Exploring Palm Springs Beyond Coachella’s April Beats

Local’s guide to making the most of Coachella weekends without the festival frenzy.

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 own 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 make the most of this bustling time in Palm Springs. Plus, check out the special deals.

Dine at a Local Favorite Restaurant

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. Making a reservation for a locally-owned Palm Springs restaurant during slow periods is a great way to support the community and enjoy a unique dining experience.

Locals dining at new restaurants not only indulge their taste buds but also play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary scene. With eager anticipation, I step into these establishments and am keen to explore innovative flavors and culinary concepts. Each dish becomes a delightful journey, offering a glimpse into the creativity and passion of the chefs behind the scenes. Locals forge connections with the restaurant staff and fellow diners as you savor every bite. Local support nurtures these budding eateries, ensuring they thrive and become cherished staples in the neighborhood dining landscape.

Alice B. – 1122 E Tahquitz Canyon Way

Living Out is excited to announce the name of its on-premises restaurant, led by world-renowned chefs and restaurateurs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. The menu showcases the latest and most fantastic ingredients discovered on their travels with a seasonal Southern Californian approach. 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.

Minerva’s at Life House – 1700 S. Palm Canyon

Minerva’s is located at the Life House Palm Springs Hotel. In their own words, they try to tell a true story through the lens of a protagonist who unites the environment, the architecture, the menu, the music, the décor, and beyond. It’s described as a Hollywood starlet’s midcentury desert hideaway with a pool house, bar, and restaurant. The interior is boutique, and the outdoor patio is expansive.

The Canopy Wine Lounge – 175 N Palm Canyon, Suite 150

Canopy Wine Lounge is the latest project by international entrepreneur and vintner Alejandro Bulghuroni and former U.S. Ambassador to Argentina Noah Mamet. Their wine list features wines from Alejandro’s 15 wineries across the globe, as well as Noah’s label, Gran Diplomat, and many more exciting labels to round out our list. Local designer Christopher Kennedy created the space, and it will be buzzing from day one. They have partnered with neighbors Clandestino and On the Mark to make a delicious menu to compliment our vast array of wines. Canopy will offer wine flights, tastings, and wines by the glass and bottle. They will also feature their rosé on tap, aged on-site in a beautiful custom amphora.

Crudo Cervicheria – 515 N Palm Canyon

Their concept is about bringing you shareable dishes with a touch of Mexican flair inspired by the north of Mexico. From clean, fresh fish to top-to-bottom fresh ingredients, they will tantalize your taste buds. It is located next to the Chicken Ranch in The Corridor.

Low Desert – 1775 E. Palm Canyon Drive

Low Desert serves modern Mexican food and is located in the Smoketree Plaza. Open 11 am – 9 pm. Closed Mondays. Starters include brussels sprouts mixed with cotija cheese, jalapeno mayo, and panela cheese. Entrees include tacos, tortas, huaraches, quesadilla, burritos, and tostada. There are also veggie options.

Reforma – 333 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Reforma comes to us from the owners of Chill Bar; Reforma is a nightclub and supper club downtown. Co-owner Rob Giesecke describes the menu as “being inspired by Latin America, from Mexico to Chile and Argentina.” DJs get the party started on Friday and Saturday nights. Those who prefer a quieter evening can enjoy food and drinks in lounge areas away from the dance floor.

Sonny’s Bar & Grill – 214 E Arenas Road

The newest addition to Arenas Road, Sonny’s Bar & Grill, offers a great atmosphere and serves fusion food and drinks. It is named after the owner, Sonny Vegas. They feature an American-style menu featuring a Sunrise and a Sunset. LGBTQ+ owned on Arenas.

JimmyB’s – 155 S Palm Canyon

JimmyB’s is located below Wilma & Frieda’s and across from La Plaza downtown. Great location. They currently serve an American-style menu for breakfast and lunch. They expect to add a dinner menu soon.

 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 – 184 N Palm Canyon Drive

This clothing store features exclusive brands from Saint Tropez, France. Ooh La La

Peepa’s – 108 S. Indian Canyon Drive

Peepa’s carries many products, including men’s and women’s apparel, art, gifts, and seasonal goods. They focus on bringing in independent and/or 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.

A La Mod – 886 N Palm Canyon Drive

A La Mod is a vintage furniture store specializing in midcentury modern pieces hand-selected for quality and style. You’ll find everything from chairs and tables to unique decorative items, and the inventory constantly changes.

Bon Vivant – 766 N Palm Canyon

Bon Vivant is a French term meaning “good life lover or Enjoyer of life.” This hidden treasure offers home decor items, furniture, glassware, pottery, jewelry, and home accents.

Wabi Sabi Japan Living – 300 N. Palm Canyon Drive

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.

Phylum – 901 N Palm Springs

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.

Crystal Fantasy – 268 N Palm Canyon Drive

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. They provide 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.

The Best Bookstore  – 180 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way

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.

Just Fabulous – 515 N Palm Canyon Drive

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.

Visit A Local Garden

Moorten Botanical Garden – 1701 S. Palm Canyon Drive

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. Take a leisurely 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.

Visit A Local Museum

Architecture and Design Center – 300 S Palm Canyon Drive

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.

Unwind & Relax

Spa at Sec-he – 200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way

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.

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!

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