Two hours east of Los Angeles lies an oasis in the middle of the arid Colorado Desert. Palm Springs (like other nearby desert towns Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage) is a vibrant city full of great golf, restaurants, shopping, architecture and more. Whether you want to live in Palm Springs or just visit, a diverse array of activities awaits you.
Palm Springs has a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from cheap motels to luxurious five-star resorts. Since much of the area around Palm Springs is Native American land, some hotels even have casinos in them. If you want to pamper yourself, consider one of Palm Springs' lavish spa hotels, such as the Viceroy or the Riviera. Palm Springs also has funky boutique hotels, such as the Orbit In and the Movie Colony Hotel. For those who want a clothing optional, pet-friendly or LGBT hotel, Palm Springs has you covered as well. In general, hotel prices drop dramatically in the summer months when temperatures can reach 110 degrees F or higher.
Like the hotel options, Palm Springs has many different types of restaurants, ranging from high class steakhouses to affordable (and delicious) ethnic food. Some of the highest rated Palm Springs dining options are Miro's Mediterranean Restaurant, Roscoe Grill and Tyler's Burgers. Palm Springs' Bureau of Tourism website offers a solid general rundown of additional food options.
One of Palm Springs' most popular attractions is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The tramway takes visitors two and a half miles up Chino Canyon on a 360 degree rotating tramcar. From 8,500 feet up Mt. Jacinto, sightseers can peer out onto Palm Springs and the other Coachella Valley desert cities below. A network of hikes and nature walks adds to the overall experience.
For those who don't like heights, consider one of Palm Springs many golf courses, such as Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort. Other options for daytime activities include bike rides, art gallery walks in Palm Springs village, tennis or a visit to a local museum like the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Information Center.
At night, you can take in a play at the Palm Canyon Theatre, a show at the Fabulous Palm Spring Follies, have a drink at Le Parker Meridian Hotel or if you visit in early January, check out the Palm Springs International Film Festival.
Palm Springs has one of America's most thriving gay communities. From LGBT hotels to nightclubs to seasonal events, Palm Springs has plenty of options for gay/lesbian visitors. The Desert Pride Community Center often hosts art exhibits and chat groups. Seasonal events include a major Gay Pride Parade in November and a spring break party in April.
