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Plan a summer escape to Palm Springs with these hot deals

We could all use some sunshine and an escape from sheltering in place right now, and there is no better destination to soak up that healthy Vitamin D than Palm Springs. 

Several of our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels — a collection of more than 70 boutique hotels — are welcoming guests back with special Summer Offers, just in time for the summer road trip season. If you live in Southern California, Arizona, or the San Francisco Bay Area, Palm Springs promises a safe and welcome change of scenery.

“Summertime is great in Palm Springs,” Mark Hunter, co-owner of the Desert Paradise, said. “The city is designed with misters and pools and everything to make everyone as comfortable as possible. It’s one of my favorite times of year.”

Over the last three months, Monkey Tree Hotel owners Kathy and Gary Friedle have been hard at work finishing projects that they didn’t have the time to do before the shelter-in-place order. “From extra landscaping to painting every inch to setting up a new touch-less check-in experience, we spent what was typically our busiest season, the spring, reimagining our reopening this summer,” Kathy Friedle said. “We can’t wait to have guests back here to share all of this with them!”

Whether you’re looking for a free night, reduced rates, or special gifts, the right Palm Springs boutique hotel deal is here:

Adara Hotel: Receive 15 percent off regular rates, July 1 through Sept. 30. Use promo code “Small Hotels.”

Alcazar Hotel: Book three consecutive nights (Sunday through Thursday) and get the third night free. Use promo code “123.”

BelleVue Oasis: From June 19 to Aug. 31, book two nights and receive 50 percent off a third night, or book three nights and get a fourth night free. Valid Sunday through Thursday.

Desert Riviera: Book three or more consecutive nights June 1 to Aug. 31 and receive a $100 gift certificate. Use promo code “SummerNights.”

Desert Paradise: Book two nights and receive 50 percent off a third night, through Sept. 30. This clothing-optional resort caters to gay men.

Inn at Palm Springs: Through Aug. 31, book direct and resort fees are waived.

INNdulge: Sunday through Thursday, book a non-pool view Superior Room for just $119 per night. Not valid on holidays. Offer good through Sept. 15. This clothing-optional resort caters to gay men.

La Maison: Stay two or more nights and receive 50 percent off a third night, from July 6 to Sept. 30.

Los Arboles: From June 29 to Aug. 27, Los Arboles is offering special packages and discounted rates for guests. 

The Monkey Tree Hotel: Stay two or three nights from June 19 through Sept. 30 and receive 15 percent off. Book directly on the hotel’s website, using promo code “SUMMER.”

Tortuga del Sol: Through Sept. 30, stay at least two nights and receive rates starting at $99 per night. Not valid on holiday weekends. This clothing-optional resort caters to gay men.

Triangle Inn: Stay three nights, get the fourth night free, or book for five nights and receive your sixth and seventh nights free. Through Sept. 15. Not valid on holidays. This clothing-optional resort caters to gay men.

To take advantage of these deals and for more details, visit the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website.

Comfort and Safety Prioritized

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels are legendary for their style, safety, and comfort–all of which continue to be a priority. Over the past few weeks, the owners and general managers of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels have collaboratively created a baseline of safety sanitation standards.

Most Palm Springs boutique hotels have fewer than 30 rooms, making them easier to thoroughly clean and keep sanitized. Common areas are typically outside, and a majority of rooms have their own private entrances and air conditioning units.

Each hotel will provide its own safety guidelines in addition to the requirements set forth by the City of Palm Springs and the ones they collectively developed. This information will be shared with guests when they receive their reservation confirmation. 

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels is a consortium of independently owned boutique hotels, which are an essential part of this desert resort town’s uncommon culture and economy. From quirky to charming, mid-century modern to clothing-optional, Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels has got your stay. Follow the fun on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. Please visit Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels Summer Recovery Specials page for details.

