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First! What’s New In Palm Springs

Although Palm Springs always maintains her mid-mod aesthetic, she is in constant metamorphosis. Some local haunts are like the stars in the sky, they have been around since “5Eva because 4ever is too short.” (IYKYK!) Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn, Les Vallauris (now operated by SoHo House), the original Las Casuelas — they’re not going anywhere. But people are moving to Palm Springs from all over the world, and with them come new ideas and new businesses. There’s a gleeful mix of old and new and everyone is here for it. The ones that aren’t are literally a dying breed.

Since season started last November, some things have happened fast, and some were pretty big, like the opening of the Spa at Séc-he and Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Because of the buzz around those, a bunch of new businesses didn’t get to fly as close to the sun as they could have, so we’re absolutely going to fix that now. I can’t claim that this is everything, but I tried really hard to find them all. I searched high, and I searched less high, but it all comes down to this: I absolutely deserve the pint of Caramel Cone Haagen Dazs that’s name-calling me from Ralph’s.  

But before I get into that (and another episode of Girls5Eva — I’m obsessed!), it’s about time we showed a little love to… 

The Uptown Design District

Yay! Uptown! It’s a very cool part of town, but not just architecturally — the shops have unique offerings as well. It’s definitely worth taking a coffee on a stroll. Plus, it’s not as crowded as downtown proper, so you can meander at will. 

Not only are Trina Turk and The Shag Store up that way, there’s a great outdoor space in The Corridor. Have a peek while you grab that coffee at Koffi, then head on up north and have a look at some of the dreamiest design elements you’ve ever. Here’s the new:

Wolf Contemporary at 768 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Curated art and design gallery showcasing works by contemporary California artists, rare findings, and unique designs in a gallery setting. Expect an eclectic mix of antique artifacts, rare vintage designer handbags, modern and vintage jewelry, and the occasional piece of statement furniture, each with a story, history, and meaning. All pieces are offered with refinement, style, and supreme quality. 

Phylum at 901 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Color abounds in contemporary housewares, barware, apothecaries, gifts, and furniture, all with complimentary gift wrap and local delivery.

Around town

Aluminaire House at the Palm Springs Art Museum

On the south end of the Palm Springs Art Museum’s grounds, there is now an aluminum and metal prototype residence designed in 1931 by Albert Frey and A. Lawrence Kocher. Called the Aluminaire House, it is the first all-metal house constructed in the United States. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Monday; noon to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Pillars of Palm Springs 

Set to be unveiled April 15 on World Art Day (happy birthday, Leonardo DaVinci!), are six “pillars” individually crafted by six local artists: Roger Reutimann (Inspiring Creativity); Anne Faith Nicholls (Crafting Serenity); Bernard Stanley Hoyes (Celebrating Diversity); Jessup + Cooning (Upholding Civility); MIDABI (Fostering Community); and Scott Froschauer (Highlighting Equality). Located along Tahquitz Canyon Way, the Pillars will replace the Art of Taming Horses sculptures installed during Desert X 2021. 

New restaurants

Wang’s in the Desert at 424 S. Indian Canyon Drive

Iconic restaurant and beautiful event space (formerly Jilly’s 1960s). Reopened March 18 after about a four-year sabbatical. 

La Cocina at Reforma at 333 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Elevated Mexican inspired menu inside Reforma nightclub. Opened in March. 

Crudo Cerveceria at 515 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite B8

I’ve mentioned it before, but it’s worth the rerun. Terrific new addition to the Uptown Design District with drinks and fresh seafood. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sundays. 

Holiday House Brunch at 200 W. Arenas Road

On Saturdays and Sundays, Executive Chef Shawn Applin offers a sweet and savory menu that pairs perfectly with a special selection of rosé wines and Champagnes.  Highlights include the photogenic and delicious Shellfish Plateau for sharing, Dutch Baby pancakes, fried chicken and waffles, ricotta-stuffed French toast, and much more.  11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Cipolline Osteria at 1260 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Great menu, and plenty of parking on the south end of Palm Canyon Drive. Formerly known as The New York Company, long time visitors will remember it as Banducci’s Bit of Italy. Meaty mains, pasta, pizza, salads, full bar. They call it a bar before they call it a restaurant, but the menu looks fancy. 

Coming Soon

Tony’s Burgers at 665 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Delicious burger joint with a full bar that’s been consistently named best burger in the Coachella Valley. Not a burger person? Try the famous fish tacos, hot dogs, fresh salads, and avocado fries. Just like the Date Palm location, but in Palm Springs.

Livs at 101 N. Museum Drive

Livs is taking over the downstairs space at the Palm Springs Art Museum that used to be the Muse Café. They are currently doing a pop-up on Thursday evenings with VillageFest. Opening date of brick-and-mortar TBD.

I’d love to tell you that Churrasco Steakhouse has opened, but it hasn’t done that yet (announced two years ago, chop chop on the chops, please). Starring all-you-can-eat meats roasted to perfection on a wood charcoal grill, Churrasco will feature a sleek modern decor with inside seating for 140 and additional outdoor patio seating for another 30. 

A large imported fresh market table will be filled with favorites, including chilled salads and hot sides, sauces, imported cheeses, their famous mushroom risotto, and 15 meat selections like the house specialty picanha. The website says it will open this spring, and it’s spring, so…

Keep your eyes out for announcements about the Oasis Music Festival

Miscellaneous

Perry’s Fine Wines & Liquor at 625-641 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Owner is a transplant from Provincetown, Massachusetts, a.k.a. Palm Springs East. 

Carmela Ice Cream at 750 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Specialty house-made ice creams. They even have classes you can take to learn how to make your own, too. Inside the Flannery Exchange.

Women’s clothing

Pink Palm Springs at 263 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way

Fashion-forward women looking for unique and trendy pieces need search no further. Their carefully curated collection has made it a destination for fashion enthusiasts searching for one-of-a-kind pieces.

Sunny Days at 174 N. Palm Canyon Drive

A woman’s clothing boutique with styles from Bella Dahl, Johnny Was, Z Supply, and more. 

New small hotels

There are over 70 unique boutique hotels and small resorts in Palm Springs. These are the five newest kids on the block, and I encourage you to click the links and check them out. Stun-ning.

Velvet Rope — Nine themed rooms, each with its own very big personality, plus the soon-to-open bar, Valerie’s.

Mahala — Bursting with personality and just a touch of well-placed kitsch, it’s right across the street from old school Billy Reed’s Restaurant. 

Yara — The Mediterranean/Moroccan style of this hotel looks like a cool breeze on a sunny day. You know, if you could see a breeze.

Blackhaus — High-end bedding, towels, and toiletries; small private patios. Shared spaces include a pool, fireplaces, and outdoor cooking, as well as multiple bocce ball courts around the property.

Jazz Hotel — Gallery and modern art collection. Pool. Spa. Gym. Lounge.

And that’s the skinny on all things new in Palm Springs. You’re welcome, happy to help. Now I’m off to get that Haagen Dazs and spend some time with my new favorite girl group. 🎶Girls5Eva because 4ever is too short! 🎶

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Here Comes The Sun: June Events In Palm Springs

“There are three good reasons to be a teacher — June, July, and August.” — Unknown

It’s June, and that means it’s National Accordion Awareness Month. If you’re not familiar with an accordion, it sounds like someone attached a keyboard to a bagpipe and powered it with a leaf blower. At least it did when I played it.

