Destination Desert

It’s hard to put the allure of the desert into words. Being a long-time visitor to both northern and southern California (and loving every single part), it wasn’t until a few years ago that I made my first jaunt to Palm Springs and Palm Desert. The best way I can describe it is love at first sight. That’s why at least a couple of times each year, I plan an escape to soak up the desert sun and enjoy all that the region has to offer.

While Nashvillians are typically headed to the Gulf Coast for their long weekends and holidays, savvy Los Angeles residents take off to this special destination on a regular basis. There is so much appeal to visitors, no matter what your interests or age. Architecture and design buffs will be completely enthralled by the tours of mid-century modern homes tucked away in canyons and on private residential streets. There’s even a museum catering especially to this style. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers fall in love with all of the serenity that Joshua Tree National Park offers, which is just a short drive outside of Palm Springs. There’s no shortage of nightlife, with Palm Springs hotels, bars and performance venues constantly hopping with talent, music and flowing cocktails. The wellness scene is above and beyond with many top-rated spas, retreats and health-oriented stores and dining options almost everywhere you turn. For shoppers and collectors, the antiques are dramatically different from other areas, and surprisingly affordable. There is designer shopping and a swimming pool nearly everywhere you look, often abutting one of the area’s championship golf courses.

Photo by Tim Nichols

What I love about the area is the vibe. The air is clean, the mountains are beautiful and the people I’ve met here have their own flair. Spending time in Palm Springs is like stepping back in time, where classic cocktails rule and dressing well is the ultimate form of sophistication. It’s a bit Old Hollywood mixed with Mad Men-esque appeal. The area has long been known for attracting movie stars seeking refuge, most famously classic screen stars like Cary Grant, Dinah Shore and Frank Sinatra, all of whom had homes here. That “escape to the stars” label still applies today as actors and musicians flock to the inviting hotels and homes nearly every weekend for a bit of unwinding, desert-style.

While I love a beach vacation as much as the next person, it’s the unique combination of style, wellness, the past and the present that puts a Palm Springs vacation at the top of my list. It’s a place to reflect and focus, but it also provides outlets for an all-out party and indulgent trip. The cultural attractions are as varied and inviting as the retro diners and classic cars rolling down the palm treelined streets. And the bonus? Arriving and leaving aren’t even a hassle. Direct flights into the most charming airport in the state make the actual travel portion enjoyable. Instead of long, crowded concourses, you’re welcomed by outdoor courtyards and cafés where you can wait in comfort for your bags or to board your plane on the way home.

If you’re toying with the idea of planning your own adventure to the desert, don’t plan it during mid-summer when temperatures are soaring if you aren’t big on intense but dry heat. Winter is the high season due to the mild weather, but fall and spring are also delightful times to visit. Whatever time of year you go, be sure to explore and embrace all that the destination offers.

WHERE TO STAY:

Colony House Hotel | 572 N. Indian Canyon Dr., Movie Colony

Although this quaint boutique hotel is located in the heart of Palm Springs’ hotspots for dining and shopping, it feels like a remote retreat tucked away from the noisy streets and nightlife. The bungalowstyle rooms are my top pick, where you can enjoy an expansive and private patio space including an enormous outdoor soaking tub with views of the mountains. Central courtyards and gathering spaces around the pool are flanked with foliage, plants, trees and flowers, making you feel like you’re enveloped in a tropical forest while enjoying one of the open-air bar’s signature cocktails.

Photo by Tim Nichols

J.W. Marriot Desert Springs | 74-855 Country Club Dr., Palm Desert

Set on a beautiful golf course in Palm Desert, this sprawling property is especially favored by those traveling with families. There are multiple restaurants, lounges and activities such as swimming in one of the many pools, boating and, of course, golf. Suites are well-appointed and comfortable, and most feature incredible views of the surrounding property and mountains beyond. Several onsite lakes are home to a variety of wildlife including geese, swans, ducks, flamingos and other colorful birds. Strolling the pathways along the grounds provides endless photo opportunities. The resort is also home to some of the area’s most expansive spa facilities. Dozens of treatment options, an in-spa restaurant and private pool as well as an advanced fitness center are all part of the mix. Signature treatments using ingredients from local natural resources are highly recommended as the desert is filled with healing properties. Don’t miss lakeside dining at Rockwood Grill or the specialty cocktails served poolside.

Photo by Tim Nichols

The Parker | 4200 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Canyon Sands

If you want to be in the center of the party vibe in Palm Springs, this is the place. Walking through the lobby you can peek inside clubby, retro-style bars playing old-school disco music before stepping down into sunken common spaces with cozy sofas, indoor fire pits and dazzling art and décor. All of the rooms and other hotel spaces are in colorful patterns by Jonathan Adler. Brunch on the back patio is a must, but the pool is where the real action is—sit back and people-watch while soaking up the sun and listening to incredible playlists.

Acme House Co. | Acmehouseco.com

Set If you need room to spread out or just want to pretend you’re a local, check out the listings offered by Acme for truly inspiring mid-centurystyle abodes. Most come with a private swimming pool, posh furnishings and gourmet kitchens. Perfect for a family, group of friends or even a couple seeking extra privacy without sacrificing luxury. The locations differ throughout the various desert communities and their staff is very helpful in selecting the right home close to attractions that suit individual needs and plans.

