Palm Springs, known for its welcoming, “come as you are,” spirit and iconic desert modern living, has rightfully earned its place on every self-respecting queer’s bucket list. But be warned, once you visit, you’ll want to keep returning to this desert paradise where privacy is prized, the parties can last for days, art and culture thrive, and the San Jacinto Mountains offer selfie-worthy settings at every turn.
If you’re heading to Palm Springs for Pride Week, forget the big hotels and experience what community is all about. Palm Springs has dozens of charming, independently-owned boutique hotels that are just as unique as you.
And that’s important because Palm Spring Pride is like no other. Here, community is defined very broadly and allies are enthusiastically celebrated.
Proof in point: this year’s Pride Week theme, inspired by (and in support of) “youth-led movement-building efforts that are awakening critical conversations for social change,” is Youth Power for Change. In a profoundly symbolic gesture, the youth of Coachella Valley were collectively named Grand Marshalls of the 2018 Pride Parade.
The Palm Springs is unusual because it does not contain gay ghettos like most cities. Decades ago, when Palm Springs was drifting into oblivion like so many small desert towns, it was the gay community who infused it with new life, starting hotels and other businesses that set the course for the Palm Springs of today.
And to this day, many Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels are owned or managed by members and allies of the LGBTQ community.
Where to Stay
Case in point: For women who remember the Bee Charmer Inn, it is now called La Maison and under the gay-friendly new ownership of allies Cornelia and Robert. Voted one of the most romantic inns in the country by Trip Advisor over the past few years, La Maison provides a safe and welcoming haven for solo travelers and couples. Exceptionally serene and lush, La Maison prides itself on small touches of perfection that make guests feel cherished.
The woman-owned, Alcazar Palm Springs, is managed by the talented Robert Hunt. This stunningly beautiful contemporary hotel is conveniently located near some of the best restaurants and shopping in town. Known for its diversity and inclusiveness, The Alcazar enjoys bragging rights for its salt water purified pool and garden courtyard with fire and water walls. It’s even pet friendly.
If clothing-optional man space is your thing, there is no better place to celebrate Pride than at one of the men’s resorts on San Lorenzo Road. In one short block, you’ll find at least four of the best (and most beautiful) resorts owned and operated by and for men, including: The Triangle Inn Palm Springs, Santiago Resort, Tortuga del Sol, and Escape Resort.
By Steven Skelley and Thomas Routzong
Our Palm Springs adventure began as we stepped off our plane into the Palm Springs International Airport. The first thing we noticed was the aroma. The open air design of the airport means that passengers are immediately greeted by the fresh, clean Palm Springs air. After six hours on a plane, it is a simple pleasure.
Ah, Palm Springs, where the palm trees bask in the sun and the mountains amplify every sunset. For the LGBTQ+ community, our little desert haven isn’t just another travel destination; it’s an emblem of liberation and self-discovery. And for the solo traveler, Palm Springs promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and introspection, making it a welcoming hotspot for LGBTQ+ wanderers craving those unforgettable experiences.
Embrace new adventures
With its plethora of gay-owned establishments, exhilarating LGBTQ+ activities, and welcoming accommodations for all, your itinerary will be brimming with adventurous options. Enter into the vibrant allure of Trixie Mattel’s (of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame) Trixie Motel, a radiant pink sanctuary with seven meticulously designed rooms – each fit for a Barbie or a Ken (wink wink). Are you a gourmet food enthusiast or someone who prefers a quick nibble before dancing the night away? Your solo adventure here ensures you’re in control, savoring the eclectic culinary delights of Palm Springs at your own pace.
Solo diners can order whatever they want on the menu at Eight4Nine. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs
Unlock new connections
Venturing alone might seem like a solitary journey, but it’s often in these adventures that deeper bonds are formed. Without the familiarity of a companion, you’ll likely find yourself immersed in spontaneous conversations, shared moments, and stories that intertwine. Palm Springs is home to exclusive resorts for men only, like Descanso, The Hacienda, and Vista Grande Resort, where solo travelers converge and memories are made. And let’s not forget Talavera and Alcazar, which are hotspots for the lesbian community. So don’t be shy when it comes to meeting like-minded LGBTQ+ locals and travelers — join the local scene. Together, these experiences might unlock a profound sense of community and belonging.