So, I’m here to tell you how to avoid them in the wilds of Palm Springs, all bona fide events/locations almost surely accordion-free zones. That’s right, I care about you. So, read on, my friends. I’ve got you.

June 1: Rock The Park free concert featuring Mirage, a Fleetwood Mac cover band. They do not, to my knowledge, have accordions in any Fleetwood Mac track, so you’re safe. Go downtown before the concert and explore; maybe figure out where you want to have dinner, make a reservation for later, then head on back by Marilyn to rock out. After the concert, go back to said restaurant and you’ll skip all the lines. (Why yes, I have been called an evil genius before. Thank you.)

June 2: Fresh off a sold-out Vegas run, TikTok sensation Broadway Barbara is playing Oscar’s. If you know you know. (And that’s the only time I have ever “known” when someone uses that phrase. I don’t get it, but I know how to use it. Which means I’m evolving.)

June 3-12 is Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week. This is the week when you can try all of the delicious cuisine Palm Springs has to offer on the cheap. Check out the participating restaurants at the link above. (Highest risk of an accordion, but if you avoid Italian and Hungarian, you should be safe. However, then you’ll be missing out on great Italian and Hungarian food, so…your call.)

June 10-12: Splash House is back. You can get tickets here. (The lack of accordions is astounding.)

Courtesy of Splash House

PS Cultural Center

Sundays: Keisha D — One of the best set of pipes in Palm Springs.

Mondays: Mon Petite Salon

Tuesdays: Leanna & Jazz Collective

Upcoming movie events: Mostly camp, often sing-a-longs, and generally a good old blast from the past. Just recently they did John Waters’ Serial Mom, the epitome of classic campy fun.

PS Underground — Creativity with zero flaws. Shows sell out in a hot Palm Springs second, so find your level of fun and get’er booked.

June 3-11: Starstruck (part of Restaurant Week)

June 12: Dirty Bingo

June 24: Game Show

June 26: Ovation Brunch

The Purple Room — World class acts and local phenoms. Always an eclectic mix of music in this great Rat Pack location. Note: The Purple Room is closed for the summer starting June 24.

Tuesdays: Rose Mallett

Wednesdays: Charles Herrera, Michael Holmes & Darci Daniels

Thursdays: Sharon Sills

June 3 and 4: Billy Stritch — Cy Coleman Revisted

June 10 and 11: John Lloyd Young

June 17: Jeff Harnar

June 18: Jonathan Karrant

June 24: Kevin Tokarz, Danny Flahive and Andy Fraga — Three of the desert’s finest musicians playing all the music. This is listed as The Purple Room’s season finale, but the website offers one more…

June 25: Elvis the Early Years w/Scot Bruce

Note: The Judy Show is on hiatus while Michael is recovering from a pretty serious medical issue. That’s also probably why they’re closing up a little early this year. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to more Judy next season!

Courtesy of The Purple Room

The Alibi had shows all through May, and have not announced anything for June. If they do, you’ll find it at the link above. It’s a great indie music spot, and I’m giving this one an accordion warning on account of those crazy indie artist kidz.

Copa — It’s not your Barry Manilow version. This one has drag shows and late night dancing. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only (unless a private party).

AsiaSF is still having dinner shows. The food is good and the show is splashy.

We’ve got one theater company that’s still giving us all the entertainment through the summer months, and that’s Desert Rose Playhouse, the only Alphabet Mafia theater in Palm Springs. Every show is a celebration, whether it’s a stage show, comedy show, or musical review. It’s in the space that once housed Zelda’s nightclub, and of course there’s a bar, silly. If you’re in town early June, go see their double-header: Sex, and The Drag. Both written by Mae West, and both with a very naughty history. Always good — sometimes risqué — fun.

Courtesy of Desert Rose Playhouse

Open mic: Neuro Center on Wednesdays with Joel Baker — This is on Alejo, and a few major streets east. However, if you love singing with a real live piano player, Joel’s the guy. Local performers stop by and sing, so if you’re resting your vocal cords, you can enjoy an impromptu show — if you’re not, join in. Bring your accordion! (Kidding, leave that packed in the garage.)

Don’t forget to shop and stay local! And let’s meet back here again next month, k?

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February Events (Modernism Week!) And Humpback Whale Appreciation Month

It’s February, which means it’s Humpback Whale Appreciation Month in Palm Springs!

Okay, so that’s a bit misleading. Yes, February is Humpback Whale Appreciation Month, but we’re not celebrating this year (we never have). So whales, you’re on your own (but please do live long and prosper.)

What we do have are Modernism Week and two national celebrations: Valentine’s Day and Black History Month. And there’s enough to fill two blogs on the whos, whats, and wheres on those last two, so that’s what we’re going to do.

This blog entry is about you coming to Palm Springs during the month of February and whatever event/holiday/getaway/vacation you’d like to plan during the shortest month of the year.

Side note: Ever wonder why there are 12 months, and some have 30 days, others 31, and poor old February gets a deficit of three? According to “math” and some random dude on Quora: “There are 13 lunations, each with 28 days — that is the moon’s phases around the Earth, but it doesn’t fit exactly in the rotation of the Earth around the sun, which is 365 days, not 364, so calendars have never matched.” Thanks, random dude. No wiser.

Let’s move on to all the things to do in Palm Springs in February 2023, and let’s show some appreciation for the city’s fabulous mascot, Mister Splashy Pants, the humpback whale. (It’s not. But there is a humpback by that name!)

One and done-ish

Feb. 3, 4, and 5: 7th Annual Taste of Jalisco Festival: Cathedral City

Feb. 4: Gregory Douglass, one of our very own bloggers, will be appearing at Palm Springs Cultural Center, joined by some very special guests. $20 (includes your two-drink minimum). Tickets here.

Feb. 5 and 19: Palm Springs Vintage Market. One of the kitschiest and crazy fun retro markets you’ll ever have the delight of shopping. And it’s twice this month! Yay! It’s mostly mid-mod, with everything from clothes to furniture to home furnishings, a.k.a. tchotchkes.

Items for sale at the Palm Springs Vintage Market. Photo by Katy Carrier

Feb. 9-12: Intersect Palm Springs Art and Design Show, Palm Springs Convention Center. An art and design fair that brings together a dynamic mix of modern and contemporary galleries, activated by timely and original programming.

Feb. 15: Different Drum: The Music of Linda Ronstadt, Palm Canyon Theatre. My favorite cabaret performer Francesca Amari sings the story of the life of Linda Ronstadt. I’ve seen this show and it’s terrific! Francesca won the 2022 BroadwayWorld Palm Springs Award for Best Streaming Concert/Cabaret for her Gilda Radner tribute show, and was nominated Vocalist of the Decade by BroadwayWorld Palm Springs in 2020 and Best Jazz Vocalist in the 2020 & 2018 Coachella Valley Music Awards.

Feb. 16-26: Modernism Week. Event tickets.

Feb. 18: Party Gras — New Orleans-inspired celebration on President’s Day weekend at Agua Caliente Palm Springs.