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Fantastically Authentic Community at Palm Springs Pride

By Linda Milks

Palm Springs is home to one of the largest Pride parades in the country where the entire community—queer and straight—celebrates diversity, authenticity, and civil liberties. It’s also just a great time!

For 39 years, Palm Springs, CA, has celebrated Palm Springs Pride with uncommon style and swagger. Each year promises to be bigger and better. Palm Springs Pride 2019 will take place from November 1-3 and is themed “Millions of Moments of Pride.”

Photo: John Warden

And this year, Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels’ committee chair, Michael Green, is the Community Grand Marshal. He’s also the executive Director of the Palm Springs Cultural Center, chair of the Desert Gay Tourism Guild, and owns the iconic Triangle Inn Palm Springs with his husband, Stephen.

Media Grand Marshal is Alexander Rodriquez.

November 3 will be a great time at the Block Party on Arenas Rd. The event is loaded with DJs, music stages, food vendors, entertainers, and a glorious parade. New for this year is the Pride Stage located at Hermosa and N. Palm Canyon Dr. You will find local royalty to emcee the parade from the reviewing stand, including Dottie DuBois, Maude Chapeau, and Mannie, the Movie Guy. All the action in this area starts at 9 am.

To start things off in brilliant colors, on October 31 attend the Rainbow Flag Unfurling from 10 am – 10:30 am at 1140 N. Indian Canyon Rd. This giant flag will be unfurled from the top of the Stergios Tower at Desert Regional Medical Center.

The Equality Kickoff is November 1 from 6 pm – 11 pm to celebrate strength, equality and self-determination of the LGBTQ community.  This is guaranteed to be a massive downtown street party with three stages for entertainment, the Arenas Stage, the Pride Stage, and the KGAY Dance stage. There will be performances by Kristine W (queen of 90’s dance music), That 80’s Band, and DJ Autumn Leilani.

One of the main acts during Pride will be LA-based electronic music artist Madame Ghandi and also UK-based, multi-platinum artist and songwriter DYSON. Other entertainers to look for are TLC, Heather Small, BETTY, and Ada Vox.

Photo: John Warden

The Palm Springs Art Museum will display The Art of Pride, Make an Exhibition of Yourself, and is a brand new official Pride event to be held on all three levels of the museum from 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm on November 1.

An exciting Pop Up event in Downtown and Uptown Palm Springs will be part of the weekend with food, art, music, fashion, and prizes. Businesses in Downtown and Uptown will be creating their own pop-up events. There will be a passport to fill out as you visit these businesses so that you are entered for a prize. The pop-up event will be from 3pm – 8 pm on November 1. The final deadline for businesses to sign up is October 25 at www.PopUpPalmSprings.com

Then, on November 2, take part in the Pride Festival happening from 11 am – 10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs and check out the Arenas District Block party from 6 pm – 11:30 pm.

November 3 is  the date of the big Pride Parade from 10 am – noon which steps off at Tachevah and Palm Canyon Dr.

To find out exactly where everything is happening, go to: www.pspride.org.

Don’t forget to grab your favorite adult beverage because for the first time ever you can stroll down Arenas Rd. and sip while being fearlessly authentic.

Speaking of staying authentic, stay at one of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels  gay resorts where you will be beautifully enveloped by community and relaxation and pride is always in style.

Photo: Linda Milks

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Road Tripping Safely to Palm Springs

How to Travel Safely by Car

Not since the days of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez’ road trip to California and when the Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe traveled to Palm Springs have road trips been so popular. This is the time to nostalgically take a road trip and reflect on those bygone days.

Pack your car and head to Palm Springs to enjoy one of the elegantly restored boutique mid-century hotels in the group known as the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. With almost 80 hotels from which to choose, you can be revitalized a poolside environment and snuggle in a cozy bungalow.

Before you head out, though, there are some safety precautions you should know during these times of Covid-19.

What to Bring in the Car

Even if you are traveling a short distance, bring all your travel documents—your auto insurance card, your driver’s license, auto registration, and your health insurance card.

