There are a few things most people know Palm Springs for – the iconic mid-century modern architecture, Coachella, the almost perfect year-round weather … So why not join us to discover some of Palm Springs hidden, yet just as irresistible, gems.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Did you know Palm Springs actually has snow!? The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway carries you from desert floor to an alpine forest in just ten minutes, rotating as it climbs. The temperature drops drastically (so wear your faux furs!) and you’ll be welcomed by pine trees, snow, mountain trails and the most fantastic views. Who knew Narnia was just a tram ride away?
Bar Cecil
Bar Cecil is Palm Springs’ MICHELIN-approved restaurant based around artist Cecil Beaton’s unapologetic flair for beauty, art and a damn good party. Since opening in 2021, it’s become the reservation everyone fights for. The Los Angeles Times even called it the best restaurant in Palm Springs. You’ll need to book a far in advance as you can to get in, but it’s the kind of place you’ll be thinking about for years to come. And order the pavlova for dessert – you won’t regret it.
Mr. Lyons Steakhouse
Mr. Lyons is the kind of Palm Springs institution that proves nostalgia can still feel deliciously rebellious. It mixes timeless supper-club swagger with a modern edge.
The lighting is low, and you’ll sit in velvet booths while jazz plays under the clink of martinis. It’s glamorous without being pretentious, and the service is exceptional (they even made us some off-menu mocktails for the non-drinkers in our party).
The menu is steakhouse classic, but absolutely unforgettable. The mac and cheese was life-changing. The charred corn is the kind of dish you think about weeks later. The filet might ruin every future steak for you. It’s the perfect stop for couples who want a night that feels intimate, special and unmistakably Palm Springs.
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort
Located about fifteen minutes outside the centre of Palm Springs, Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa feels like stepping into a softer, slower universe. It leans into classic country club territory but swaps the stuffiness for Spanish Colonial architecture and a backdrop of mountains that look fake until you realise they’re actually not.
The place is huge in a good way: 444 rooms with French doors opening onto private patios, pools tucked between palm trees and enough open space to help you really relax. In fact, you can go into full relaxation mode at the adults-only Azure Pool and spa, or unleash your inner child at Splashtopia, the resort’s own water park with slides, a lazy river and a sandy beach that feels almost surreal in the desert.
The Modern Tour
The Modern Tour is the architectural deep-dive Palm Springs is famous for, but with all the gates unlocked.
We got to step inside four properties, each one a masterclass in mid-century design, including the legendary Albert Frey House II. Perched high on the mountainside with a boulder literally built into the living room, it felt surreal and so special to be seeing it with our own eyes. It’s one of the most iconic homes in the entire desert and seeing it in person felt like being let into a secret club.
Soul Glow Aura
Soul Glow Aura has become one of those Palm Springs must-dos so booking ahead is essential.
The experience starts with a biofeedback camera that reads the energy field around you and turns it into an Instax portrait bursting with colour. Every shade means something different, and the team can give you a personalised reading to break down what each colour means. It was surprisingly accurate!
You can also book duo portraits, which makes it perfect for honeymooners, ride-or-die besties or anyone who wants to see how their energies blend. It’s cute, a little woo-woo and so very Palm Springs.