Feb. 18: Desert Woman’s Show & Greater Palm Springs Food and Wine Festival, presented by the Desert Vein and Vascular Institute. Now in its 15th year, the indoor Woman’s Show offers daily fashion shows by local boutiques and shopping. The Greater Palm Springs Food & Wine outdoor event offers a cornucopia of tasty bites, wines, craft beers and spirits from the Valley’s best. Limited free general admission tickets are available courtesy of Desert Care Network (available online at Desert Woman’s Show only) and are valid for one ticket per person. DOES NOT include the food and wine tasting area. Tickets here for the food and adult beverages.

Feb. 25: The L-Fund Gala 10th Anniversary — 5 to 9 p.m. at the Margaritaville Resort. This red carpet event supports cis and trans lesbians in the Coachella Valley.

Feb. 25: Boots on Arenas — Join Bella da Ball and Nancy Sinatra for These Boots are Made for Walkin’, Modernism Week’s penultimate night street party. Wear your big hair and miniskirts and go-go down to Arenas Road to join the party. Details and tickets here. Prize for Best Dressed provided by Nancy’s family. Free, all ages. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Get those boots on and get ready to party! Photo courtesy of Boots on Arenas

Theater

Feb. 10-26: Scarlet Pimpernel, Palm Canyon Theatre.

Feb. 17-19: South Pacific, RM Amphitheater — Desert Theatricals puts on near-perfect productions of musicals from all eras. Always a great time, with many local entertainers stepping into various roles. Dinner show tickets are available, but go fast. General admission available as well. (Maybe there’ll be a humpback whale!)

Feb.21-March 5: Once at CV Rep. A love story reminding us of how the language of music is universal. Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Tickets here.

Feb. 21 and 22:  Mid Century Moderns returns to Oscar’s.

PS Underground is a dinner theater, musical hybrid with unique shows and delicious food. Check out their schedule for something completely different.

Fridays from 4:30-7:30 p.m., DJ ModGirl at the Rowan Kimpton lobby bar. Always a good time and a great start to your Friday night.

Clubs with entertainment:

Oscar’s — Home of the T Dance also has name entertainment.

Palm Canyon Cultural Center — List of performers for weekly entertainment. February brings The Mod Squad on Wednesdays, a very fun “audience participation” show with local entertainers Wayne Abravanel, Francesca Amari, and Jeff Stewart.

PS Air Bar calendar — So many fun shows, including in-flight movies.

Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Palm Springs — Home of Jazzville and additional music and comedy shows.

Illusions Drag Queen Brunch, Pete’s Hideaway — Saturdays and Sundays

The Purple Room — Rat Pack feel, a variety of entertainers, big names in jazz, cabaret and Broadway on the weekend, and The Judy Show is back!

“The Judy Show” is back! Courtesy of The Purple Room

V Wine Lounge — Very Mad Men with a multitude of seating options in a variety of set pieces, nice sized bar for cross talk, great wine and cocktail selections, and a lot of entertainment options, including karaoke night.

Fridays: Ranch Dance — DJs spin country music for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community, and its friends.

Restaurant news

El Patio — I haven’t talked about it before, so I am now. Owned by the same family that gave us local favorites Felipe’s and Salsa Restaurants in DT PS. About a year old, so it’s ready.

Low Desert — Modern Mexican on the south end of Palm Springs. Brand new. Replaces the BBQ restaurant in the Smoketree Plaza.

For the first time ever, the Michelin Guide has included Palm Springs restaurants. Those in the “first” category are: Bar Cecil, Boozehounds, Workshop Kitchen and Bar, Cheeky’s, 4 Saints, The Barn at Sparrows Lodge, Colony Club, and Tac/Quila.

Breakfast to go from Cheeky’s. Photo by Mary Farah

Reforma Nightclub is now open for dinner and dancing

The Heyday (best burger and mushroom burger in town) is leaving their space at the Hilton and moving to a new spot at 1550 N. Palm Canyon. This was once occupied by JJ’s Mexican Oasis, now permanently closed.

Oscar’s Privado opening soon. 127 E. Tahquitz, #108.

And sadly, downtown’s Brickworks American Bistro + Pizza has closed.

Coming soon

Dave & Buster’s at The River in Rancho Mirage.

Have fun in our desert playground, and don’t forget to shop and stay local so we can invite you back again! See you next time.

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Let’s Get 2023 Started: January Events In Palm Springs

I hope you all made it through 2022 as unscathed as possible. No matter the reason, you absolutely deserve a getaway vacation to Palm Springs. The late night temps are in the low 50s, while it’s in the mid-70s by noon and the sun is warm on your skin. Perfect tanning weather, and a heated pool will bring all of the aaahhhs.

Whether you want to keep the party going, or you’re looking to unwind from party season, Palm Springs is a cure. Have a look at our boutique resorts to find your particular jam. There are A LOT to choose from, each one unique in its own way — on the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website, you can use a filter to narrow down the choices. I’d do it for you, but you didn’t tell me what you were looking for, so I’m stumped. It’s pretty easy to navigate, so unless you’re a single cell organism, you’ll do fine.

The biggest thing going on this month is the Palm Springs International Film Festival, and I’m going to tell you about that in a different post, but you should get tickets yesterday if you want to attend. Other than that, we’ve got a lot of the usual suspects, a few one-offs, and a brand new nightclub. I’ll do a post about my favorite restaurants before Valentine’s Day so you can make a plan. But first, January 2023. Ready? Let’s go.

One and done

Jan 1: Vintage Market at the Palm Springs Cultural Center — First hour is $10 to get in (first pick!), $5 after 9 a.m. Vendors from all over the country.

Jan. 4: Leslie Jordan: Gone Too Soon. At Quadz Palm Springs, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Jan 5-16: Palm Springs International Film Festival — Cruise the website yourself, or you can read about it here.

Jan 19-22: Palm Springs Winter Break — Line dance party.

Items for sale at the Vintage Market. Photo by Katy Carrier

Recurring tours

Historical Society Walking Tours — 14 different tour options, all spectacular.

Architectural Bike Tours — Your guide, Brennan, is all about mid-century modern. He is also a bus tour guide during Modernism Week. Many of our resorts have bikes available, so snag one for a few hours and book the tour.

Desert Tasty Tours — Get a taste of downtown Palm Springs with this fun walking tour. You get some great history, some adult beverages, and some delicious food from our locally owned spots. It’s a great mid-day adventure. Get $5 off when purchasing your tickets by using promo code “PSPHotel.”

MOGO Silent Disco — Get your boogie on with this dance tour. To be clear, you are the dancer. Curated music is pumped through your headset as you disco down Palm Canyon Boulevard. You won’t look weird — you’ll bring friends and make new ones. Use code “pspsh10” at checkout for a 10 percent discount for our readers!

Dance your way through downtown Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of MOGO Silent Disco Tour

Clubs with entertainment

Caliente Comedy at the Cascade Lounge on Fridays

Jazzville at the Cascade Lounge on Thursdays

The Purple Room — Rat Pack styled club with top notch entertainment from all over the country.

PS Underground — If you’ve read this blog before, you know I love this experience. Everything is spectacular, from the venue to the entertainment and the food. One of the most creative and fun events you will ever witness. Everyone becomes BFFs forever, including your hosts and creative team, Michael and Chef Dave.

Oscar’s — There’s a lot going on here, so peep the calendar. If you’re gay (or wanna hang with your gays), the T Dance is the best recurring party in town. If you’re straight, stay away from the bathrooms.