Try to bring as much as possible of what you may need to be self-sufficient and cut down on trips to stores once you arrive. Bring water, snacks, lunch (to eat on the way or once you reach your destination), disinfectant wipes, masks, gloves, phone chargers, medications, and Ziploc bags. If you want to have some wine and spirits, pack those bottles under the car seat so you don’t have to journey to a liquor store.

Stopping for Gas and a Restroom

Like it or not, that gas stop and restroom is sometimes necessary. When you are pumping gas, disposable gloves are a great idea. Once you have finished pumping, use sanitizing wipes on anything you have touched– door handle, steering wheel, knobs for air conditioning or the radio, and your credit card.

As far as public toilets at gas stations, prepare for the worst. Bring toilet paper and soap. Make sure you really scrub your hands for at least those 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose before washing. Grab a clean paper towel to grab that door handle.

Staying at a Hotel

Here comes the beauty of staying at a Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel. With all hotels being less than 50 rooms, your room will be on the ground level or one flight upstairs. There will be no elevator rides or long hallways to negotiate. That’s because most of the small hotels were designed to face open-air courtyards.

While all of the Palm Springs Preferred Hotels have undergone deep cleaning and as a group have in place a set of baseline of safety sanitation standards, it is still a good idea to practice safety cleaning of your room. Once you are inside, use sanitary wipes to clean areas where people touch like door knobs, tables, faucets, toilets, sinks, light switches, phones, remotes, and curtain handles. Wipe down anywhere you will rest your belongings.

Eating and Drinking During Your Stay

Palm Springs is currently not open to indoor dining. But the wonderful part about visiting Palm Springs is that the weather is conducive to dining outdoors, a much safer option. Many of the finer restaurants provide food and cocktail delivery so that you can just sit back and dine comfortably in your room or by the pool. A list of some of those options are: The Tropicale, Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge, El Mirasol Restaurant, Jakes’ Palm Springs, and 533 Viet Fusion.

Note that the City of Palm Springs mandates the use of face masks in public, whether you are indoors or out.

So, grab your swimsuit and a slice of nostalgia on a well-deserved road trip to Palm Springs where unsurpassed blissfulness, hospitality, and tranquility await.

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Tipping 101

The art of tipping can be confusing. How many times have you asked a friend how much they tipped the hotel housekeeping staff or how much of gratuity to give a parking attendant?  International travel writer Linda Milks shares everything you need to know about gratuities when you travel to Palm Springs or elsewhere.

How Did Tipping Begin?

Tipping actually began as a custom in Europe. The belief is that wealthy Americans traveling abroad saw tipping and brought this custom home to “show off” their aristocratic class.

The beginnings of tipping started in taverns of 17th Century England where money was slipped “to insure promptness” (or T.I.P.) After all, these tavern imbibers didn’t want to sit around waiting for their next drink.

Mixologist Preparing Cocktails

In America, in the late 1800’s, there was a movement against tipping. The reasoning was that it created an aristocratic class. In fact, six states attempted and failed to pass an anti-tipping bill to make gratuities unlawful. Who knows if this was their true motivation?

What Are Tipped Minimum Wage Employees?

When I started exploring tipping in the United States, I found that there is a tipped minimum wage which is an hourly pay rate for employees who receive tips on a regular basis, and it is often lower than the general minimum wage.

Believe it or not, the U.S. federal government requires tipped employees to be paid at least $2.13 per hour in direct wages, as long as this amount equals the federal hourly minimum wage when combined with tips. To be a tipped employee, an employee must receive more than $30 per month in tips. This tipped minimum wage applies whenever the state-tipped minimum wage pays less than the U.S. tipped minimum wage.

Small Barn Restaurant Server with Tomahawk Steak

The good news for tipped minimum wage employees in California is that at the current time, California requires employers to pay tipped employees full state minimum wage before tips. Currently, in California that wage is $13 with 25 employees or less and $14 with 26 or more employees. This minimum can even be higher in some parts of California, such as the Bay area.

