Known for its unflappable sunshine, dry desert air, and myriad of premium golf courses, Palm Springs, California, is often known as a retiree’s paradise. However, Palm Springs hasn’t always had this mellow reputation.
Back when Hollywood had its Golden Age, Palm Springs was known as “The Playground of the Stars,” the place where Sonny Bono would become mayor, where Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner drank their way through debauchery and scandal, and where streets take on names such as Kirk Douglas Way and Ginger Rogers Road.
Now, Palm Springs is going through a revival in attempt to reclaim its golden years, becoming more and more appealing to young, active, and stylish travelers. A two-hour drive from LA, Palm Springs has become an easy jaunt for those looking to experience the retro classic.
Where to Eat and Sleep
The Viceroy Palm Springs Resort and Spa
415 South Belardo Road, Palm Springs;
1- 800-670-6184
Room rates $149-$389
The Viceroy Palm Springs Resort and Spa is another popular hotel and understandably so. This hip oasis has a fresh, continental vibe with attention to detail like ceramic whippet statues, Italian designer sheets, and luxurious bath products. Manicured gardens, adorned with fragrant citrus trees, line the spacious grounds, which is quite popular for wedding ceremonies. But fear not you singles, the Citron’s cocktail lounge is great for socializing with other hipsters.
Ace Hotel Palm Springs
701 E. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
Room rates $89 for a double and up
For a budget option that doesn’t scrimp on style, the new Ace Hotel in Palm Springs is a wonderful choice. A new favorite of couples and families alike, this hotel provides world-class service in a gorgeous setting. Each room has its own local theme and some come with enclosed patios and fireplaces.
Out to Eat, out to Drink
Piero’s Aqcua Pazzo California Bistro, located in The Rivers shopping complex on Rancho Mirage’s famous restaurant row, is great for a night out. There’s a little something for everyone at this spacious and stylish restaurant, accented by indoor waterfalls and smiling staff. For a European touch, try the Wild Mushroom Soup with white truffle and olive oil. Pazzo also offers diners outdoor seating on the terrace, which is the perfect place to people-watch and enjoy the half price happy hour. 71-800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage; (760) 862-9800, $10-$30
For a taste of the tropics, Halewia Joes offers Hawaiian-style dining with fresh fish flown in daily. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the restaurant is in a magnificent setting, the building set into part of a mountain. Aside from the setting and relaxing, island décor, the food at Halweias is something to hula about. For a rich, mouth-watering seafood dish, try the catch of the day, baked in a macadamia nut crust or, if you have a light appetite, a plate of sticky ribs or Thai lemongrass calamari should do the trick. Wash it all down with a Madam Pele, a mix of coconut rum, strawberries and cream.
69-934 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage; (760) 324-5613, $10-$35
Keeping with Palm Springs new retro-theme, The Deck is one of the hippest bars around. Perched atop The Chop House, this bar offers light dining, live jazz, toasty fireplaces and a happening happy hour (3:30–6:30) that cuts 50 per cent off drinks and bar food. Swing by on a Friday night for a few drinks before heading out on the town.
262 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Downtown Palm Springs; (760) 325-5200
What to See, What to Do
A trip to Palm Springs is not complete with out seeing The Palm Springs Follies in action. This Vaudevillian song and dance team is world-famous and Broadway caliber. The twist here is that none of these talented troopers are a day younger than 55, proof that seniors in Palm Springs do more than just play golf and bingo. The shows run from November to May 30th so see them while you can. You’ll be looking at your grandmother differently afterward. 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Downtown Palm Springs; (760) 327-0225
About a forty-five-minute drive from Palm Springs is the $250 million Morongo Casino Resort and Spa. Already a favorite with celebrities, this new, sleek high-rise in the nearby town of Cabazon is like Las Vegas condensed. With a private 2400-square-foot poker room, thousands of slot machines and a hip nightclub, Desert Rain, Morongo will entertain you for days, or at least until your money runs out. 4970 Seminole Drive (off of I-10), Cabazon; 1-800-252-4499; rates $109-$269
Every January, Palm Springs holds its International Film Festival. Hosted for the last several years by Entertainment Tonight’s Mary Hart, the Film Festival draws big names and great films. Shirley MacLaine was recently honored with the festival’s lifetime achievement award. Go to www.psfilmfest.org for more information
For all you adventurous types, 4x4ing in a Hummer through desolate desert hills might pique your interest. Hummer Adventure Tours will take you over the shifting San Andreas Fault or through the wild and beautiful Joshua Tree National Park. Just remember to wear lots of sunscreen and make sure your hat secures around your head. You don’t want it to fly off and have to wrestle a cactus for it. Call 1-877-WE-HUMMER for reservations or email at outdooradventures@usa.com. Rates $89-$119
