the mcm lover's guide to palm springs, ca

We just spent eight days in beautiful Palm Springs, where we will be getting married in May at the O'Donnell House. We used the trip both for relaxation and "research" on where to eat, stay, shop, and explore and I now consider myself an expert on all things Palm Springs. The weather was absolutely perfect, cool in the mornings and evenings and pool weather in the mid-day. Without further ado, my curated guide to this mid-century modern sunshine mecca:

STAY

Splurge: La Serena Villas Beautiful Moroccan villas with a boutique feel. This hotel is located right in the middle of town by the art museum, hikes, and shopping. It was so popular, we couldn't even get in for a drink at the lovely rooftop bar.

Week Long Stay: Acme House Co Rentals We rented our mid-century modern home in the movie colony district through Acme and their customer service was top notch. They fixed a sink leak within minutes and had a yard and pool cleaning team at the house every other day.

Influencer Central: Colony Palms This hotel was made for photos, I'm still wondering who designed the hotel. I've heard the rooms are a bit small and dark, the hotel was built in the 1930s and redone for modern day but the pool and restaurant are just amazing.

Breakfast Included: The Willows Location location! This hotel is located right at the base of the mountains and provides a romantic bed and breakfast feel, with views, gardens, and a delicious breakfast.

Affordable: Del Marcos Hotel If you're looking for a more affordable but very MCM option, Del Marcos was designed by William F Cody in 1947 and was recently refurbished. The hotel does not lack for Nelson lights or that 1960s mod vibe.

EAT

Celebration: Azucar, Workshop Kitchen + Bar Both of these restaurants feature unique menus and beautiful patios but are definitely on the pricier side.

Mexican: El Jefe If you love upscale California Mexican, this is the place for you. Delicious margaritas, quinoa bowls, and tacos.

Chill Patio Vibes: Birba Birba is all about the patio, right in the middle of town this Italian restaurant has live music and a gluten-free friendly menu. Try the zoodles and shrimp.

Quick Lunch: Juniper Juniper is an easy stop for sandwiches, salads, and iced tea. We went here numerous times.

Breakfast: Grand Central Solid brunch spot with a menu that pleases everyone and of course, a great patio.

Coffee: Cafe La Jefa Another place we frequented numerous times. There are a few really good coffee shops but we liked this one for it's location, coffee options, and gluten free scones. It's also a multi-use space so you can browse an art gallery while you drink your coffee.

Tapas: Villa Royale's Del Rey Villa Royale is somewhat off the main drag but is worth checking out for its sexy bar and tapas menu.

DRINK

Craft cocktails: Truss and Twine We loved the service at Truss and Twine and always appreciate mixology.

Hipster with Local Brews and Natural Wine: Las Palmas This spot had serious San Francisco vibes and I found myself missing my days in the bay area. Check out this bar for unique beer and wine.

Views and Scene: High Bar at the Kimpton Hotel Definitely a scene, the High Bar is at the top of the Kimpton Hotel. You can people watch while you sip on your drink.

Theme: The Tonga Hut Restaurant and Tiki Bar There are several tiki bars in Palm Springs but this one is especially creative and quaint.

See and Be Seen: The Parker (Counter Reformation or Minibar) If you're feeling extra, head to the Parker for more people watching and outrageously expensive drinks. You will need a reservation.

SHOP

The shopping in Palm Springs is phenomenal and I didn't have time to get to it all but I highly recommend these shops.

Housewares: The Shops at 1345, Super Simple, Christopher Kennedy

Local Artisans: Mojave Flea Trading Co

MCM furniture: A la Mod

Contemporary Modern Finds: Pelago

Women's Clothes: Candice Held, Elizabeth and Prince

EXPLORE

Hike at North Lykken Trail We did this hike twice. I recommend going in the morning before 10 AM because it gets really hot and dry and there is very little shade. The views are worth it!

Self-Guided MCM Tour on electric (or manual!) bikes I don't have to explain this one, you could also run or walk or drive. Every neighborhood in Palm Springs features some of the more original mid-century modern homes and colorful front doors in the country. Check out Vista Las Palmas, Old Las Palmas, Movie Colony, Racquet Club Estates, and Chico Canyon.

Palm Springs Art Museum Free on Thursdays from 5 - 7 PM, but don't forget to check out all the fun art galleries too.

Ruth Hardy Park Our favorite morning walks, this park also features tennis courts and a wellness and meditation garden.

Palm Springs is also a destination for mid-century modern flea markets, art and furniture dealers, and sporting events like tennis and golf. Make sure to check the weekend you are visiting for any events that might be of interest. And I'm sharing a plethora of more. photos because this was an unreal trip and I can't limit myself!

The colors in Palm Springs are like no where else I have been, bright colored gates and doors, beautiful sunsets, and gorgeous flowers.

Of course we went to In N Out.

First night with my brother and his girlfriend at the house we rented.

Hiking North Lykken Trail

There was this hilarious Barbie art exhibit at Sagurao Hotel. This was my favorite. Because it's me.

Doing our tasting at Eight4Nine. It was phenomenal.

Old Palm Springs Villager posters at Mojave Trading Post.

More MCMs.

I wanted all of the art.

More art...

Until next time, PS!