How Much Is The Acceptable Tip At A Hotel?

Just who qualifies as a tipped employee? Yes, it’s the person retrieving your car from valet parking, the person who provides spa treatment, and the hotel housekeeper, in addition to the bartender and server at a winery or a restaurant.

Hotel Housekeeper Preparing to Clean a Room

How much should you be tipping each of the people who are taking care of you? The tipping rate per day for a Hotel Housekeeper should be $3-5 per day or as much as $5-$20 per day in exclusive resorts. It’s best to tip this housekeeper every day rather than at the end of your stay so that the person who does the work for each day gets the tip.

What about the person who brings your luggage to your room? The suggested amount is $1-$2 per bag. If they give you a great orientation, you may want to tip a little more. A flat rate of $5 plus $1 per bag is customary for storing your bag and then taking them to your room.

Shuttle service to and from a hotel should run between $1-$2 per person or $4-$5 per party.

A concierge or front desk attendant giving you detailed information such as obtaining a desirable restaurant reservation or hard-to-get tickets should be tipped at least $5.

How much for valet service? Tipping when your car is delivered is recommended to be $1-$5. Tipping when your car is parked is up to your discretion but not necessary.

How Much Do You Tip Outside The Hotel For Service?

That special hairdresser should be tipped between 18-22%, especially if you have received excellent service.

Hairdresser Blow Drying Customer’s Hair

How about a massage therapist or manicurist? Tipping with cash is the most desirable way for these professionals to receive a tip. A massage therapist should receive between 15% and 20% of the cost of the treatment. For a manicure or a pedicure, a 20% tip is the norm.

Bartenders should get a $1 tip for a drink like beer, but $2 for a cocktail. If it’s a 2-for-1 special, you still should tip on two drinks. Cash is much appreciated rather than putting it on a card. And, whatever you do, don’t wave your money around. This will not get you faster service.

Do you really need to pay 20% tip on a bottle of wine? The answer is “yes.” That bottle is part of the atmosphere where you are dining, it has probably been selected and described by your server, and has been carefully stored for your enjoyment.

Wine Server Pouring a Glass of Wine

Now let’s talk about restaurant servers. Please don’t be one of those persons who deducts the sales tax when calculating a tip at a restaurant. Many times your server shares the tips with the bussers, the dishwashers, and runners in a “tipping pool.” That server creates a special mood while you are dining and deserves to be compensated for that experience. Think of the difference between a pre-tax tip on a $100 meal and an after-tax tip. If the tax is 10% (the highest in the country), then you are paying an extra $2. That is just not worth the thought or effort.

Is a Service Charge A Tip?

Group of Ladies at Lunch Where They Will Be Charged a Service Charge

Be aware that when a Service Charge is tacked onto your bill in California, that Service Charge belongs to the employer. That employer can either give the money to the employees, give part to the employees, or keep it all for themselves. Perhaps that would be a good question to ask the employer when booking a large group where a Service Charge is required.

Traveling, hotel stays, special treatments, and dining are all wonderful ways to treat yourself and enjoy time with others. Make sure you provide an adequate tip for those working in the service industry to keep everyone happy and receiving a decent pay.

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The Art Of Being Free At The Vista Grande Resort For Men

The Vista Grande Resort isn’t just a men’s clothing-optional boutique hotel in the heart of Warm Sands. It’s a philosophy and an opportunity for gay men from all over the world to gather and simply be who they are. “The Art of Being” is their adage, and it’s embedded in the guest experience as much as it is embedded in their logo.

Established in 1984, Vista Grande was the first gay clothing-optional hotel in Palm Springs. It’s also the longest running, and their mission remains steady: “To save the world one man at a time, providing discerning gay travelers with an unforgettable blend of comfort, fun, and pleasure in our secret garden sanctuary where we celebrate life, love, and personal freedom every day.”

