As we at HVS consult on thousands of existing and proposed hotels and resorts across the country each year, we get to know markets very well over time. My husband and I have spent much time in the Coachella Valley over the years for both business and pleasure, including hosting our wedding there in 2014, and we’ve found some great spots. Friends and family visiting Palm Springs often turn to us for recommendations, and over time, I have perfected my go-to list that I’m sharing with you here. If you have a trip to Palm Springs planned soon, I invite you to print and start checking off the boxes!

Rod’s Favorites for Breakfast or Brunch

	Chi Chi Great poolside dining at the Avalon Hotel
	Cheeky’s Warning, there can be a bit of a wait here
	Norma’s Indoor or outdoor dining at the swanky Parker Hotel
	Sherman’s Deli & Bakery Super casual and big plates

	Bar Cecil Make a bar/lounge reservation here… so worth it!
	Workshop Innovative bar menu in a modern space
	High Bar The rooftop bar at the Rowan Hotel, downtown… the view!

Rod’s Favorites for Sites to Check Out

	Palm Springs Art Museum and its Architecture and Design Center (separate location)
	Aerial Tramway
	Hiking to the falls
	Indian Canyons Golf

Rod’s Favorites for Shopping

	Trina Turk and Mr. Turk
	JWil Stiles
	The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five – a must stop!
	Grace Home Furnishings
	Other shopping on North Palm Canyon Drive
	Desert Hills Outlet Mall and Cabazon Outlets (30 minutes from Palm Springs)

There are so many hotels to choose from, from small historic inns in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs to the vast resorts of Indian Wells and Palm Desert, with rooms at every price point. My recent favorites include La Serena Villas, L’Horizon, and The Parker, but I’ve had so many other excellent stays in Palm Springs at other hotels over the years. Depending on your budget and neighborhood choice, you’re sure to find a great stay option. Palm Springs also has some fantastic hotels that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community, as well. I’m happy to narrow a list with you depending on what kind of experience you are seeking; just connect with me.

Palm Springs is the perfect location for taking in the views, kicking back, and just taking time to breathe and relax. Its airport is in the heart of the city, with rental cars still found at the terminal and not in a far-off rental-car center. I encourage you to plan a trip there soon and enjoy all the wonderful things the city has to offer. The Palm Springs scene is always evolving in such fun and exciting ways. I promise to keep this list updated as I encounter new spots and find new favorites.