Vista Grade’s 18-man spa. Photo courtesy of Vista Grande Resort
Build confidence
Solo travel in Palm Springs is a personal empowerment journey. It offers the luxury of decision-making based solely on your whims and priorities. Whether you desire an adventurous hike in the Tahquitz Canyon, an afternoon at the Palm Springs Art Museum, or a relaxing time by the pool, solo travel offers the freedom of choice. Venturing into unknown territories — like the karaoke stage — might be daunting initially, but every hurdle crossed amplifies your confidence and every new step you take and conversation you have only adds another layer to your character, shaping a bolder and more resilient you.
You could spend hours walking around the Palm Springs Art Museum. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs
Liberate yourself
Traveling solo is synonymous with rejuvenation. Palm Springs, with its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, promises thrilling escapades and even new potential romances. From day passes at exclusive resorts like CCBC to happy hours galore in the Arenas district, you may reveal facets of yourself you never knew existed, making the unpredictability of each day a thrilling chapter in your travel tales. You might also consider apps like Grindr or Tinder as an initial compass for friends and fun.
Discover yourself
Solo travel isn’t just about external exploration; it’s an internal voyage of self-reflection and understanding. Successfully navigating through new cultures, ticking off challenges, or simply welcoming unfamiliar experiences in Palm Springs can offer an immense feeling of accomplishment. It’s a transformative experience, where every adventure, every new connection, pushes you towards a deeper understanding of yourself.
Palm Springs welcomes every solo traveler with open arms, offering experiences that are memorable and often life-changing. Whether you’re on a path of self-discovery, seeking thrilling adventures, or looking to forge deep connections, this city promises a holistic LGBTQ+ experience that you’ll cherish forever.
Solo travel in Palm Springs is a love song to oneself, and the boutique hotels of Palm Springs will help ensure a cozy, intimate retreat to unwind. Independently-owned and brimming with personality, these gems only magnify the city’s charm and allure. Your Palm Springs solo travel awaits you!
Solo travelers can spend all day floating if they feel like it. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs
Twin Palms Resort is Palm Springs’ newest kid on the block.
An upscale boutique hotel, Twin Palms is a brother property to the Santiago and Descanso. This trio of remarkable resorts offer gay men a gorgeous selection of naturally chic, swimsuit-optional retreats right in the heart of Palm Springs, and having now experienced all three properties myself, I can happily say “the third time’s a charm” with Twin Palms Resort.
Welcome to Twin Palms Resort. Photo by Gregory Douglass
Santiago was my first experience at a men’s resort in Palm Springs, back in 2018. As a 40-year-old gay man living in Los Angeles at the time, I’d never felt such freedom and restoration from a long weekend away from my big-city life. It was a game-changing experience for me.
I was curious how the other men-only resorts here in the Coachella Valley compared to the distinguishable Santiago experience. “How different can they all be?” I wondered. Having now experienced the majority of gay hotels here, it’s a privilege to be writing about what a spectrum of enticing options we have — each with its own flavor, vibe, and healing benefits.
The modern clubhouse. Photo courtesy of Twin Palms Resort
Twin Palms Resort is no different from its brother properties when it comes to top-notch luxury and leisure. The “casually extravagant” experience is what many have come to expect from a Resorts Palm Springs property, and yet Twin Palms already has a distinct personality of its own. Santiago has a modern Spanish aesthetic, while Descanso boasts a “California garden patio” motif. Twin Palms is the first to celebrate a true mid-century modern concept inside and out.
Nested in Palm Springs’ first modernist neighborhood, Twin Palms Estates, the resort looks as timeless as it does fresh in style, with its pops of yellows, blues, and greens. These colors accent that classic, clean white modernism style that makes Palm Springs architecture so iconic. It might even rival the hotel’s historic start — opened in 1959 as the Brentwood Apartments, the property was originally developed to blend in with the neighborhood’s 90 modernist tract homes, designed by one of the founding fathers of Palm Springs modernism, William Krisel.
Hotel guests can use these bikes to tool around town. Photo courtesy of Twin Palms Resort
What really makes Twin Palms Resort unique is its communal layout. The perfectly heated saltwater swimming pool acts as a centerpiece to its 20 single-story guest rooms, yellow umbrellas, and chaise lounges that all wrap around the pool like a rainbow. The 12-man spa is just as welcoming as the luxurious patio space, which faces a breathtaking view of the San Jacinto Mountains.