The moment you arrive at Vista Grande, you enter a secret garden that feels like an endless oasis of pleasurable potential. The lush landscaping envelops the labyrinth-like property and is carefully curated by one of its founding fathers, Robert Fields. It almost feels like a tropical rainforest in the center of the low desert. With an ever-breathtaking view of the San Jacinto Mountains, Vista Grande invites you to explore your vigor for being alive. It also invites quite a few hummingbirds to the party as well!

The property’s gorgeous waterfall. Photo courtesy of Vista Grande Resort

What makes Vista Grande truly unique though is a commitment to their philosophy. You can feel a visceral surge of freedom in every aspect, from their inquisitive amenities to their communal sense of hospitality. The attentive staff’s comforting approach makes you feel more like family than the average resort as well. And since Vista Grande doesn’t “specify,” it makes for a popular, unpretentious mix of men of all types, ages, shapes, and sizes that seems to make everyone feel right at home.

The Avalon seating area. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Vista Grande is one of the only men’s clothing-optional resorts that offers extended stay opportunities. Their spacious garden apartments are fully equipped with all the comforts you would expect in a home, but with additional concierge hotel services, housekeeping, swimming pools, a spa, a steam room, waterfalls, and beautiful views of the gardens (and the neighbors)! What’s more, an extended stay at Vista Grande grants anyone the liberty to experience a prolonged sense of freedom rather than just a weekend of delight.

My husband Glen and I spent a pleasurable evening in one of their four Mirage Waterfall Suites, located in the beautiful enclave just steps from the steam room, 18-man spa, blue lagoon, and waterfall. It’s the perfect fairy tale setting for just about anything, and Mirage suites are elevated by concierge services like VIP parking, welcome gifts, and breakfast trays delivered to your room daily. We even had special burgundy towels specific to the Mirage suites experience to wear like badges of honor throughout the evening. At the end of our stay, the staff proudly proclaimed to us, “You are Mirage Men now!”

Breakfast in bed. Photo courtesy of Vista Grande Resort

Get cozy on the couch in one of the Mirage suites. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Another unique aspect of Vista Grande is the layout of amenities throughout the property. There are two swimming pools on the grounds, each equipped with a floating canopy covering about a third of the pool for shade. The Vista Grande Villa art deco-style pool serves as a quieter, non-smoking and no-music pool with a vintage Palm Springs vibe. The Avalon pool is a more expansive “party” area that is ripe for male adventure.

During our stay, I had the opportunity to connect with Robert Fields himself, and it didn’t take long for me to realize how deeply invested he is in the essence of Vista Grande. He compared his sprawling garden creations throughout the property as a “canvas to paint upon.” He also hinted at the magical relationship he had with his late husband Bob, and how together they created Vista Grande to serve as an extension of their mutual celebratory spirit for all others who visit the resort to benefit from. Robert is still very much the heart and soul of the place, and it’s apparent how much his employees appreciate him and his philosophy too — most have been working there for years.

After just 24 hours, I left the Vista Grande Resort feeling inspired, rejuvenated, and much freer than I had felt before checking in. I can only imagine what a longer stay would have revealed in “The Art of Being.”

All men are welcome at Vista Grande Resort. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

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Seven Nights In The Spotlight: Your Ultimate Guide To Queer Karaoke In Palm Springs

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.

A flyer for Karaoke Nights at Quadz Palm Springs

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!

A flyer advertising karaoke at Streetbar in Palm Springs

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).

A flyer of the karaoke event at The Roost Lounge

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.

A flyer for karaoke at V Wine Lounge

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!

A flyer for karaoke at One Eleven

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…

A flyer for AMP'D Up Karaoke

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!

A flyer for AMP'd Up Karaoke

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!