Photo by Tim Nichols

Korakia Pensione | 257 Patencio Rd., Historic Tennis Club

This intimate enclave is set on a residential street just a couple of blocks away from Palm Springs’ top shopping district. The unique Mediterranean design is completely different from anything else in the area and provides a one-of-a-kind retreat for enjoying the weather and landscape of the desert in style. Handcarved wooden furnishings, colored glass lanterns and multiple outdoor places to unwind and relax are all part of the charm. They even offer outdoor movie screenings for evening entertainment and outdoor yoga for those who want to take relaxation to the next level.

WHERE TO DINE:

Tropicale | thetropicale.com

I was first introduced to this special haunt by Nashville resident (and global pop star) Kim Carnes, who spends a few weeks in Palm Springs each year. The atmosphere is perfect for a celebration, with huge wrap-around booths as well as a lively patio bar and dining tables. The menu is filled with sharing options and choices you won’t typically find elsewhere, and that extends to the cocktail menu as well, where giant, over-the-top drinks to share are house favorites.

Cheeky’s | cheekysps.com

This is the “morning after” spot in central Palm Springs, where you can soak up the previous night’s cocktails with an array of hand-made breakfast and brunch items daily. For locals it’s a bit of a ritual, and so popular that there’s typically a line down the sidewalk as guests patiently await their turn to sip mimosas on the patio while indulging in specialty pancakes and omelets. Influencer and TV host Dawn McCoy swears that she doesn’t miss the chance to have breakfast when she’s in from LA for the weekend. Not only is the food fantastic, but they even have treats and water for her beloved dog. Pet-friendly and welcoming, Cheeky’s is a great way to start the perfect Palm Springs day.

Photo by Tim Nichols

Workshop Kitchen | workshoppalmsprings.com

Chef Michael Beckman woos guests nightly to the modern dining room of this uptown Palm Springs favorite. Seasonally inspired, organic dishes change often, and all ingredients are locally sourced. The minimalist design is a bit of a break from all of the color and glamour typical to the city’s buildings, offering a perfect backdrop for the simply prepared, healthy fare. If you’re traveling solo, WorkShop is a great option, as their central communal table is the ideal place to strike up a conversation with local patrons who frequent the restaurant.

Armando’s Dakota Bar & Grill | 73260 El Paseo, Palm Desert

After a day of shopping on El Paseo, refuel with authentic Mexican fare at this intimate dining spot. House-made salsas and guacamole are complimented by various types of fresh-fruit margaritas. Order the fajitas to share and choose a table on the outdoor patio. No matter what the temperature or time of day, it’s always comfortable thanks to the overhead mist spray and shaded canopies.

Photo by Tim Nichols

WHERE TO SHOP:

Clarke’s

While it might be strange to see a grocery store at the top of my shopping choices, Clarke’s is on the list for good reason. Being obsessed with innovative health foods and supplements always sends me on a treasure hunt when I’m anywhere in California, and this place has more to offer than I’ve seen anywhere else, ever. Not only can you find an array of top-of-the line specialty food items and brands, but also typical groceries, which can be very helpful if you’ve chosen to rent a house or condo for your stay. There’s also an expansive section of on-the-go vitamins, supplements, natural and green personal care/beauty items and nutrition bars. It’s like Whole Foods on steroids, but locally owned and operated. I promise you will discover something entirely new to sample just by browsing the aisles.

Photo by Tim Nichols

El Paseo

The shopping here rivals Rodeo Drive, with every possible designer outpost represented. It’s also peppered with independent clothing boutiques, luxury gift and jewelry stores, multiple restaurants, salons and a Saks 5th Avenue department store. You can easily waste an entire day (and empty your entire wallet) here even if you aren’t a shopper. The beautiful Spanish-style design and storefronts are also flanked with park-like spaces when you’re ready to take a break.

Vintage

You can’t visit this area without exploring at least a few of the many vintage stores. Some are filled with incredible old-Hollywood-style clothing and accessories, others with mid-century modern décor and furnishings—and a few of the stores have a combination of both. The list of stops is almost endless. Depending on what you’re seeking, do a little online research before your trip to plot out your own vintage shopping destinations.

Photo by Tim Nichols

Design District

Located along a few blocks of Palm Springs’ main street of attractions, the Design District is home to some of the most unique interior décor shops you’ll find on the West Coast. There are multiple stores with authentic mid-century antiques along with modern collectibles, gifts and art. Don’t miss browsing both floors of renowned designer Christopher Kennedy’s home store or the inventive gift and book collections at the boutique Just Fabulous. To really get into the Palm Springs spirit pick up some items at the Trina Turk Outpost, which includes the fashion designer’s collections for women, Mr. Turk for men, and Trina Turk Home for fun outdoor décor (amazing beach towels, throw pillows and cushions). There really are so many stores and galleries to enjoy along this stretch of the city’s chic neighborhood.