A New England Traveler’s Guide to Palm Springs, California

Hot days, cool nights: Early spring is an ideal time to visit Palm Springs. / Photo by DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

Synonymous with sun-splashed pools, dry-martini modernism, and that unmistakable retro-fabulous sheen, Palm Springs has been a treasured vacation oasis since the 1930s, when Hollywood’s biggest stars began weekending here. While that chic, timeless feeling remains, the charming city has been reinventing itself and proving it’s not just for boomers anymore. Sleek boutique hotels, family resorts, next-level wellness spas, and ambitious cultural projects are reshaping the city—while its surrounding Coachella Valley blooms with surf parks, revitalized landmarks, and design-forward experiences that offer far more than just a classic poolside escape.

The Palm Springs Surf Club lets you ride the waves in the desert. / Photo via Visit Greater Palm Springs

PLAY

Start your visit by taking in a show at the newly restored Plaza Theatre, which reopened after more than a decade with a $34 million revitalization. Or just pop in and view the iconic celestial ceiling, originally built in 1936 and now on display once again.

For a little more action, wade into the region’s burgeoning surf scene. Perfect lefts are rolling in at Palm Springs Surf Club, where state-of-the-art waves cater to surfers of all levels (reservations required). Meanwhile Dsrt Surf—opening in nearby Palm Desert in summer 2026—will feature a 5.5-acre surf lagoon, plus a hotel and restaurant designed with sustainability in mind. Surfing in the desert: Occasionally living in the future is great.

History buffs can head to the impressive Palm Springs Air Museum, which is completing its own $2.5 million modernization, featuring a new turbine-inspired façade. Just about every military aircraft imaginable can be viewed here, from WWII Spitfires to Russian MiGs and a replica of the Boeing B-17 from the movie Memphis Belle. For an extra fee, you can even buckle up for a Warbird ride high above the Coachella Valley. Educational exhibits and knowledgeable docents (many of whom are veterans) help deepen the story of aviation in the American West.

After a day of exploration, it’s time to rejuvenate in nearby Desert Hot Springs, where several hotels, including Two Bunch Palms and the Good House, offer day passes to take a dip in their warm, healing springs and pools.

Thirst-quenching libations at Beaton’s. / Photo via Visit Greater Palm Springs/Beaton’s

EAT

While Palm Springs is known for its old-school steak bistros and supper clubs, the culinary scene is always evolving. Elegant eateries like Copley’s on Palm Canyon combine old Hollywood ambiance (it was built on Cary Grant’s former estate) with luxe dishes like herb-crusted Australian barramundi. For a more contemporary experience, Maleza, at the new Drift Palm Springs Hotel, is a great spot for shareable Mexican fare like smoked-fish croquetas and enchiladas Michoacanas. If you’re just craving a burger, don’t miss the Heyday, where you can order the perfectly paired martini/burger special. Speaking of martinis, enticing late-night spots abound. Beaton’s, the new lounge and patio at Bar Cecil, is a local favorite for a nightcap.

SHOP

On North Palm Canyon Drive, the Uptown Design District is where visitors can browse curated housewares, desert-chic apparel, and artist-driven pop-ups. For art lovers, the Backstreet Art District is a delightful enclave of studios and galleries that provide a chance to meet and chat directly with local artists working in a variety of media. And every Thursday, VillageFest offers arts, crafts, live entertainment, and food.

The boutique hotel Thompson Palm Springs. / Photo by Thompson Palm Springs

STAY

Over the past few years, Palm Springs has welcomed an influx of newly built and reimagined boutique hotels, including the Thompson Palm Springs. With bungalow-inspired rooms; two outdoor pools; a fabulous Levantine restaurant, Lola Rose; and sweeping mountain views, it’s Palm Springs personified—sophistication with a desert soul.

Then there’s the idyllic nearby Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, which offers a little bit of everything under the sun. Kids will love the on-site waterpark, while the parents can chill at the adults-only pool, take some swings on one of three nine-hole golf courses, or head for an hour of pure bliss at the spa. Guests can also enjoy two new dining venues: the romantic Double Date, which features an Italian-inspired menu, and the entrancing Desert Pearl, designed with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping desert views.

Double Date restaurant at the Omni Rancho
Las Palmas Resort & Spa. / Photo by Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

GETTING THERE

Fly direct to San Diego or Los Angeles, and Palm Springs is just a two-hour drive away (if traffic cooperates). American, Delta, and United Airlines also offer one-stop service from Logan to Palm Springs International Airport.

This article was first published in the print edition of the March 2026 issue with the headline: “Palm Springs, California.”