You have to love those mountain views. Photo courtesy of Twin Palms Resort
Like Santiago and Descanso, the Twin Palms experience also includes a hip clubhouse guest lounge, a communal fire pit, an outdoor mist cooling system, a 24-hour canteen with complimentary beverages, a daily complimentary continental breakfast, and complimentary poolside lunch.
You can expect the same level of guest service as well from Twin Palms’ friendly staff, and in-room welcome amenities too. Some highlights include beautiful modern gay artwork, a resort texting hotline for direct communication with the staff, lamps with charging stations, luxurious heavy-weight bathrobes, some fun “adult goodies” in the drawer of each bedside table, and even a personalized welcome note upon your arrival.
A plush king room at Twin Palms. Photo courtesy of Twin Palms Resort
In addition to an outdoor shower and pool bathroom communal showers, every room features grand marble bathrooms with spacious walk-in glass showers, sporting both rain and handheld shower heads – lending even more community appeal to the place.
The outdoor shower is one perk of staying at Twin Palms. Photo by Gregory Douglass
Twin Palms Resort is also as earth-friendly as it is gay-friendly, offering off-street guest parking with four electric vehicle chargers, sustainable bath products from Public Goods, and even bicycles you can borrow to explore the neighborhood.
It’s easy enough to retreat from the community as well. Every room features remote lighting and window shades, as well as private rear patios. Even the mini-fridge is tucked away in the bathroom vanity, which I thought was a clever decision.
The author enjoying his room at the Twin Palms. Photo by Gregory Douglass
What makes the communal aspect of Twin Palms Resort so special is its potential for new friends and new connections to be made. In an environment somehow as nonchalant as it is enveloping, it was seamless to connect with fellow guests and then naturally go our separate ways.
I’ve learned that every resort has a “scene” of its own. Time will tell what the Twin Palms scene is — but the stage is set for all sorts of possibilities. I suspect it will help spark a long line of lasting friendships that will all begin at the charming little gay hotel in Twin Palms Estates.
Unwind in the resort’s pool and spa. Photo courtesy of Twin Palms Resort
The Triangle Inn is like a charming man with a cheeky wit and a very sexy smile. Who wouldn’t want a second date?
Let’s start with a few fun facts, rated Hollywood-style.
The Triangle Inn spans the corners of San Lorenzo (très exotique, non?) and Random Road, a flirty wink from the street naming committee.
Rating: R for randy randomness
When it was built, the hotel was called The Impala Lodge. The year was 1958, and the architect was notable mid-century modernist Hugh Kaptur.
Kaptur apprenticed for mid-mod darlings Harrison and Wexler, and Wexler apprenticed under the man they called the Desert Maverick, William Cody. In a 1958 Desert Sun article, Kaptur described the architectural design of the Lodge as the highly non-PC “Indian Modern.”
Rating: Winner, best documentary
Then, like the rest of us, the lodge went through some changes. From lodge to apartment building and into disrepair, the modernist gem was badly in need of an image overhaul.
Rating: Elizabeth Berkley
In the late 1980s/early 1990s, Matthew Robinson and Kevin Rice purchased the property, restored the original architecture, remodeled the rooms, and when the flag finally flew it was a rainbow flag, waving high above the newly named Triangle Inn, an eight-suite, men’s clothing optional resort.
Rating: Kal Penn
The Triangle Inn’s entrance. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn
In 2000, Robinson and Rice were looking for someone to love the inn as much as they did, and ran into some wicked good luck. Two frequent Palm Springers from Atlanta (let’s call them Michael and Stephen because those are their names) decided they wanted to live in paradise and purchased the classy little mid-century revival gem.
Its massive glass-paned walls let the sunshine in and provide an endless view of our gorgeous mountains. Angular steel beams and the slanted roof are punctuated by lush tropical foliage; there are fruit trees all over the property — mango, lemon, blood orange — making it feel as remote and as exotic as Gilligan’s Island without Ginger, Marianne, or the Howells (they’re so pretentious), but with way better amenities.
But it’s not remote; it’s intimate. The hotel is actually only five minutes from downtown Palm Springs. That’s five by car, 15 if you’re biking. Drinking and biking renders various results, but generally longer durations and is not recommended.
Rating: A Star is Born
The living room in one of The Triangle Inn’s suites. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn
Consistently garnering five-star ratings and rave reviews, it shouldn’t surprise you that The Triangle Inn has a very long history of repeat guests. There are many reasons for this — the lovely suites, the fine amenities — but also because there is zero judgment. They’re very light on the rules, and then there’s that southern hospitality: warm as the sun and cool as the night air.
