Looking for an outline of the perfect Palm Springs itinerary? Here’s how to spend three perfect days in downtown Palm Springs. Spotlighting the best restaurants, sights to see and things to do.
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Palm Springs, California, is a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture, stunning mountain views, and vibrant outdoor scene.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway to this captivating destination, look no further! This itinerary will guide you through a perfect 3-day escape, filled with delicious food, exciting adventures, and a touch of Hollywood history.
Day 1: Savor the Flavor
- Lunch: Start your culinary journey at The Front Porch at Farm, a charming spot offering fresh, seasonal farm-to-table fare.
- Art Tour: Be inspired at the Palm Springs Art Museum.
- Wine Tasting: Embark on a sophisticated afternoon at Jalama Wines, where you can sample their exquisite selection of wines from California’s central coast.
- Dinner: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Copley’s, where the filet mignon and seared ahi tuna special are highly recommended. This restaurant is housed in Cary Grant’s former estate.
Day 2: Explore Palm Springs on Two Wheels
- Breakfast: Fuel up for the day with a delicious yogurt parfait bowl or breakfast tostada at Juniper Table, located at the Kimpton hotel. Walk around to the back side of the hotel to spot the Marilyn Monroe statue.
- Bike Tour: Join Big Wheel Tours for a unique celebrity home bike tour led by Collin, exploring the iconic sights and hidden gems of Palm Springs. We saw houses that were occupied at one time by Liberace, Leonardo Decaprio, Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, Lucy & Desi Arnaz, Elizabeth Taylor, and more!
- Lunch: After your active morning, savor a delicious margarita flight and short rib enchilada at Tac/Quila. Or, check out Eight4Nine, where you can choose between their popular fried chicken sandwich or a classic cobb salad.
- Dinner: Experience vibrant international flavors at Miros. We enjoyed the traditional combination platter with cabbage rolls, goulash and chicken paprikash. Be sure not to miss their special collection of Croatian wines as well!
Day 3: Hike, Relax, and Revisit History
- Hike: Immerse yourself in nature with a hike on the Museum Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep!
- Brewery Stop: Relax and unwind with a refreshing beer at La Quinta Brewing.
- Lunch: Take your taste buds on a trip to Peru with the ceviche and pulpo appetizer at Crudo.
- Dinner: Step back in time and soak up the Rat Pack vibes at Melvyn’s, a historic restaurant where you can savor a classic martini, filet mignon, and a loaded baked potato alongside an oyster appetizer.
Where to Stay
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel: This is where we chose to stay. Stylish hotel featuring 2 restaurants & 2 bars, plus an outdoor pool & mountain views. They have a free shuttle offering rides to the airport and dinner spots located nearby. Plus, free bike rentals for exploring the area. Price: $748 per night.
- Ingleside Estate: Landmark hotel with an outdoor pool, ping-pong, a legendary eatery (Melvyn’s) & freebies like snacks & Wi-Fi. Price: $649 per night.
- Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs: Posh, Spanish Mission–style hideaway on landscaped gardens, plus a spa, outdoor pools & dining. Price: $629 per night.
- The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows: Moroccan-inspired property offering rooms with claw-foot tubs, plus a spa & poolside dining. Price: $1,100 per night.
- Holiday House Palm Springs: Stylish rooms & suites with mountain views in a trendy boutique hotel, plus breakfast & a pool. Price: $698 per night.
