TPG’s ultimate guide to Palm Springs, California
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.
Situated about two hours to the east of Los Angeles, in the Coachella Valley of the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs, California, has long been a favorite getaway destination for Southern California residents — and those from all over the country, for that matter.
Thanks to its desert location, Palm Springs — and nearby towns and cities like Palm Desert, Indio, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells and more — enjoys pleasant weather practically every day of the year and is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
But it’s not just the good weather and views that have people flocking to Palm Springs and its environs. For decades, the city has been an epicenter for midcentury modern architecture, arts and culture, LGBTQ+ travelers and, of course, the plentiful activities available thanks to its ideal location.
While Palm Springs has been steadily popular over several decades, it seemingly exploded during the pandemic. The abundance of open-air spaces, outdoor activities, rental homes, resort properties, delectable restaurants, and so much more made it a perfect place for anyone desiring a mid-pandemic escape.
Airlines took note, too. Major airlines have been adding flights to Palm Springs International Airport (PSP).
Despite concerns about the omicron variant, travel is still coming back, and many foreign borders are still reopening, but Palm Springs will undoubtedly remain popular if history is any example. Here’s what you need to know about planning a trip to Palm Springs.
When to visit Palm Springs
There’s not necessarily a bad time to visit Palm Springs. No matter when you go, you can expect sun and warmth. It really just depends on how much heat you really want. Traditionally the most popular time to visit is the winter, from January through March. It’s cold in much of the country, and while it’s warm in the desert, it’s not overwhelmingly hot … yet. But this time of year is typically hectic in Palm Springs — you should expect crowds and lines pretty much anywhere you go.
As the year goes on and spring turns to summer, it does get sweltering in Palm Springs and the surrounding area, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees. The silver lining, though, is that the desert heat is much drier than most people are used to, so there isn’t a significant amount of humidity to deal with. And the crowds are thinner this time of year, which could result in a more leisurely visit.
From about October through December is somewhat of a sweet spot time to visit the area, as temperatures are cooler than they were in the heat of summer, and not as many people are in town due to the winter holiday season.
How to get there
As mentioned earlier, airlines consistently added air service directly into Palm Springs throughout the pandemic. Here’s a look at the current state of commercial service into PSP, arranged by airline:
- Air Canada: Vancouver, British Columbia (YVR — seasonal).
- Air Canada Rouge: Toronto (YYZ — seasonal).
- Alaska Airlines: San Francisco (SFO); San Jose, California (SJC); Seattle (SEA); Boise (BOI — seasonal); Everett, Washington (PAE — seasonal); Portland, Oregon (PDX — seasonal); Reno (RNO — seasonal).
- Allegiant: Bellingham, Washington (BLI); Boise (BOI — seasonal); Eugene, Oregon (EUG — seasonal).
- American Airlines: Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Phoenix (PHX), Chicago (ORD — seasonal), Philadelphia (PHL — seasonal).
- Delta Air Lines: Seattle (SEA), Los Angeles (LAX), Salt Lake City (SLC), Atlanta (ATL — seasonal), Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP).
- Frontier Airlines: Chicago (ORD — seasonal), Denver (DEN — seasonal).
- JetBlue: Boston (BOS — seasonal), Fort Lauderdale (FLL — seasonal), New York (JFK — seasonal).
- Southwest Airlines: Denver (DEN); Las Vegas (LAS); Oakland, California (OAK); Phoenix (PHX).
- Sun Country: Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP — seasonal).
- United Airlines: Denver (DEN), San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD — seasonal), Houston (IAH — seasonal).
- WestJet: Calgary, Alberta (YYC); Vancouver (YVR); Edmonton, Alberta (YEG — seasonal); Winnipeg, Manitoba (YWG — seasonal).
And, since Palm Springs is near Los Angeles, you can fly into any one of the LA-area airports — including LAX, Ontario (ONT), John Wayne Airport (SNA), Hollywood Burbank (BUR) and Long Beach (LGB) — and then drive to the desert.
Alternatively, Palm Springs is around two and a half hours from San Diego, which means if you happen to find more desirable flights there, it’s a relatively easy drive from the airport — if you can find a rental car, that is.
Where to stay
The Palm Springs area has no shortage of excellent accommodations. You may choose to rent one of the many midcentury modern homes during your visit, but if a hotel is more your speed, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Here’s a look at some of our top picks:
- Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa: Starting at 17,000 World of Hyatt points (Note that Hyatt has implemented peak and off-peak pricing.)
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs: Award rates vary.
- La Quinta Resort & Club, a Waldorf Astoria Resort: Award rates vary.
- Triada Palm Springs, Autograph Collection: From 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage: From 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
- The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa: From 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
- JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa: From 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
- Hotel Paseo, Autograph Collection: From 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
- Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells: From 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
What to see and do
No one is going to fault you if you simply want to relax at the pool and check out a new restaurant each night for dinner while in Palm Springs, but there’s plenty to do if you're going to get out and explore during your trip. Here are a few ideas to help inspire your travels:
Golf
The desert climate of Palm Springs lends itself well to golf, and if you’re a fan, prepare to be blown away by the sheer amount of courses you’ll encounter: The area is home to almost 125 courses. Some highly regarded ones include the Mountain Course at La Quinta Resort & Club, Indian Wells Golf Resort, Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, SilverRock Resort and more.
Take a day trip
Palm Springs is well situated for day trips in the surrounding area to explore some of the natural beauty on offer. Go on a hike to a desert oasis complete with a 50-foot waterfall in Tahquitz Canyon, or head out a little farther to Joshua Tree National Park, where you can behold the wild beauty of the area, famous for its yucca plants and extraterrestrial-feeling terrain. The park offers several hikes for all skill levels and, of course, plentiful photo opportunities.
See the architecture
One of Palm Springs’ main draws is the abundance of fantastic midcentury modern architecture. The city turned a 1960s-era gas station into a visitors center, and now it’s become a midcentury icon. You can book tours of the city at the visitors center or take a self-guided drive through some neighborhoods with numerous examples of the city's architecture, including Tennis Club and Araby Cove.
Arts and culture
Palm Springs has made a name for itself as a hub of art and cultural attractions. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to see contemporary works of all kinds and exhibitions that reflect the history and culture of the local area. Attend the Palm Springs International Film Festival, operating since 1989. The city is also known for its art galleries, design studios (most feature a midcentury aesthetic, of course) and antique shops — whether you’re window-shopping or have a new 1960s bungalow to furnish, you’ll have plenty to feast your eyes on.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
No visit to Palm Springs is complete without a ride on its iconic tram. It’s operated since the early 1960s and brings riders from the hot, arid desert up to the top of a mountain in about 10 minutes. Pack a few layers because it’s not uncommon to see snow once you get to the top. The 360-degree views of the Coachella Valley below are pretty spectacular, too.
Bottom line
Palm Springs is a perenially popular American destination, and it’s easy to see why. With great (albeit a bit hot at times) weather year-round; a plethora of restaurants, bars and cultural offerings; plenty of golf courses and tennis courts; easy access to spectacular natural beauty; celebrated midcentury modern architecture and design; and so much more, the city — and its surrounding area — has something for everybody.
And with increased air service into the city, it’s never been easier to reach this Southern California desert hideaway.
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| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.