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“Get away, leave today!” — Earth, Wind and Fire

Attention all moms! I hope you all raised excellent kids, and that they see this post and take you to Palm Springs for Mother’s Day. But if they’re all caught up in themselves this year (hey, it happens), or if you need a break from being a mom (you deserve it), then let this be your inspiration to take yourself away. Grab some of your girlfriends and enjoy a relaxing and very fun time in sunny Palm Springs. 

Palm Springs boutique hotels with spas

A white outdoor tub on a patio at Terra Palm Springs

Guests at Terra Palm Springs can Indulge in a private outdoor bath. Courtesy of Terra Palm Springs

How does a spa getaway sound? Aaah-mazing, right? Who doesn’t need a little pampering every now and then? Here are some spa hotels that won’t let you down.

Ingleside Estate — At this storied hotel you’ll be surrounded by history. You’ll love both the location and the vibe. And they have Melvyn’s, a restaurant and lounge with live entertainment. Guests have access to Estrella Spa at the Ingleside Estate’s sister property, Avalon Palm Springs.

Andreas Hotel and Spa — Mid-town, steps from everything, plus there’s a full-service spa — hello.

Terra Palm Springs — Wow! “Palm Springs’s first wellness-focused boutique hotel. Thirteen experiential rooms, including spa suites, private cold plunges, firepits, and fitness decks create the ultimate sanctuary. A wellness center consisting of a rain room, Himalayan salt sauna, red light therapy room, and Ayurvedic spa services, plus a juice bar, yoga, and sound bath offerings are sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.”

La Serena Villas — It’s gorgeous! Right next to Whispers Spa is Azucar and Sugar High, a restaurant and rooftop bar. And you’re steps away from the downtown action!

L’Horizon — Super swanky, this old estate will make you feel like you’re the guest of some movie star. You kinda are.

Bicycles, hot tubs and pools (I’ll even throw in breakfast)

Rocky ledges and palms surround the beautiful pool at Sparrows Lodge Hotel in Palm Springs, California

The Sparrows Lodge pool is a natural gathering place for guests. Photo courtesy of Sparrows Lodge

Sparrows Lodge — Absolutely gorgeous lodge on the south end of Palm Springs. You can also get lunch and dinner here at their little restaurant. It’s actually a hot ticket.

Desert Hills — West of Palm Canyon, you’re walking distance to downtown, and a biking excursion for coffee in the design district is about a 10-minute ride. Nice sized pool with plenty of room to lounge. 

Orbit In — Close to Desert Hills, but straight out of the Jetsons. It not only has the above-listed amenities, but it also has a wonderful view of Frey House II.

Desert Riviera — We’re back on the south side of Palm Springs, which has its own swinging vibe. The Purple Room and PS Underground are on this end of town, and a bike ride into the Mesa is a must. Unless you have thighs of steel, stay on the road that runs parallel to South Palm Canyon, then stop at El Mirasol South for a Cadillac Margarita.

Movie Colony Hotel — Lovely hotel at Alejo and Indian Canyon, and at the entry to the neighborhood called the Movie Colony. Great area if you like old estates and perfect for a bike ride. Plenty of places to eat and drink just one block away.

Brunch options

Groups of diners eat under yellow umbrellas at Eight4Nine in Palm Springs, California

Lunch tastes even better when dining outside at Eight4Nine. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

There are plenty of great places to take your mom for brunch. If you’re looking for something on the elegant side, I suggest Farm, Spencer’s, Eight4Nine, Kaiser Grille, and Jake’s.

For something less formal, consider Palm Greens Cafe in the Sun Center. Not super crowded, with tasty food. On the relaxed end of things, 1501 Uptown Gastropub does a great job, and Jimmy B’s, in the heart of downtown, provides terrific food, entertainment, and great people watching. Upstairs from Jimmy B’s is Wilma & Frieda’s, which is also a hot spot. 

If Mexican food, particularly fajitas, is your jam, go to Maracas. The margaritas are great, and they have the best salsa. Sit outside for the people watching. 

Golf and brunch

Mountain and palm tree views from the patio at Escena in Palm Springs, California

The views are gorgeous from the patio at Escena. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Escena Grill (for golf, go here)

Indian Canyons has two dining options and two player options. The South Course Grill is my favorite because of the amazing view. If it’s nice, dine al fresco.

Something extra special

The tram on its way to cooler temperatures. Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Peaks at the Top of the Tram — Take the gondola up the mountain and enjoy the views while you enjoy a lovely brunch.

Labor Pains at PS Underground — Brunch and entertainment 

PSAir Mid-Mod Boozy Brunch — Come fly with the captain and his delightful bevy of air hostesses. Drag brunch and show. 

The most beautiful hike in Palm Springs is Tahquitz Canyon. The final destination is incredibly rewarding. Go early. 

Have a Happy Mother’s Day! And moms? Thanks for all you do.