Let the Sunshine in: The Best Ways to Experience Greater Palm Springs

Nestled in the Coachella Valley, Greater Palm Springs boasts nine unique cities, each with its own blend of experiences. Sunshine is practically always guaranteed, which makes the region one of the best vacation destinations in the United States.

Planning your trip to Greater Palm Springs just got a little bit easier, thanks to EDGE editors, who have curated their favorite activities, restaurants, hotels and signature events throughout the year.

Picture-perfect weather provides the ultimate backdrop for outdoor adventures and activities in Greater Palm Springs, but the destination is also home to terrific cultural institutions, performing arts and, perhaps most famously, mid-century modern architecture.

Broadway star Max Von Essen ("Anastasia," "An American in Paris") arrives at The Annenberg Theater March 9-11. The intimate theatre, housed within the Palm Springs Art Museum, is the ideal concert venue. The museum's three locations offer unique ways to experience art and architecture in Greater Palm Springs any time of year, including a modern and contemporary collection of more than 45,000 pieces, architectural assets and more than 2,000 Native American art objects.

Mid-century modern architecture in Greater Palm Springs is a must-see, such as the iconic breeze-block wall at the Parker Palm Springs, the former Annenberg estate at Sunnylands Center & Gardens or the Tamarisk Rancho homes in Rancho Mirage. Explore on your own or book a Greater Palm Springs architecture tour.

Eating & Entertainment
LGBTQ-friendly happy hours in Greater Palm Springs offer the perfect setting to socialize as the sun sets. Several spots feature dinner show experiences that sparkle with nationally recognized drag performers and entertainers.

PS Underground – Described as "a feast for the senses," PS Underground offers one-of-a-kind culinary pop-ups. From a 1920s speakeasy to an interactive music experience inspired by the famous Woodstock music festival, PS Underground is constantly reimagining the immersive dining experience.

Michael Holmes' The Purple Room – Considered "the desert's premier supper club," The Purple Room is reminiscent of The Rat Pack's heyday. The weekly roster includes cover-free jazz Mondays through Thursdays, sensational ticketed shows on Fridays and Saturdays, and a tribute to the legendary Judy Garland each Sunday night. Don't miss the legendary Marilyn Maye March 19-21.

AsiaSF Palm Springs – One of the newest restaurants and entertainment venues in Greater Palm Springs to open has a history dating back more than 22 years. The legendary, original San Francisco hot spot just opened its second location with a roster of high-energy performers and a seasonally changing tasting menu from executive chef Jen Solomon. Stay late to enjoy complimentary admission to the adjacent Forbidden City Nightclub or enjoy a nightcap at the Lotus Lounge.

Foodies should mark their calendars for May 29 - June 7 when Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week returns for a 10-day epicurean event offering affordable, pre-fixe menus at some of the destination's most coveted dining spots.

Where to Stay
There are plenty of options for LGBTQ-friendly boutique hotels and resorts in Greater Palm Springs. Our tip: book an extended stay and divide your time between two unique properties.

The Saguaro Hotel & Pool – Its fa�ade may look inspired by Gilbert Baker's pride flag, but this iconic hotel's color palette actually draws inspiration from the vibrant colors found in Greater Palm Springs. Rent a cabana for the day and relax at the pool among lush surroundings, or hop on a Priority Bike to explore the area. And don't miss happy hour (2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Monday to Friday) at the on-site restaurant, El Jefe, which offers the best margaritas in town.

The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage – The luxurious resort's clifftop setting offers unparallel views of Greater Palm Springs. Rooms and suites draw inspiration from natural desert tones, while the on-site spa's tranquil space provides an idyllic escape to unwind and relax.

Hotel Paseo – Part of Marriott's Autograph Collection and the first new luxury hotel in Palm Desert in 30 years, Hotel Paseo beautifully captures Greater Palm Springs' mid-century vibe with a contemporary vision wholly unique. Enjoy daily yoga in the backyard, a complimentary shuttle to nearby shopping and, if timing allows, a $29 pre-fixe menu at AC3 Restaurant + Bar (3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.)

Mark Your Calendar

Plan your visit to experience one of the many LGBTQ signature events in Greater Palm Springs throughout the year. Upcoming highlights include:

Cathedral City LGBT Days – Celebrate diversity in Cathedral City with top-tier talent, including Bella de Ball, Sue Madre, MX Lovel, Beth Sacks and more. Highlights include an opening night party at The Roost Lounge, LGBT Days Festival, and Sunday Beer Bust at Trunks. March 27-29, 2020

Club Skirts Presents The Dinah – This year marks the 30th anniversary of the epic lesbian event, which draws visitors from around the world. R&B group Lion Babe headlines the Saturday night pool party. Other highlights include performances by Sophia Messa and rapper Saweetie. April 1-5, 2020

White Party Palm Springs – There's a reason why White Party founder Jeffrey Sanker has a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. Over the past 30 years, he's turned this mega event into the ultimate intersection of music, fashion and nightlife. This year's lineup draws inspiration from "Top Gun" for the Friday night kickoff, followed by Todrick Hall headlining Saturday night's Lords of the Galaxy, and so much more! April 24-27, 2020

Want more Greater Palm Springs vacation ideas?

Visit visitgreaterpalmsprings.com.

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