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The Palm Springs Cultural Center Is The Community Heartbeat of Diversity

If you’re looking for a one-stop cultural shop for film festivals, a farmers’ market, live performances, arts programs, theater productions, lectures, food, libations, and more, look no further than the Palm Springs Cultural Center. 

Since its grand opening in 2019, the Palm Springs Cultural Center has been dedicated to offering diverse programming, and is certainly catching its stride this year with an impressive 2023 lineup and experiences. The center truly feels like the cultural heartbeat of our community here in the Coachella Valley.

The Camelot Theatre. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

The Palm Springs Cultural Center was founded in 2007 by Palm Springs philanthropists Ric and Rozene Supple. In 1999, the Supples bought and refurbished the historic Camelot Theatres building, and operated it as a three-screen complex with a full bar and restaurant. They introduced a list of prestigious events to the community, including Cinema Diverse and the Palm Springs International Film Festival. When the Supples gifted the Camelot Theatres building to the Palm Springs Cultural Center in 2017, they instilled their legacy and lifelong dedication to culture and the arts here in Palm Springs.

Ric and Rozene Supple. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

The newly-minted Palm Springs Cultural Center opened its doors in January 2019, and the PSCC team set out to “incubate, produce, and encourage arts and cultural programs in order to leverage the unique power of creativity to open minds, bridge what divides us, and discover what connects us.” Its diverse programming aimed to inspire learning and deepen the relationships with the local community, and recognized the interconnection between the cultural arts and food culture. After introducing its first theater company and producing its first show, COVID took the world by storm, and like so many others, the Palm Springs Cultural Center had to close its doors. 

Welcome to the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

However, the Farmers Market continued to operate throughout the pandemic, being deemed a necessary business. A little over a year later, the Palm Springs Cultural Center re-opened, reignited its theater program, and brought live music to the mix. After speaking with Palm Springs Cultural Center Executive Director Michael Green, Nunzio Sisto entered the picture as music program director, introducing classical music and further diversifying both the music and theater programs.

Gregory Douglass performs at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Photo courtesy of Gregory Douglass

The PSCC team’s ongoing mission for the Farmers’ Market is to serve the community as the only one in the Coachella Valley that matches dollar-for-dollar (up to $15 per person) for those who are in need of food and part of low-income and/or senior food programs. For instance, a family of four may be entitled to $60 worth of matching funds every week. This program echoes the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s dedication to making its programming as accessible as possible for all income levels.

What’s more, the PSCC team also aspires to remain a good community partner, offering its space to organizations in need of a place to gather for meetings or rehearsals, like the Sunrise Park Neighborhood Association, The L-Fund, and the Youth Training Orchestra.

The radical shift to home box office streaming content has changed the game for movie theater-goers over the years. Even major theater chains have suffered, but the Palm Springs Cultural Center has pivoted its focus to revival films and special event screenings, making for more integrated, memorable experiences. A recent Valentine’s Day screening of Moulin Rouge featured curated grazing boxes of special love-themed treats to enjoy throughout the film. In addition, local gay organization Among Friends presents ongoing gay cult classic films that are as immersive as they are entertaining.

The “Moulin Rouge” snack boxes. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

If you’re curious about all that lies ahead, check out the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s 2023 lineup. Highlights include the Glenn Miller Orchestra in music (March 13), Martin Sherman’s GENTLY DOWN THE STREAM in theater (through March 4), Jimmy Dore Live in comedy (March 25), the American Documentary Film Festival in film (March 30 – April 3), and the Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market (each Saturday). There’s also weekly live music upstairs in the lounge, featuring local musicians like Keisha D, Mon Petit Salon with Jeremie Levi, and Leanna & the Jazz Collective.

Leanna & The Jazz Collective. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

Of course, all this diverse programming costs money. The Palm Springs Cultural Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which means that it relies on the ongoing support of the very community it serves. You can help PSCC by becoming a sustaining member in exchange for enjoying complimentary screenings, member-only discounts, and pre-sale opportunities. You can also make a tax-deductible donation, sign up for the PSCC’s newsletter, and even ​purchase a seat (or several) for yourself and to honor someone else in the community.