Breakfast offers an assortment of breads, fruit, yogurt, and cereals, as well as coffee and tea — all gratis — on the covered patio by the pool. If you’d like a White Claw (again, no judgments, you’re on vacation) they’re $3 and you can drink them poolside. It’s all very chill.
The suites echo the style of the exterior, all in the mid-mod aesthetic, dressed in earthy tans and browns; light, sky blues; and rich sunset oranges. Even the Tarocco bath amenities are in burnt orange.
The bathroom in one of The Triangle Inn’s suites. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn
The bed linens are crisp 500-count cotton, and all the accommodations have either a kitchen/dining room or a kitchenette depending on room size. Instead of a dishwasher in each of the suites, the houseman takes care of the dishes when he tidies your room.
Of all the places you can choose to stay in Palm Springs, The Triangle Inn is, perhaps, the most social. The intimate setting provides an opportunity for guests to become lifelong friends, not just with Michael and Stephen, but with each other, flying in from all over the world to meet up for a repeat performance.
Yet, because the rooms are all down the corridor, away from the outdoor activities, festivities, and laughter, guests can work from their suites before they go out to play. Some book for a month at a time, several times a year. It’s their home away from home. And because Michael and Stephen live on property, guests experience family-style hospitality that’s all rom-com and zero drama.
Rating: All the stars
P.S. The Triangle Inn welcomes friendly canines. Inquire within.
The pool at night. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn
Let’s take a journey through time and explore some of Palm Springs’ colorful LGBTQ+ history. Palm Springs is known for its stunning landscapes, modernist architecture, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene that has played a significant role in shaping the city’s unique identity. It has long been a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, with notable celebrities like Rock Hudson, Liberace, and Tab Hunter among the many who sought refuge in the desert.
Palm Springs’ LGBTQ+ history is both fascinating and inspiring, providing insight into the progress made in the fight for equal rights and recognition, and the LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert is a treasure trove of invaluable information dedicated to preserving and celebrating the stories, memories, and experiences of the community. The LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert makes this history accessible to the public through its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that paint a vivid picture of LGBTQ+ life in the Coachella Valley.
An exhibition by the LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert. Photo courtesy of the LGBTQ+ History & Archives
One of the key events highlighted by the archives is the city’s first Gay Pride Parade in 1986, a significant milestone that showcased the solidarity and resilience of the community. Another pivotal point in Palm Springs’ LGBTQ+ history was the election of Ron Oden, the city’s first openly gay Black mayor, in 2003. This momentous occasion represented a significant step forward in fostering a more inclusive and diverse city.
Today, the LGBTQ+ community continues to thrive in Palm Springs, with numerous events, organizations, and businesses catering to the diverse needs and interests of its members. The annual Palm Springs Pride is a shining example, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world to celebrate love, acceptance, and unity. Just recently, Greater Palm Springs Pride declared Palm Springs a Drag Sanctuary City at the Drag4Drag rally in Palm Springs. The organization is taking a stand against current anti-drag legislation and anti-LGBTQ+ extremism and supporting artistic expression and advocacy, and as a result, the 2023 Pride Week theme will be “Drag Now. Drag Forever.”
What’s more, Palm Springs Mayor Grace Garner and councilmembers Jeffrey Bernstein and Ron deHarte proclaimed April 18 as Drag Celebration Day to honor the city’s vibrant and economically important drag community.
The LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert regularly hosts exhibits, such as “The Power of Story: How Local Media Put Gay Palm Springs on the Map,” as well as events, including a number of “Sharing Our Desert’s LGBTQ+ History” gatherings. Future plans include specialized exhibits, digitalization of various collections, and an LGBTQ+ segment along the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
Staying at one of Palm Springs’ iconic boutique hotels allows you to delve deeper into the city’s rich LGBTQ+ history while enjoying an authentic piece of Palm Springs history experience yourself. Many of these hotels are also members of the Desert Gay Tourism Guild (DGTG), ensuring that your stay is both welcoming and supportive of the LGBTQ+ community.
So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an LGBTQ+ ally, or simply looking for a memorable vacation, Palm Springs and its boutique hotels are sure to exceed your expectations. There’s truly no place like Palm Springs for vacationers seeking a unique and fun-filled getaway, with a perfect blend of sunshine, culture, and history.
