerary specifically for the gay solo traveler.
Welcome to Palm Springs, honey!
Solo Stays
Feeling Bold?
Book a solo stay at a men's clothing-optional resort and let your carefree side shine. Santiago, Twin Palms, and Descanso are part of a family that offers complimentary breakfast and poolside lunch, with snacks and beverages throughout the day. Santiago and Twin Palms are in south Palm Springs, while Descanso is closer to downtown.
You can also marvel at modernist construction, courtesy of the Triangle Inn. Visionary architect Hugh Kaptur designed the building back in 1958, but the current vibe is so now.
INNdulge is located in the Warm Sands neighborhood and offers a social atmosphere, complete with a social hour in the evening. If you prefer something more steamy, Vista Grande is just around the corner (seriously, their steam room is a must-experience destination). Or there is the frisky Canyon Club downtown,
For those who like to be pampered, The Hacienda is your choice for luxury, with concierge service, two pools, and complimentary breakfast and lunch.
Inclusive & Stylish
Owned by drag icon Trixie Mattel, Trixie Motel is a maximalist dream draped in pink, camp, and desert flair. Each of its seven themed rooms — from Queen of Hearts to Atomic Bombshell to Yeehaw Cowgirl — bursts with custom artwork, bold decor, and plenty of photo ops.
And for those who enjoy a good brunch, book your stay at the Saguaro Palm Springs and enjoy their weekend drag brunch with spirited performances. Hotel Zoso is also known to throw fun weekend pool parties and is very welcoming to all, located right downtown and next to all the hopping Arenas District, so no car needed.
Cultural Cravings
Keep your curiosity flowing with a modernism tour contoured to your unique perspective. Walk in the footsteps of Hollywood legends like Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and Cary Grant and gaze at the gorgeous creations of Albert Frey, William Krisel, and Donald Wexler.
As a smart, sophisticated single, you’re bound to meet fellow architecture aficionados on whichever tour you book. Once you and your new besties have bonded, be sure to discuss your fave structures over coffee at The Social Cafe & Play Lounge, a welcoming LGBTQ enclave packed with activities and inclusion. Remember to slide the phrase “well built” into your convo for innuendo overload!
Schedule a stop at the Cultural Center, where theater, cinema, and community waltz whimsically. Peruse the produce at our weekend farmers’ market, where you’re guaranteed to find something tasty (wink, wink).
Flex your cosmopolitan side at the Palm Springs Art Museum, featuring LGBTQ artists like Ruth Bernhard, Wolfgang Tillmans, and Andy Warhol. And from 5-8 pm on Thursday nights, museum admission is free… just like you!
Pro-tip: set aside a hot minute to pose at the Instagram epicenter of town: Forever Marilyn, perched very close to the museum entrance.
Palm Springs Best Gay Shopping: Fashion, Art, and More
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe, hunt for mid-century treasures, or explore queer-owned boutiques, Palm Springs offers a shopping scene as stylish and vibrant as its LGBTQ community.
Fashion & Resort Wear
- Division Palm Springs – Contemporary tank tops, button-downs, swimwear, and those coveted short shorts. If you want to dress like a true Palm Springs insider, this Arenas District boutique is your go-to.
- GayMart USA – America’s Favorite Gay Superstore! Specializing in swimsuits, underwear, fun gifts, and adult novelties, it’s perfect for bold solo travelers looking to stock up on essentials.
- Bear Wear – Curated menswear, jewelry, and gifts for men of all shapes and sizes. Philip and Bruce are ready to help you find your perfect look.
- Mr. Turk Menswear – Modern resort style meets 1970s vintage flair at this upscale boutique on North Palm Canyon Drive. For high-end Palm Springs style, it’s a must-see.
Art, Gifts & LGBTQ Boutiques
- Destination PSP – Mid-Century Modern-inspired merchandise, including t-shirts, home goods, and playful Palm Springs–style designs.