Oscar’s. Courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

PS Air — One-of-a-kind “speakeasy” masquerading as an airplane; it may even have a cockpit, I’m not sure (I mean, it is Palm Springs). But there is in-flight entertainment, and often a naughty stewardess.

Toucan’s — A drag queen institution and dance club on the north end of town near the very popular Boozehounds.

Come On Up — Palm Springs Cultural Center (formerly known as — or concurrently, I’m unclear — the Camelot Theater) is stepping it up. They still show movies, and there are two theater companies during season (which is now), as well as Come On Up, featuring recurring musical acts on different weekdays. There’s a lot of parking, so you can bring a crowd.

Nightclubs

Reforma (brand new) — Right next to BevMo. It just opened, and I mean just, like yesterday.

Pretty Faces (fairly new) — I haven’t checked it out yet. LMK if you go.

Theater

Jan 20-29: Palm Canyon Theater: Palm Springs Getaway

Jan 13-22: Dezart Performs: A Bright New Boise

Jan 17-29: CVRep: Dirty Blonde

Jan 27-29: Desert Ensemble Theater: Kill the Editor

There’s a new theater company in town, The Bent. I’m not sure if they’re doing anything in January yet, but peek their website. There are rumors that their very popular show, The Lincoln Debate, will be back in February. For those of you not in the know, Lincoln shared a single bed with another man for four years. The show uses that information as a jumping off point.

If you’re new to PS and you are a gay man looking for the action, you’re looking for East Arenas Road (fun article), two blocks of gay Shangri-La. Pair that with a men’s clothing optional boutique resort, and you’ve reached nirvana.

Okay, that’s it for January. Hope to see you around town enjoying our delicious weather. And as always, please shop and stay local, have a blast, and I’ll see you next month.

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Explore The Great Outdoors In Palm Springs

You woke up in Palm Springs — what a great way to start the day! You may be wondering, what kind of things are there to do other than shop, eat, and soak up the rays poolside at my wonderful boutique resort? 

Tons, people, tons! And these are all outdoors so you can enjoy the spectacular weather. Here are some suggestions, ranked in order of how much energy you’re willing to part with.

I’ve got about an eighth of a tank

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
This could belong in every category depending on what you choose — the red pill or … nah, no pills involved, except perhaps Dramamine; the gondola can sway a titch. For the ‘not too active,’ shop in the gift store, ride the gondola up, have lunch, check out the views, ride the gondola back. For the very active, get a list of the trails and stick around. If you do some planning before you go, you can hike just about anywhere. But that’s for a very aggressive day, which I hear some people like. You need a full tank and a generator for those.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Downtown Park
By the Palm Springs Art Museum. Peep the Marilyn statue, the babies, the car, and snap some very cool photo ops. Highly Instagram worthy.

Sunnylands
Bird walks and outdoor films. Truly gorgeous grounds.

Palm Springs POWER baseball
Not a lotto game, but our baseball team. Games start in June. Wear a hat.

Living Desert
It’s a beautiful zoo — the animals are well cared for, and you can feed the giraffes. FYI: They’re not walking around willy-nilly and you feed them a leaf in passing, during supervised feeding times. Sorry if I crushed any dreams.

The Living Desert. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Red Jeep Desert Tours
Take a ride in a Jeep and go see things. They’ve got plenty of options.

Path of the Bighorn (self-tour of bighorn sheep sculptures)
Scattered all over the Coachella Valley are 33 bighorn sheep sculptures. The Peninsular desert bighorn is an endangered species, and the Path of the Bighorn gives visitors the opportunity to appreciate incredible art and the beauty of the animal. I haven’t seen an IG story about them yet, so someone get on that.

A bighorn sheep in the wilds of Palm Springs. Photo credit: Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Indio
Is it romantic, is it thrilling, or will it scare the birthmark off of you? You decide. But the Coachella Valley is spectacular from the sky.

Skywatcher star tours
State-of-the-art telescopes give you views of the cosmos, while “experienced guides weave together the myths and legends behind each constellation,” Skywatcher’s website states. These tours combine “breathtaking views and awe-inspiring astronomy with the heroes, lovers, and tragic figures from cultures around the world.” Also, they’re pretty.

The Dinosaurs Exhibit
Artist Ricardo Breceda’s public art installation Jurassic World consists of 11 life-sized dinosaurs, complete with name tags (one’s name is Steve, he’s a T-Rex. Okay, that’s just what I call him). This one is courtesy of Museum of Ancient Wonders and Cathedral City. Brecada also has sculptures in Borrego Springs.

I’ve got at least a half a tank

Boomers
Fun for all ages: Go-karts, three mini-golf courses, batting cages, bumper boats, arcade games, and a rock wall. I went here for my birthday one year and I’m an overgrown adult.

Bucket of balls
At Indian Canyons Golf Course. They’re like $8, and after you’re done, you can have a cocktail at the full bar and eat a tasty lunch in the clubhouse. And the grounds are stunning.

Palm Springs Historical Society walking and biking tours
So many to choose from! Put on some comfy shoes, pick your decade, and giddy-up.

Full tank and four-wheel drive

Smoke Tree Stables
Probably should have saved the giddy-up for this sentence. Instead, I’ll tell you that there are three ride options, but one is on hold. Prices per person are $80-$200, depending on your choice. Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

If you’re enjoying riding one of the bikes provided by your hotel and want to go exploring, then check out the City of Palm Springs bicycle routes map.

Guests at Talavera Palm Springs can use these bikes to tool around town. Photo credit: Talavera Palm Springs

Bring your balls

In bold are the sporty things you can do at our local parks.

DeMuth Park
4200 E Mesquite Ave., in Demuth Community Center
Colorful playground, four lit tennis courts, baseball fields, and a youth center.

Ruth Hardy Park
700 Tamarisk Rd.
This 22-acre park features tennis, basketball and sand volleyball courts, plus picnic tables and grills.

Sunrise Park
480 S Sunrise Way
Basketball court, baseball field, picnic tables, grills, drinking fountains, restroom facilities, and play structures, including water-squirting turtles. Also here: Library Center, Swim Center, Palm Springs Stadium, and Palm Springs Skate Park.

Baristo Park
296 S Calle Encilia
Local two-acre park with play equipment, a basketball court, picnic tables, and grills.

You’re not my mom. No, I’m not, but I care. So wear sunscreen, always have water on hand, and drink it (rinse, repeat). Also, throw a few snacks in the backpack. No one likes a hangry hiker. Especially not the (ridiculously handsome) EMTs who have to rescue your sorry tush because you didn’t hydrate.

If you think about it, tag us in your photos. We love seeing your adventures, and with your permission and photo credit, we’d love to share them here if that’s cool with you. 

Speaking of cool, no — you are.

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Father’s Day Fun In Palm Springs

It’s June, and you know what that means — it’s time to forget Father’s Day! 

One year, my dad skipped church (I’m kidding, he never went to church) so my mom and my sibling and I went and learned it was Father’s Day. Gah! If it had been at the Baptist Bible school my parents sent us off to in the summer, we could have made something out of glue and macaroni, but this was the Presbyterian church, and they weren’t crafty. It was also the 1960s, and on Sundays nothing was open, so there was no way to remedy the situation. We went home defeated and, I’ll admit, a little nervous.

