About a decade ago my husband and I were looking for a vacation destination to explore, play tennis and relax.  We landed on Palm Springs, California.  It was our first time in the California desert and our time there was magical. From hiking the San Jacinta Mountains, to checking out the mid-century architecture, shopping, Joshua Tree…there is so much to do. 

Because we had such a fabulous time, we ended up returning a few years later for the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament.  I’m more of a tennis player than a spectator, but this venue is right up my alley for watching the pros play.  It was easy to get to and the grounds were beautiful.  Not to mention our fabulous lunch at Nobu overlooking an empty court…and who walks into practice? No other than Novak Djokovic.  It was a spectacular meal made even better watching one of the world’s best tennis players warm up. 

You don’t have to be a tennis player to love Palm Springs.  This picturesque desert oasis is known for its luxurious resorts, tremendous amounts of mid-century architecture, vibrant nightlife, and natural beauty.  We also included spots in nearby Indian Wells which is just a short drive to Palm Springs. If you are planning a visit to this charming city, here are some of the top-rated restaurants, outdoor activities, and shopping stops to check out:

To Eat

SandFish Sushi- The Koko is the stand out with it’s sweet, savory, then spicy flavor

Workshop Kitchen + Bar - This chic and modern restaurant with a seasonal menu featuring local and sustainable ingredients, craft cocktails, and oh so stylish atmosphere.  Come here for the sleek and minimal décor, stay for the duck kimchi fried rice and champagne flights.

Birba - If your looking for an al fresco spot located in the heart of Palm Springs this is it. With its cozy and inviting atmosphere, Birba is the perfect spot for an Italian bite or cauliflower pizza

 To-Shop

Uptown Design District- One of the city’s vintage hot spots, many are housed in cool mid-century  buildings.

The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five – Get your does of major interior design inspiration here!!  A gorgeous collection of furnishings, art and accessories. With 14 shops under one roof, you are sure to find something you love.

The Gardens on El Paseo- high-end designer stores, unique boutiques, and a variety of dining options. If you are hungry after shopping, stop in the Tommy Bahama restaurant…they have a fabulous outdoor patio at this location, and I’ve always had great meals at all of their locations. 

To Do

BNP Paribas Tennis Tournament – Located in Indian Wells and a spectacular spot to take in some tennis.  The grounds are gorgeous, and they have great restaurants on site. Don’t forget to stop in Nobu, you never know who you might see!

Modernism Week – This event is high on my bucket list! An annual 11-day festival that features tours of iconic homes in more than 30 neighborhoods. Architectural walking, biking, and double-decker bus tours.  How much fun would the biking tour be?!  https://modernismweek.com/

 To See

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway - Take a scenic ride up the mountain on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and enjoy breathtaking views of the desert below.  When you get to the top you can hike around Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area and enjoy the scenery.  We packed a picnic lunch and enjoyed it at spot overlooking Palm Springs.  Depending on the time of year you may find snow at the top.  When we were there a large group of kids were sledding.  It looked like so much and definitely a place I’d like to bring my daughter back to.

Indian Canyons - Explore the stunning Indian Canyons on a guided hike or take a self-guided tour of the area's beautiful waterfalls and rock formations.

Joshua Tree National Park - Just a short drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning desert scenery. Another great place to pack snacks, lunch and water, as you’ll want to linger and enjoy the incredible dessert.   

Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center - Located in downtown Palm Springs, this museum features fascinating exhibits on architecture and design, as well as a lovely sculpture garden.

To Stay

La Quinta Resort- Gorgeous grounds and wonderful little casitas to stay in. Fabulous resort for tennis and if you are there during the tournament you may get lucky enough to spot some of the players

Sands Hotel and Spa- The Pink Cabana restaurant located at the Sands Hotel and Spa is this month’s destination inspiration location.  This designer boutique hotel was designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard.  Prepare to enjoy all the beautiful and fun details of this hotel.

Check back next week for two rooms we designed inspired by The Pink Cabana restaurant!!

With Aloha,

Amy