Palm Springs can feel crowded with thousands attending the April music festivals. Hotels are full, and there is a lot more traffic. However, did you know they clear out of Palm Springs in the morning and don’t return until late at night? That makes it the right time for residents to get out and support all locally-owned businesses. While tourists flock from far and wide to experience the allure of this desert paradise, it is a great time for locals to become visitors in your backyard. Check out that boutique you've been eyeing, try a new restaurant, or stop by the locally-owned retail stores that line Palm Canyon.
Here are some ideas to maximize this bustling time in Palm Springs. Plus, check out the special deals.
Dine Local
So you think you can’t get into a restaurant during these busy weekends? Not true!
Most of the visitor base is at the music festivals. During slow periods, making a reservation at a locally owned Palm Springs restaurant is a great way to support the community and enjoy a unique dining experience.
Alice B.
The name Alice B. was inspired by the legendary California-born author Alice B. Toklas, who wrote, amongst other things, a memoir disguised as a cookbook chronicling her life with partner Gertrude Stein. Alice and Gertrude shared a publicly acknowledged and enduring relationship for nearly four decades and, as members of the Parisian avant-garde of the early 20th century, hosted regular salons attended by relative “unknowns” who would go on to become some of the world’s most influential and celebrated artists and writers.
Their menu evolves frequently with the seasons and includes Mediterranean influences. Reservations
1122 E Tahquitz Canyon Way
Kaiser Grille Palm Springs
For more than thirty years, Kaiser Grille has set the gold standard for quality and value in the Coachella Valley. Founded by Kaiser and Lee Morcus in 1992, it quickly became a beloved destination renowned for its exceptional offerings and warm atmosphere. Kaiser Grille offers a fusion of California and Mediterranean cuisine, featuring USDA Prime steaks, wood-fired pizza, delectable seafood, and authentic pasta dishes.
205 S Palm Canyon Drive - Reservations
Eight4Nine
Eight4Nine is owned by Willy Rhine, a passionate entrepreneur dedicated to providing an elevated dining experience. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative cuisine, Eight4Nine blends modern elegance with a welcoming vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Located in the Uptown Design District, they serve refined American cuisine in a sleek setting with pops of color. Enjoy Happy Hour in their large lounge all day, every day!
849 N Palm Canyon Drive - Reservations
Trio Palm Springs
With accolades like TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award, Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, and recognition on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat, Trio continues to delight guests and set the standard for exceptional dining. Trio Palm Springs offers a diverse and flavorful menu that blends American and international influences, featuring classic comfort dishes and modern culinary creations. They have a vibrant brunch offering and a daily Happy Hour. It is located a blog away from Eight4Nine in the Uptown Design District.
707 N Palm Canyon Drive - Reservations
Zin American Bistro
An essential Palm Springs dining experience since 2004, Zin has been a popular spot for locals downtown. Owned by Mindy Reed, they have received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for their extensive wine list of over 500 selections. The menu features Zin classics like chicken schnitzel, braised short ribs, seafood linguini, and steak frites. Enjoy Happy Hour at the bar on Saturday and Sunday from 3 to 6 pm.
198 S Palm Canyon Road - Reservations
Tac/Quila
Mark and Liz Ostroich, former lawyers, took a break from their legal careers to explore their shared hospitality dream. This led them to create FARM, a restaurant inspired by the French countryside, before moving on to Tac/Quila. Tac/Quila blends gourmet Jalisco-style cuisine with specialty tequilas and mezcals, offering an immersive experience in Mexican culture, art, and flavors. Their goal is to provide guests with authentic, high-quality dishes in an ambiance that reflects the heart and soul of Mexico.
415 N Palm Canyon Drive - Reservations
Blackbook
Established in 2017 by owner Dean Lavine, it has become a celebrated LGBTQ+ spot for its inclusive atmosphere and exceptional offerings. It features signature burgers, comfort foods, and a curated selection of cocktails, whiskey, and craft beers. Lavine's commitment to excellence has earned Blackbook national recognition, solidifying it as a top destination in the area. Enjoy the inside or the large outside patio.
315 E Arenas Road
Shop Local, Thrive Local: Unveiling Hidden Gems
Beyond the convenience of online shopping and big-box retailers lies a treasure trove of unique boutiques, charming cafes, and family-owned stores waiting to be explored. Uncover the allure of shopping locally, not only as a means of acquiring goods but as a way to foster connections, support artisans, and invigorate the heart of your neighborhood economy. So, grab your tote bag and join us as we embark on a delightful adventure, uncovering the hidden gems that await just around the corner.