The Modern Men’s Gay Chorus performs on stage. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

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The Best Queer Shopping In Palm Springs

There are tons of gay-owned gems and LGBTQIA+-friendly shops to explore in Palm Springs, which is great news if you’re in town for a getaway or live here in the Coachella Valley. Our desert oasis is a cornucopia of quirky gifts, mid-century modern household goods, thrift stores that give back to the queer community, and everything in between. So if you’ve got $500 that’s just burning a hole through your wallet right now, consider making some time for a little retail therapy. Here are my votes for the best queer shopping in Palm Springs:

Adult gifts (for men)

Gear Leather & Fetish

For men who like to play hard, Gear Leather & Fetish on East Sunny Dunes Road carries some of the best fetish products from the top manufacturers in the world. Go grab a beer at the Tool Shed next door for some inspiration first.

Rough Trade Gear Palm Springs

The Arenas District in Palm Springs is home to Rough Trade Gear, featuring some of the sexiest men’s street, fetish, sport, and play wear. It’s just one of many shopping options in the ever-popular Arenas District “gayborhood.”

Antiques shopping

Palm Springs Vintage Market

The Palm Springs Vintage Market features the best selection of Southern California vendors selling vintage and antique furniture, art, clothing, jewelry, and home furnishings. Experience it for yourself on the first Sunday of every month (October through May), from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Palm Springs Cultural Center (formerly Camelot Theatre).

Antique Galleries of Palm Springs

If you can’t catch the Vintage Market, you can discover all sorts of inspiring things at Antique Galleries of Palm Springs. They have one of the largest collections of antique, vintage, and retro everything in the Coachella Valley.

This is just one corner of Antique Galleries of Palm Springs. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Clothing (for men) 

GayMart USA

In the heart of the Arenas District, GayMart USA proudly refers to itself as “America’s Favorite Gay Superstore.” Their specialty is swimwear and underwear of all kinds, but they also sell entertaining cards, presents, and toys for adults.

GayMart USA has it all. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Division Palm Springs

If you really want to dress the part of a Palm Springs local, Division Palm Springs is the place to shop. Also nestled in the Arenas District, Division always has a beautifully curated contemporary collection of button downs, clever T-shirts, classy swimwear, and ever-popular short-shorts that practically every gay man in town wears with pride.

Division’s storefront gives you a hint of what’s inside. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Gifts

Queertique Palm Springs

There’s no shop more unique in Palm Springs than Queertique. They are a queer lifestyle shop dedicated to amplifying the voices of independent queer artists and their art and apparel. You can even take a selfie in the store’s fabulous dressing room (and be sure to tag them in your Instagram post if you do)!

There is so much to see at Queertique. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Just Fabulous Palm Springs

Just Fabulous Palm Springs is, well, … just fabulous! Located next to Koffi North in the Uptown District, Just Fabulous is a lifestyle boutique with artwork, original gifts, mid-century modern photo books, and modern home decor items that are as inspiring as they are entertaining. Their greeting card selection alone could keep you entertained all afternoon.

Home furnishings

Ace Hardware

Yes, you read that right. Palm Springs Ace Hardware isn’t just your daddy’s hardware store (or is it)? It’s every gay man’s ideal version of a hardware store, and then some. From beautiful mid-century modern patio furniture to a vast selection of HVAC air filters, Ace is the place (sorry, I couldn’t resist) for all of your desert household needs. And they are as LGBTQ+ community-focused as a local business can be.

PS Homeboys

PS Homeboys are primarily home-staging specialists, but they’ve got a stunning showroom in the Arenas District full of beautiful, reasonably priced indoor/outdoor furniture and home decor. You can even browse through their inspiring wallpaper library to find the perfect look for your desert dwellings.

