Before we finish this sentence, we’re guessing you can name the number one reason everyone loves Palm Springs.
The Weather ☀️
You guessed it—it’s the weather.
With 350+ days of sunshine a year, Palm Springs invites you to leave your jacket behind and soak in the good vibes. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hiking through canyons, or sipping cocktails under the stars, our warm desert climate is the ultimate host.
Ready to plan your perfect sunny escape? Here's how to make the most of your weekend:
Day 1: Arrive in Style (and Sunshine)
As you approach Palm Springs, you'll be greeted by one of the desert’s most iconic sights: the massive wind turbines dancing against the mountainscape. Why not start your visit with the Palm Springs Windmill Tour? This 90-minute guided experience dives into the renewable energy that powers our valley.
🛍️ Shop & Stroll at La Plaza
After the tour, head downtown to La Plaza, a walkable open-air shopping center with everything from artisan boutiques to cocktail bars. Grab lunch on the shaded patio at L’Atelier Café, a French-style bistro known for its quiches, fresh salads, and espresso drinks.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Check into one of Palm Springs’ chic boutique hotels:
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ARRIVE Palm Springs – Stylish, modern, and social.
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The Cole Hotel – Retro charm with a pool scene.
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Sparrows Lodge – A rustic-luxe hideaway perfect for couples.
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The Parker Palm Springs – Quirky luxury, perfect for Instagram
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Saguaro Palm Springs – Rainbow-colored fun with pool parties
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Korakia Pensione – Mediterranean-style hideaway for romance & R&R
Spend your afternoon poolside or explore the design-forward shops along North Palm Canyon Drive. Don’t miss Just Fabulous, a bookstore and gift shop that’s... well, fabulous.
🍸 Dinner & Drinks
Head to Trio for a lively dinner with modern American dishes in a vibrant, art-filled setting. Or head to Birba, a trendy open-air eatery with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal plates
Wrap up your night with a cocktail at Seymour’s, a cozy speakeasy tucked behind Mr. Lyons Steakhouse.
🚶 Day 2: Explore the City – Foot, Fork, and Flashback
☕ Breakfast Picks
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Ernest Coffee – Great espresso and patio vibes
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Cheeky’s – Famous for bacon flights and inventive scrambles
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FARM – Hidden French café with garden seating and lavender lemonade
👟 Put Your Best Foot Forward
Drop by Running Wild to grab some comfortable kicks before heading out on a walking tour with the Palm Springs Historical Society. Choose from themes like "Stars & Scandals" or "Midcentury Modern," and explore the legacy of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
OR
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mt. San Jacinto for panoramic views and cool mountain air.
🥗 Lunch Options
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Sherman’s Deli & Bakery – Old-school NY-style deli with mile-high sandwiches
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Palm Greens Café – Healthy and tasty vegan/vegetarian eats
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El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana – Family-run with spicy moles and margaritas
Afternoon Ideas: Choose Your Own Adventure
For Art Lovers:
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Palm Springs Art Museum – Regional, contemporary, and Native American art
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Backstreet Art District – Working artist studios and galleries
For Vintage Shoppers:
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M Designer Vintage – High-end vintage fashion
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Iconic Atomic or Modernway – Mid-century furniture and finds
For the Wellness Seeker:
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Book a massage or mineral soak at The Spa at Séc-he, the brand-new luxury spa built over ancient hot springs
🍽️ Dine Under the Stars
For dinner, treat yourself to Workshop Kitchen + Bar, a James Beard–nominated favorite serving farm-to-table fare in an architecturally stunning former movie theater. Craving tacos instead? Try Tac/Quila for elevated Jalisco-style cuisine and amazing margaritas.
Dinner Options
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Workshop Kitchen + Bar– Award-winning, sleek, and locally sourced
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Eight4Nine – Modern American with colorful décor
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Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey – Sushi lovers, this one’s for you
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Tac/Quila for elevated Jalisco-style cuisine and amazing margaritas.
🍸 Nightcap Ideas
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Bootlegger Tiki – Tropical cocktails in a tiny speakeasy
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Seymour’s – Classic and cozy cocktail lounge behind Mr. Lyons
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The Amigo Room (inside Ace Hotel) – Hipster-chic and often has DJs or live music
Day 3: Trails, Tours & Tee Time
🥐 Early Bite
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King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel – Retro roadside diner vibes
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Townie Bagels – NYC-style bagels, made fresh daily
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Juniper Table at The Rowan – Mediterranean-inspired breakfast bowls and smoothies
🥾 Hit the Trails
Next, head south to the Indian Canyons for a morning hike. Choose Andreas Canyon for a moderate walk along streams and palms, or Palm Canyon for a longer, shadier trek with sweeping views and waterfalls.
Tahquitz Canyon – A shorter hike with a stunning 60-foot waterfall
Prefer bikes over boots?
Rent from Bike Palm Springs Rentals or book a scenic Big Wheel Tours cycling or Jeep experience to explore:
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San Andreas Fault
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Coachella Valley Preserve
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Joshua Tree National Park
⛳ Optional Tee Time
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Book a round at Escena Golf Club with mountain views and a modern clubhouse.
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Or just enjoy brunch on the terrace at Escena Grille.
Final Meal Options
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Rooster and the Pig – Vietnamese-American fusion (locals love it!)
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Las Casuelas Terraza – Authentic, relaxed Mexican fare with patio views
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Jake’s Palm Springs – Upscale bistro with creative American dishes and strong cocktails
Until Next Time...
As your 48 hours draw to a close, soak in one last golden sunset over the San Jacinto Mountains. You came for the sunshine—but you’ll return for the style, serenity, and sense of discovery that defines Palm Springs.
Where the sun always shines and the fun never ends… we’ll see you again soon.
