Need a weekend of adventure AND pampering? Head to Palm Springs!

Less than a two hour drive from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is a magical little oasis in the middle of the Palm desert. Known for it’s stylish hotels, golf courses, spas and art mid century architecture, it’s the perfect backdrop to a fun getaway.

Where To Stay?

One of our favorite places to relax is the Sands Hotel. A boutique hotel with a fantastic mix of mid-century design with modern day luxuries, you can’t possibly look around without smiling! For what it lacks in curb appeal, it makes up for in it’s pink courtyard that boats a pool with cabanas, lounge chairs and misters. The hotel restaurant is only a few steps away, and there is a special pool menu that will deliver to your lounge chair.

In need of some extra pampering? The small on-site spa offers massages and facials and body treatments...oh my!

Perfect for couples, girls weekends and to fill your Instagram feed!

Breakfast Bliss

Morning pick-me-up? Snuggle into a booth at Elmer’s Restaurant and let the feasting begin! Lip-smacking large portions and an old-timey feel make this a great way to start off your day. The menu is as large as the portions, so you’ll be hard pressed not to find something tasty. In the mood for something a little different? Order a German pancake! Fluffy, buttery and larger than your face...dig in because you deserve it!

Also open for lunch and dinner.

Cool Down

Sure there’s a bunch of ice cream options...but they don’t all come in floaties! Head to Holey Scoops and choose from a palm tree or flamingo inflatable and enjoy a delicious milkshake to top off your day. (There is also a ton of ice cream and topping choices as well!) Too long a day to pickup? Deliver your dessert to your hotel!

Find Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway

A wave a homeowner envy may hit you as you drive through these Palm Springs streets filled with futuristic homes ready for a magazine cover. A mid-century modern lovers dream, you’ll be gawking the whole ride.

Once you’ve finished ogling enough to get to the Alexander Estate (Better known as the Honeymoon Hideaway) Hop out and take a tour. Elvis’ leased this home in 1966-67 after his marriage to Pricilla. A very brief honeymoon, the couple spent two days here before departing for Memphis. Daily tours are offered daily at 1pm and 3:30. Check out their website for more information.

Drive Into the Desert and Hit a National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is only a 40 minute drive away and worth it for the otherworldly views. Set your eyes on cacti you never knew existed...on smooth enormous boulders that create a martian landscape. There are a bunch of hiking trails ready for exploration...but also a great scenic drive if you’re more into casual viewing. A visitors center will greet you as soon as you get to the park, and it’s a great stop for information (free map!), souvenirs (your dog NEEDS that ranger badge...and you need that retro postcard) large bottles of water and clean bathrooms. Make sure to check the weather before you set out on your adventure because temps will soar over 100 degrees in the Summer months.

Visit an Artist Commune

Commune might not be the right word...but there is some amazing, larger than life art, living out in the desert...and somewhat off the grid. First stop, Salvation Mountain! Made from adobe, straw and oh so much paint...follow the yellow brick road and be amazed at the sculptural mountain you get to explore. You can climb to the top and wind your way down...and then explore deeper into the mountain.

When you’re done snapping all the pics, follow signs to Slab City and head to East Jesus. This sculpture park will be the most amazing transformation of discarded items you’ll probably ever see. Say hi to the tire elephant for me. We had a nice little introduction when we arrived by one of the artists, who was funny and informative. If it hasn’t already happened...someone please make a documentary here. Donations are happily accepted in cash, items or even via paypal.

It was 114 degrees on the July day we visited...so make sure to bring water and sun gear along.

1 Hour from Joshua Tree and 1hour 20mins from Palm Springs

Need more to do?

Head to El Paseo and get some shopping in
Grab some clubs and hit the golf course at Desert Willow
Take an art walk
Hit a kitschy roadside attraction and time hop to prehistoric times at the Cabazon Dinosaurs
Want to book a day tour? Check out the great options offered through Viator