An Insider's Guide to Palm Springs

An Insider's Guide to Palm Springs

Plan the perfect weekend getaway with our visitor’s guide

Palm Springs is a celebration of contrasts—where Old Hollywood meets mid-century modern design. It’s a place where palm trees grow in the stark desert landscape, and blue skies are set against the peaks of the San Jacinto Mountains. This iconic destination has a signature cool that always feels fresh and exciting, which is one of the reasons why we shot our Spring 2023 Collection there. 

If you’re looking for a memorable getaway, we highly recommend this one-of-a-kind desert city. You’ll never run out of stylish things to see and do. In fact, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite local spots and some of the Fair Harbor pieces you’ll want to wear.

Stay at Korakia Pensione

Seeking accommodations with a little extra charm? This laid-back yet luxe 28-room, Mediterranean-style pensione offers a unique experience. Korakia Pensione includes a series of earthy villas and houses that set the atmosphere that includes everything from a Moroccan courtyard to yoga classes and relaxing spa treatments to social fire-pits that light the heated pools at night.

Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden

Established in 1938 this 1-acre family-owned botanical garden boasts over 3000 different varieties of cacti and succulents. If the desert flora isn’t enough, there are dazzling crystals, colorful rocks, fossils, and pioneer and gold mining relics to check out. Be sure to check out the plants available for purchase in the nursery on the property.

Appreciate design at Palm Springs Art Museum

One of the things Palm Springs is most known for is the preserved mid-century buildings which is why it may come as no surprise that the Architecture and Design Center of the Palm Springs Art Museum has become a favorite. An architecturally significant building itself, the Palm Springs Art Museum is the perfect escape from the desert sun with 28 galleries, a 400-person theater, two sculpture gardens, and an excellent gift shop.  

Stop for lunch at La Bonitas

No trip to California is complete without Mexican food, and no Palm Springs visit is complete without tacos at La Bonitas. This low-key SoCal infused Mexican restaurant located in Downtown Palm Springs serves up generous portions of authentic tacos, burritos, bowls, and more. We’re fans of carne asada burrito bowls and mango margaritas.

Go for a hike in Indian Canyons

If you’re looking for adventure beyond the many museums and restaurants, gear up for the trails in Indian Canyons. Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians hosts roughly 60 miles of dramatic hiking trails with lush palm groves, fantastic rock formations, mountain-fed streams, and all manner of native flora. Pro-tip: Be sure to bring plenty of water.

Cool off at the Ace Hotel Pool

When those desert temperatures heat up, chill out at the Ace Hotel Swim Club’s all-day adult pool party. Grab a beverage and claim a chair from noon to 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday. The cover fee of $40 per person increases on the weekend to $45 per person.

Head to dinner at The Colony Palm

Savor the retro vibes as well as the decadent Old Hollywood flavors at this historic hotel restaurant, where you’ll find spicy deviled eggs, oysters, and ribeye steaks. Come for the food and stay for the atmosphere at the Colony Palm: the inside dining room has a chic modern take on Art Deco glam, while a dreamy outdoor space overlooks the pool and nearby mountains.

Meet for a Nitecap at Seymours

Once the sun sets and you realize you’re ready for a martini, head over to Seymours. Located in Twin Palms, this classy speakeasy-style cocktail bar with an unmarked side entrance is the ultimate destination for a nitecap.  Full of dimly-lit corners and a moody interior complete with velvet cushions, live jazz, and vintage photos lining the walls, Seymours will have you wondering if you’ve traveled back in time. 233 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264. (760) 892-9000