- Just Fabulous Palm Springs – A modern lifestyle boutique with books, gifts, and décor that are fun, inspiring, and perfect for solo travelers.
- Queertique Palm Springs – Showcasing independent queer artists with unique apparel, art, and vintage finds. Don’t miss their oversized dressing room — selfie heaven!
- The SHAG Store – Retail store for Josh Agle’s (SHAG) hand-signed, numbered prints and merchandise celebrating vintage Palm Springs high life.
Home Furnishings & Accessories
- PS Homeboys – Mid-Century meets Modern home décor staging specialists, with an inspiring showroom in the Arenas District.
- Wabi Sabi Japan Living – Japanese-inspired home goods, décor, and specialty groceries, celebrating imperfection and artistry.
Feast Your Solo Heart Out
Traveling solo means you get to eat exactly what you want, when you want it — no compromises, no “where do you want to eat?” debates. In Palm Springs, every meal is a chance to flirt with flavor (and maybe the person at the next table). Here’s where to fuel your adventures from sunrise to last call.
Breakfast
- Koffi – Kickstart your day with a robust oat milk iced latte and an egg sandwich that hits the spot. With chic locations scattered across the city, you’re never far from your morning fix.
- Townie Bagels – Freshly boiled bagels, irresistible pastries, and a friendly vibe in the Antique Shopping District. Get there early before the everything bagels disappear.
- FARM – A Provencal-style beauty dishing out traditional French plates with a local twist. Arrive early to beat the brunch crowd — trust me, it’s worth setting the alarm.
Lunch
- Clandestino – Latin American flavors meet artsy presentation, brought to you by the culinary team behind FARM and Tac/Quila.
- Blackbook Bar & Kitchen – The Arenas District’s go-to for elevated bar food, strong cocktails, and a happy hour scene buzzing with energy.
- Grand Central – A vibrant spot offering creative American fare with a rotating menu of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their outdoor seating is perfect for solo diners soaking up the Palm Springs vibe.
- Chicken Ranch – Fresh, farm-to-table goodness with rotisserie chicken, crisp salads, and seasonal sides that leave you feeling energized for the afternoon.
Dinner
- Trio – A downtown favorite blending American comfort food with elevated flavors. Patio seating is perfect for people-watching while enjoying a perfectly crafted cocktail.
- Eight4Nine – Sleek, contemporary, and Instagram-ready, this spot delivers innovative dishes in a stylish setting. Ideal for solo diners who enjoy a little flair with their fork.
- Johannes – A sophisticated European-style bistro offering modern takes on classic Austrian and German dishes. Cozy yet elegant, it’s perfect for a refined solo dinner or a leisurely night out.
Solo Shenanigans & Showtunes
There are ogling opportunities at gay bars every day of the week in the Arenas District, so let’s take a whirlwind tour of your ideal singles scene, shall we?
- Friday night, hit the Hunters dance floor and carry the tune into Saturday for showtunes at Quadz Video Bar. Keep your eyes, ears, and heart open for upcoming single mingle events at Quadz, as well.
- Later Saturday night, butch it up at the Bunker event at Oscar’s, a military-themed hootenanny lined with butch cadets.
- On Sunday, take a piping hot sip of Oscar’s Tea Dance, where you’ll shimmy alongside others….
- On Mondays, you can people-watch from the breezy patio of Chill Bar while enjoying half-off happy hour drinks and/or drag it up with Mayhem Miller at Toucans. Mondays are also Latin drag night at Hunters…
- Tuesdays and Thursdays - These days belong to Tool Shed, where musical bingo is the big hit.
- Wednesdays, Hunters hosts a drag bingo night that’s bananas-fun!
Did someone say drag? Snag a seat at Toucans Tiki Lounge & Cabaret and prepare to mingle with the marvelous. RuPaul royalty sashays away on stage for your entertainment, but remember to buy a ticket beforehand; this place is Galinda-grade Popular!