When we got there, Dad was moving the lawn. One look and we knew that he knew we didn’t know, and then he just wiped his brow and continued riding his mower (we had less than three-quarters of an acre, so that was kinda boujee). I now realize that is exactly what he wanted to be doing on that day, yard work, because it was away from the three females who vexed him 365 days a year. 

I hear they’re making dads a little bit more cuddly these days, so they’ll likely appreciate doing something with their kids, and I’m here to help you out. If you’re grown, you don’t need my help. Everyone knows it’s brunch for mom and dad gets to watch sports and drink beer all day.

For dads who have young’uns and like spending time with them (hopefully all of you!), bring the family down to the most laid back and grooviest little big place in the state of California: Palm Springs.

Quick note: I’ve pre-sorted a list of all of our family-friendly resorts for you here. There’s quite a few, and I’d love to tell you about all the wonderful and unique things offered by each, however this is about what to do once you score your stay. I encourage you to click and peruse, as well as add your own amenity filters. 

Now, if everyone’s gone tinkle and buckled up, let’s get this motor running and get out on the highway, looking for adventure…any more of that and I may have to pay royalties, so away we go:

Edutainment

Museum of Ancient Wonders — Comprised of 375 artifacts and fossils (many are replicas), the Museum of Ancient Wonders provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages to immerse themselves into the mesmerizing life of a pharaoh, the legends of Greek mythology, and ancient African mysticism, and to experience the international fossil record in one of the most comprehensive and diverse fossil collections ever assembled and rarely seen outside of their respective museums.

Windmill Tours — From golf cart tours to self-driving tours, it’s all about the energy of these turbines, how they work, and how much electricity they produce. I hear it’s marvelous. Likely not for toddlers, though. 

Palm Springs Air Museum — Climb aboard old planes, see memorabilia from the flyers, and even ride on an old warbird.

Next year, Discovery Children’s Museum of the Desert will be open again, and it’s full of wonder. They won’t let you in without a kid, but I got a tour once, and I wanted to play with everything.

Fascination

Create Center for the Arts — It’s hard to believe we have a place this special in our little valley, but we do. Formerly a high-end doggie and people spa, it’s been repurposed into a feast for creativity. Please, do yourself and your kids a favor and check out their website and just go. I can’t tell you everything here, but if there’s a smidge of an artist in you and you’ve got imagination, this place is a dreamcatcher. On top of that, one of the best bakeries in the valley, Aspen Mills, has a satellite shop there, and there is an art store. The whole place feels like an elegant castle. Bonus — they kept the salt cave!  

Rancho Mirage Observatory — The witching hour is 3 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Starts in the lobby of the library. There is no cost and no registration. Tours are limited to about 20 people. Also check out their stargazing at night.

Silly Fun

Cabazon Dinosaurs — Mr. Rex, Dinny, and their more than 50 dinosaur friends provide perfect photo ops. The dinosaur walk features a dino dig and fossil panning that kids will enjoy. 

 Jurassic Wonders — I guess we love dinosaurs? This is a new installation on Highway 111 in the vicinity of the Mary Pickford Theater. They’re pretty ferocious looking — not like Dino from The Flintstones. Great photo ops.

Boomers — Are you a golfing dad? You can scratch a little of that itch at Boomers mini-golf, and maybe hit some video games and the go-carts. They also have a batting cage, but I’ve never seen anyone use it.  

Living Desert — Real live exotic animals doing real life stuff so you may have to explain, “When two lions love each other very much….” Or, you can get them interested in feeding the giraffes instead.

Get Air Trampoline Park — Something for kids of all ages. Seriously, go to their website and check it out and tell them I sent you. They have no idea who I am. It’ll be fun!

Skate Park — If you’re an action parent with an action kid, this is where you want to be.

Into The Wild

Lake Arrowhead — Take a ride on the Lake Arrowhead Queen (it’s a boat), and/or take water skiing lessons. Go to Santa’s Village where you can zipline and learn to fly fish. Or just have lunch and an ice cream.

Magic Mountain at Big Bear Lake boasts:

The Alpine Slide, Southern California’s only authentic, year-round bobsled experience. Take a chair lift ride to the top, then control your speed as you twist and turn down a quarter-mile-long track. Check the website for ages/heights. 

The Soaring Eagle, where you whoosh through the air at incredible speeds.

The Mineshaft Coaster is the first and only mountain coaster in California. On the way up, check out the breathtaking views, then you control your speed through thrilling hairpin turns, dips, tunnels, bridges and 360-degree corkscrews on a mile long track.

There’s also go-karts, an 18-hole mini golf course, and … drumroll please … a double water slide!

Whatever you decide to do, can I go with you? Asking for my inner child. And please have a very happy Father’s Day!

/by

Beat The Heat: August Events In Palm Springs

?We’re having a heatwave. A tropical heatwave. The temperature’s rising, it isn’t surprising, we’re having a heatwave.?— Irving Berlin

Factoring in heat and humidity, Palm Springs is like…everywhere else in the world right now: hot and muggy. But we’re still Palm Springs — relaxed and groovy, a respite from traffic congestion, smog, and overworked, underpaid, crabby people. The sky remains blue, the stars continue to show off in the night sky, and as long as there is A/C (and there is) and a pool (so many pools), it remains paradise.

Splash House. Photo by Jose Negrete, courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Many of the small boutique hotels are having specials, which is great because this month, for two weekends, Palm Springs hosts Splash House (August 12-14 and August 19-21), the DJ equivalent of the Coachella Music Festival minus the dust, grime, and the conundrum of how to get to the venue without sitting in traffic for hours and hours. And then there’s the parking. Oy!

As the name Splash House indicates, the parties are held mostly in and around the pool, but at night, after parties are held at Palm Springs Air Museum — a very cool venue. You should check it out during the daytime, too. There’s lots of flying memorabilia, including old planes, and you can actually book a joy ride on a warbird.

You’ll still want to ride share to these events in case you’d like to partake in alcohol or cannabis, because safety first. Plus, no parking hassles. (Check out this article for info on Palm Springs’ cannabis stores.)

Splash House is held at three large resorts, but you don’t have to stay in them. In fact, I would suggest that you enjoy the best of two worlds — a boutique hotel for quiet times and tranquil moments, and a big-ass party at the large resorts during the day.

So, check out the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel specials here, and find your bliss for a little less wear-and-tear on the bank account. Because the boutique hotels have fewer rooms than the big boys, you’re not just a random face or room number. Many people develop lifelong friendships with hoteliers and other guests, and they meet up  year after year.

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

If you’re skipping the big pool parties, and opting just for the night events, there’s still plenty to do (keep reading). Everything is inside (please don’t hike) with the exception of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is both inside and outside. And it is 30 to 40 degrees cooler at the top. Definitely worth the price of the ticket.

Splash House also isn’t the only music you’ll find this month. There’s Turn My Music Up Fest August 5, 6, and 7. Again, I’d encourage you to look at your options for small boutique hotels, not only because they each have their own personality, but because most are locally owned and operated, so you’re contributing to the welfare of the city itself.

Here’s all the rest of the action:

Thursdays: Street Fair and free admission to Palm Springs Art Museum, 5 to 7 p.m. The Art Museum has a bunch of programs, too, including a free Sunday on August 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. Check the link above for movies and more events.

