At the beginning of June my friend Gabby and I decided it was time to take a girls trip. We both work a lot so we really enjoy taking small trips together to escape reality for a couple of days. Since Palm springs is so close to LA, we have both been before separately, but this was our first time going together. Palm Springs one of my all time favorite places to go, so I am so excited to share some my top places to stay and fun things to do when visiting!

One of the adult-only pools at the Avalon

Where to stay:

The Avalon– I’ve stayed here so many times and it is always my go-to when heading to Palm Springs. What was formerly known as the Viceroy, the Avalon is all you can imagine and then some. Now owned by Proper Hospitality, they’ve made so many fantastic upgrades to the hotel. With a separate adult-only pool with poolside service, you really can’t go wrong.

The Parker Palm Springs– I have not actually stayed at the Parker, but it is at the top of my list for my next trip. I have, however, been for brunch and dinner with a friend though and it is the most beautiful hotel. The great thing about The Parker is that there is so much to do on the property- pools, hammocks, the lemonade stand, croquet, bocce ball, a spa, bikes and more.

The Riviera– If you’re looking for a fun pool scene, this is your place. I stayed here once for my birthday and had a great time. The rooms and bathrooms are big and the pool is packed. They have a pool-side bar and occasional live music.

L’Horizon– Again, I have not had the opportunity to stay here yet, but the property is beautiful. We had brunch at the restaurant and couldn’t resist taking thousands of pictures of the amazing architecture.

Where to eat:

Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill– This place is a staple for me every time I come to Palm Springs. Since it’s warm at night, I love getting a seat out on the patio.

Norma’s at The Parker– The best brunch spot, hands down. I get the Classic Eggs Benedict with avocado instead of meat.

Chi Chi at The Avalon– A great spot for either breakfast or lunch with perfect light and healthy options.

El Mirasol at Los Arboles– If you’re looking for some good Mexican food (and an even better margarita) go here. I love that Mexican food is so vegetarian friendly and the guacamole is to-die-for.

Breakfast at Chi Chi at the Avalon

Brunch at Norma’s at The Parker

What to do:

• Rent Bikes or use your hotel’s bikes (if they have them) to ride around the neighborhoods
• Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world) to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains. Sometimes there’s snow!
• Visit the Windmill Farm at sunrise
• Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. The most beautiful desert botanical garden and a zoo.
• Relax Poolside – my personal favorite
• Go to the Palm Springs Village Fest that happens every Thursday night for a fun and energetic street fair vibe with local vendors and artists.

I hope this helps for your next trip to the desert! What are your favorite places to take weekend trips to? And when you go, who do you go with? Or if you’re like me, and Palm Springs is your go-to, what are your favorite things to do? XO