Design inspiration abounds at PS Homeboys. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

Thrift stores 

Revivals

Revivals knows how to put the “care” in health care! The most socially-conscious gay locals shop and donate their furniture, appliances, jewelry, artwork, and time at Revivals. This is because all four Revivals store locations in the Coachella Valley donate 100 percent of their revenue, amounting to more than $1 million annually, to support comprehensive healthcare at DAP Health (the Desert AIDS Project).

Mitchells Palm Springs

Mitchells Palm Springs offers contemporary designer clothing, shoes, and accessories from the 1970s through ’90s for men and women. Boasting carefully-curated vintage and iconic designers, like Gaultier and Versace, Mitchells always aims for sleek and sexy. Picture a day of shopping before passing through the velvet ropes to get into Studio 54 — that’s the Mitchells experience!

Fabulous vintage clothing can be found at Mitchells Palm Springs. Photo credit: Gregory Douglass

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Brunch Besties

Need brunch? The guys at the Santiago, one of Palm Springs most exclusive resorts for gay men, make a delicious argument for weekend brunch being the most important meal of the week. Here’s the Santiago’s list of the top brunch spots!

While breakfast typically is considered the most important meal of the day, we think there’s a strong argument for weekend brunch being even more important! Whether you’re looking for a tried and true classic, something innovative or maybe just a Mimosa with a side of breakfast, Palm Springs has the perfect brunch spot for you. Here’s our list of bangin’ brunch spots you need to know about!

 

1501 Gastro Pub

This new addition to the Palm Springs restaurant scene offers delicious comfort food brunch….with a little twist: 1501 Gastro Pub mimosas include 2 free refills. They also offer their regular menu during brunch, so there is something for everyone!

Pinocchio in the Desert

The home of the desert’s most popular bottomless mimosa and many other fabulous brunch drinks! Pinocchio’s serves a traditional American comfort food breakfast.  It’s very popular. You should expect a wait.

 

FARM

This wonderful, French inspired breakfast spot used to be one of the best kept secrets in town. No more. The secret is out and the Farm can get crowded on weekends, but it’s completely worth it. Tucked away in a small wisteria garden in downtown’s historic La Plaza building, they serve delicious food and offer one of the best French Press coffees in Palm Springs!

 

Elmers

Breakfast is what Elmer’s does right! Nothing too fancy, just a good traditional breakfast menu with lots of options. Be sure to order one of their German pancakes as a table appetizer to share! A squeeze of lemon, and you will be so happy!

 

Escena Lounge and Grill

One of the most beautiful breakfast views in Palm Springs, and definitely a local secret! Located in the Clubhouse of the Escena Golf Course, but open to the public, the Grill offers traditional brunch dishes, bottomless mimosas and champagne and a jaw-dropping panoramic view! What could be better?

 

Wilma & Frieda’s

Wilma & Frida’s is a downtown brunch favorite featuring a menu filled with the owner’s family recipes. Delicious twists on breakfast favorites include short rib benedict and a tasty shrimp and grits with eggs, all made with love!  Enjoy the busy downtown scene below from your balcony view. And be sure to order one of their fantastic homemade baked goods!

 

Sherman’s Deli

Ahhhh, Sherman’s Deli, a Palm Springs classic! This is a wonderful “NY-Style” deli with an awesome breakfast served all day long! A few highlights are the potato latkes and the salmon and eggs.  If you’re feeling like something a bit more savory, try the pastrami sandwich – giant and delicious!

 

Grand Central Café

Grand Central Café is a great place for breakfast, located in downtown’s La Plaza. Featuring healthy, local California farm to table selections and a great coffee bar. Mimosa flights are a sure way to get the day started right.

 

 

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Why Palm Springs Is Perfect For The Solo LGBTQ+ Traveler

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.

A plate of food and a cocktail on a white table

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!

A woman floats on a pool raft shaped like a pineapple

Solo travelers can spend all day floating if they feel like it. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

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