Marilyn at the Downtown Park. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

August 17: Movies in the Park — Across from the Art Museum and next to Marilyn. This month they’re showing Some Like It Hot. It’s free and starts just after sundown (around 8 p.m.).

PS Underground — Expect the unexpected at this terrific dinner “theater.” Food and entertainment are exceptional and both are wildly creative. Dates and prices on the website. Some upcoming offerings include:

Gospel — Sunday brunch

Liquid Grooves — whatever that sounds like to you. Just know it will be scads of fun.

Ovation — Sunday brunch

Sound of Music singalong

PS Cultural Center

August 9 and 23: CV Philharmonic Society Chamber Series 

August 25: Bad Movie Bashing — In honor of National Bee Month: The Bees (1978). Described as “a giant creature feature of minuscule proportions that sees the late, great John Saxon fighting against a deadly swarm of killer bees that have invaded the United States, all in the name of honey and vengeance!”

August 5: MasterPiece Mash Up by artist and filmmaker Tyson Knight, featuring an exhibition of his art and his documentary about the homeless. Knight is a fascinating artist who has done many murals here in Palm Springs, and is an all-around cool dude.

Weekly live music: Sundays — Keisha D; Mondays — Mon Petit Salon (look into it); Tuesdays: Leanna + Jazz Collective; Saturdays: Farmers’ Market.

The Cultural Center is also home to Camelot Theaters, which plays new releases, indie films, and LGTQ+ films. In August, their series Palm Springs Unwinds focuses on Wes Anderson:

August 6: Rushmore

August 13: The Royal Tenenbaums

August 20: Moonrise Kingdom

August 27: The Grand Budapest Hotel

DJ Mod Girl — One of the best local DJs around. She’s so much fun, and ramps up the party by her presence alone — this girl gets down, people. You’ll be up and dancing in a nano.

The Alibi is back!  They’re adding dates and seeking out cool indie bands for their calendar, so keep checking. So far:

August 4: Thursday Throwdown — no info available at this time, check link above.

August 7: Rostam with Sam Buck — Rostam is a founding member of Vampire Weekend. This concert will run from 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Swear to Cher that’s what it says on the website.

August 15: The Soul Rebels

August 18: Syence (pronounced Science)

New place alert! Pretty Faces Nightclub at Hotel Zoso. Open Thursday through (and including) Saturday, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Heist Escape Room. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Palm Springs Escape Room — If you haven’t been to an escape room, this is a great time to try it. I went here for my birthday a few years ago and it was SO. MUCH. FUN. If you’re a fan of puzzles, or get your adrenalines from beating the clock, this is for you. BTW, it’s privately owned, not part of any other escape room, so it’s another way to support local businesses.

420 Bank and Lounge has old-timey games like Operation (which is a riot when you’re stoned) as well as a life-size chess set, pinball, and billiards. You can also purchase cannabis and consume it in the lounge. There are some very fun and Instagram-worthy shots to be had here. You’ll need to check their calendar, as they often have bands and comedians onstage. These lounges are popping up all over the valley, and are the cannabis equivalent to a bar.

Oscar’s. Courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Oscar’s

August 4: Eve Holmes puts on a great show featuring standards, jazz, Latin, dance, country, and Broadway.

August 5: Gennine Francis performing R&B, pop, soul, jazz, standards, and more.

August 11 and 25: Hotwyre provides danceable rock.

August 24 and 31: Mark and Tony Show — no cover, live taping of the TV show every Wednesday.

Saturdays: Bitchiest Brunch, Mimosa Men, and Oscar’s Cabaret

Cascade Lounge (inside Agua Caliente Casino in downtown Palm Springs)

Mondays: Mimosas, Martinis & Music with Don Wardell

Wednesdays: Desert Blues Revival

Fridays: Caliente Comedy

Thursdays: Jazzville

Sundays: Latin Nights

On Arenas Road:

Hunter’s is open daily, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

August 4: National IPA Day

August 16: National Rum Day

August 18: National Pinot Noir Day

August 28: National Red Wine Day

Where’s the love for an old vine Zinfandel?

Streetbar — the oldest gay bar in Palm Springs (that’s years open, not the required age of patrons). There’s karaoke, a smoking patio, extended Happy Hour, daily top shelf specials. Streetbar is a desert tradition since 1991.

Chill Bar

August 6: Dirty Disco Takeover with Matt Consola

August 6: Varsity – Boy’s Night Out

Small businesses suffered during the pandemic, and I’m sorry to report Dead or Alive, one of my favorite little beer and wine spots, as well as Desert Rose Playhouse, one of my favorite theaters, have closed. Dead or Alive is permanently deceased, but we’re holding out hope someone will resurrect Desert Rose. It was the only LGBTQ+ theater in the Coachella Valley.

So please stay and shop local, hydrate more than you think is necessary and then drink some more, wear sunscreen, and don’t be surprised if someone says hello to you on the street. That would be a local. We’re friendly like that.

I’ll be back in September — hope you will, too!

/by

Séc-he, A 5-Star Luxury Spa, Opens In Downtown Palm Springs

The wait is over. On April 4, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians unveiled The Spa at Séc-he, the 5-star spa we all have been waiting for in anticipation. The security walls that kept us intrigued for so long are now removed, revealing an enchanting place where one can relax and rejuvenate in downtown Palm Springs.

If you are staying in one of the Palm Springs Preferred Hotels, the good news is that the spa is within walking distance of many properties. You will want to make sure to make reservations — word is quickly spreading about how fabulous this place is, for so many reasons.

I want to give you an up-close-and-personal view, as I was honored to be invited to the grand opening and spend a day at this stunning spa. Would you believe seven hours felt like it wasn’t enough?

The hot mineral springs

The Agua Caliente have been keepers and protectors of Palm Springs’ only hot mineral springs since the late 1880s. With a temperature of 105 degrees, the mineral-rich hot water arrives from 8,000 feet below the surface, and is known for easing joint and muscle aches and even skin conditions. In the language of the Cahuilla Indians, “séc-he” means the sound of boiling water, thus Séc-he was coined for this new Palm Springs spa.

The Spa at Séc-he has 22 separate hot mineral tubs, and you can bathe alone in your own room for 15 minutes. After each person leaves, the tub is emptied and refilled with the healing waters.

Pro tip: Leave your jewelry at home because the water’s minerals will tarnish it.

One of the private tubs. Photo by Kathy Condon

Massages 

General Manager Daniel Spencer has searched the world, asked lots of questions, and now has ensured that Séc-he’s staff is trained on all eight kinds of massages offered at the spa. That means services like the Quartz and Poultice Massage may result in you wandering out into the Tranquility Garden feeling relaxed and totally at peace with the world.

I had the Restoring Energy Massage, which includes essences of sandalwood, peppermint, and vetiver for releasing anxiety and assisting with the immune system. I can’t say if I enjoyed the reflexology or the re-energizing balance more, which are both part of this particular massage. In any case, it was heavenly.

Body scrubs and wraps

There are way too many to mention, but with each treatment, you lie on a quartz bed treatment table that is heated and takes your mind to your favorite warm tropical beach. Afterward, you can use the eucalyptus steam room and menthol sauna, then follow it up with an aromatherapy shower. In fact, the entire spa smells wonderful. All the ingredients used in the treatments are local indigenous herbs rich in minerals and botanical oil extract.