From its striking desert landscapes to glamorous mid-century architecture, Palm Springs, California, has long been a celebrated destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers seeking a fun and friendly getaway. The nightlife is where it’s at this summer, especially as the warm nights amp up.
There’s something for everyone in Palm Springs, but karaoke nights amplify the allure of our beloved desert evening entertainment. If you’re looking for seven nights in the spotlight, here’s your ultimate guide to queer karaoke in Palm Springs.
Sundays:
Karaoke Nights
Venue: Quadz Palm Springs
Location: 200 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs
Time: 6 p.m. until close
Sundays are always “Sunday Funday” here in Palm Springs, so kick off your marathon week of karaoke over at Quadz in the heart of the Arenas district. Every Sunday at 6 p.m., you’ll find locals and travelers alike belting out tunes alongside host Stephen B. With an impressive range of tracks to pick from, your karaoke skills will get a good warmup for the week ahead.
Courtesy of Quadz Palm Springs
Mondays:
Streetbar Karaoke
Venue: Streetbar
Location: 224 E. Arenas Road, Palm Springs
Time: 9 p.m. until close
Start your “business” week on a high note (literally!) with Streetbar Karaoke. Also nestled in the heart of the Arenas district (and the first gay bar ever established in Palm Springs back in 1991), Streetbar lights up the night from 9 p.m. on. It’s an absolute must for karaoke enthusiasts — the drinks are strong and the vocalists are even stronger!
Courtesy of Streetbar
Tuesdays:
Karaoke with Sean Taylor Jackson
Venue: The Roost Lounge
Location: 68718 E. Palm Canyon Dr., #203, Cathedral City
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Join the fun at The Roost Lounge for Karaoke with Sean Taylor Jackson. Known for its friendly vibe and classic cocktails, The Roost ensures a diverse variety of music and memories every Tuesday starting at 6 p.m. over in Cathedral City (a.k.a. Cat City).
Courtesy of The Roost Lounge
Wednesdays:
Karaoke & Cocktails with James
Venue: V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar
Location: 600 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs
Time: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Happy Hump Day! Bring your friends to the chic V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar for Karaoke & Cocktails with James. Between sips of popular libations, you’ll be sure to have enough liquid courage to conquer the stage every Wednesday from 6 to 10 p.m.
Courtesy of V Wine Lounge
Thursdays:
Terry-oke Thursday
Venue: One Eleven Bar
Location: 67555 E. Palm Canyon Dr., #A103, Cathedral City
Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Make your way back to Cat City for the weekly Terry-oke Thursday with Terry Larson at One Eleven Bar. With a warm atmosphere and welcoming audience, you’ll be serenading the crowd from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. You surely will see some friends there you’ve already made throughout the week!
Courtesy of One Eleven
Fridays:
Friday Night Karaoke
Venue: AMP Sports Lounge
Location: 68-718 E. Palm Canyon Dr., #201, Cathedral City
Time: 8 p.m. until close
The weekend’s here, and it’s time for Friday Night Karaoke at AMP Sports Lounge. Join in with host Josh Ryan from 8 p.m. on, and be sure to make a good impression since you’ll be back again tomorrow night…
Courtesy of AMP Sports Lounge
Saturdays:
Saturday Amp’d Up Karaoke
Venue: AMP Sports Lounge
Location: 68-718 E. Palm Canyon Dr., #201, Cathedral City
Time: 8 p.m. until close
Close out the week with a triumphant return to the AMP Sports Lounge for Saturday Amp’d Up Karaoke. The bar dials it up to 11 with $2 Jell-O shots, unbeatable drink specials, and crowd-pleasing songs hosted by KJ Paul. It’s the perfect way to cap off a week of queer karaoke (Queer-aoke?) adventures!
Courtesy of AMP Sports Lounge
There’s no easier way to let down your guard and let your voice be heard in Palm Springs than by immersing yourself in our thriving karaoke scene. And there’s no better place to stay while you’re doing it than one of our iconic, independently-owned boutique hotels. Each property has its own unique character and charm that the big chains can’t match, and promise a home-away-from-home experience amidst the enchanting desert backdrop.
A stay at one of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels gives you the perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and music-filled nights. So go ahead, book your stay, and prepare for an unforgettable karaoke journey under the star-studded Palm Springs sky!
