Palm Springs stands as a beacon of relaxation, style, and cultural allure in the center of California's Coachella Valley. Renowned for its restorative desert climate and rich history, the city offers an array of experiences tailored for both the serenity-seeker and the avid explorer. Whether you're in pursuit of holistic wellness, eager to delve into the realm of art and history, or on a quest for the city's shopping gems, Palm Springs promises a journey like no other. In this comprehensive guide by our friends at AmiGo,  discover the city's most cherished spots to visit in the desert, spanning cultural hubs, chic shopping locales, and iconic attractions.

‍

Art & Design

‍

Palm Springs Art Museum: The must-visit museum in Palm Springs, home to modern art by the likes of Picasso, Lichtenstein and more.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens: Diplomat Walter Annenberg’s former estate, which is now a peaceful, 15-acre park and a stop to marvel at some of the best mid-century modern architecture in the area.The grounds, home to a golf course, lakes, and many gardens, are beautiful.

Kaufmann House: The iconic Kaufmann DesertHouse designed by architect Richard Neutra in 1946 can only be seen from the street but is still a must for modernism lovers (and those who appreciate architecture).

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Shopping

‍

The Fine Art of Design: Some of the best vintage clothing and accessories in Palm Desert, for men and women. Think Erdem pencil skirts, Manolos, Christian Dior statement pieces,

Antique Galleries of Palm Springs: A huge space with several floors and massive rooms stocked full of vintage furniture and objects (art, jewelry, glassware, clothing). Tons of art deco and mid-century style pieces, and you can find some really good deals. Give yourself plenty of time to browse and sort through it all–there’s treasure to be found!

Modernway Vintage: Vintage mid-century modern furniture and home accessories. The curation is excellent and, as a result, the prices tend to be high.

The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five: Fantastic collection of luxury boutiques in a modernist structure. This is a necessary visit for Palm Springs–inspired clothing, decor, furnishings, and more.

The Station: Service station–turned–coolest shop in Joshua Tree. Come to see “Big Josh” (the 20-foot-tall cowboy statue that guards the premises) and shop the eclectic goods on offer (don’t leave without a bottle of Wonder Valley olive oil).

Thick As Thieves: Husband-and-wife run boutique filled with wonderful small items (beans from Joshua Tree Coffee Co.,succulents, antique rugs, cookbooks, t-shirts).

The Frippery: Vibrant Palm Springs vintage fashion. Snap up the most retro finds from the 50s, 60s and 70s to wear poolside while you’re in town.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Nature

Joshua Tree: This protected, 800,000-acre natural park is famous for its stark landscape, rock formations and Joshua trees (twisted trees that resemble something out of Dr. Seuss book). A day trip here for exploring/hiking is a must-do while visiting Palm Springs. Depending on the time of year, make sure you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon so it’s not too hot (you can also camp out for a night for the full experience). The park is a 45-minute drive from Palm Springs.

Andreas Canyon: The easiest hike (it’s more of a walk) in Indian Canyons, which is home to the world's second largest oasis of California fan palms. It’s just about one mile and the trail winds along a scenic stream.

Indian Canyons: Reservation just outside ofPalm Springs and the ancestral home to the Agua Caliente Indians. There are lots of fantastic hikes here, favorites including Andreas Canyon, Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail, Palm Canyon Trail, and Murray Canyon trail.Araby Trail: Great downtown Palm Springs hike that goes by Bob Hope’s house and has scenic views. It’s just over 4 miles and moderate difficulty. ‍

South Lykken Trail: Moderate, 4.4-mile hike near downtown Palm Springs with city views and possible big horn sheep sightings.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Going Out

‍

‍

Minerva's: A California pool house, restaurant and hidden apothecary cocktail bar nestled in the confines of Life House, Palm Springs. With a menu is inspired by the local desert terrain and artful mid-century design touches, Minerva's is the perfect spot for poolside day-drinking in the cabanas, a cozy dinner under the stars or nighttime revelry to live disco sets indoors.

Las Palmas: Fab family-owned brewery and natural wine bar with a nice patio and some small plates. Great spot to grab a drink with some friends in the afternoon.

‍Melvyn’s: A Palm Springs mainstay for martinis and a classic vibe. Opened in 1975, it’s an old Hollywood spot with a tight business-casual dress code and live music at the piano bar. Try to reserve one of the leather banquettes and order the steak Diane, prepared table side.  

Bootlegger Tiki: OG Palm Springs bar with fun drinks and tiki-inspired decor. Get the Pod Thai, made with white rum, lemongrass, lime and coconut.

Tailor Shop: Cool craft cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe. Order from the list or just tell them what you like and the bartenders will whip something up.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Discover more curated recommendations on the AmiGo app from a community of like-minded people & tastemakers, using code LIFEHOUSE for exclusive access.