Lounge areas are everywhere

Frankly, I have never seen so many lounge areas. Some are coed so that you can enjoy your partner’s company, and outside there are cabanas and day beds, which you can rent, and umbrellas to protect you from the intense desert sun.

The freshwater pool is enormous, complete with a waterfall. There are chairs submerged at one end of the pool, so you are surrounded by water and can hear the calming sound of the waterfall in the distance. In the same area, off to your left, there is a zero-edge pool with mineral water, where you can “take in the waters,” as the Cahuilla Indians would say.

A zero-edge pool

The zero-edge pool. Photo by Kathy Condon

Day Pass amenities

The Day Pass is $145, but if you have a treatment over $200 booked, you do not have to pay that fee. Here’s what the Day Pass includes:

  • Dressing rooms with secure lockers
  • Robes and slippers (be sure to bring your swimming suit)
  • 15 minutes in the mineral springs tub (you won’t feel rushed)
  • Access to the outside pools, both fresh and mineral water
  • Access to a state-of-the-art fitness room
  • Grounding room
  • Tranquility room
  • Two salt rooms
  • Eucalyptus steam room
  • Menthol sauna
  • Aromatherapy showers
  • Cold-rinse experience
  • Lounge areas
  • Quiet room

I was there for seven hours and realized I still had some amenities to explore. This truly is a place where you slow down and can have several different relaxing experiences.

Other services with additional fees

The massages, body scrubs, and wraps have different prices, and Séc-he also offers several additional services for a fee:

  • Floatation
  • Cryotherapy
  • Facials (at the moment, there are nine different kinds)
  • Organic skin care treatments
  • Nail care
  • Hair salon

When you read this, I wouldn’t be surprised if more treatments are added, for this experiential spa never stops stretching its capabilities — be sure to check their website.

Pro tip: The spa is 18 and over. The nail and hair care salons are available to children and young adults.

The nail salon and its comfortable chairs. Photo by Kathy Condon

Food service at two restaurants

The Malmal Café is open to the public. You can stop in and get flavorful Mediterranean-inspired cold items. The salads are delicious, and pick your favorite beverage to go with them. I suggest you try one of their juices or smoothies. The Monkey Berry smoothie made with banana, strawberries, vanilla bean, low-fat yogurt, milk, and latte powder passed and made it to my terrific taste list. I am also still thinking about my great panini, made with grilled chicken and avocado. Sooooo good! 

If you have a treatment or buy the Day Pass, you can access the poolside Pal Bar. Your food and drinks will be delivered to wherever you are sitting in the pool area.

Five stars all around

As if you need to hear it from me, but I wanted to stress to the readers that Séc-he is not only beautiful, its customer service and amenities would be hard to find or beat any place in the world. I give it five stars.

Please do yourself a favor after you make a reservation at one of our Palm Springs Preferred Hotels: Go to the Séc-he website and book a service or two so you can be one of the first visitors to check out this extraordinary addition to downtown Palm Springs.

/by

May Events: Celebrate Moms And Modernism In Palm Springs

May The Force Be With You — Star Wars

There’s a lot to do in the merry, merry month of May, so I’ll shut up so we can get on our merry, merry way:

Special Days

Mother’s Day — May 8

Melvyn’s — Special menu for Mom

Le Vallauris — Brunch in a gorgeous setting

849 — Beautiful space, good food

Labor Pains — A musical Mother’s Day brunch, at PS Underground

Courtesy of PS Underground

Lulu — Another special menu for a special lady

Farm — Take Mom to the south of France in Palm Springs. Downside: no reservations

L’Atelier Cafe — The cutest little cafe serving delicious quiche, pastries, coffee, champagne, and more

Modernism Week, May Jewelry Event — “You’ll love this Mother’s Day weekend spectacular of jewelry and fiber art! The variety of color, texture, and design from our featured artists is truly dazzling.” The first glimpse is Friday, May 6th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 550 N. Palm Canyon Dr. (refreshments served). The showcase is also open Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Memorial Day

Clothing-optional pool party at Tuscany Manor

Annual Memorial Day Air Fair and Flower Drop, May 30. The Palm Springs Air Museum says: “This is a very special day … our brief memorial service is dedicated to all of our fallen comrades, who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms. In their honor, we highlight the service with a fly-by and flower drop of over 3,000 red and white carnations from a B-25 Mitchell bomber. This most impressive ceremony is our way of saluting our fallen comrades. Visitors are welcome to pick up a flower to take home.” Admission from $17.50 to $19.50.

Special Events

Modernism Week — May. A very paired down Modernism event, but their offerings look pretty amazing. It’s the first time they’ve done this, so check it out, and act quick. The parties always sell out fast.

May 4: Rock The Park, featuring a Tina Turner Tribute. Downtown Park Palm Springs.

May 11 – 15: Oasis Music Festival. There are many locations for this event, with many different musical artists. Too many to list here. Check it. They’re going to try to do it every year.

Courtesy of Oasis Music Festival

May 29: AsiaSF Palm Springs/The Sonoran Ceremony Pool Party. Music by DJ Edward Frame and DJ Ryan Kenney. Hosted by Epiphany Mattel. Special performance by the Ladies of AsiaSF. Noon to 7 p.m.

May 29: UNITY. Music by DJ Twisted Dee. Special performance by Gia Banks of Haus of Tischi. 10 p.m. to LATE.

The above two events are sponsored by LYMI (Love You Mean It) Productions. AsiaSF is located in an event space known as The Sonoran. You guys, it’s gorgeous. I went to the opening of AsiaSF and the party was poolside. There were fire pits, seating, and built-in food stations, and even with more than 100 of us in the space, it still wasn’t crowded. And the mountains are right there. It’s especially stunning at twilight.

May 20 and 21: Rare Books. More than 40 antiquarian booksellers from across the country will share their love of books, fine prints, maps, ephemera, photography, and more. $25. Hotel ZOSO.

The Annenberg Theater at Palm Springs Art Museum: Check out their calendar for some great jazz and dance.

Plunge 2: Leather Order of the Desert at Canyon Club, clothing optional men’s resort.

Clubs/Nightclubs/Dinner Theater

The Alibi  — This will get you to their ticketed and free shows. This link is for shows not listed on their calendar.

Courtesy of The Alibi

PS Underground — Just as cool as it sounds.

The Purple Room — Rat Pack vibe and interior design, with a new whiskey bar. Live entertainment Tuesday through Sunday. The year the ticketed events seem to be a broader spectrum of players. They’re all excellent, and of course, say it with me: The Judy Show is my favorite show in town.

Oscar’s — Well-known inclusive club with LGBTQ+ entertainers and allies. They’re really stepping up their entertainment with some incredible international acts.

Toucan’s Tiki Lounge and Cabaret — Hosts the longest running drag show in Palm Springs, and much much more.

PS Air — It’s a speakeasy inside a wine shop that looks like the interior of an airplane. The entertainment is fun, and the food is good!

Theater

Into The Woods at Palm Canyon Theater

Mid-Century Moderns The Musical at Desert Rose Playhouse

Recurring Events

Palm Springs Historical Society Tours — So many tours! I want to do them all. Except the ones on a bike. (I don’t do bikes.)

