A Bespoke Journey Through Palm Springs: Culture, Adventure and Indulgence

Curated By
Angela Rutherford
Curator’s statement
Palm Springs, a sun-soaked desert oasis nestled in Southern California, offers a seamless blend of adventure, culture and indulgence. Known for its striking landscapes, mid-century-modern architecture and vibrant dining scene, this destination promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. Here’s how to explore Palm Springs with a touch of bespoke luxury and adventure. This guide is perfect for travelers who crave a mix of adventure, culture and relaxation. It’s tailored for those who appreciate immersive experiences, from hiking scenic trails to exploring local history and indulging in exceptional dining. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple or part of a small group, this itinerary balances outdoor exploration, bespoke touches like rooftop cocktails and laid-back yet sophisticated moments. Offering a thoughtful and unforgettable journey through Palm Springs and its surrounding desert gems.
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Day 1: Arrival & cultural exploration

Morning: Start your journey at the iconic Palm Springs Art Museum. It showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as desert-inspired works. Don’t miss the sculpture garden for a tranquil introduction to the desert aesthetic.
Lunch: Head to Farm, a charming French-inspired café tucked away in the historic La Plaza. Enjoy farm-to-table dishes like savory crepes or their signature Croque Madame in a serene garden setting.
Afternoon: Take a guided architectural tour to dive into the city’s celebrated mid-century-modern design. Highlights include homes once owned by Hollywood icons and the famous Kaufmann Desert House.
Evening: End your day at Workshop Kitchen + Bar, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant set in a stunning industrial-chic space. Their innovative menu features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with an inventive take on classic dishes. Be sure to try their handcrafted cocktails for a perfect pairing.
Day 2: Desert hiking & wellness

Morning: Set out early for a hike in Indian Canyons, home to lush palm oases and scenic trails like the Palm Canyon Trail. The juxtaposition of greenery against the arid desert is breathtaking.
Lunch: Refuel at Cheeky’s, a local favorite known for its creative breakfast and lunch options, like their famous bacon flight.
Afternoon: Indulge in wellness with a spa experience at Two Bunch Palms in nearby Desert Hot Springs. Known for its natural mineral hot springs, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Evening: For dinner, visit The Rooster and The Pig, a Vietnamese-American fusion spot with fresh, bold flavors in a casual yet refined atmosphere.
Day 3: Adventure & Sunset Cocktails

Morning: Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Spend the morning hiking one of the scenic trails at over 8,000 feet, where pine forests provide a cool escape from the desert heat. The views of the Coachella Valley are simply breathtaking.
Lunch: Enjoy casual fare at the Tramway’s Peaks Restaurant, offering spectacular vistas to accompany your meal.
Afternoon: Spend a relaxing afternoon at Moorten Botanical Garden, a serene oasis showcasing over 3,000 species of desert plants. Stroll through the cactus greenhouse and take in the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Evening: Head to La Serena Villas’ Azúcar Rooftop Bar or the Kimpton Rowan Hotel rooftop for sunset cocktails. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink. Pair your drink with light bites for a perfect end to your adventure-filled day.
Day 4: Joshua Tree adventure & old west charm

Morning: Take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, about an hour away from Palm Springs. Start your adventure with the Hidden Valley Trail, an easy loop showcasing iconic rock formations and unique desert flora. For a bit more of a challenge, hike Ryan Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and surrounding landscapes.
Lunch: Stop at Frontier Café in Yucca Valley, a quirky and cozy spot offering fresh, locally inspired sandwiches and salads. It’s the perfect place to refuel before your afternoon adventures.
Afternoon: Visit Pioneertown, a historic Old West movie set built in the 1940s. Take a leisurely stroll along its rustic Main Street, browse artisan shops and soak in the old-time charm.
Evening: Wrap up your day with dinner at Pappy & Harriet’s, a legendary roadhouse in Pioneertown known for its live music, relaxed vibe and hearty Tex-Mex-inspired dishes. Whether you’re craving barbecue ribs, a classic burger or something vegetarian, this iconic spot offers a fun and unforgettable dining experience in a truly unique setting.
Day 5: Shopping & departure

Morning: Spend your morning strolling through the charming shops along Palm Canyon Drive, hunting for unique finds like vintage treasures, artisanal crafts and modern desert-inspired décor. If your visit coincides with Thursday night, don’t miss the lively Palm Springs VillageFest for even more local goodies.
Brunch: Indulge in a leisurely brunch at Spencer’s Restaurant, nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains. Known for its upscale yet cozy ambiance, this Palm Springs institution offers classics like Eggs Benedict and luxurious options like Lobster Salad. Enjoy dining al fresco under the shade of majestic trees.
Afternoon: Take a final stroll or bike ride through Palm Springs' iconic neighborhoods to soak in the city’s mid-century charm before heading off on your next adventure.
Need to know
Travel tips:
When to visit: The best time to explore Palm Springs is October through April, when the weather is pleasantly mild.
Packing essentials: Don’t forget sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes and layers for cooler evenings in the desert.
This tailored Palm Springs guide ensures a balance of adventure, cultural immersion and indulgent experiences, making your trip truly unforgettable.

Travel Advisor
Angela Rutherford

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Palm Springs page.