Exploring Palm Springs: A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

Located in the Sonoran desert of Southern California at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Palm Springs has attracted visitors for generations. The area’s historical allure began with the Cahuilla Indians, who were drawn by its plentiful shade and water, including the hot springs that inspired the city’s name. Subsequently, movie stars found refuge here, seeking to escape the limelight while remaining close to Los Angeles. Today, this laid-back destination continues to entice sun-seekers, snowbirds, and celebrities alike.

As one of the nine cities in the Greater Palm Springs area, Palm Springs is surrounded by scenic mountain ranges and clusters of palm trees. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure in the Mesa neighborhood or vintage shopping at the Uptown Design District, you’ll discover numerous restaurants and lodging options to enhance your stay.

Uptown Design District

Best for Art Lovers and Vintage Shoppers

If you’re up for some retail therapy, this neighborhood along North Palm Canyon Drive is bustling with an array of stores, including home furnishings, art galleries, and clothing boutiques. The Design District is also the center of the vintage universe in Palm Springs.

Check out The Shops at 1345, a unique collective of 14 shops and galleries located in a building designed by E. Stewart Williams. Discover creativity at Double M Pottery, where artist Mary McDonald showcases pots and other ceramic items created in her Laguna Beach studio.

After a day of serious shopping, unwind at the cozy Alcazar Hotel, situated in the heart of the Uptown Design District. The neighborhood really comes alive at night, offering a plethora of bars and restaurants that serve creative cuisine. You won’t have to venture far for dinner at Birba, where you can enjoy wood-fired pizza in an outdoor setting surrounded by trees.

If your four-legged companion is traveling with you, don’t miss Boozehounds, a relatively new venue that features a menu just for dogs.

The Mesa

Best for Enjoying Nature or Being a Recluse

Tucked into the hillside of the San Jacinto Mountains, the Mesa is one of the quietest neighborhoods in Palm Springs. It features a mix of architectural styles, including native adobe, Spanish-inspired, and mid-century modern. Notable past residents include Rita Hayworth and Barry Manilow. This is primarily a residential area with the exception of Moorten Botanical Gardens, founded by the region’s first horticulturalist.

For adventure seekers, consider a trail ride at Smoke Tree Stables, where you’ll navigate through streams and native palm groves in the scenic Indian Canyons. Afterward, treat yourself to a steak dinner at Mr. Lyon’s and check out Seymour’s, a speakeasy with an eclectic design aesthetic. For a peaceful retreat, stay at Villa Royale, an adults-only hideaway that perfectly balances serenity and relaxation.

Deepwell Estates

Best for Mid-Century Modern Architecture Fans

Deepwell Estates, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Palm Springs, boasts a large concentration of mid-century modern homes. As you stroll through the area, joggers and dog walkers can be seen admiring the spectacular mountain vistas. Among the residences are the former estate of William Holden and the Leo Koerner residence, a prime example of desert modernism.

For architecture enthusiasts, consider attending Modernism Week, an annual 11-day festival featuring over 350 events, including architectural walking tours, a classic car show, and nightlife festivities. If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic dinner, venture to the Purple Room, a supper club that evokes the sophistication of the Rat Pack era, where you might even rub shoulders with a celebrity.

Downtown

Best for Those Who Want to Be in the Center of the Action

On any weekend night, finding yourself in the action is as easy as taking a drive down Palm Canyon Drive. One must-visit is the Palm Springs Art Museum, where you can view modern works by renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol. For a true Palm Springs experience, dine at Johnny Costa’s Ristorante, a favorite haunt of Frank Sinatra.

Don’t miss VillageFest, a street fair held downtown on Thursday evenings featuring handmade crafts, live music, and delicious food from local vendors. For a delightful breakfast experience, visit Farm, a charming French bistro where you can enjoy a signature cocktail paired with exquisite crepes or egg dishes.

Indio

Best for Live Music Lovers and Foodies

Located a short distance down the 10 Freeway, Indio is famed for hosting the Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals. However, it offers plenty to explore outside festival season. In spring, catch weekly polo matches at the Empire Polo Grounds. Dubbed the City of Festivals, Indio also hosts the International Tamale Festival, held every December.

In the downtown area, you’ll discover the Indio Food Park & Beer Garden, a space for food trucks and pop-up vendors. Being known as the date capital of the world, a visit to Shield’s Date Garden is a must, where you can enjoy famous date shakes amid lush groves.

Rancho Mirage

Best for Those with a Taste for Luxury

Rancho Mirage, the “playground of presidents,” has attracted several US leaders, including Gerald Ford and Barack Obama. With a wealth of activities, it caters to both the adventurous and the serene, such as the city’s new observatory. Consider a luxurious stay at the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, which offers stunning views from The Edge Steakhouse.

Spend an evening stargazing with the resident astronomer or relax by roasting marshmallows over fire pits scattered throughout the property. Be sure to explore the Sunnylands Center and Gardens, a historic estate retreat formerly frequented by Hollywood elites.

Palm Desert

Best for Shopping and Outdoor Delights

Give your credit cards a workout in Palm Desert’s tree-lined El Paseo Shopping District, often compared to Rodeo Drive. This district features upscale shops, boutiques, and La Fe, an intimate wine bar serving delightful small plates. The annual Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival occurs in March, showcasing culinary talents.

Palm Desert is not just about shopping; it’s also home to the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens. Interact with over 150 animal species, enjoy nature trails, and visit the interactive Discovery Center.