Palm Springs Cultural Center

Vintage Market – May 1 ONLY. (First Sunday of every month)

For a list of all of their events and tickets, go here. There’s a lot of great music and shows to see.

Of Special Note: Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival 

Sun-Dazed Drag Brunch poolside at The Sonoran, presented by AsiaSF and Heklina. Sundays.

Illusions Drag Show Brunch and Illusions Drag Show Dinner at Pete’s Hideaway

Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Casino

Latin Nights on Sundays

Mimosas, Martinis & Music hosted by Don Wardell on Mondays

Desert Blues Revival on Wednesdays

Jazzville on Thursdays

Caliente Comedy on Fridays

Thursdays, free admission at Palm Springs Art Museum (from 5 to 7 p.m.) and Village Fest (6 to 10 p.m.)

MOGO Silent Disco Tour — Fridays and Saturdays, put on your headphones and dance down the streets of Palm Springs listening to specially curated songs as you tour some of our more famous spots.

Palm Springs Air Museum

Kitties! Opening in June, Frisky Business (at Gene Autry and E. Palm Canyon) is where you can go to snuggle a kitty for an hour and help the owner’s rescue efforts. They’re partnered with the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and will offer services (TBA), merchandise, and events in a fun, unique, relaxed environment for both cats and people.

Masks are off, sunscreen is on, and see you in June!

/by

Palm Springs Has Everything You Need For The Perfect Thanksgiving Getaway

By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, much of America will have had their first dusting, if not their first dumping of snow. Not so in Palm Springs! We’re just getting used to the cooler mornings, our warmer afternoons are full of sun and followed by sultry evenings, and you might need a little body heat (or a nice jacuzzi) to stay warm.

This year for Thanksgiving, instead of the inevitable familial bickering, why not enjoy four days in Palm Springs with a group of friends at one of our small resorts, and leave the clashes, the dishes, and cooking behind you?

Here are some boutique hotel options, and read on for where to eat on your special respite of thanks … and fun. I mean, you are in Palm Springs. We’re not Disneyland fun, we’re cool fun. That’s why we always wear sunglasses. (Don’t forget to bring yours so you can be cool too. They also help with our very bright sun.)

Once you’ve got your peeps, your sunglasses, and your hotel sorted, it’s time to figure out who’s gonna be cooking for you this year. All of the below come with at least one starter and a dessert. 

Thanksgiving meals in Palm Springs

Tropicale — Known for its very popular happy hour and buzzy outdoor patio, their entree is herb-roasted Mary’s Farm organic turkey, along with sausage, apple, and sage stuffing, whipped potatoes and turkey gravy, buttered Brussels sprouts, and cranberry apple chutney. You also get a soup or salad option, and three different desserts from which to choose. Featured wines: Rombauer Vineyard Chardonnay and Sokol Blosser Estate Pinot Noir. $84 per person.

Lulu — For those who don’t have a great relationship with turkey, Lulu is a wonderful choice. They have 10 choices of entrees with only three featuring turkey, and there’s a veggie option too. Plus, the atmosphere is pretty groovy. $59.99 per person.

Grand Central — There be turkey and fixins’ here! There also be four non-turkey options, including salmon and steak. For the vegetarians: pumpkin ravioli. Located in La Plaza at Palm Canyon, it’s a very big room so your chances of nabbing a spot are good. $79.99 per person.

Eight4Nine — Spend Thanksgiving at the former Palm Springs Post Office, now home to Eight4Nine. Willie Rhine is one of our favorite local restaurateurs, and Eight4Nine is his most popular restaurant. The four-course meal includes fig ricotta toast, a list of options for your starter and your main (including the very popular turkey dinner), and dessert. All for $76 per person.

Freddie’s Kitchen — Located in The Cole Hotel, this would be a great choice for staying and for Thanksgiving dinner. The French restaurant is serving the classic slow-roasted turkey, but they also have barramundi and grilled seasonal vegetables Wellington. For a starter, choose from soup, salad, or escargot, and the finale has three options for dessert. You don’t even need to leave the hotel. $72 per person, $25 corkage fee.

Melvyn’s — It’s another 2-fer here. Stay at the historic Ingleside Inn and dine in the glory of Melvyn’s. After dinner enjoy a martini at the bar and/or take a stroll around the grounds. Choose between four starters, four mains (including apple cider brined turkey breast), and two desserts. Sides will cost you $14 each on top of the $115 per person cost. It’s pretty Rat Pack-y, and if that’s the vibe you’re going for, it can’t be beat. Plus, you never know who you’ll see in the lounge.

So•Pa — One more 2-fer. Stay at L’Horizon and you’ll not only be treated to an incredibly swanky stay, but also a meal at So•Pa. Their offering is strictly of the turkey variety with all the fixins’ and then some. $95 per person.

Spencer’s — Located in the Class 1 historic Tennis Club on Baristo Road, smack up against the mountains, it’s one of the fancier places to dine in Palm Springs. They have a gorgeous patio they call the Bougainvillea Room where you can eat al fresco. Three starters to choose from, six entrees, and two desserts. $79 per person.

Zin American Bistro — In the heart of downtown, right on Palm Canyon Drive, is local restaurateur Mindy Reed’s Zin. This Thanksgiving there are five options as starters, five as mains (including turkey), and four dessert choices. $69.99 with a 22% gratuity.

Mr. Lyon’s — Probably the most popular steakhouse in town, and always a treat to the palate, this restaurant is located on the south side of town and features a speakeasy called Seymour’s. It’s a terrific dining experience, and for Thanksgiving they are offering four choices of starters, four choices of main (including turkey), and three dessert choices. $95 per person.

Pomme Frite — Zero turkey to be had in this French bistro, but what would you expect? It’s not a French holiday. But if you’re a fan of French bistro food, this just might be your jam. Five choices of starters, entrees and desserts, all very Français. $64.95 per person. 

Trio — Trio took a bit of a hit during the pandemic, but it’s coming back strong with a refresh of the interior and the menu. This Thanksgiving they have a family-style first course, three offerings for mains, three sets of sides served family style, and two desserts from which to choose. If none of those three mains suit you, there’s an a la carte menu featuring 10 extra items. $59 per person.

Palm Springs does Thanksgiving poolside

Thanksgiving experiences

The Purple Room is offering a dining and jazz experience with the Pam Phillips Trio. If you haven’t heard Pam on keys, you haven’t lived. Four choices for starters, five choices for mains (including turkey breast), and three choices for dessert. $79 per person. This club is dressed in an homage to the Rat Pack era, and although it’s not as old as Melvyn’s, it gives it a run for its money on the Rat Pack front.

Finally, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate a special holiday schedule Thursday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 26. The first tram up each day is at 8 a.m. with the final tram at 8 p.m. The last tram down is at 9:30 p.m.

Thanksgiving Day Ride ‘n’ Dine tickets include tram admission and your meal at Pines Café, served from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Their fancy restaurant, Peaks, is also serving a special Thanksgiving pre-fixe menu. Reservations begin at 11 a.m. Tram tickets are not included. The regular menu is also available. 

So why not hit all the right notes this Thanksgiving with a very special holiday away from home? Spend the four-day holiday in Palm Springs where the weather’s perfect, the food is fantastic, the small hotels are gorgeous, and the vibe is Barry White — laid-back and a little suggestive. We can’t help it; the sun makes us frisky. 

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

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