Benjamin Perdereau
This clothing store features exclusive brands from Saint Tropez, France. Ooh La La
184 N Palm Canyon Drive
Peepa's
Peepa's carries many products, including men's and women's apparel, art, gifts, and seasonal goods. They focus on bringing in independent local artists and designers, which helps them keep their assortment unique and different. As a gay-owned business, they support other LGBTQ, black, and female brands/artists. This is a great time to get out and support Peepa's.
108 S. Indian Canyon Drive
A La Mod
A La Mod is a vintage furniture store specializing in midcentury modern pieces hand-selected for quality and style. The inventory constantly changes, and you'll find everything from chairs and tables to unique decorative items.
886 N Palm Canyon Drive
Bon Vivant
Bon Vivant is a French term meaning "good life lover or Enjoyer of life." This hidden treasure offers home decor, furniture, glassware, pottery, jewelry, and home accents.
766 N Palm Canyon
Wabi Sabi Japan Living
Locally owned and curated, Wabi Sabi Japan Living is a home goods retail store that imports tableware, sake, chopsticks, knives, tea, cookware, and food from Japan and Asia. There’s nothing like it in the valley.
300 N. Palm Canyon Drive
Phylum
Phylum is a new destination for modern design in the Uptown Design District. They feature a colorful array of contemporary housewares, barware, apothecaries, gifts, and furniture, all with complimentary gift wrap and local delivery.
901 N Palm Springs
Crystal Fantasy
Crystal Fantasy has been an inspiring gift shop and metaphysical center downtown since 1987. It is a unique and magical metaphysical store that offers a wide range of products to enhance your spiritual journey. The store provides a tranquil oasis where you can explore crystals, gemstones, jewelry, candles, essential oils, and other mystical items. The store also offers workshops, classes, and events focused on healing, meditation, and personal growth.
268 N Palm Canyon Drive
The Best Bookstore
Remember the fun of going into a bookstore and just browsing all the new titles? Well, it’s here and open in Palm Springs. Find something fun to read poolside.
180 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Just Fabulous
Local Stephen Monkarsh created Just Fabulous after realizing that downtown Palm Springs needed an upscale gift boutique and bookstore that features a wide selection of coffee table books, cards, calendars, candles, watches, novelties, home décor, art, and imported music. Additionally, Just Fabulous often hosts book signings and author events.
515 N Palm Canyon Drive
Visit A Local Garden
Moorten Botanical Garden
Moorten Botanical Garden is a family-owned business started in 1938 by Chester "Cactus Slim" Moorten, a renowned horticulturist and collector of desert plants. The garden spans over 1 acre and features over 3,000 varieties of desert plants worldwide, including cacti, succulents, palms, and more. Stroll through the garden pathways and enjoy the stunning array of plant life on display. The garden also offers educational tours and workshops for those interested in learning more about desert flora and their care. Learn More about its history.
1701 S. Palm Canyon Drive
Visit A Local Museum
Architecture and Design Center
The Architecture and Design Center in Palm Springs is a cultural institution dedicated to celebrating the rich history and influence of architecture and design in the Palm Springs area. Housed in a beautifully restored midcentury modern building, the center showcases exhibitions, lectures, and events highlighting the significance of architecture and design in the region. Explore the center's galleries, attend educational programs, and learn about the iconic architectural styles that have shaped the desert landscape you call home.
300 S Palm Canyon Drive
Unwind & Relax
Spa at Sec-he
For generations, our sacred waters have soothed, healed, and transformed. Discover the history of this ancient hot mineral spring and why it is one of the most important cultural resources protected by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The Spa at Sec-he in Palm Springs is a luxurious oasis nestled in the heart of the desert, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments and services to pamper both your body and mind. This spa caters to all your relaxation needs, from soothing massages to invigorating facials. The tranquil atmosphere and professional therapists ensure a truly blissful experience. You can read more about Spa at Sec-he.
200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Remember, even though the hotels are full and the streets are buzzing with festival excitement, you can still have a fantastic time right here at home. Embrace the unique opportunities that come with this busy time and make the most of it in your own special way. Happy exploring!